Donald Ausman, 89, of Cecil, died on Friday, May 1, 2015, in Shawano. Don was born on July 30, 1925, in Eau Claire, the son of the late Samuel and Phila (Quilling) Ausman. He lived and worked on the family dairy farm until enlisting in the military with the Wisconsin State Guard and the Army 82nd Airborne engineers. In June 1948, Don married his high school sweetheart, Ethel Rose Gibson. He attended UW-Madison where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Agricultural Education and Dairy Science. After graduation, he worked as a dairy specialist in the county and state Agricultural Extension. He was employed as the first manager of Agricultural Records Coop in Madison, which evolved to present, AgSource Coop, a part of CRI. In 1965, he was employed as marketing director of Badger Breeders Coop in Shawano and was with that organization through various organizational changes. In 1989, he retired as the vice president of planning and development. He is a past member of the Shawano Rotary Club and enjoyed snowmobiling, canoeing, camping, boating, bird watching and music.

Don is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ethel Rose; daughter Jennifer (James) Borell, of Ripon; son Thomas (Susan) Ausman, of Metamora, Illinois; and four grandchildren, Andrew Borell, of Portland, Oregon, Alyssa Borell, of Tallahassee, Florida, Marissa Ausman, of Des Moines, Iowa and Daniel Ausman of Columbia, Missouri.

A reception to honor Don’s memory will be held in the Jackson Room, at Mason Woods, N6446 Emory Ansorge Road, Cecil, from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2015.

Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Louis Hale White, 89, of Shawano, went to spend eternity with his lord on April 30, 2015. Louis was born on Oct. 26, 1925 in Salem, Iowa, the son of the late Ralph and Velda (King) White. He enlisted in the Marines in 1943 and served our country for three years. While in the Marines, he was at the invasion of Iwo Jima and the invasion of Japan when the A-bombs were dropped before returning to Iowa in 1946. Louis was united in marriage to Betty Lou Folker on Nov. 27, 1946 in Winfield, Iowa, and she preceded him in death on March 23, 2005. Louis was a member and past master of the Shawano Masonic Lodge 170, a member of the Valley of Green Bay-Scottish Rite, Lodge of Perfection, Beja Shrine Temple, member and past President of Shawano Shrine Club, Hospital Chairman for Shriner’s Hospital for 15 years and a member of the VFW Post 2723. He enjoyed playing cards, golfing and was an avid Packer fan.

Louis is survived by his daughter, Connie (Dennis) Zubb, of Paletine, Illinois, and their children Mike Zubb and Kim (CJ) Jarboe; his son, John White, of Shawano, and his children, Ray (Lindsay) White, Jenni (Brad) Sperberg, and Mollie White; seven great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Kensi, Avery, Dayton, Finley, Laci and Layla, two brothers, Lee and Marlo; one sister, Lorene; as well as his special friend, Pat Jeglum.

He was preceded in death by his wife of over 56 years, Betty, his parents, three brothers, Dale, Ross, Oren and one sister, Evelyn.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2015 at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano with the Rev. Marty Black officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. Military rites will be conducted by VFW Post 2723. Visitation will be held at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2015, with a Masonic Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will be held again at the funeral home on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Memorials may be directed to Shriners Hospital.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

After a full and glorious life, Susan Hanson, M.D., moved on to a different adventure May 2, 2015. She was born Nov. 25, 1937, in Wausau, daughter of the late Irving and Doris (Hager) Hanson.

Susan grew up in Wittenberg and graduated valedictorian of her class at Wittenberg High School. She was the first woman from WHS to enter medical school. She attended Hiram College in Ohio, where she attained her bachelor’s degree. She spent time in Europe with fellow students experiencing the world outside Wisconsin and Ohio. This sparked a love of travel. Susan attended medical school at the University of Chicago, interned at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, Pennsylvania, and completed her residency in 1967 at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York. During that time she traveled to Africa.

Dr. Susan started her career as director at the Monroe County Psychiatric Hospital Unit in Rochester, New York. In 1973, she became the psychiatrist-in-chief and director at the Genesee Mental Health Center in Rochester. After 11 very productive years with Genesee, Susan opened her own private practice, as well as working with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Rochester until her retirement.

