Bruce B. Freistedt, 82, of Iola, died December 2, 2016.

Bruce was born October 28, 1934 in the family home in Waukesha to the late Herman and Jennie (McLaren) Freistedt. He married Susan (Eldredge) Freistedt on June 15, 1966 at Wales, WI. Bruce attended Randall Elementary School, Waukesha, and was a member of Randall School Cub Scout Pack 30. He went onto attend Waukesha High School graduating in 1953. His vocational career consisted of employment as a photographer at the Waukesha Daily Freeman and the Lake County Reporter in Hartland, WI, before joining the Army and becoming a motion picture combat photographer. Upon completion of Military service he joined the Waukesha Police Department in April 1959, completing 30 years in law enforcement with the City of Waukesha Police Department. During the years on the Police Department, he served as a Police Photographer, Identification Specialist, Crime Scene Investigator and Evidence Custodian. He acquired the first Mobil Crime Scene Vehicle used by the Waukesha Police Department. Bruce was a lifetime member of the Wisconsin Association for Identification, Wisconsin Professional Police Association and the International Association for Identification. After retiring from the Police Department in 1990, he and Susan retired to their home in Iola, where he did volunteer work for the Iola Police Department. Bruce enjoyed fishing, driving his golf cart, genealogy-looking for his grandfather John McLaren from St Louis, proudly showing his share of Green Bay Packer stock and watching the Packers on TV. He was a veteran and member of the American Legion Post 14, Iola.

He is survived by his wife Susan, Iola; sons, Bret (Cathy) Freistedt, Bloomington, IL; Trent Freistedt, Denver, CO; Kyle Freistedt, Rochester, MN; daughter, Brooke (James) Furmanek, East Troy, WI; and granddaughters, Sarah and Zoey Freistedt, Bloomington, IL, and grandson, Espin Furmanek, East Troy, WI. He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Jennie Freistedt, a sister Jane (Freistedt) Holcomb, and brothers, Darwin and Calvin.

Memorial service at later date. The Voie Funeral Home of Iola is assisting the family.

Joanne C. Jones, age 77, of Waupaca, passed away Thursday, December 1, 2016 at Crossroads Care Center of Crystal River.

She was born on October 5, 1939 to the late Frank and Lorrette (Watts) Gares.

She is survived by two sons, Phillip Jones and Charles (Michelle) Jones; grandchildren, Daniel and Cassandra; daughter-in-law, Laurie Jones and grandchildren, Inez and Mitchell; a brother, Frank Gares, other relatives and friends. Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Roger C. Jones and a son, David Jones.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, December 9, 2016 at the Maple Crest Funeral Home of Waupaca. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will take place next to her husband at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King, WI.

Lila V. Lendved, age 94 of Clintonville passed away peacefully Monday evening, December 5, 2016 at the Greentree Health & Rehabilitation Center in Clintonville.

Lila was born on October 23, 1922 in the Town of Maple Creek, Outagamie County as the daughter of the late Emery and Martha (Linke) Roberts. Lila was baptized into the Catholic faith as a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bear Creek. She attended school in New London and later graduated from Hortonville High School in 1940. Lila later met Gordon Lendved at a local dance and the couple were united in marriage on November 7, 1945 in Three Lakes. The married couple then resided in the Town of Deer Creek, Outagamie County and were members of Grace Lutheran Church in Bear Creek. Gordon then preceded Lila in death on January 3, 1999. Shortly after his death, Lila moved to an apartment in Clintonville and became a member of St. Rose Catholic Church. She always had a beautiful flower garden, especially when it came to growing her gladiolas and dahlias. Lila loved to dance, and enjoyed playing cards. She especially loved it when she had an opportunity to play sheepshead with her grandchildren. Lila will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother who cared very much for her family.

