Archived Services - B

     Leila M. Bailie, age 80, of Lancaster died Sunday, January 18, 2009 at the Lancaster Care Center.  She was born on February 27, 1928, the daughter of Orville and Ethel (Fosbinder) Needham near Preston, WI.  Leila was the fifth of eight children which included, Ida, Clarence, Harold, Elmer, Lois, Geraldine and Larry.  As a child, she helped on the family farm, played softball and attended country school.  Leila enjoyed going to her Grandma and Grandpa Fosbinder’s house to spend the night and visit her cousins.  She graduated from Fennimore High School and worked for a year at Dodgeville Hospital, doing the laundry, cleaning and cooking.

        Leila married Elmer Baile on November 3, 1949 in Dubuque, Iowa.  They farmed and raised two children, LaVon and Bruce.  She also had three grandchildren, Sharie, Tyler and Jade Allen and two great-grandchildren, Mason Aide and Kingston Clayton.

        Leila raised a big garden every year.  She painted farm buildings, baled hay and built fences.  She had lived on the farm for 60 years.  Leila especially enjoyed holidays, birthdays and graduations with her children and grandchildren.  She would also liked to attend cross country events for Sharie and Tyler.

        Leila is survived by her two children:  Bruce Bailie, Lancaster and LaVon (Rod) Allen, Livingston; three grandchildren, Sharie, Tyler and Jade; two great-grandchildren, Mason and Kingston; two brothers, Harold Needham, Fennimore and Larry Needham, New Mexico; many cousins, nieces and nephews. 

        She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Elmer in 1998; three sisters, Ida, Lois and Geraldine; two brothers, Clarence and Elmer.

        Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2009, at the Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster with Reverend Barbara Cook officiating.  Burial was in Bloomington Cemetery, Bloomington.  Family and friends were welcomed from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services Thursday all at the funeral home.

Elva B. Barr, age 98, of Bloomington, passed away on Tuesday, April 12, 2011m at Orchard Manor Nursing Home in Lancaster.  She was born in Cassville on December 26, 1912, the daughter of James and Anna (Wiest) Noble.  On February 23, 1933, Elva was united in marriage to Frank M. Barr in Galena, IL.  She and Frank made their home at the Barr family farm near North Andover.  Frank’s father, brother and sister also lived with them.  Elva was a member of North Andover Royal Neighbors for over 75 years and a member of the Pleasant Hour Club of North Andover.  She was also a sewing and cooking leader of the Prairie Ramblers 4-H Club.  Elva worked at the North Andover Store and did sewing and housekeeping for the Lancaster Memorial Hospital.  Frank and Elva moved to Bloomington from the family farm in 1976.  Elva loved the Bloomington Senior Citizens get together’s and said if you feel bad, all you have to do is walk down the street in Bloomington and people made you feel better.  She also loved Ma’s Bakery and her trip to Aldis.  Elva was an avid sewer, card player and an excellent cook.  In addition to making many quilts for her family, she loved to paint and wallpaper.

Survivors include her daughters:  Barbara (Am) Mergen, Joan (Jim) Wagner, all of Bloomington; Jane Vande Berg, San Antonio, TX; grandchildren: Sue Bernhardt, Steve Mergen, Terry Mergen, Chris Laufenberg, Tami Hoffman, Pam Frank, Jennifer Riebe, Jeff Wagner, Michael Wagner, Jason Vande Berg, and James Vande Berg; 29 great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, J. Stanley Noble and brothers and sisters-in-law: Walter Barr, Mary Thornton, Grace Addison, Allen Barr, Myrtle Barr, Lloyd Barr, John Barr and Retha Noble.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 16, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington with Father John Meinholz officiating.  Burial was in Blake’s Prairie Cemetery, Bloomington.  Family and friends called on Friday, April 15, 2011, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family.

Many thanks to Orchard Manor for the great care she received in the past six years.

Eugene “Gene” Bartels passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 3, 2011. He was born on September 4, 1931 to Fannie (Reed) and George Bartels in Burton, WI. Gene served in the Air Force and was stationed in Germany. He married Joyce Lindblom on November 27, 1954. They lived in Potosi where he worked for the Village of Potosi as Village Clerk, Treasurer and Assessor for 34 years. Gene then served as Grant County Chairman for 10 years and was also on the Grant County Board for 14 years.

Gene enjoyed spending time with his family and playing cards. He loved to golf, bowl and attend his grandchildren’s special events. Gene was also an avid Colt’s fan.

Gene is survived by his children: Sherry (Dick) Shea of Stoughton, Mark (Jody) Bartels of Lancaster, Tim (Kathy) Bartels of Potosi and Tod (Lisa) Bartels of Rice Lake, his grandchildren: Tina (Stephen) Stokes and their children, Emma and Elizabeth, Nic Bartels and his children, Skylar and Samantha, Tim Shea, Erin Bartels, Toni (Noah) Voelker, Jennifer Bartels, Jocelyn Bartels, Terry Bartels, Kristi Bartels, two step grandchildren, Bill (Jann) Muldoon and their children, Katelynn and John, and Angie Muldoon, one sister in law, Shirley Bartels, and many nieces and nephews. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joyce, and his brothers and sister in laws: Virgil & Monona, Fred & Martha, Bob & Lauretta, Paul & Opal, Walt & Sally, and Donnie.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Morningside and Grant Regional Health Center.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 7, 2011, at 11:00 am. Visitation was held Wednesday, July 6, 2011, from 4-8 and from 10-11 on Thursday prior to funeral services all at the Martin Funeral Home in Potosi.  Burial with military honors was held in Van Buren Cemetery, Potosi.

     Glenn R. Bartels, age 83, of rural Lancaster, formerly of Bloomington, died Friday, November 27, 2009 at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.

       Glenn is survived by his wife, Helen, rural Lancaster; two sons and two daughters:  Lewis (Linda) Bartels, Titus, AL; Beverly (Jim) Ayen, Urbandale, IA; Dennis (Cheryl Hudson) Bartels, Platteville and Judy Bartels, rural Lancaster; 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; two sisters: Oleva Stroede, Sun Prairie and Inace Rotramel, NM.

       He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, LaVonne Meir.

       Memorial services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 29, 2009 at Old Paths Baptist Church, 685 Duggan Dr., Dubuque, IA with Pastor Edward Mast officiating.   Private graveside services were held at Blakes Prairie Cemetery, Bloomington Township.  The family requests memorials to Old Paths Baptist Church or the Glenn R. Bartels Memorial Fund.   Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is serving the family.

Charles W. Barton, age 62, of Lancaster, died Monday, July 19, 2010, at his home in Lancaster.  He was born on December 31, 1947, in Spokane, WA, the son of Levi and Leta (Inglis) Barton.  Charles graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle with a degree in Physics.  He later graduated from the University of Alaska with a Master’s degree in Business Administration.  Charles worked in fiber technology in Alaska, Chicago, Connecticut, and Lancaster.  His work was his passion in life.

Survivors include his brother, Byron (Jean) Barton, Seattle, WA; and his sister, Jeannette Perry, King George, VA.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents.

There was no services.  Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is serving the family

Carl F. Bast, age 82, of Madison, formerly of Lancaster, passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2011, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on August 27, 1928, in Ellenboro Township, the son of Herman and Hazel (Nehls) Bast.  Carl graduated from Lancaster High School.  He then joined the United States Air Force and served his country.  Following his honorable discharge, Carl farmed for a number of years in Lancaster.  On July 8, 1960, he was united in marriage to Marybell Brenner.  In 1985, they moved to Madison where he worked as a housekeeper for UW Hospital and also drove cars for Russ Darrow.  He retired and was a door greeter at Wal-Mart in Monona.  Carl was a member of Odd Fellows, Busy Badger 4-H, and the VFW Post No. 2344 of Lancaster.  He loved farming, hunting, watching sports, playing cards, doing crossword puzzles and woodworking.

Survivors include his wife, Marybell Bast, Madison; his children: Terry (Becky Thompson) Bast, Madison; Bill (Peggy) Bast, Lancaster; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; five special friends that were considered grandchildren and eleven special friends that were considered great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Carl was preceded in death by a son, Steve; two brothers, one sister and a grandson, Stacey.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 13, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating.  Burial with military honors was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Family and friends call on Tuesday, April 12, 2011, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services on Wednesday at the church.  In lieu of plants and flowers a Carl Bast Memorial Fund has been established.

     Dolora C. Bausch, age 90, of Lancaster, died on Wednesday, December 31, 2008, at the Lancaster Care Center in Lancaster.  She was born on March 6, 1918, in Cassville, the daughter of Anthony and Mary (Kirschbaum) Meier.  On January 29, 1940, Dolora was united in marriage to Paul Bausch at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville.  Together they farmed the Glen Haven area for fifty years.  Dolora enjoyed quilting, gardening, baking and cooking.  She loved to spend time with her family and friends.  Dolora was very active in St. Mary’s Church and its Altar Society.

       Survivors include her children:  Loren (Martha) Bausch, Lancaster; LuAnn (Jerry) Amundson, Onalaska; her daughter-in-law, Barbara Bausch, Glen Haven; five grandchildren:  Christine Bausch, Glen Haven; Robert Bausch, Lancaster; Delmar (Melanie) Siltala, Mt. Horeb; Michael (Julie) Amundson, Onalaska; Kevin (Kara) Amundson, Arlington; and five great-grandchildren.

        In addition to her parents, and her husband, Paul, Dolora was preceded in death by a son, Dale and two brothers:  John and LaVern Meier and two sisters:  Evelyn Thole and Helen Cooley.

       Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 3, 2009, at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster at 11:00 a.m. with Father William Seipp officiating.  Burial was in St. Charles Cemetery, Cassville.  Friends called on Friday, January 2, 2009, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster with a 4:00 p.m. rosary and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services on Saturday at the church.

