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Today is Friday, June 19, 2026
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FCCU Donates $909.09 to the Friends of the Whitewater Public Library Through Employee Charitable
Contributions
Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) is proud to announce a donation of $909.09 to the Friends of the Whitewater Public Library, supporting its mission to enhance library services, foster community engagement, and promote lifelong learning opportunities for area residents.
The donation was raised through FCCU’s new employee charitable giving program, which allows team members to voluntarily contribute a portion of their paychecks to local nonprofit organizations. In its inaugural year, the program supported 11 local organizations selected for their meaningful impact on the wellbeing of the communities FCCU serves.
The Friends of the Whitewater Public Library was chosen as one of the program’s first-year beneficiaries. The work of the Friends strengthens the Whitewater Community by expanding access to educational materials, promoting literacy, and creating a welcoming community space for learning, connection, and creativity. Through its support of programs such as youth reading initiatives, adult education opportunities, and cultural events, the organization ensures the library remains a vibrant cornerstone of the community.
“The library relies on strong community partners like the Fort Community Credit Union to help us further our mission of creating innovative and welcoming spaces to everyone in our community,” said Sarah French, Assistant Director of the Whitewater Public Library. “This donation will help the library provide essential services, materials, and programs for people of all ages, and it is much appreciated.”
FCCU’s employee giving program reflects the credit union’s cooperative values and its commitment to empowering team members to make a direct impact in their own communities. By combining employee contributions with FCCU’s support, the program amplifies the reach of local nonprofits that are addressing important community needs.
About FCCU: Established in 1940, Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) is a member-owned financial cooperative open to anyone living or working in Dane, Dodge, Jefferson, Rock, Walworth, or Waukesha counties. With branch locations in Fort Atkinson, Jefferson, Watertown, and Whitewater, FCCU holds $380 million in assets and has more than 21,000 members. For more information about FCCU and the products and services they offer, visit fortcommunity.com or call (920) 563-7305.
Cravath Lakefront Christmas Park, from the scenic overlook on Wisconsin Street.
Out to get some fish through the ice on Trippe lake. Not me, some other hearty souls.
Our thanks to Steve Watson for sharing more beautiful photos.
— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!
We are filled with gratitude for everyone who supported our incredibly successful Annual Fall Dinner that was held at Staller Estate Winery on November 7, 2025! Thanks to your generosity, we wrapped up the event raising $46,145, which will directly support families here in Whitewater.
We continue to be humbled and proud of the generosity shown to our organization and the investments made in our mission.
THANK YOU to our sponsors, attendees, silent auction winners, donors, and in-kind supporters. We are so very grateful for this community — and for all of you!
We also want to share some photos taken by Tom Ganser that captured this beautiful evening!
Editor’s note: When this article was originally posted on December 23 all of the material except for the photos pertained to the 2024 dinner. Our apologies for this error.
Joy to the world! Wishing you a peaceful and pleasant day.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the above image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday on Christmas Day with the Whitewater Historical Society.
The Whitewater Historical Society would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas with this early 1900’s post card from our holiday post card collection. We hope you all have a wonderful holiday!
The following students were named to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Dean’s List for the 2025 fall semester.