Survivors include: her children: Carol Bethke, Madison; Gary (Connie) Lendved, Kaukauna; Pam (Larry) Olson, Pulaski; and Linda (Mark) Mauel, Clintonville; grandchildren: Kimberly (John) Burton, Lisa Bethke, Rory (Kara) Lendved, Laura (fiance, Jeff Weiners) Lendved, Nicole (fiance, Chuck Gill) Lendved, Marcus Lendved, Dawn (fiance, Jamie Sinnaeve) Tooley, Dan (Karen) Tooley, Andy (Stephanie) Bonikowske, Keane (fiance, Stephanie Edwards) Rydzewski, and Dustin (friend, Emily Henschel) Rydzewski; great-grandchildren: Aaron (Samantha), Abigail, Alex, Hollie, Sara, Ethan, Emma, Easton, Cayla, Adelyn, Alya, Annalese, Maddie, Kaia, Chloe, and Brody; a great-great-granddaughter, Piper, daughter of Aaron and Samantha. Also three nieces and a nephew. Lila was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gordon, son Timothy “Bear” Lendved, a son-in-law James Bethke, a grandson-in-law Chris Shoemaker, a brother Walter (Anne) Roberts, and sisters, Mabel (Paul) Francowiak and Viola (Raymond) Scholl.

Lila’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, December 10, 2016 at 11 a.m. at the St. Rose Catholic Church in Clintonville with Deacon Lincoln Wood and Father Jack Mullarkey officiating. Interment will follow at the Graceland Cemetery in Clintonville. Friends may call at the church on Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. The Eberhardt-Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory of Clintonville is assisting her family. www.eberhardtstevenson.com

Grant L. Sorensen, age 100, of Waupaca, WI passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at Theda Care Medical Center-Waupaca.

Grant was born in the Town of Lind, Waupaca County on November 19, 1916, the son of the late Nels P. and Flora (Pope) Sorensen. After high school graduation, Grant drove off to California looking for work. He worked for a short time at a chicken ranch in Van Nuys before returning back to the farm. His luckiest trip was to Nebraska to be best man for a friend’s wedding. There he met Verdell Noble and on June 7, 1942 they were married in Walnut Creek, NE. Verdell preceded Grant in death on August 13, 2014. Grant and Verdell farmed in the Town of Lind for over 60 years. He served on the Lynwood School Board, Midland Co-op, Methodist Church Building Committee and was on the Board of Directors of Consolidated Badger. He was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church, Waupaca. Although he traveled the world, he spent most of his time near Lind Center doing what he loved; family, hunting, fishing, square-dancing, and spending time with family and friends. He was very health-conscious, regularly exercising at the fitness center for 25 years. He was active in farm work and mentoring into his mid 90s. He caught his last fish at age 99 and was looking forward to the next spring’s white bass run on the Wolf River. He was an avid reader of audio books and loved to watch NOVA or PBS. He enjoyed playing cards especially sheepshead and cribbage. But more important than the games were the banter and conversations that resulted. We truly treasure our memories of him and the remarkable century of his life.

Grant is survived by his children: Rheta (Art) Richardson, Waupaca and Errol (Mary) Sorensen, Greenfield, MA; his six grandchildren: Brad (Lynn) Richardson, Michelle (Greg) Winter, Kristi (Wes) Jackson, Kendra (Joe) Olive, Nels (Stephanie) Sorensen, and Jessica (Craig ) Dykstra; his 13 great-grandchildren: Ian, Sam and Max Richardson, Mason and Joshua Winter, Ryland and Abram Jackson, Avery and Sydney Olive, Grant and Matthew Sorensen, and Rose and Laurel Dykstra and his younger brother Jay Vinton (Pete). Also surviving are many nieces and nephews. Grant was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 72 years, Verdell, his brother Elmore (Al), his sister Inez Brustmann, and son Grant Eugene Sorensen.

The Funeral Service will be held Monday, December 12 at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, Waupaca with Reverend Dee Ann Woods, officiating. Burial will be in Lind Center Cemetery, Town of Lind. Visitation will be on Sunday afternoon from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca continuing on Monday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the church. A memorial fund has been established in Grant’s name.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Wenberg and her staff and Grant’s caretakers, Karin and Sue for their wonderful care given to Dad. Holly Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Preston Gene DeHamer of Appleton passed away peacefully on Monday evening, December 5, 2016.

Preston was born on July 17, 1934 in the City of Kenosha, WI, the son of Martin and Hattie (Newendyke) DeHamer. He graduated from Bradford High School, Kenosha, WI. On December 9, 1955 he married Edith Anne Gabrielse in Sheboygan. An avid art lover Preston began his career as a lithographer for Western Publishing in Racine and had the opportunity to move his family to Panama for 2.5 years in the late 60s to work at Time Life Magazine. In 1995, at the young age of 61 he and his wife moved to Waupaca to follow the dream of opening an art gallery, Framing By Preston that they enjoyed running until 2013. At that time they retired and moved to Appleton. Preston was a mentor to many, a listening ear to anyone that needed to be heard and a sage advice giver to all that asked. An avid gardener, he loved giving the fruits of his labor back to friends by baking wonderful breads and pies with the vegetables grown from his garden. Preston was an active member of Covenant Christian Reformed Church in Appleton until his passing.