     Leila M. Bausch (Mrs. Sylvester), age 87, of Lancaster, formerly of Cassville, died on Saturday, February 21, 2009, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, rural Lancaster, surrounded by her family.  She was born on October 30, 1921, in rural Cassville, the daughter of Chris and Eva (Kirschbaum) Meier.  On November 21, 1942, Leila was united in marriage to Pvt. Sylvester B. Bausch at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sparta, WI.  Leila was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville.  She loved spending time with her family and friends as family was very important to her.

       Survivors include her sons:  Dennis (Rosann) Bausch, Potosi; Jack (Joan) Bausch, Cassville; six grandchildren:  Pam (Dave) Lokken, Verona; Gary (Dawn) Bausch, Naperville, IL; Lorie (Tim) Lange, DeForest; Cheryl (Kevin) Raisbeck, Lancaster; Cindy (Jason) Kartman, La Crosse; Jill (Andy) Hulst, Viroqua; six great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters;  a sister, Geneva Stark, Lancaster; sisters-in-law, Lavon Meier, Potosi; Dorothy (Casey) Skowronek, Dubuque, IA; and a brother-in-law, Alfred (Marvella) Zittel, Alma; other relatives and many friends.

       In addition to her parents, Leila was preceded in death by her husband, Sylvester on January 9, 1986; her brother and sisters:  William Meier, Lillian Kirschbaum, Bernadine Zittel, and Elsie Kartman.

       Funeral services were on Tuesday, February 24, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville with Father John Norder officiating.  Burial was in St. Charles Cemetery, Cassville.  Friends called on Monday, February 23, 2009, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. where a 5:00 p.m. prayer service will be held at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville.  Friends also called on Tuesday, February 24, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.  In lieu of plants and flowers, a Leila M. Bausch memorial fund was established.

     Retha O. Bausch, age 87, formerly of Cassville, died Friday, February 20, 2009 at Luther Manor in Dubuque, Iowa.  She was born May 2, 1921, the daughter of Charles and Gertrude (Dresen) Lau in Cassville.  Retha graduated from Cassville High School.  She was united in marriage to Clarence “Kais” Bausch on November 13, 1945 in Cassville.  Retha worked for the Dennison House, Bakery and Stonefield Village all in Cassville.  She enjoyed playing cards and sharing time with friends from many different avenues of her life.

       Retha is survived by her son, Doug (Susan) Bausch, Dubuque, IA; daughter-in-law, Barb Bausch, Madison; two grandsons, Eric (Ashley) Bausch, Medina, TN and Corey Bausch (Courtney Golightly), Iowa City, IA; six great-grandchildren, Kailey, Moses, Eden, Isaiah, Josiah and Hanna (to be born on March, 2009); one brother, Fred (Margaret) Lau, LaCrosse; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

       She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clarence; her son, Morrie; her grandson, Tom; her brothers and sisters, Bud Lau, Addie Lau, Vincent Lau, Chris Lau, Herb Lau, Lucille Lau, Ivan Lau and Carl Lau.

       Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at St. Charles Catholic Church with Father John Norder officiating.  Burial was in the St. Charles Cemetery, Cassville Township.  Family and friends were welcome from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services Thursday at the funeral home. 

       In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorials to the American Cancer Society.  They would also like to extend a special thank you to Kathy Pitz with Hospice of Dubuque.

Ronald W. Bausch, age 50, of Dodgeville, passed awayThursday, October 27, 2011, at his home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Ron was born on August 15, 1961, in Cassville, the fifth child of eight born to Walter and Leila (Mumm) Bausch. He graduated from Cassville High School in 1979. Ron married his best friend, Susan White, on April 7, 1984. They together lived their lives in Prairie du Chien, Mineral Point and Dodgeville. Ron was always there to help someone, give you a hard time, play a practical joke, and make you laugh. He loved his“real” Harley motorcycle and enjoyed playing pool, playing euchre, and spending time with his family, friends, and co-workers.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Susan Bausch, Dodgeville; his mother, Leila Bausch, Cassville; his brothers and sisters: Mike (Eureka) Bausch, Platteville; Tim (Shelby) Bausch, Potosi; Doreen Hegy, LaCrescent, MN; Sue (Bob Johnson), Holmen; Ken (Dawn) Bausch, Oregon; Dan (Janine Weger) Bausch, Potosi; and Lisa (Mike) Melzer, Menomonee Falls; his mother and father-in-law, Vernon and Ann White, Lancaster; his brothers and sisters-in-law: Al (Kim) White, Lancaster; Warren (Mary) White, Glen Haven; David (Tammi Henke) White, Sun Prairie; Jerry (Mindy) White, Altoona, IA; Blanche (Bill) Windgassen, South Beloit, IL; Cheryl (Shawn Graff) White, Slinger, WI; Jen (Andy) Bausch, Clifton Park, NY; Mo (Mike ) Lancaster,Madison; Nicole (TJ) Hamilton, Sheboygan; along with many nieces, nephews and many other loving relatives and friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Walter Bausch, his maternal and paternal grandparents, and godfather, Walter Mumm.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 2, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Glen Haven with Father John Meinholz officiating. Burial was in Gockel Cemetery, Glen Haven. Family and friends called on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. Martin Funeral Home in Cassville is assisting the family.

Walter P. Bausch, age 78, of Cassville, passed away on Monday, August 23, 2010, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, Lancaster.  He was born on October 16, 1931, in Cassville, the son of Tony and Cecelia (Adrian) Bausch.  Walter served in the United States Army from 1953 until 1954 and was stationed in Baltimore, MD.  On June 2, 1955, he was united in marriage to Leila M. Mumm.  Walter worked at Dairyland Power in Cassville until his retirement.  He enjoyed playing Euchre and 500 with family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Leila Bausch, Cassville; his children: Mike (Reka) Bausch, Platteville; Tim (Shelby) Bausch, Potosi; Doreen Hegy, LaCrescent, MN; Sue (Bob Johnson), Holmen; Ron (Sue) Bausch, Dodgeville; Ken (Dawn) Bausch, Oregon; Dan Bausch, Potosi; and Lisa (Mike Melzer) Menomonee Falls; his grandchildren: Tabetha (Jim Little), Jen (Brad Schroeder), Tony (Emily Mahan), Brian, Shelby, Samantha, Rylie, Angie, Kira, and Kaci; great-grandsons, Mason and Colten; his sisters and brother, Marge Kirschbaum, Lancaster; Irene Wood, Cassville and William (Mary Sue) Bausch, Cassville.

In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by a sister, Florence Reed and a brother, Robert Bausch.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, August 26, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville with Father John Meinholz officiating.  Burial with military honors was in St. Mary’s Settlement Cemetery, Cassville.  Family and friends called on Wednesday, August 25, 2010, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville.  A scripture service was held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday and friends may also call on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Belva E. Beattie, age 89, of Cassville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 26, 2010, at Lancaster Care Center in Lancaster.  She was born on November 7, 1921, the daughter of Henry and Cora (Donaldson) Wiest.  Belva was employed at Allis Chalmers in Harvey, IL, where she met and married Alexander Beattie on April 20, 1946.  She enjoyed reading, word puzzles, Bingo, needlepoint and fishing.  Belva crocheted many baby blankets and afghans for her family.  She was known to always carry a camera and take many pictures.

She is survived by five daughters: Barbara (Andrew) Spitznas, Dolores (James) Bindell, and Pamela Beattie, all of Davenport, IA; Patricia (Steve Babineau) Beattie, Platteville; Lori (Monte) Scholl, Cassville; 13 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren. 

In addition to her parents, Belva was preceded in death by her husband, Alex, two sisters: Hilda Retallick and Dorothy Schnering, a brother, Ken Wiest, and a great-grandchild, Abigail Kirschbaum.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, December 29, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville.  Burial was in Cassville Cemetery, Cassville.  Family and friends called on Tuesday, December 28, 2010, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville.  Friends may also call on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Esther R. Becker, age 98, of Lancaster, died peacefully on Sunday morning, December 18, 2011, in Lancaster.

She was born on January 8, 1913, in Elmwood, Wisconsin, the third of four children born to Peter and Josephine (Reitz) Reinke. She graduated from Elmwood High School in 1931 and River Falls Teachers College in 1934. She started her teaching career in Lancaster, where she met and married Lancaster dentist, Reginald J. Becker, DDS. They married June 25, 1938, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elmwood.

Esther was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters, and the American Legion Auxiliary. Esther was very involved in the Lancaster community and treasured her Lancaster friendships. She enjoyed bridge and golf; she and her husband were members of various leagues and the Dubuque and Lancaster Country Clubs. Esther was an avid Wisconsin Badger fan and season ticket holder for fifty years. The center of Esther’s life was her family. She enjoyed her children and held great pride in all of their achievements.

She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her seven children, Dr. William (Betty) Becker, Columbus; Mary (Seth) Barsky, Birmingham, MI; Robert (Ann) Becker, North Canton, OH; John (Alida) Becker, Philadelphia, PA; Dr. James (Linda) Becker, Grafton; Margaret (John) Voorhees, Hazelhurst; and Richard Becker, Lancaster; twelve grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

Ms. Becker was preceded in death by her husband, Reginald J. Becker, her parents, her sisters, Laura Mans and Josephine Mackey, her brother, Charles Reinke, and daughter in law, Betty Becker.

Funeral services were held on Monday, December 26, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father William Seipp officiating. Burial was in St. Clement Cemetery, Lancaster. Visitation was held on Monday, December 26, 2011, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at the church. The Schwartz Funeral Home of Lancaster is in charge of arrangements.