Whitewater, WI 53190: Michelle Abarca
Whitewater, WI 53190: Salaar Akbar
Whitewater, WI 53190: Lilith Ashmore
Whitewater, WI 53190: Grace Baker
Whitewater, WI 53190: Thomas Barton
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jace Bezzo
Whitewater, WI 53190: Landen Bley
Whitewater, WI 53190: Michaela Boose
Whitewater, WI 53190: Briana Brandt
Whitewater, WI 53190: Alyssa Brazouski
Whitewater, WI 53190: Liam Brown
Whitewater, WI 53190: Canyon Caputo
Whitewater, WI 53190: Lucas Castro-Huempfner
Whitewater, WI 53190: Joseph Ciesla
Whitewater, WI 53190: Christopher Cortes
Whitewater, WI 53190: Makenna D’Amico
Whitewater, WI 53190: Cypress Dempsey
Whitewater, WI 53190: Alejandra Diaz-Gallegos
Whitewater, WI 53190: Justice Durham
Whitewater, WI 53190: Charlie Eckert
Whitewater, WI 53190: Ashton Ford
Whitewater, WI 53190: Andrea Gentry
Whitewater, WI 53190: Ashton Gillespie
Whitewater, WI 53190: Sirena Gomez
Whitewater, WI 53190: Matthew Gumenyuk
Whitewater, WI 53190: Blake Haggerty
Whitewater, WI 53190: Stephanie Hensel
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jake Hintz
Whitewater, WI 53190: Brooklyn Hoey
Whitewater, WI 53190: Omarian Hughes
Whitewater, WI 53190: Cameron Huntley
Whitewater, WI 53190: Bryce Joel
Whitewater, WI 53190: Misynn Jones
Whitewater, WI 53190: Ryan Jordan
Whitewater, WI 53190: Ayo Kaeding
Whitewater, WI 53190: Devin Kelly
Whitewater, WI 53190: Kassie Knueppel
Whitewater, WI 53190: Taylor Koehler
Whitewater, WI 53190: Cali Kopecky
Whitewater, WI 53190: Andrea Kuhl
Whitewater, WI 53190: Anna Lamendola
Whitewater, WI 53190: Allison Lavin
Whitewater, WI 53190: Brianna Lawson
Whitewater, WI 53190: Hunter Lochner
Whitewater, WI 53190: Payton Lowe
Whitewater, WI 53190: Cayden Maag
Whitewater, WI 53190: Connor Macy
Whitewater, WI 53190: Megan Manthey
Whitewater, WI 53190: Isai Mata
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jordan Meinen
Whitewater, WI 53190: Daniela Melero
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jordan Miller
Whitewater, WI 53190: Morgan Miller
Whitewater, WI 53190: Adrian Mora
Whitewater, WI 53190: Sam Morton
Whitewater, WI 53190: Kylee Mueller
Whitewater, WI 53190: Olivia Nanni
Whitewater, WI 53190: Rori Nikole
Whitewater, WI 53190: Emily O’Donnell
Whitewater, WI 53190: Brittany Ogden
Whitewater, WI 53190: Joey Ophime
Whitewater, WI 53190: Layla Owens
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jonah Panning
Whitewater, WI 53190: Emilie Parranto
Whitewater, WI 53190: Johan Perez
Whitewater, WI 53190: Charlotte Pham
Whitewater, WI 53190: Tj Piper
Whitewater, WI 53190: Hugo Portales
Whitewater, WI 53190: Mel Prince
Whitewater, WI 53190: Kyle Puchalski
Whitewater, WI 53190: Zoheb Rakhangi
Whitewater, WI 53190: Colin Reynolds
Whitewater, WI 53190: Renee Rittmeyer
Whitewater, WI 53190: Yovanni Rojas-Reyes
Whitewater, WI 53190: Cody Rupke
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jake Satterfield
Whitewater, WI 53190: Whitney Scherr
Whitewater, WI 53190: Sabrina Schmidt
Whitewater, WI 53190: Tyler Schneider
Whitewater, WI 53190: Marcus Seaver
Whitewater, WI 53190: Holly Shannon
Whitewater, WI 53190: Connor Sharlow
Whitewater, WI 53190: Jazmin Soto
Whitewater, WI 53190: Andrew Swartz
Whitewater, WI 53190: C.J. Tomomitsu
Whitewater, WI 53190: Tristin Trevino
Whitewater, WI 53190: Dejaney Valles
Whitewater, WI 53190: Dakota Veium
Whitewater, WI 53190: Tania Verduzco
Whitewater, WI 53190: Emma Wade
Whitewater, WI 53190: Molly Wade
Whitewater, WI 53190: Miranda Ward
Whitewater, WI 53190: Ryan Westerman
Whitewater, WI 53190: Hayleigh Williams
Whitewater, WI 53190: Kaitee Witke
Whitewater, WI 53190: Nick Yellick
Whitewater, WI 53190: Cameron Zehr
Whitewater, WI 53190: Kelsy Zingsheim
These students have demonstrated their academic abilities by receiving a grade point average of 3.4 or above in a single semester.