Preston is survived by his children: Michael (Terry) DeHamer, Jeffrey (Kenlyn) DeHamer, Steven (Sue) DeHamer, John (Jody) DeHamer, Dina (Steven) Mitchell, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and sister, Ruth (DeHamer) Fennema. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preston was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Edith (Gabrielse) DeHamer, and brother in law, Sidney Fennema.

A time of visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, December 19, 2016 at Covenant Christian Reformed Church, 1601 S. Covenant Lane, Appleton starting at 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. The memorial service will be held on Monday at 3:00 p.m. at church with Rev. Mark Pluimer officiating. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com. The Wichmann Funeral Home of Appleton is serving the family

Romans 8: 37-39, In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

As her son Michael Smith cleverly said: we could keep this simple and condense to: ‘She was a musician, dancer, pilot, teacher, golfer, but she didn’t swim.’ However we have a story to share with you.

After golfing in 15 different countries a wonderful woman leaves all her golf shoes and us behind to play on another course. Beatrice Rae Smith passed comfortably to God on Saturday morning, November 19, 2016 at the age of 91 after a brief stay at Agrace Hospice in Madison.

Bette lived life to the fullest touching many hearts along the way. She was born in Milwaukee to A.G. and Ellen Neumann. She was part of a very musical family with sisters Marilyn, Joyce, and Doris. The violin was her instrument of choice, having mastered it and played in the All City Junior and Senior Orchestra, Solomon Juneau High School, Milwaukee. Rumor is that the 4 girls also were Tap dancers.

Bette graduated from Whitewater with a business degree, taught at Alma Center, Wisconsin High School, spending her summers traveling to Iowa City pursuing a Master’s degree in Meteorology. She did love her clouds and was predicting the weather even in her last days.

In 1941 Bette started flying lessons at Ozaukee airport and 2 years later had her pilot’s license-flying a solo Curtiss Wright plane. She was one of the first woman to fly into Florida’s EAA.

Bette then married David R. Smith in 1949. They were the Fay R. Smith & Company after David’s father and grandfather with a history of being a prideful jewelry business in New London for over 100 years. The couple lived on Wyman Street raising 3 little dears until retiring in 1989-when they built a winter home on Burnt Pine Golf Course, Sandestin, Florida.

Bette was a seasoned boater with David and the family. Much time was spent on the water of Lake Michigan, Lake Winnebago, and the Mississippi River. Though she could never swim she was comforted that her children could and would save her if need be.

Church was a very important part of Bette’s life where ever she was living. She was a director of the Children’s Choir at the First Congregational Church in New London. Golf was also important to her and she served as Northern Division Team Play Director and President of the Women’s Northeastern Golf Association.

Bette was a bright light in the world and devoted to her family. Her life was rich, joyful, and generous. She is predeceased by her husband of nearly 60 years David and many many dear friends.

Bette will be remembered and missed by her children: Michael Smith (wife Rita), Jennifer (husband Robert Fass), and Debora (husband Terry Kortbein), by her Grandchildren: Adam Smith, Matty Smith (wife Megan) and Marissa (husband Kyle Leppert), her very special Great Grandchildren: Halowe Smith, Waylon and Cal Leppert, and Sister-in law Pamela Smith.

A Celebration of her life will be held in the Spring and any Memorial contributions may be sent to: Agrace Hospice, 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg, WI 53711 or First Congregational Untied Church 110 East Hancock, New London, WI 54961.

Born June 5, 1979 in IL; passed away November 29, 2016 at her home in Sacramento, CA.

She is survived by her fiancé, Richard Fletcher; her parents, Dale and Diane Jorgensen; her adopted brother, Luis and adopted sister, Sandra; her grandmother Eileen Kolz, and her beloved god-daughter Bella Taskar. She loved Jesus Christ and hoped you would come to know him as your savior too.

Memorial service will be held Sunday, December 18 at 2 p.m. at Victory Church, E3443 S. Apple Tree Lane, Waupaca, WI.