Willis “Jack” Bedward, age 77, of Lancaster, died on Tuesday, October 4, 2011, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home in Lancaster. He was born on April 11, 1934, in Wyalusing, the son of Paul and Violet (Pascoe) Bedward. Jack graduated from Bagley High School in 1952. He entered the United States Air Force and served his country for four years. He met the love of his life while he was stationed in California. On July 23, 1956, Jack was united in marriage to Barbara Salsman at Minden, NV. After their marriage the couple raised four children while residing in California. In 1966, they moved to Wisconsin and in 1979 moved to Arizona. In 2009, the couple returned to Wisconsin to be near family. Jack was a salesman for auto parts for many years. He loved working with his hands and was a“Jack-of-all-trades.” Jack was an avid sports fan, especially baseball. He was instrumental in forming the women’s softball league in Lancaster in the early 1970’s. Jack also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his loving wife, Barbara Bedward, Lancaster; their children: Paul (Pam) Bedward, Edgerton; Bob (Karen) Bedward, Lancaster; Karen (Brian) Bennett, Darlington; Sharon (Mike) Kohlstedt, Byron, IL; thirteen grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Mae Brody, Poplar Grove, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services with military honors will be on Friday, October 7, 2011, at 12:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home, 142 W. Oak St., in Lancaster with Reverend Larry A. Hakes officiating. Burial will be at a later date. Family and friends may call on Friday, October 7, 2011, from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bloomfield Manor and Orchard Manor for their exceptional care.

Loyd C. Beesecker, age 91, of Lancaster, died on Monday, May 9, 2011, at his home in Lancaster.  He was born on December 25, 1919, in Crawford County, the son of Jack and Nina (Gruel) Beesecker.  Loyd formed a band in the 1930’s and played in the Prairie du Chien area.  He farmed the family farm near Wauzeka.  On June 20, 1942, he was united in marriage to Gertrude Martin.  To this union, ten children were born.  Gertrude preceded Loyd in death in November of 1989.  He was employed with John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works for twenty-five years.  Loyd later married Velma (Lister) Willimack on January 5, 1991, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ at Liberty.  They resided in rural Beetown and relocated to Lancaster in 1997.  Loyd enjoyed attending auctions, metal detecting, coin collection, hunting, fishing and music.

Survivors include his wife, Velma Beesecker; children: Loyd F. “JR” (Jo) Beesecker; John Beesecker; Rick Beesecker; Terrie (Jim) Parkins; Edward “Butch” (Paula) Beesecker; Laurie (Ron) Adrian; Mike Beesecker; Shawn (Brian) Mumm,; twenty-six grandchildren; forty-seven great-grandchildren; fifteen great-great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Sue Beesecker; son-in-law, Jerry Horkheimer; step-children: Lewis (Betty) Willimack; Richard Willimack; Sue (Myke) Wunderlin;

In addition to his parents and his wife Gertrude, Loyd was preceded in death by a son, Robert Beesecker, daughter, Rosemary Beesecker Horkheimer; grandsons: Scott Robert Beesecker, Ronnie Adrian, Jr., Joseph Adrian, and Dusti Wunderlin; and a great-granddaughter, Jade Horkheimer.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 12, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster with John Cathman officiating.  Burial was in Wauzeka Cemetery, Wauzeka.  Family and friends called on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home and on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home. 

Frances (Ward) Beetham, age 93, died September 19, 2011, at Grant Regional Health Center. She was born on October 5, 1917, the third child of William and Nora (Knox) Ward. She grew up in Lancaster, and was a member of LHS class of 1935. She met her future husband, Wendell Beetham, at LHS. They married June 25, 1941. They welcomed their first son, Ward Mark, in 1943; and daughter, Jean in 1947. Close ties were kept with Wendell’s three sisters and their families: Helen and “Leck” Haskins, Ardys and Norm Elwell, all of Lancaster; and Ann and Bob Martens of Platteville. They gathered together monthly for “clan bakes” to celebrate birthdays, holidays, or anything else they could think of. Because they lived in Michigan, visit with her brother Lyal’s family were less frequent, but just as lively; as nephews and nieces arrived to help with harvesting and to catch up with their old home town. Frances started selling Avon in 1960, winning numerous sales awards over the next six years, when she was asked to join the staff at “The Budget Shop,” now known as MaCandis Boutique in Lancaster. She loved to sew and cook and was an accomplished candy maker.

Frances seemed to know everyone, and if she didn’t, she would go introduce herself. Nine times out of ten, she would find that her new friends and she had a mutual friend or relative. Forgetting a name of face, common to the rest of us, came very late in life to her. Frances was an avid, life-long reader.

Frances is survived by her daughter, Jean (Daniel) Smith, Norwood, MA; grandson, Joshua Ward ( Eden Garhart-Smith) Smith and their son, Atticus Ward Smith, all of Malden, MA; granddaughter, Libbie (William) Craft, and their daughter, Sara Craft, all of Selkirk, NY; nephews, Darrel (Marly) Haskins, Lancaster; William Ward, Minneapolis, MN; Frank Ward and Harry Ward, both of Michigan; John (Mary) Elwell, Minneapolis, MN; and Robert (Barb) Martens, Platteville; nieces: Sally Cullimore and Kay (Bob) Tiedt, both of Michigan; Marte (Frank) Wetzel, Cottage Grove; Mary Lou Haskins, Lancaster; many great-nieces, great nephews and some great-great nieces and nephews.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; infant sister, Golda; brother, Lyal Ward; devoted husband, Wendell; beloved son, Ward; all three of Wendell’s sisters and their husbands; nephews, Perry Martens, Richard Ward and Stan Haskins.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 22, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster with Pastor Barbara Cook officiating. Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Thursday, September 22, 2011, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Frances W. Beetham Memorial Fund has been established with memorials being given to the Schreiner Memorial Library Building Fund.

     Irene E. Beetham, age 95, of Lancaster, died on Thursday, November 26, 2009, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster, following a brief illness.  She was born on October 9, 1914, the second child of John and Louretta (Day) Brandemuehl, and she grew up on a family farm in South Lancaster.  She attended Grays Mill School, starting at age three, and graduated from Lancaster High School when she was sixteen.  Irene married Cecil Beetham on her twentieth birthday and they farmed together for more than fifty years on a century farm in North Lancaster.  She was a typical farm wife of the time, doing everything from raising chickens and tending livestock to driving tractors.  Irene also loved to garden, can and freeze produce, cook big meals, bake bread and pies, crochet and sew, and even made her own soap.  She often marveled at how her life had been affected by the technological changes over the years, with electricity having the biggest impact.  Although Irene knew great sorrow in her life, especially the death of her toddler son in a tragic accident, she was a good-natured, happy person who lived life well.  Her main focus was always her family.  Her grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her special joy for more that fifty years.

      Survivors include her children: Mary Ann Schmidt, Bloomington; Karen (Palmer Steward) Beetham, Davenport, IA; her brother-in-law, Carl Beetham, Washington, DC; her grandchildren: Debbie Kelly, Lutz, FL; Dennis (Becky) Schmidt, Lancaster; Ted Schmidt, Luck; Rick Schmidt, Marinette; Shari Schmidt, Land O’Lakes, FL; Heather (Scott) Steward-Tharp, Bethesda, MD; eight great-grandchildren: Erin and Erica Kelly, Elise (Alex) Kelly-Becker, Stephanie, Stephen, Rachel and Rene` Schmidt, and Pavlina Steward-Tharp; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

       In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by her son, Tommy, her husband, Cecil, her sister, Esther and brother, Elgie and a grandson-in-law, Teddy Kelly.

       Funeral services were held on Thursday, December 3, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster with Rev. Mark Dieter officiating.  Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Friends called on Wednesday, December 2, 2009, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services on Thursday. 

     Lucille D. Bellrichard, age 95, of Lancaster, died on Friday, February 5, 2010 at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, rural Lancaster.  She was born on December 28, 1914, in Wyalusing Township in Grant County, WI, the daughter of Abraham and Alma (Woodman) Key.  She married Lyle Bellrichard on June 6, 1936.  He preceded her in death on March 4, 2001.  Lucille loved to bake, can, and cook for her loving family.  She was always the perfect hostess.  Lucille also enjoyed music and could play many instruments by ear.  She had great devotion to her children and grandchildren.

       Survivors include her children:  Joanne Wood, Lancaster; Janice Hines, Lancaster; Lyle “Dennis” (Ginny) Bellrichard, Jr., Hazel Green; Sandy (Kent) Austin, Verona; and David (Maggie) Bellrichard, Cuba City; 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and two sisters-in-law, Jean Kadlec, Menominee; and Jeanette Hill, La Crosse.

      In addition to her husband, Lyle, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Brian Bellrichard, and her brothers:  Russell, Keith “Bud”, Kenneth, and Virgil Key; and her sisters:  Ivanelle Murray, Phyllis Payne, and Laura Key.

       Funeral services were held on Friday, February 12, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Clement Catholic Church with Fr. William Seipp officiating.  Burial was in Calvary Cemetery, Prairie du Chien.  Family and friends called on Friday, February 12 2010, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family. 

Geneva M. (Weeks) Bennett, age 76, of Lancaster, died on Saturday, January 22, 2011, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.  She was born on August 18, 1934, in Makanda, IL, the daughter of Oather and Helen (Denison) Weeks.  Geneva attended school in Marion, IL, and graduated from Kankakee High School in 1951.  In 1954, she married Harold A. Fager at the Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse, IL.  They farmed in the Chebanse area and in 1962 moved to Lancaster and farmed in North Lancaster Township.  Harold Sr. died in 1975.  Geneva later married Virgil E. Bennett in 1977 at Faith Lutheran Church in Lancaster.  She owned and operated Fager Sales and Service in Lancaster.  Geneva enjoyed quilting, reading, and her flower gardens.  She was a member of the Apostles Lutheran Church in Platteville.  Geneva and Virgil volunteered with the Builders for Christ Organization that helped communities build places of worship throughout the United States. 