“We are incredibly proud of the students who earned a place on the Dean’s List,” said Robin Fox, UW-Whitewater’s interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “This distinction reflects exceptional academic achievement and the dedication our students bring to their studies every day. Their success strengthens our university, and we celebrate all they have accomplished.”
The university’s Registrar’s Office reports 4,107 students were selected for the Dean’s List for the fall semester. More than 12,000 students are currently enrolled at the university’s Whitewater and Rock County campuses.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by UW-Whitewater. It is evident that many of these students who were recognized on the Dean’s List are not long-term Whitewater residents. Students are listed by the community that they have indicated as being their residence.
Alexander Clarksen participated in the 151st Christmas Festival at Carthage College in the magnificent A. F. Siebert Chapel in Kenosha, Wis. Clarksen, from Whitewater, is a member of Carthage Choir and Lincoln Singers.
The Carthage Christmas Festival is one of the largest and most beloved events on campus, bringing together over 3,500 people throughout the festival weekend. The Christmas Festival artistic staff includes Professors Margaret Burk as Artistic Director and Matthew Hougland as Production Director.
Wind Orchestra conducted by James Ripley
Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by E. Edward Kawakami
Vox Ignis, Carthage Choir, and Lincoln Chamber Singers conducted by Margaret Burk
Voces Aquae and Carthage Treble Choir conducted by Polly Amborn
Accompanists: Melissa Cardamone and Gregory Berg
About Carthage
Carthage College is breaking records with its largest enrollment ever. Founded in 1847, Carthage blends the best liberal arts traditions with innovative programs that shape careers, hands-on learning that fuels discovery, and faculty mentorship that drives student success – all on a stunning Lake Michigan campus in Kenosha, Wisconsin, midway between Chicago and Milwaukee.
Grow with us: www.carthage.edu
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Carthage College.
John’s Disposal will be closed on:
Christmas Day – Thursday, December 25, 2025 – Collection will be delayed by one day.
New Year’s Day – Thursday, January 1, 2026 – Collection will be delayed by one day.
Residents may contact John’s Disposal directly by calling (262) 473-4700 or by emailing
office@johnsdisposal.com. You may also view their website at https://www.johnsdisposal.com.
Brad Marquardt
Director of Public Works
262-473-0139
bmarquardt@whitewater-wi.gov
For other requests, visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/RequestTracker.aspx.