Carol was born on February 11, 1951 and lost her 14 month battle with cancer (UPSC) on December 7, 2016

.

Carol was an independent, strong willed woman who was generous to a fault especially with family, friends and church (Saint Patrick’s, Lebanon, WI). She had a huge heart and deep pockets for those causes she loved and was looking forward to her retirement which was, sadly, cut way to short. The outdoors, far more than the indoors was her favorite place to be unless she was in her kitchen baking up a storm and showering everyone she could with her fantastic treats like Lemon Bars (Thank you Rice’s Greenhouses for the fresh lemons) and Butterfinger cake. She was diligent about feeding her birds all year long. The “hummers” will miss her this spring as will the Hosta beds and huge vegetable garden. Because of her way with animals, especially dogs, we fondly called her the “dog whisperer”. One of her most fulfilling undertakings was mentoring young girls in the New London Middle School Adult Mentoring Program for which she received The President’s Volunteer Service Award. Knowing that she was making a difference in a young girl’s life, and providing an example of what a single woman can be was very important to her. She was a second “mom” to her nieces, Erin and Devyn who will have a big hole in their hearts where she touched them often. They loved her phone calls and funny cards, always unique and special. Her biggest regret was leaving her mom behind. She checked on mom daily and would take her on outings all over the area. Sometimes they’d just go for a ride to look for Eagles or Snow owls. Carol was one of the first women to work at Curwood Inc. She was proud of her ability to “keep up with the boys” or show them up. She always had a good joke up her sleeve. She retired in October 2015 with 40 years of service behind her. She was a proud United Paper Workers Union supporter recognizing the importance of having a voice in your workplace. She held the position of Sargent in Arms for many years.

Carol is survived by her mother, Dorothy; sister, Kathleen; brother, Bob (Sue); nieces, Erin (Austin Peasley) and Devyn (Trevor Mishler); brother, Jim and beloved dog Cheyanne III. She was preceded in death by her maternal and fraternal grandparents and father, Emmet.

A memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 13, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, Lebanon with Father Xaiver officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers please generously donate to The Feather Wildlife Rehab/Education Center in care of Pat Fisher. This was one of Carol’s favorites. The Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London is serving the family. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com

Thank you to all her friends, to many to list. Thank you for all your strength, help and support in the last year. You know she loved you with all her heart. A special thank you to neighbors Alice and Randy Behnke for being the kind people you are and all your help in the final days. Thank you to the health care providers; doctors, nurses, assistants, social workers, therapists, and Hospice care workers, who gave of their time, energy and knowledge and fought to give Carol all the extra time they could muster in this life. We are truly grateful to each and every one of you. We will miss you Carol. There will never be another like you.

Robert L. Schneider, age 82, of Bear Creek passed away Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at his home.

Allen D. Suehring, age 50 of Appleton, formerly of Clintonville, passed away Friday, December 9, 2016.

Eugenia (Ginny) Sommer, age 86, passed away on the evening of Dec. 9 in her residence in Waupaca.

Ginny was born September 21, 1930 to the late Alice and George Erickson, in Iron Mountain, Michigan. The family moved to Neenah were Ginny attended grade school and graduated from Neenah High School in 1948. Ginny married to Richard Giesen in Nov. of 1950 and resided in the Town of Menasha until his death in 1973. In Nov. of 1976 Ginny married Will Sommer at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Menasha. They resided in the Town of Menasha, Butte Des Morts, Iola , Zephyrhills, Florida, and Waupaca. She was employed as a book keeper for the Red Owl Grocery store in Menasha and Neenah. She spent her work career as a secretary at Kimberly Clark Corporation until her retirement in 1992. Ginny and Will celebrated their 40th anniversary on Nov. 26, 2016. Will passed away on Dec. 11, 2016 at Theda Care Regional Medical Center Neenah from an accident at home.

Ginny enjoyed her family, friends and many homes. She had a love for traveling, decorating, rosemaling, entertaining, reading and playing cards. Her faith in God lived in her for her entire life.

Survivors: her daughter Judy Giesen (Michael) Brickle, James (Cindy) Sommer, Laurie (Dallas) Tellock. Grandchildren James Brickle, Ryan Brickle, Lisa (Luke) Dobberstein, Brian (Kristi) Sommer, Brooks, Jason, and Amy Tellock. Many cousins, sisters in law, and brothers in law. Preceded in death : Son: Dan Giesen and Sister: Joyce Thiel.