Survivors include her husband, Virgil Bennett; her children: Harold Fager, Jr.; Brian (Sue) Fager, all of Lancaster; Karl (Nancy) Fager, Mankato, MN; Mary (Phil) Wegmann; Francis (Rodger) Irish; Tom (Sally) Bennett, all of Lancaster; Joanne (David) Zweifel, Lake Mills; 20 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one brother, Bill (Alice) Weeks, Marion, IL; nieces and nephews

In addition to her parents and her husband, Harold, Sr., Geneva was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Linda; a step-son, John Bennett and a grandson, Ryan Zweifel.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 26, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at Apostles Lutheran Church in Platteville with Reverend Thomas N. Reeder, Jr. officiating.  Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Family and friends called on Tuesday, January 25, 2011, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster.  Friends also called on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church. 

Myrtle W. Bennett, age 95, of Glen Haven, died on Wednesday, November 16, 2011, at Prairie Maison in Prairie du Chien, WI. She was born on September 5, 1916, in Seneca, WI, the daughter of Fred and Hannah (Withee) White. Myrtle graduated from Seneca High School. On May 15, 1953, Myrtle was united in marriage to Donald L. Bennett in Beloit. She was employed with Pargas in Minnesota, Pride Seed Company and served her community as an Avon lady for many years. She was a member of the Bagley United Methodist Church and the Eastern Star. Myrtle enjoyed playing cards, camping, traveling, cooking, ceramics, crocheting and genealogy. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and visiting with friends.

Survivors include her children: Jeff (Judy) Bennett, Monroe; Randy Bennett, Waseca, MN; Marsha (David) Crubel, Bloomington; ten grandchildren: Don Bennett, Chris (Michelle) Bennett, Alex Bennett, Kyle Bennett, Conor (Kathryn) Bennett, Kiah Bennett, JJ Crubel, Josh Crubel, Jordan Crubel, and Jamie Crubel; three great-grandchildren: Gannon Bennett, Ava Bennett and Nathan Crubel; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to her parents, Myrtle was preceded in death by her husband, Don, and her brothers and sisters: Ann Walker, Buck White, Lelah Honzel and Bob White.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 19, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at the Bloomington United Methodist Church with Pastor Mary Ann Floerke officiating. Burial was in Scott Cemetery, Glen Haven Township. Family and friends called on Friday, November 18, 2011, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington and on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Robert “Bob” E. Beyer, age 90, of Platteville died Saturday, September 4, 2010 at his daughter’s home.  He was born on June 23, 1920 in rural Platteville, the son of George and Rose (Dean) Beyer.  Bob was united in marriage to Helen Lucille VanNatta on August 14, 1940 in Dubuque , Iowa .  She preceded him in death on July 8, 1996.  Bob married Della Martens on September 27, 1997 in Platteville.  She preceded him in death on May 5, 2009.

Bob farmed in rural Platteville for 20 plus years.  He also owned and operated Bob’s Mobile Home and Refrigeration for many years.  In later years, Bob worked at B & B Gas Station for 17 years, retiring in 2007.  He loved horses, enjoyed woodworking and making clocks.  Bob also liked to restore old cars, including building a replica 1901 Oldsmobile. 

Bob is survived by four daughters: Betty (Jerry) Waydick, Arkdale, WI, Nancy (Paul) Bendorf, Platteville, Shirley Smith (special friend, Royce Rogers), Oregon, WI and Sherry (Tom) Paulus, Platteville; 11 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; two sisters:  Isabelle (Jacob) Kurth, Sheridan, WY and Leta Buss, Rocky Mount, VA; a half-sister, Betty Lou Woodcock, MO; two half-brothers, Frank (Cathy) Beyer, Platteville and Clarence (Donna) Beyer, Lancaster; a sister-in-law, Marian Beyer, Madison; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Helen and Della; two sisters, Helen Kurth and Frances Goke and his brother, Herman.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 10, 2010 at the Free Methodist Church in Platteville with Pastor Jeff Suits officiating.  Burial was held in Hillside Cemetery , Platteville.  Family and friends were welcome from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 9 at the Martin Schwartz Funeral Home in Platteville and from 10:00 a.m. until time of service Friday at the church.

     Mary C. Bishell, age 89, of Lancaster, died on Friday, January 15, 2010, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, Lancaster.  She was born on November 21, 1920, in Montana, the daughter of Charles and Ellen (Shea) Walker.  In 1941, she moved to Lancaster from Montana.  On November 24, 1941, Mary was united in marriage to Burnell E. Bishell at St. Clement Catholic Church, Lancaster.  After their marriage, the couple raised ten children on the family farm.  Mary enjoyed crocheting, baking, and family gatherings.  She was an active member of St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster.

       Survivors include her children:  Charlie (Sheila) Bishell, Lancaster; Lloyd (Chris) Bishell, Lancaster; Joseph Bishell, Amarillo, TX; Ellen (Jim) Funk, Lancaster; Teresa (Steve) Collins, Lancaster; Marlene (Tom) Kluesner, Bloomington; Sue (Gary) Mumm, Lancaster; Marie Bishell, Bloomington; her daughter-in-law, Ginger Bishell, Fennimore; twenty-one grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; special family friends, Nancy Mumm and Von Bacon; many nieces and nephews.

       In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Burnell Bishell, on October 27, 1995 and her sons, Raymund and John Bishell, and a son in infancy; her brother, Lee Walker and her sister, Eileen Flesch.

      Funeral services were held on Monday, January 18, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father Bart Timmerman officiating.  Burial was in St. Clement Cemetery, Lancaster.  Family and friends called on Sunday, January 17, 2010, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the church where a rosary will be held at 3:45 p.m. and friends may also call from 9:30 a.m. until time of services on Monday at the church.  Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.

Lulu Mae Blackbourn, age 93, of Prairie du Chien, died on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 in Wabasha, MN.  She was born on March 26, 1917, at Beetown Township, the daughter of Floyd and Mildred (Ball) Pascoe.  On December 10, 1936, Lulu Mae was united in marriage to Carlyle A. Blackbourn in Galena, IL.  After their marriage, the couple farmed near Bagley.  After selling their farm, they purchased a shoe store in Bloomington and retiring many years later.  In later years, they moved to Prairie du Chien.

Lulu Mae is survived by her children: Gloria Gilbert, Queen Creek AZ; Connie (Charles) Walling, Tempe, AZ; Dixie “Kay” (Dennis) Breuer, Wabasha, MN; eight grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren;  nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Carlyle on April 21, 2007; her parents; a granddaughter, Robyn Younker in 1981, a great grandson, Terrell Breuer in 1993, a great granddaughter, Amelia Breuer, her brother, Mahlon Pascoe; two sisters: Violet Bedward and Ivanelle LaMere and a son-in-law, Dean Gilbert. 

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 4, 2010, at 1:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Bloomington with Rev. Mary Ann Floerke officiating.  Burial was in Dodge Cemetery, Beetown Township.  Friends were welcome on Saturday, September 4 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. 

      Janet K. Blum, age 72, of Beetown, was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 20, 2009, at the Orchard Manor Nursing Home in rural Lancaster, following a battle with cancer.  She was born on March 25, 1937, in Beetown, the daughter of Paul and Helen (Garthwaite) Jamison.  On November 20, 1954, Janet was united in marriage to Paul “Pete” Blum at the home of Maxine and Otto Schurman of Lancaster.  Janet loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.  She was always willing to lend a helping hand.  Janet enjoyed cooking and was always trying out new recipes.  She expressed a love for animals and enjoyed walking her dog. 

       In addition to her parents, Janet was preceded in death by a daughter, Becky Kay, a sister, Betty Blackbourn and a brother, David Jamison.

      Survivors include her husband, Paul “Pete” Blum, Beetown; her children:  Cathy (Dick) Foley, Watertown; Karen Blum, Lancaster; Dan (Sara) Blum, Lancaster; and Dennis (Joy) Blum, Cassville; fourteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a brother, John Jamison, Beetown; and a sister, Dee (Leo “Bud”) Jensen, Lancaster, her aunts, Maxine Schurman, Florida and Dorothy Harasha, Lancaster. 

      Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 26, 2009, at 10:00 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster with Pastor Jim McMahon officiating.  Burial was in Cassville Cemetery, Cassville.  Friends called on Friday, September 25, 2009, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster and from 9:00 a.m. until time of services on Saturday.  The family suggests memorials be given to the Shriner’s, Teachers for Haiti, the American Cancer Society, Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice.

     Walter Bradley, age 87, of Lancaster, died on Sunday, January 25, 2009, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.  He was born on September 25, 1921, in rural Lancaster, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Kelly) Bradley.  He enlisted in the United States Air Force serving his country in the South Pacific from 1942 until 1945.  Walter was a member of the Air Apaches Bombardment Group in the 501^st Bomber Squadron.  On September 18, 1950, he was united in marriage to Doris A. Metcalf at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Glen Haven.  Together they farmed in Glen Haven Township on the Matt Kalscheur farm, where they had a wonderful dairy farm that they loved very much.  Walter and Doris dearly loved their family and especially their grandchildren.  In 1996, they retired and moved to Lancaster.  Walter is a member of St. Clement Catholic Church and the Richard Burns American Legion Post No. 109 of Lancaster. 

       Survivors include his children:  Virginia (Thomas) Johnson, Bloomington; Charlene (Timothy) Schmitz, Bloomington; four grandchildren:  Patrick and Paula Johnson, Sara and David Schmitz; his mother-in-law, Marie Metcalf, Lancaster; his brother: Stewart (Alberta) Bradley, Glen Haven; one sister-in-law, Dorothy Bradley, Platteville; brother-in-law, Donald (Deloris) Metcalf, Cassville; many nieces and nephews.