Obituaries
Marion Jauch Burrows (Feb. 2, 1930 – June 5, 2026) Her sparkling eyes, warm laugh, and generous ways were gifts Marion brought into this world, touching family members and friends alike over the ninety-six years of her life. She was born and raised in Lombard, IL, and in the course of her life lived with her husband and growing family in Abilene, TX, St. David’s, PA, Arkadelphia, AR, Ada, OK, and Colorado Springs, CO, before settling in Whitewater, WI, in 1965. Generosity of heart, compassion toward those in need in and beyond her community, and an unwavering commitment to fairness … Read more
Patricia “Pat” Lynn Bailey, age 70, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026 with her daughter by her side. Pat was born February 21, 1956 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to John and Ruth (Hudock) Prentice. After a brief time in Ann Arbor, the Prentice family moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin, where Pat grew up as part of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater community, where her father served as University Registrar. Pat attended the University School and later graduated from UW Whitewater with a degree in Elementary Education. Although she did not pursue teaching, she built a meaningful career in Human … Read more
Gemelino Paris Esperante, 83, long time resident of Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, June 4th, 2026. He was born on January 10, 1943, to his late father and mother, Evaristo and Carmen in Spain. In 1973 he moved to the United States as a sheep herder. On August 21, 1981, he was united in marriage to Cyndie Esperante in Colorado. Gemelino also worked in Mining and construction for many years. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, raising sheep and growing things in his garden, and flowers. He will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife … Read more
Mary Ann Warner died peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Crestridge Assisted Living in Dodgeville. Her physical heart failed, but her actual, loving heart never did. Ann was born June 28, 1939 to Mary and Charles Kearns in Iowa. She moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin and graduated with many dear friends in the class of 1957. Ann married John Warner on September 19, 1959. They lived in Whitewater, Sturgis Michigan, and finally settled in Janesville where they built a beautiful life and raised their family. Together, they ran a business, traveled, played cards, and enjoyed their lives. When they became … Read more
Patricia Ann Jacobson (Bureau), age 81, of Whitewater, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI. Born on September 2, 1944, in Marquette, MI, to the late Donald and Margaret Bureau, Pat grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She graduated from Graveraet High School, attended Michigan State University, and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University. Pat dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds, working as an elementary and junior high school teacher in both Flint, MI, and Whitewater, WI. At the heart of Pat’s life was a beautiful, … Read more
In loving memory of Lois Lauritzen, age 92, who passed away on June 1, 2026 at Lakewood Memory Care in Brookfield. Lois led an active life full of devotion to family and friends. Born July 14th, 1933 in Silvis, IL, daughter of Harry and Elsie Wilson, she grew up in the Quad Cities with older brother Harry Wilson Jr. Lois graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL with a degree in physical education. She met her husband Paul Lauritzen on the college tennis team. Their marriage on June 12th, 1955 lasted 59 years until Paul’s death on September 26th, … Read more
Donald Walter Triebold passed on to his eternal home on May 21, 2026. Don was born on April 23, 1935, in Evanston, IL, to the late Frederick W. and Mildred (nee Stecher) Triebold. Through his teen years, Don lived and worked on the family’s dairy farm, where he developed a life-long work ethic. His first eight years of education were in a one-room country schoolhouse, in which all eight grades were taught by one teacher. He graduated from Whitewater City High School in 1953 and then graduated from UW Whitewater in 1958 with a degree in Business Education. He continued his education, and earned a Master’s … Read more
William Kincaid Davis, age 84, passed away on Tuesday, May 19 at Agrace Hospice Center in Fitchburg. He was born on November 1, 1941, in Madison, Indiana, the second son of Salvation Army Officers Agnes (Dixon) and William C. Davis. He attended several schools in Indiana and Illinois, including University of Illinois Experimental High School (Champaign), and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1958. He earned his bachelor’s degree from UW-Eau Claire in 1964 and his master’s degree from UW-Whitewater in 1972. He had an expansive career in education, beginning as an English teacher in Whitehall, Thornton Township (IL) and … Read more
Magdalene “Maggie” Stetter (nee Fritz), 79, of Whitewater, Wisconsin passed from this life onto the next on Monday, May 4, 2026. She was born on January 16, 1947, to the late John and Mary (Presser) Fritz in St. Stefan, Austria. Maggie immigrated from Austria with her parents and brother, became a US citizen, and grew up and attended school in West Allis, WI and then graduated with a teaching degree from University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Maggie served as a substitute, English, and German language teacher in the Whitewater, Elkhorn, Delavan, and Palmyra schools and at Divine Word Seminary. Maggie … Read more
Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, a proud Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War, and longtime resident of Fort Atkinson, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on May 1, 2026. Larry was born June 7th, 1949, to Levon and Charles Hartung in Chicago, IL. Larry enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1968 and served 3 consecutive tours in the Vietnam War. During this time, he became pen pals with his future wife, Candy, via a connection through his father. In 1970, he came home on leave to marry Candy. They celebrated 55 years of marriage on October 31st, 2025. During … Read more
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