Funeral Services for Wilmar and Ginny will be held at First Baptist Church, Waupaca, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 17th, 2016. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Interment will be in Hitterdahl Lutheran Cemetery Town of Iola, Waupaca County, Wisconsin. Register Book and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.voiefuneralhome.com. Voie Funeral Home of Iola assisting the family with arrangements.

Wilmar W. Sommer, age 86, of Waupaca, passed away Sunday, Dec. 11, at Theda Care Regional Medical Center-Neenah following an accident at home.

Wilmar was born in Larson, Wisconsin on March 26, 1930, son of the late Lorna (Schroeder) and Henry Sommer. He married the love of his life, Eugenia “Ginny” (Erickson) Giesen on Nov. of 1976 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Menasha. They resided in the Town of Menasha, Butte Des Morts, Iola, Zephyrhills, Florida, and Waupaca. She preceded him in death on Friday, December 9, 2016.

Wilmar served in the United Sates Marines Corp. during the Korean War as a dispatcher. He owned and operated Willies garage in Dale where he repaired automobiles, was a welder and a blacksmith. He worked various jobs with Kimberly Clark and Allis Chalmers. After retirement he enjoyed fixing things, hunting,fishing, trapping, listening to polka music, dancing and playing sheepshead. Wilmar served as the Town Chairman for the Town of Dale and was member of the Dale Fire Dept. and American Legion.

He is survived by his Son: James (Cynthia) Sommer, of New London. Daughter: Laurie (Dallas) Tellock, of Weyauwega, Judy Giesen (Michael) Brickle of Danbury, WI, Grandchildren: Lisa (Luke) Dobberstein, Brian (Kristi) Sommer, Brooks, Jason, and Amy Tellock, James Brickle, Ryan Brickle. Great Grandchildren: Kiley, Mason, Katelyn and Hunter. Sisters: Dorothy Kester of Larson, Lucille Marquardt of Appleton, Orla (Steve) Tolleson of Menasha, Brothers: Melvin (Elaine) Sommer of Neenah. Henry Sommer Jr. of Medina. He was preceded in death by a Sister: Valeria Opper and Step Son: Dan Giesen.

Funeral Services for Wilmar and Ginny will be held at First Baptist Church, Waupaca, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Interment will be in Hitterdahl Lutheran Cemetery Town of Iola, Waupaca County, Wisconsin.

Register Book and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.voiefuneralhome.com, Voie Funeral Home of Iola assisting the family with arrangements.

Allen Dale Suehring, age 50 of Appleton, passed away Friday, December 9, 2016 at his home.

Allen was born December 20, 1965 in Clintonville, the son of Sandra (Sanders) Smith, Shawano, and Dale Suehring, Town of Grant. He was baptized at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Town of Grant, Shawano County. Allen spent his very early years with his family, but because of severe handicaps, he was placed in a state hospital. When the state hospital was closed in 2005, Allen’s brother, Michael, became his guardian and chose for Allen to be placed in the care of Homes for Independent Living, Appleton, WI. There, Allen lived in a wonderful home environment and received the best of care. Allen found pleasure in the simple things in life: visits from his family, the taste of birthday cake, watching cars pass by, and the feel of a cool breeze upon his face. Though Allen didn’t have the ability to communicate it, he was happy, well cared for, and loved.

God Sent to Me an Angel
God sent to me an angel,
it had a broken wing.
I bent my head and wondered
“How could God do such
a thing?”
When I asked the Father
why He sent this child to me,
the answer was forthcoming,
He said “Listen and you’ll see.”
“My children are all precious,
and none is like the rest.
Each one to me is special,
and the least is as the best.
I send each one from Heaven
and I place it in the care
of those who know my mercy,
those with love to spare.
Sometimes I take them
back again.
Sometimes I let them stay.
No matter what may happen
I am never far away.
So if you find an angel
and you don’t know what to do,
remember, I am with you,
love is all I ask of you.”
-Paul Dammann

Survivors include: his mother, Sandra Smith; his father, Dale Suehring; one brother, Mike (Melissa) Suehring; two half brothers, Dean (Megan) Suehring & Daniel (Kaitlin) Suehring; five step-sisters; one step-brother; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Willis (Naomi) Sanders; his paternal grandparents, Harvey (Ella) Suehring; his step-father, Donald Smith; and his brother, James Suehring.