       He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Doris, six brothers:  Jasper, Delbert, Lawrence, Earl, Leo, and Donald, his father-in-law, Allen Metcalf and a great-niece, Jodi Metcalf.

       Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father William Seipp officiating.  Burial with military honors was in Charlotte Cemetery, Glen Haven Township.  Friends called on Wednesday, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. 

     Della L. Beyer, age 82, of rural Platteville, died on Tuesday, May 5, 2009, at Southwest Health Center in Plattevillle.  She was born on September 26, 1926, the daughter of George and Emily (Peacey) Gregory in Harrison Township.  Della graduated from Platteville High School and attended State Teachers College in Platteville.  She married Earl “Jimmy” Martens on June 24, 1950.  He preceded her in death on July 12, 1995.  Della married Robert Beyer on September 27, 1997 in Platteville.

       Della liked to sew, especially her own clothes.  She also liked tending to her garden, canning her vegetables and taking care of horses.

       Della is survived by her husband, Bob Beyer, Platteville; her sister, Margie (Frederick) Denman, Cazenovia; Bob’s daughters:  Betty (Jerry) Waydick, Arkdale, WI, Nancy (Paul) Bendorf, Platteville, Shirley Smith, Oregon, WI and Sherry (Tom) Paulus, Platteville.

       She was preceded in death by her parents and her first husband, Earl “Jimmy.”

      Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2009 at the Martin Schwartz Funeral Home in Platteville with Pastor Steve Borwick officiating.  Burial was held in Greenwood Cemetery, Platteville.  Family and friends were welcome from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2009 and from 10:00 a.m. until time of service Saturday all at the funeral home.

     DeWayne G. Bierman, age 61, of Potosi, died on Thursday, December 25, 2008, at Grant Regional Health Center, Lancaster.  He was born on February 7, 1947, in Lancaster, the son of Oliver and Ruth (Udelhofen) Bierman.  On September 2, 1967, he was united in marriage to Sharon Koeller at St. Thomas Catholic Church, Potosi.  DeWayne was an insurance executive with the Insurance Center for 39 years.  DeWayne loved to ride his snowmobile, and enjoyed hunting.  He loved working on his John Deere tractors and spending time at his home up north.  DeWayne loved to spend time with his family and friends and his dogs, Brandy and Freddy.   Most of all, he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

       Survivors include his children:  Craig (Melissa) Bierman, Potosi; Stacey (Tony) Wagner, Oregon; Brad (Suzy) Bierman, Potosi; Shelly (Ryan) Fecht, Potosi; his former wife, Sharon Bierman, Potosi; his grandchildren:  Brandon, Will, Emily, Kylie, Claire, Sydney, Carter, Nic, and Ben; his brother and sisters:  Nick (Marlene) Bierman, Stoughton; Mary Jayne (Frank) Menne, Platteville; Doris (Bob) Doerring, Lancaster; Madonna Ashbrook, Schaumburg, IL; special friend:  Lenore Nesler, Lancaster; 16 nieces and nephews; many great-nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.

       In addition to his parents, DeWayne was preceded in death by his brother, Sam Bierman.

     Friends joined the family for a Celebration of Life Service on Sunday, December 28, 2008, after 3:00 p.m. at the Holiday Gardens in Potosi.  The family requests people attend in casual attire.  Martin Funeral Home in Potosi is assisting the family.

     Ila Mae Bockhop, age 85, of Belmont, died Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at Southwest Health Center Nursing Home in Cuba City.  She was born on November 10, 1923, the daughter of Theodore and Leona (Helms) Busch in Belmont.  Ila Mae attended Cottage Inn School, graduated from Belmont High School and received a B.S. degree in Home Economics from U. W. Madison.  She was united in marriage to Dale “Barney” Bockhop on October 3, 1946 at Peace Lutheran Church in Belmont.  He preceded her in death on May 15, 1970.

       Ila Mae taught Home Economics at Cuba City High School and cooked at numerous restaurants and supper clubs.  She was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Belmont, including being involved with the LCW.  She was also the former president of the Lafayette County Homemakers, a cook for the SUN program in Lafayette County and the representative of the residence council at Southwest Health Center.  Ila Mae enjoyed cooking, sewing, crocheting, reading, playing cards and bowling.  She also liked to watch the Milwaukee Brewers.  Ila Mae especially loved her family and adored her grandchildren.

       Ila Mae is survived by four children:  Daryl “Butch” (Peggy) Bockhop, Belmont, Peggy L. Bockhop, Clearwater, FL, Duane “Dewey” (Julie) Bockhop, Cuba City and Pam (Ed “Buck”) Banfield, Scottsdale, AZ; seven grandchildren, Amy (Tom) Sareeram, Angela and Tiffany Bockhop, Jennifer Bockhop, B.J. (Annie) Bockhop, Sarah and Kelsey Banfield; one great-grandson, Gabe Bockhop; her sister, Neva Eileen Place, Belmont; two sisters-in-law, Marie Ruskell, Belmont and Ferne Bockhop, Platteville; a special friend, Dorothy Splinter; other relatives and friends.

       She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son, Dalen.

       Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at Peace Lutheran Church in Belmont with Reverend Connie Matye officiating.  Burial was held in Belmont Cemetery.  Family and friends were welcome from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27 at Martin Schwartz Funeral Home in Platteville and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the church.

Louis K. Bossert

Louis K. Bossert, age 87, of Cassville died on Sunday, August 14, 2011 at the Lancaster Care Center. He was born on January 21, 1924, in rural Cassville, the son of Harry and Clara (Bryhan) Bossert. On June 26, 1945, Louis was united in marriage to Helen L. Rice at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Burton. Louis served several terms on the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Council. He also served on the Cassville Volunteer Fire Department for twenty-seven years, Cassville Village Board, Elderly Housing Board, Cassville Cemetery Association, and was a Past Master for the Masonic Lodge. Louis was employed as a State Farm Insurance Agent for twenty years.

Survivors include his children: Steven (Diane) Bossert, Fountain City; Vicki (David) Ploessl, Cassville; Laura (Mark) Joyce, Bloomington; Lisa (Randy) Hantelmann, Dubuque, IA; half brother, Bruce Bossert, Tennessee; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Melvin Houghton, Cassville; sister-in-law, Clarice Bossert, Milwaukee; good friend, Bernice Stratton, other relatives and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Louis was preceded in death by his wife, Helen on January 18, 1998, an infant brother, Gainford, brother, Harlyn, sister, Ruth Houghton and a grandson, Andrew Bossert, killed in Iraq in 2005.

Funeral services were held on Friday, August 19, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville, with Pastor Pamela Strakeljahn officiating. Burial was in Cassville Cemetery, Cassville. Family and friends called on Thursday, August 18, from 4 to 8 pm at Martin Funeral Home, Cassville, and one hour prior to the service on Friday.

Merlin B. "Tubbs" Brandt

     Merlin B. “Tubbs” Brandt, age 88, of Potosi died Friday, May 8, 2009 at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.  He was born on May 24, 1920, the son of Sylvester and Susan (Duve) Brandt in Kieler, WI.  Tubbs enlisted in the U. S. Army Air Corp in December 1941 serving in Italy, North Africa and the Panama Canal until September 1945 when he was honourably discharged at the rank of Sergeant.  He was united in marriage to Mabel “Babe” Patcle on May 21, 1946 at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Potosi.

       Tubbs farmed in rural Potosi and was self-employed carpenter for many years.  He enjoyed fishing and telling stories.  Tubbs also loved to go to McCartney’s Corner for coffee every morning.

       Merlin is survived by his wife, Mabel “Babe” of 63 years; four children:  Beth (Carl) Abing, Cassville, Greg (Mary) Brandt, Cuba City, Cathy (George) Pennekamp, Pat (Tom) Tobin and Jane (Dale) Ley, all of Potosi; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; a brother, Donald Brandt, Kieler; two sisters-in-law, Pearl Brandt, East Moline, IL and Helen Patcle, Potosi; nieces and nephews.

       He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Walter and Karl.

       Funeral services were held on Monday, May 11, 2009 at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson with Father Richard Leffler officiating.  Burial with Military Honors provided by the Berg Averkamp VFW Post #5276 and the American Legion Post #473, both from Potosi was  held in St. Thomas Cemetery, Potosi.  Family and friends were welcome from 9:00 a.m. until time of services Monday at the church.  The Martin Funeral Home in Potosi is serving the family. 

       In lieu of flowers and plants, memorials are preferred to the Potosi Rescue Squad and VFW Post #5276 of Potosi.

Pearl K. Brandt, age 90, of Hudson and formerly of Tennyson, WI, passed away peacefully at the Pine Ridge Assisted Living Apartments in Hudson on Friday, Sept. 23, 2011. She was born in Tennyson on April 22, 1921 to Joseph and Elizabeth Schmitz. She was a 1939 graduate of St. Andrew’s High School in Tennyson. On Aug. 26, 1942 she married Karl Brandt at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Coupeville, WA. They celebrated their 60^th wedding anniversary shortly before his death on Sept. 10, 2002.

Pearl was a selfless person who always put other’s needs ahead of her own. She took pride in keeping a comfortable and welcoming home along with serving delicious meals and desserts. Her pies and sweet rolls were only two of her many specialties. She loved spending time laughing with family and friends while enjoying a good game of cards.

She drew strength and comfort from her faith, a devoted Catholic whose rosary beads were never far from her.

Pearl was preceded in death by her parents, husband Karl; 2 sons, James and Jerry; a grandson, Rick; four brothers, Maynard, Orville, Leo, Leroy; and a sister, Hilda.

Pearl is survived by her four children, Sue (Richard) Benson, East Moline, IL; Dennis (Brenda) Brandt, Onalaska, WI; Bonnie (Rand) Sortland, Hudson, WI; and Ron (Cindy) Brandt, Lancaster, WI, a sister, Viola Steiger; three sister-in-laws, Sylvia, Celine and Babe; brother-in-law, Donald; eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services were on Thursday, September 29, 2011, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson with Father Richard Leffler officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Visitation was on Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Andrew’s Catholic Church. Martin Funeral Home in Potosi is assisting the family.

     Hilda G. Breuer, age 85, of Cassville, died on Sunday, January 11, 2009, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, Lancaster.  She was born on June 19, 1923, in Cassville, the daughter of Fred and Cecelia (Dresen) Mumm.  Hilda attended country school.  On August 25, 1942, she was united in marriage to LaVern Breuer at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville.  After their marriage, the couple farmed in the Cassville area.  Hilda enjoyed crocheting, embroidering, and quilting.  She also enjoyed gardening and doing word search puzzles.  Hilda loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

       Survivors include her children:  Gary (Phyllis) Breuer, Waukesha; Mary Lou (Jon) Caylor, Schofield;  James Breuer, Cassville; Bill (Kathy) Breuer, Beetown; Robert (Hope) Breuer, Neillsville; fourteen grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters:  Marcella Vondrum, Lancaster; Delores (Pete) Kirschbaum, Bloomignton; one brother:  Cyril Mumm, Cassville; other relatives and many friends.

       In addition to her parents, Hilda was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers, Loren and Donald Mumm; a daughter-in-law, Lavina Breuer, and a great-grandson, Ryan Breuer.

       Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 15, 2009, at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville at 10:30 a.m. with Father John Norder officiating.  Burial was in St. Mary’s Settlement Cemetery, Cassville.  Friends called on Thursday, January 15, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Martin Funeral Home in Cassville assisted the family.

Kathryn T. Breuer, age 81, formerly of Patch Grove, died on Thursday, July 21, 2011, at her residence.  She was born on July 17, 1930, in Cadott, the daughter of Paul and Susan (Gillitzer) O’Shaughnessy.  On October 15, 1953, Kathryn was united in marriage to Cletus Breuer at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Seneca.  He preceded her in death on November 15, 2004.  She enjoyed gardening, reading, and raising chickens.  Kathryn was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Patch Grove. 

Survivors include her five children:  Michael Breuer, Prairie du Chien; Suzanne (Jack) Parnell; Patrick Breuer, all of Flippin, AK; David (Pat) Breuer, Fennimore; Kevin (Nellie) Breuer, Kinder, LA; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three sisters: Margaret Koopman; JoAnne “Jen” Hermsen, both of Bloomington; Ann Perry, Madison; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Kathryn was preceded in death by two sisters: Betty Sue Boylan and Agnes Slade; one brother, Peter O’Shaughnessy; and two brothers-in-law, Omar Koopman and Ambrose Hermsen.

Funeral services were held on Friday, July 29, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Patch Grove with Father John Meinholz officiating.  Burial was in St. John’s Cemetery, Patch Grove.  Family and friends called on Friday, July 29, 2011, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family.

     William Murrish “Bill” Brewer, age 59, of Boscobel, formerly of Lancaster, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at the Boscobel Area Healthcare in Boscobel, Wisconsin.  He was born July 1, 1950, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin to William Emmett and Mary Jane (Murrish) Brewer. 

      Bill grew up in Lancaster, Wisconsin, where he graduated from Lancaster Senior High School in 1968.  He attended the University of Wisconsin – Platteville and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies and Social Sciences in 1974 and a Master of Arts in the Teaching of History and the Social Sciences in 1979.  During his junior year he studied in Copenhagen, Denmark and returned there to study after he received his B.A. degree. He spent most of his working years in retail as a manager with several different companies.

      Bill was born to be a different drummer. As a child he had several handicaps, particularly his vision, but he wasn’t in the least concerned about them or hampered by them, and instead embraced an alternative universe of science fiction, comic books, and a random but wide-ranging and ongoing pursuit of trivia. In all of these endeavors, he seemed to find a personal freedom. He loved the water and spent his summers at the pool where he was always the youngest kid to spring fearlessly off the high board. Often he would sink to the bottom of the deep end and would seem to remain there curled in a ball for longer than the average human is supposed to be able to hold his breath. For Bill, water, was another alternative universe to inhabit much like his love for books and comics and data in general. Bill went mainstream for a while in his early adult life, and did well for himself, but ultimately found it wasn’t for him. Although his later life was filled with tragedy, most of it self-sought, to the very end he remained the sweet, lovable kid and the dreamer he had always been as a child. Someone who would never hurt others though was sadly unable to stop hurting himself.

     He is survived by his sister, Sharon Scanlan (Steve) of Prescott, Arizona; his aunts, Margaret Kinney, Lancaster. Wisconsin; Elizabeth Emery, St. Paul, Minnesota; Patricia Schleicher, Madison, Wisconsin; Clarice Brewer, Dodgeville, Wisconsin; many Murrish and Brewer cousins,  niece, Karen Scanlan, Cypress, Texas; nephew Chris Scanlan, Redondo Beach, California and his best friend, Bruce Bossert, Hendersonville, Tennessee.  Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

      A memorial service and celebration of his life was held Saturday, November 21, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at the Schwartz Funeral Home, 142 W. Oak St., Lancaster, Wisconsin, with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating.  A memorial grave side service was held on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating at Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Visitation was held on Saturday, November 21, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

     In lieu of plants and flowers, memorials may be made to the Schreiner Memorial Library, 113 W. Elm St., Lancaster, Wisconsin or to the InHealth Community Wellness Clinic, 109 E. Bluff St., Boscobel, Wisconsin in memory of William M. Brewer.  Reading, writing and the library were always a very important part of Bill’s life. His family is very grateful to the staff at the clinic for the special care and friendship he received from them during the past year.

Eileen H. Brinkman, age 89, of Cassville, died on Sunday, March 28, 2010, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.  She was born on June 12, 1920, in Cassville, the daughter of Nick and Rose (Kelley) Adrian.  On January 31, 1938, Eileen was united in marriage to Peter Joseph Brinkman in Dubuque, IA.  After their marriage the couple farmed on Settlement Road, rural Cassville.  She was employed at Klindt and Gieger Canning Company.  Eileen was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, embroidering, and needle work.  She was a very devoted, wife, mother, and grandmother. 

Survivors include her children:  Gary (Carol) Brinkman; Sandra (Gary) Adams; Richard Brinkman, all of Cassville; Gwen Johnson, Bagley; Pat (David) Udelhoven, Soldotna, Alaska; Renee (Mick) Leibfried, Potosi; Mike Brinkman, Cassville; Jeff (special friend, Sue Seyfried) Brinkman, Cassville; 46 grandchildren; 82 great- grandchildren; 27 great-great grandchildren; her brother and sisters: Carol Vogt; Lois (Julius) Wiest, all of Cassville; Alan Adrian, Twixbury, MA; sister-in-law, Mary Adrian, Savannah, IL.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Peter on December 16, 1974; her daughters, Joyce (Walter) Fishnick and Charlene Brinkman; a son-in-law, Jon Johnson; a brother-in-law, Bob Vogt; three grandchildren: Jimmy, Michelle, Christy Brinkman; three great-grandchildren: Jon Paul Johnson, Nolan Fishnick, and Ryan Breuer; her brothers and sisters: Vera Adrian, Margurite (Dan) Bollinger, Leona (Carl) Sweeney, Geneva (August) Jack, Violet (Carl) Nickel, Harry (Lucille) Adrian, Virgil Adrian, and Francis (Pearl) Adrian; a sister-in-law, Pat Adrian.

Funeral services were held Friday, April 2, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville with Father John Norder officiating.  Burial was in St. Mary’s Settlement Cemetery, Cassville.  Family and friends called on Thursday, April 1, 2010, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville where a 3:30 p.m. parish scripture service will be held.  Friends also called on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

John N. Brodel, age 84, of Marshfield, formerly of Platteville and Lancaster, died on Thursday, October 28, 2010, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield.  He was born on August 13, 1926, in New York, the son of Samuel and Henriyetta (Morris) Brodel.  In April of 1943, John entered the United States Naval Reserve and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1945.  In 1949, he graduated from CCNY and obtained his Master’s degree from the University of Kentucky in 1971 and his Doctorate in 1973.  John moved to Platteville where he was a professor emeritus at the University of Wisconsin Platteville.  He taught marketing there for thirteen years, retiring in 1991.  John was active in the Big Buddy Program and was a volunteer reader at Winskill Elementary School and at Parkview Terrace Nursing Home in Platteville.  He enjoyed reading and playing Santa at nursing homes and schools.  John was a member of the Platteville Optimists and the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Marshfield.

Survivors include his loving wife, Judy Brodel, Stratford; his children: Jon Brodel, England; Adam (Fran) Brodel, CA; LaVern (Mary) Olmstead, VA, David (Janet)Olmstead, Viroqua; Diana (Curt) Place, Stratford; Deb and Becky Morgan-Meckelburg, Appleton; grandchildren: Kazmin, Michael, Joey, Becky (Rich), Kim (Bjorn), Elisabeth (Beau), Seth, Catie (Kurt), Christopher, Isaac and Elizabeth; great-grandchildren: Mike Jr., Cayden, Alexander, Harper, Kyndle and Donavon; his mother-in-law, Avis Rice, Boscobel.

John was preceded in death by his parents.                                    

Carol J. Brouillard, age 80, of Lancaster, formerly of Cassville, died on Saturday, January 22, 2011, at the Lancaster Care Center.  She was born August 17, 1930, in the Potosi area, the daughter of William and Florence (Wolfe) Weber.  Carol was united in marriage to Robert Brouillard on May 28, 1949, in the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.  The Brouillard's farmed for a brief time in Potosi on the family farm, they then moved to Cassville where Robert worked for 42 years at Okey's Market and Carol was employed as a tour guide at Stonefield Historic Site.  She also was employed at SanRay Supper Club, the Paddle Wheel, and Kruger’s.  Carol was a member of the Cassville Lioness, Eastern Star, and Cassville United Methodist Church.  She dearly loved keeping up with her family and all of their activities.