Memorial services will be held 11 AM, Monday, December 19, 2016 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Town of Grant, with Pastor Dean Suehring officiating. Inurnment will take place at Graceland Cemetery, Clintonville in the spring. Friends may call at the church on Monday from 10 AM until the time of the service. The Eberhardt-Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory, Clintonville is assisting his family.

C. David Forsberg, age 70, of Waupaca, WI passed away suddenly on Sunday, December 11, 2016 at his residence.

Dave was born in Rochester, New York on April 4, 1946, the son of the late Charles and Genevieve (Donaldson) Forsberg. Dave was a highly decorated 3-sport athlete at Clarkstown High School in New York and was inducted into their Sports Hall of Fame. While attending UW-Madison on a football scholarship (following in the footsteps of his father & grandfather) he met Laura Seton. They were married on September 13, 1969 in Dodgeville, WI. Dave was a sociology major, and also served a few years in VISTA and spent his entire career as a social worker, the majority in child protective services. He is an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, serving for many years on the church council and recently on the personal committee as chairman. In retirement, Dave loved traveling, especially to visit his family, watching his beloved Packers and playing golf.

Dave is survived by his children: Jennifer (Bill Pendleton) Forsberg, Palmer, Alaska and James (Adriane Fang) Forsberg, Silver Spring, Maryland; his grandchildren: Laura Rui Forsberg, Christi, Jan & Bobbye Pendleton; his siblings: Dean Forsberg, Waupaca, WI; Dale (Nancy) Forsberg, Congers, NY; Darrel Forsberg, Bowie, TX; Lynn Forsberg, Royersford, PA and Lahna Bland-Forsberg, Spruce Pine, NC and his very special friend: Sandy Akey, Waupaca, WI. Dave is also survived by many other loving family members and friends around the country. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Laura.

The Memorial Service will be on Monday, December 19 at 3 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church, Waupaca with Reverend Andy Behrendt, officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Eastside Cemetery, Dodgeville, WI next to his wife, Laura. Visitation will be held on Monday afternoon from 1 PM to 3 PM at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials are great appreciated to a project Dave was very involved with, the Trinity Building Fund. Holly Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gene Robert Forsythe, age 81, was reunited with our Lord and his beloved wife Barbara on December 10, 2016. He passed away peacefully at his home in Manawa, Wisconsin.

Gene was the youngest son of Henry and Carrie Forsythe. He grew up in the country near Iola, Wisconsin where he enjoyed the attentions of his older brother, David Forsythe and his two older sisters, Lorraine Strycharske and Ida Mae Gregerson. He also enjoyed the outdoors, basketball, spending time with friends and his grandfather, Joseph Knutson. He graduated from Iola High School in 1952 at the young age of 17. He worked briefly in Milwaukee before deciding to follow his older brother David Forsythe’s footsteps into the United States Air Force.

Gene proudly served his country from 1952 until 1972. He was deployed to go to Korea but was diverted to Iwo Jima. On leave from the Air Force, he met Barbara Sue Klemm. They married in 1955 and traveled extensively together through the United States and Europe, raising three children along the way. Gene earned the rank of Master Sergeant and was deployed to Viet Nam. Although he distinguished himself throughout his military career, he truly believed the real heroes never came home.

In 1972, Gene began his 18 year service to the community as Chief of Police in Manawa. He set the ground work to develop the police department from a one man department to what it was to become in later years. He further served his community by being on the Zion Lutheran Church Council, Manawa Lions Club President and City Council Member. He took special enjoyment in sponsoring the Manawa Police Girls Softball Team.

In later years, Gene and Barbara again developed a passion for traveling which took them to see family and friends throughout the United States and Ireland. They enjoyed spending the winters in Arizona always ready to return “home” in the spring. Surprisingly, Gene developed an artistic talent with wood working and stained glass. Not surprisingly, he took great joy in his children, grandchildren and great grandchild all by whom he will be deeply missed.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, son David Gene, grand children Nicholas and Amy, father Henry, mother Carrie, sisters and brothers-in law Lorraine and Don Strycharske and Ida Mae and Raymond Gregerson, brother and sister-in-law David and Adeline Forsythe, brothers-in-law Rev. Keith Klemm and Mark Levezow and sister-in-law Sherry Pomeroy. He is survived by his sons: Attorney David Louis (Kay Anderson) Forsythe, Scandinavia; Raymond Gene (Karen) Forsythe, Henderson, Nevada; and daughter Michelle Rene (George) Waggoner, Almond; granddaughters Jessica (Jon) DeBoer, Washington State; Sarah Forsythe and Kathryn Forsythe , Henderson, Nevada; grandson John Waggoner, Stevens Point; and great-granddaughter Paisley DeBoer, Washington State. Gene was further survived by numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