Survivors include her children: James Brouillard, Verona; Dennis (Dawn) Brouillard, Elroy; Sandi (Ronald) Kelley, Cassville; Wayne (Chris) Brouillard, Alma; Lorraine (Joseph) Mergen, Cassville; 14 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one sister, Gladys Walker, Lancaster; two sisters-in-law: Donna Weber, Wonewoc; Ethel Gardner, Rockford, IL; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Robert on August 13, 2008, a brother, Clifford Weber and two brothers-in-law: Marion Gardner and Wilbur Walker.

Memorial services were held on Friday, January 28, 2011, at 4:00 p.m. at the Lancaster Care Center Chapel with Father William Seipp officiating.  Private family burial was in Van Buren Cemetery, Potosi.  Family and friends called on Friday, January 28, 2011, from 2:00 p.m. until time of services at the Lancaster Care Center Chapel.  Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.

     Jules Frederick Brown, age 87, of Lancaster, died on Sunday, January 24, 2010, at UW Hospitals in Madison.  He was born on September 6, 1922, in Wauzeka, the son of Fred A. and Flora (Feldmann) Brown.  On November 8, 1956, Jules was united in marriage to Ruth Friend Steele.  Jules was a veteran of World War II.  He graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School and was a Wisconsin lawyer all of his professional life.

       Survivors include his three children:  Ellen McCarville, Rockford, IL; George H. Steele, Lancaster; and Jennifer Segal, Chicago, IL and by grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

       In addition to his parents, Jules was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth, and by his three siblings.

       Funeral services were on Wednesday, January 27, 2010, at 3:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster with Reverend David Froemming officiating.  Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Family and friends called on Wednesday, January 27, 2010, from 2:00 p.m. until time of services at Schwartz Funeral Home.  In lieu of plants and flowers memorials may be given to the Schreiner Memorial Library or Christ Lutheran Church, Lancaster, in Jules’ name.

Paul E. Bruckner

It’s the end of an era - John Brunner passed away Tuesday night, joining his wife June in the afterlife.

In 1962, he opened Brunner’s Food Center in downtown Potosi , which continued for 45 years as a dependable grocery store and more. A true pillar of the community, Dad was deeply involved in the community of Potosi and beyond. He carried out countless acts of unassuming generosity, helping any and all. He was involved in VFW, Southwest Vocations Club, and a multitude of functions for the parish of Sts. Andrew-Thomas, both in the churches and school. Dad was a big-time booster for local sports both grade school and high school. In addition to fundraising, he and Mom were almost always at the Saints and Chieftain games, both home and on the road.

Dad’s influence on his family and friends will be only part of his legacy. He has passed on a deep appreciation of music and singing to his family and friends. He was enormously influential on his children and his peers, with a quiet strength and bottomless patience. In his everyday life, and spiritual life, Dad lived his life to be the change that he wanted to see in the world. His spirituality was his own, and if he encouraged you to come along, he was the very picture of subtlety.

Dad is survived by Mary Brown, Rose (Mike) Nett, Betsy (Mike) Kittoe, Greg ( Shari ), Julie (Jim) Caldwell, Bernadette, Gretta, Mike (Camille), Christy (Jeff) Pier, Rob, Ginny (Craig) Sacia. In addition to his biological children, there were countless friends who came to adopt him as a surrogate father, foremost among them Dianne Roelke. Grandchildren include Mike Brown; Liz, Mike (Jamie) & Tim Carney; Jordane (Sam) Ross, Sydney & Brooks Kittoe; Adame & Tavia Brunner; Jacquelyn, Jonathon, & Jenna Caldwell; Emory & Erich Thiemann; Kaitlyn & Ryan Brunner; Isabelle & Jaxson Pier; and Delaney & Rex Sacia; John is also survived by his siblings Sister J. Delores, Henry (Beatrice), Sister Virginia, Sister Mary Therese, Ruth Maier and Deacon Norbert (Marion). John was preceded in death by his wife June, sister Margaret and brother-in-law Joe Maier.

Visitation was from 2:00 to 4:00 on Friday, May 28 at St. Andrew’s Church, with Funeral Mass to follow.  Military Honors were accorded by the Berg Averkamp VFW Post No. 5276 and the American Legion Post. 473, both of Potosi .    A private burial was held at a later date.

Martin Funeral Home in Potosi is serving the family. The family would like to thank Southwest Health Center Hospice, especially Teri Steinhoff, RN, CHPN, for their gentle nature and attentiveness.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Retirement Fund of the School Sisters of St. Francis, 1501 South Layton Blvd. , Milwaukee WI 53215 , or to the Sts. Andrew-Thomas Endowment Fund, 101 Church St, Potosi WI 53820.

Eldon Bryhan

Eldon Bryhan, age 93, died on June 30, 2011. He was born September 15, 1917, to Elmer and Alice Bryan near Lancaster. Eldon grew up on a farm, graduated from Lancaster High School with the class of 1935. Soon after, he rode with a fellow graduate in a 1932 Plymouth to San Francisco but found no work, joined the Army and served his enlistment at the Peraidio. Eisenhower was a Lt. Colonel at the time and was also stationed there. General Marshall came to the gate one Sunday while Eldon was pulling guard duty. In early 1940 after his discharge, Eldon got a job at the 1940-1941 Exposition and during his off hours went to welding school, also got married in June to Louise DeCrocker. He took a job in the ship yards building the U.W. Naval fleet until drafted in 1945, and shipped out of Seattle on the troop ship ‘General Buckner’ and the first day out from land it was announced that Japan had surrendered. Ship continued on to Okinawa where helped rebuild the island. Hungry and desperate Jap soldiers stranded on Okinawa would come down from the hills at night to murder and rob. Finally discharged, Eldon started his own welding ship in Santa Rosa in 1947. He got into rebuilding racing and stock cars and finally did some stock car racing himself, earning him the nickname of ‘Dynamite Bryhan’.

He is survived by his sister, Gladys (Don Lang) of Beloit; brothers, Dale (Marietta) of Weslaco, Texas, Norman (Ruth) of Madison, and Ralph (Sharon) of Rockford, Ill.

Eldon was preceded in death by his wife, his father and mother and older brother, Elmer Jr., sister, Evelyn and brother, Donald.

Graveside services with military honors were held on Saturday, September 10, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. in Boice Prairie Cemetery, Lancaster, with Pastor Mark Dieter officiating. Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.

Susan Bryhan

Susan Bryhan passed into the hands of God on June 30, 2011, after a long battle with cancer.

Susan was born March 21, 1961 to Norman and Ruth Bryhan. Susan worked for Great Lakes Higher Education for 16 years where she worked with many wonderful, loving friends. They were so kind and supportive and her family wishes to give a special thanks to them all.

Susan is survived by her parents Norman and Ruth Bryhan, three brothers; Timothy (Anita), Patrick (Patricia) and Michael (Carla) Bryhan. Susan is also survived by Nephews and Nieces; Benjamin (Becky) Bryhan, Charles (Catherine) Bryhan, Nathan Bryhan, Alena Bryhan, Kelly (Andy) Barnes, Jay Bryhan, Jamie (Mike) Landsman, Joel Bryhan and Jenna Bryhan. Susan was also survived by Great Nieces Keira Bryhan and Merisa Bryhan, Great Nephew Jacob Bryhan, special friends Ron Gottschalk, Donna Gottschalk, and her best friend Diane Gottschalk.

Graveside services were held on Saturday, September 10, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. at Boice Prairie Cemetery, Lancaster, with Pastor Mark Dieter officiating. Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.

Terry R. Budd

Terry R. Budd died at his home in Tucson, AZ on February 24, 2010 following a brief and brave battle with cancer, working up until his last day. 

Terry was born to Clayton Budd and Jean O’Neill Budd (later Jean Becker) on November 1, 1948 — living his childhood in Fennimore and Lancaster, WI with his sisters and step-brother: Cathy (Budd) Hoffman, Cindy (Becker) Grunder, Jeff Becker. 

He married his high school love, Mary Lou Northouse, and together they had one son, Michael; the family stayed in Wisconsin for all of their marriage.  Terry began working in personal finance as a young man, but in 1979 he bought and ran the Sunnyside Resort on Lake Kegonsa near Stoughton WI, selling it after Mary Lou’s young death.  Terry then moved to Oregon with Michael and there he returned to financial lending.  After Michael graduated from high school, Terry moved to Arizona on his own, spending many years in Mesa, AZ, then a short period in San Ramon, CA and finally Tucson, AZ in the past two years with Washington Federal Savings.

In high school Terry was both a thespian and athlete.  The latter served him well in life as he rebuilt himself after major surgery several years ago.  A good work-out made his day. He enjoyed the outdoors of northern Wisconsin, auto racing, golf, and followed Wisconsin college football with a passion.    

Terry is survived by his son Michael and family (wife Laurie and daughter Emily), his siblings, and his mother-in-law, Marian Northouse. 

A grave side service was held on Saturday, May 1, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. at Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster served the family.

To those who knew him, you should know – Terry was squealing his wheels to the end!   

George H. Budworth, Jr.

George H. Budworth, Jr., age 87, of Lancaster, died on Tuesday, May 5, 2009, at the Lancaster Care Center, Lancaster.  He was born on July 31, 1921, in Bloomington, the son of George and Elizabeth (Watson) Budworth.  George attended school in Bloomington.  On September 15, 1941, he was united in marriage to Marie K. Kremer at St. John’s Catholic Church in Patch Grove.  George was employed at John Deere as a machinist for thirty years.  He also worked as a Maytag repairman for Murray Electric for many years.  George enjoyed working in his yard and collecting John Deere tractors.  He also enjoyed feeding his squirrels and birds, which he did on a daily basis.  His family was very important to him and he loved spending time with them.

       Survivors include his children: James (Mickey) Budworth, Dickeyville; Shirley (Bob) Felder-Hansen, Lancaster; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; one brother:  John (Marcella) Budworth, Bloomington; his sisters: Mary (Donald) McKelvey, Lancaster; Lucille Kasperzack, Milwaukee; many friends and nieces and nephews.

       In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by his wife, Marie on January 2, 1996; a sister, Barbara Wissbaum and a son-in-law, Harland Felder.

       Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 9, 2009, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father William Seipp officiating.  Burial was in St. Clement Cemetery, Lancaster.  Friends called on Friday, May 8, 2009, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church, where a 4:00 p.m. scripture service will be held.  Friends also called on Saturday, May 9, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  In lieu of plants and flowers, a George H. Budworth, Jr., memorial fund has been established. 

Dolores I. Burggraf

    Dolores I. Burggraf, age 80, of Lancaster, died on Tuesday, September 9, 2008, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home in Lancaster.  She was born on October 23, 1927, in Dubuque County, IA, the daughter of Ben and Clara (Nauman) Wagner.  On October 12, 1948, Dolores was united in marriage to Arnold J. Burggraf at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, IA.  Together they farmed in Beetown Township.  Her love of farming throughout her life kept her grounded.  Dolores was an avid baseball fan and enjoyed playing cards.  She was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court St. Rita No. 670, the Beetown American Legion Auxiliary and served as a state officer.

     Survivors include her nine children:  Doris (Norbert) Karczewski, O’Fallon, MO; Stan (Barb) Burggraf, Monroe; John Burggraf, Lancaster; Charles (Carrie) Burggraf, Chesterfield, MO; Thomas (Sheila) Burrgraf, Hazel Green; Mary (Jon) Schleicher, Platteville; Margaret Burggraf, Reedsburg; James (Karen) Burggraf, Ocoee, FL; Linda Mae Burggraf, Minneapolis, MN; 21 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; two step-great grandchildren; sisters: Collette (Jim) Echter, Oceanside, CA; Virginia Schroeder, Dubuque, IA; sisters-in-law: Esther Wagner, Fennimore; Marita Sietz, Prairie du Chien; Delores (Jiggs) Hampton, Lancaster; Sally (Robert) Liebfried, Lancaster; Florence Wagner, Tawas City, MI; brother-in-law, Norbert (Dorothy) Burggraf, Cave Creek, AZ.

     In addition to her parents, Dolores was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold.

     Funeral services were held on Monday, September 15, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father William Seipp officiating.  Burial was in St. Charles Cemetery, Cassville.  Friends called on Sunday, September 14, 2008, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home with a 1:00 p.m. Catholic Daughters Rosary and from 9:30 until time of services on Monday at the church.

     We wish to extend a special thank you to Grant County Hospice and Orchard Manor.      

    Ethel Corrine Burr, age 89, of Lancaster, died on Thursday, October 30, 2008, at Grant Regional Hospital surrounded by her family.

     Ethel was born March 31, 1919, in Glen Haven, the daughter of Arthur and Helena (Breuer) Kaufman. She graduated from Bloomington High School. She married Melvin Burr on January 31, 1941. Together they raised six children.

     The joy of Ethel’s life was her family. Nothing brought her greater pleasure than to spend time with family and friends enjoying good conversation and laughter. If there was mention of a euchre game, Ethel was always ready. At many a gathering, Ethel would come prepared with her homemade macaroni and cheese, a favorite of family and friends.

     Ethel enjoyed many years of bowling as a member of Carey’s Pillettes. She was also a member of St. Clement CCW and a volunteer at the Lancaster Care Center and the Lancaster Meal Site.

      She is survived by four daughters, Marlene (Kenneth) Koehn, La Crosse; Linda (Jack) Roesch and Luann (John) Bendorf, both of Lancaster; and Rhonda (David) Broihahn, Dubuque, Iowa; and one son, David (Evonna) Burr, Holmen. Ethel is also survived by her grandchildren, Kathy and Mike Koehn; Mike, Jennifer and Ryan Roesch; Leann Handel and Lynn Wolf; Thomas and Elena Burr; and Steven and Trisha Broihahn. She is also survived by eight great-grandchildren.

     Ethel was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son, Steven; two brothers, Walter and Thomas Kaufman; and two sisters, Bernice Merrell and Florence Hanhardt.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2008,  at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father William Seipp officiating and Bill Manthe assisting. Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Friends and relatives called from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2008, at Schwartz Funeral Home, Lancaster and from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the church service on Sunday.

Goldie Ann Burr (Brandemuehl), age 86, passed away on Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home. She was born on August 4, 1925 in Lancaster, WI, daughter of Carl and Nellie Brandehmuehl. Goldie graduated from Lancaster High School in 1943 and then attended college at UW-Platteville.

Goldie married her high school sweetheart, Robert O. Burr on November 23, 1946 in Lancaster. She was a longtime employee of the Lancaster school system and worked at the Winskill Elementary School.

Goldie and Bob enjoyed singing at family gatherings and social events. She loved visiting with family and friends as well as bowling, golfing, camping, travel and playing euchre. Goldie was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church in Lancaster, a member of the Eastern Star Lodge, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Goldie is survived by her three sons: Dennis Burr, Lancaster; Mark (Teri) Burr, Aurora, CO; and James (Jane) Burr, Littleton, CO.; one grandson, Trevor Burr, Littleton, CO; three step-grandsons: Jason Poffenbarger, Westminster, CO; Eric Roberts, Denver, CO; Michael Roberts, Golden, CO; Sisters-in-Law, Mary (Schwantes) Brandemuehl, and Marsha (Houghton) Burr, both of Lancaster; Retha (Grebe) Brandemuehl, Milwaukee.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Carl and Nellie Brandemuehl, her husband, Robert O. Burr; brothers; Robert, Lyus, Donald and James; sisters; Beatrice (Earl) Hoffman, Carol (Eddie) Wofford and Gladys (Tom) Perich.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 25, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lancaster United Methodist Church with Reverend Barbara Cook officiating. Burial was at Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. An Eastern Star service was held at 11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Goldie A. Burr Memorial Fund has been established. Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.

Robert O. Burr, age 84, of Lancaster, passed away on Monday, May 3, 2010, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.  He was born on September 15, 1925, in Lancaster, the son of Orren and Elsie (Brun) Burr.  Robert graduated from Lancaster High School in 1943.  He proudly served his country in WWII as a member of 86^th Mountain infantry regiment in the renowned 10^th Mountain Infantry Division.  He earned the bronze star, WWII victory ribbon with two bronze service stars and the combat infantry badge, while serving his country in the PO Valley, North Apennines in Italy.

Robert married his high school sweetheart, Goldie Ann Brandemuehl on November 23, 1946 in Lancaster.  He worked for several years in the “Orange Crush” pop factory owned by his parents, traveling the highways and county roads delivering delicious orange crush pop products to various businesses throughout the area.  Robert and his brother, Larry went into business together in the Lancaster Meat Mart before leaving that to go to work for John Deere in Dubuque, IA, where he retired from in 1987.

Robert and Goldie loved to sing at family gatherings and social events.  Robert also liked to tend to his vegetable garden, camp, travel and barbeque.  He was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church in Lancaster, a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion Post No. 109 of Lancaster.

Robert is survived by his wife of 63 years, Goldie Burr, Lancaster; three sons: Dennis Burr, Lancaster; Mark (Teri) Burr, Aurora, CO and James (Jane) Burr, Littleton, CO; one grandson, Trevor Burr; three step-grandsons: Jason Poffenbarger, Eric and Michael Roberts; his brother, Jan (Rosemary) Burr, Corrinth, TX; sister-in-law, Marcia (Houghton) Burr, Lancaster and brother-in-law, Ed Steffens, Middleton.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Melvin (Ethel) Burr and Larry Burr and sisters, Ruth Steffens, Carol (Cy) Hanten and Dorothy (Jack) Porter.

Memorial Services were held on Saturday, May 22, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lancaster United Methodist Church with Rev. Barbara Cook officiating.  Burial with military honors was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster.  Family and Friends called on Saturday, May 22, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  A Masonic service was held at 11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service.  In lieu of plants and flowers, a Robert O. Burr Memorial Fund has been established.  Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is served the family.

Joyce Bush, age 87, of Lancaster, entered the Lord’s Kingdom on Saturday, December 31, 2011, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, Lancaster surrounded by her loved ones. She was born to Bert and Iva (Pettibone) Whittum on July 11, 1924. Joyce married Lowell Bush on June 25, 1948. Joyce founded Joy Public Broadcasting Corporation Christian Radio.

Survivors include her three children: Mark (Jenna) Bush; Naomi (David) Boss and Thomas (Victoria) Bush; nine grandchildren: Christopher (Keri), Jason, Regan, Zachary, Chayne, and Laura Bush and Bethany, Joshua, and Mark Boss; one great-grandchild, Colton Bush; her sister, Ruth (Al) Pontious; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Joyce rejoices in Heaven with Lowell, her parents; two siblings, Leah and Edwin, and many loved ones.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 4, 2012, at 12:00 noon at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster with Pastor Dave Boss officiating. Burial was at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 5, 2012, in Oakwood Cemetery, Muskegon, MI. Family and friends called on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

     Earl D. Buss, 90, formerly of Potosi, died Monday, Oct. 12, 2009, in El Cajon, California.

       Graveside services with Teri A. Hanson officiating were held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2009 at Van Buren Cemetery, Potosi Township.  Visitation from 1:00 until time of services Friday at the Martin Funeral Home in Potosi.