Although Gene enjoyed his public service and his friends immensely, he has requested a private family service. The service will be officiated by Pastor Tom Theama at the Cline-Hanson-Dahlke Funeral Home in Manawa. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Town of Little Wolf. The family has established a memorial fund. Please send any memorials to P.O box 922, Manawa, WI 54949.

Inge Kapfinger (Nee Fritsche) went home to the Lord December 12, 2016 at the age of 78.

Loving sister of Siegfried (Marion) Fritsche. Beloved aunt of Marcus Fritsche, Bonnie (Kevin) Zeinert, and Patricia (Dave) Johnson. Preceded in death by her husband Rudy and parents Rudolf and Martha. Further survived by her relatives in Germany and many friends.

Inge was born in Dresden, Germany and came to the U.S. in 1959 with her mother and brother. While in Germany, she learned to be a seamstress. She worked at Zita as a seamstress for 35 years, and really enjoyed being amongst people.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 16 at noon at Schramka Funeral Home (423 N Main St, Thiensville). Visitation was 10 am until the time of service. Entombment Wisconsin Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church (247 S Main St, Thiensville) appreciated.

Berdella Mae Hintz, age 93, formerly of rural New London (Township of Maple Creek), passed away on Dec. 13, 2016, at Kindred Hearts in Green Lake, following a gradual physical and mental decline from dementia.

She was born on May 24, 1923, the daughter of Henry and Lydia Hanke, nee Buboltz. On June 7, 1923, she became a child of God through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. She confessed her faith in Jesus as her Savior on her Confirmation Day at Emanuel Ev. Lutheran Church in New London on April 18, 1937. She was united in marriage to Orlo Hintz on July 19, 1942, at Emanuel Ev. Lutheran Church in the Township of Maple Creek, and they were blessed with 66 years together. They farmed until the mid-1960s, after which they built their retirement home on the property that they owned along the Embarrass River. Their travels took them to many areas of the United States. They also visited Malawi, Africa, during the time their son Michael served there as a missionary. Berdella was a faithful member of Emanuel Ev. Lutheran Church in New London where she had been an active participant in Ladies Aid and Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society. She was a Golden Hill Homemaker. Many summer weekends were spent at the family’s cottage on Shawano Lake. Family gatherings and spending time with her relatives and friends brought her great joy.

Berdella is survived by her 6 CHILDREN: Duane (Edith) Hintz of Hollywood, Maryland, Daryl (Mary) Hintz of Appleton, Rev. Gerald (Nancy) Hintz of Waukesha, Rev. Michael (Julie) Hintz of Wauwatosa, Corrine (Gary) Ziesemer of Green Lake, and Carol Gagnow of Appleton; her 21 GRANDCHILDREN: Reuben Hintz, Jennifer (Mike) Sadowski, Julie (Ben) Liebzeit, Bryan (Natalie) Hintz, Sgt. Joshua Hintz, Sadie Hintz, Chelsey (Jeremy) Hanel, Branden (Megan) Hintz, Lindsay Hintz, Kelsey Hintz, Caleb Hintz, Angela Hintz, Christopher (Nicole) Hintz, Paul (Erika) Hintz, Rachel (Andrew) Pedde, Mark (Sarah) Ziesemer, Chad (Amanda) Ziesemer, Katie (Andrew) Koffman, Kara (Clifford) Witthuhn, Jason (Dione) Gagnow, and Shauna (Steven) Kopitzke; her 29 GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN: Elliott Sadowski; Emma & Cody Liebzeit; Amira Blair; Aria & Isla Hanel; Cassidy & Adylin Hintz; Kaylee, Joshua & Abbie Palm; Kaden, Kirsten, Logan & Ethan Hintz; Charlie and Max Hintz; Parker Pedde; Claire & Adam Ziesemer; Jacob Ziesemer; Hannah & Peter Koffman; Lydia, Evan, & Joel Witthuhn; Allison & Anne Gagnow; and Evelyn Kopitzke. She is further survived by her sister Mildred (Harold) Daberkow, a nephew David (Diane) Hintz, and nieces Jean Parker & Linda (Patrick) Flaherty. Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Orlo on March 11, 2009, stepmother Olive Hanke, brother-in-law Merlin Hintz, and sister-in-law Dorothy Hintz.

The family thanks the staff at Kindred Hearts of New London and Green Lake for the compassionate care given to Berdella the past nine years. A sincere thank you is also extended to her Generations Hospice caregivers. Funeral service for Berdella will be held on Tuesday, December 20, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at Emanuel Lutheran Church New London with Rev. Rodney Dietsche and Rev. William Heiges officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in the New Maple Creek Cemetery, Town of Maple Creek. Memorials to Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) for missions are appreciated.

Jerome Christian Eckers, 90, Green Bay, passed away to his eternal home on Friday, December 16, 2016.

He was born on September 12, 1926, in Milwaukee to Milton and Lillian (Haslow) Eckers. Jerry and his brother, Don, were identical twins and shared a special bond throughout life. On July 19, 1947, he married Blanche Albers at St. Boniface Catholic Church in De Pere and together they raised six children. Jerry was devoted to his family, loved hunting, fishing and sports, and he especially loved the Green Bay Packers. He thoroughly enjoyed living on Pine Lake in Clintonville after retirement. During his years in Clintonville, Jerry served the parish of St. Rose in many capacities and was dedicated to his faith. He served his country during the Korean War. Jerry retired from the U.S. Postal Service where he was a rural letter carrier in New Franken.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Blanche; his children, Kathy Ollmann (Jim), Tom Eckers (Cathy), Terry Eckers (Jean), Jill Van Veen (John), Tim Eckers (Kelly) and Todd Eckers (Patty); grandchildren, Jennifer, Julie, Laura, Nick, Stacey, Jamie, April, Erin, Meaghan, Charlie, Stan, Wendy, David; 14 great-grandchildren; and two sisters-in-law, Marie Denissen and Grace Albers. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Donald (Betty); father-in-law and mother-inlaw, George and Harriet Albers; in-laws, Norb and Helen VanVonderen, Fran and Kate DuPuis, Clem Albers, Gene and Mary Albers, Robert Denissen, Robert and Adele Collaer.

Visitation and the Funeral Mass took place on Tuesday, December 20, at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1484 Ninth St., Green Bay. Burial will be in Nicolet Memorial Gardens. Blaney Funeral Home is assisting the family. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Jerome’s name.

The family would like to thank the staff at St. Paul Elder Care and the hospice team for their loving care and support during this time. They made the end of life process for dad more gracious.

Jerry will be remembered for making others smile. His sense of humor was a gift he shared with all. He will be dearly missed.

Mary Sue Fields, age 70, New London passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2016.

She was born on February 28, 1946 in Hilbert daughter of the late Leland and Irene (Tilly) Vincent. On August 28, 1965, she was united in marriage to Wilbur Fields. She loved gardening, taking care of her lawn and going to the casino. Mary worked at Hillshire Farm for 38 years; retiring in 2012.

Mary is survived by her husband Wilbur; children: Deborah (Brian) Quaintance, New London; Tammy (Don) Becker, New London; Scott (Tana) Fields, New London and Ann (Scott) Morrell, Milwaukee; grandchildren: Kirk, Dakota, Justine, Jolene, Cory, Andrew, Kirsti, Austin, Avery, and Matthew; and twelve great-grandchildren. She is further survived by brothers: Bob (Nancy) Vincent, Neenah; Bill (Violet) Vincent, Kimberly; sisters: Jean Vincent, Neenah; Irene Champeau, Neenah; and Elaine (Tom) Meyer, Hilbert; and a sister in-law, Ellie Vincent, Appleton and also nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Her parents and 2 brothers, John and Thomas and an infant brother Michael preceded her in death.

Funeral mass for Mary will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, New London with Fr. John Kleinschmidt officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Mary loved to look at the stars at night and her final wish was to have her ashes scattered into the wind on a breezy, starry night.

Thomas “Tom” W. Dalton, age 66 of Clintonville, passed away Friday, December 16, 2016.