Susan, an advocate for those with chronic alcoholism, became a member of the East House Board and was instrumental in the development of the halfway house program. In 1983, the first Crossroads home located in Rochester was named Hanson House in her honor. She worked diligently as an advocate for many causes, including Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency, Monroe County Medical Society, Coalition for Women’s Health, Greater Rochester Women’s Fund and others. Dr. Susan received honors from the following: Leroy Snyder Memorial Award, National Council on Alcoholism and Rochester Women’s Magazine. She became a Fellow in the American Psychiatric Association.

After retirement, Susan returned to the family home in Wittenberg, where she continued to offer her vision and energy for numerous organizations. From its inception in 2005, Susan has been involved with the Walls Of Wittenberg (WOW). With her expertise and leadership, WOW has been able to provide central Wisconsin with art shows and concerts drawing artists and audiences from across the state. Susan has been instrumental in creating and updating WOW’s website, writing grant applications, organizing art shows and contests, and hiring artists to paint murals.

Susan was the secretary of the Wittenberg Area Historical Society and worked on fundraising projects to maintain and repair the society’s building. She was a board member for Forest Home Cemetery in Wittenberg, the Shawano Area Community Foundation and the Wittenberg Area Development Corporation, and served as a member of the Planning Commission for the Village of Wittenberg Development Corporation. In April 2015, Susan received the 2015 Wittenberg Community Service Award sponsored by Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats.

Susan was devoted to doing the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzles in ink and reading it cover to cover. She continued to travel, including trips to Norway and Costa Rica. She had an amazing eye for interesting and unusual art and ethnic crafts, and filled her home with many wonderful pieces. Susan was a fabulous cook, planning elaborate menus for parties, some theme-based and complete with costumes! An avid reader of most genres, she frequently had three or four books going at a time and loved sharing great authors with friends and family.

Her passion for gardening was passed down from her parents, and her garden was colorful and joyous.

Survivors include her siblings, Robert (Gayle) Hanson, Crossville, Tennessee, Phillip (Mary Jane) Hanson, DVM, Durand, and Mary Hanson-Spofford, Seattle, Washington; nieces, nephews and their children; and a cohort of loving friends.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents; niece, Anna Hanson; and sister-in-laws, Mary Jane Hanson and Jean Hanson.

A Susan concert will be held at the WOW Art Park at a later date to be announced.

Private internment will take place at the Forest Home Cemetery.

Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memories and condolences may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

In memory of Susan, please consider a memorial to one of her cherished causes: Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, P.O. Box 510795, Milwaukee, WI 53203-9815; National Women’s Health Network, 1413 K St NW No. 400, Washington, D.C. 20005; Doctors Without Borders, 333 Seventh Ave, Second Floor, New York, NY 10001-5004; Walls of Wittenberg, P.O. Box 188, Wittenberg, WI 54499; East House, 259 Monroe Ave., Rochester, NY 14604-2318; Garth Fagan Dance, 50 Chestnut St., Fourth Floor, Rochester, NY 14604-2318.

Anthony “Tony” M. Zahringer, 91, of Gresham, passed away on May 1, 2015, at Oakhaven in Shawano. Tony was born on Jan. 13, 1924, in Gresham to the late Frank W. and Agnes (Berdoll) Zahringer. Tony attended Gresham High School and graduated in 1943. He lived in Gresham all his life and owned and operated Zahringer Trucking and Excavating. Tony was united in marriage to Louise “Tootie” (Little) Nietzer on Nov. 9, 1974, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 1, 1984. On Feb. 14, 1990, he was united in marriage to Dolores “Dodo” (Garska) Huntington, and she preceded Tony in death on Dec. 11, 2013. He was a member of St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church in Gresham. Tony had a love of baseball, especially for the Brewers and Cubs. He was excited to attend a World Series game with Tom in Minneapolis. He was also an avid Packer fan. In his free time, he enjoyed playing sheephead, plowing snow, taking walks through the fields, and reading the newspaper from front to back. He loved big equipment and enjoyed nature, especially the birds. He also had a special place in his heart for all of his dogs.

He is survived by his stepchildren, Charmaine (Bill) Arendt, of Gresham, Nancy (Walter) Felty, of Mississippi, Lisa (Tim) Nietzer, of Appleton, Randy Nietzer, of Gresham, Joseph Huntington, of Texas, Bonnie (Robert) Engel, of Shawano, Harry “Bud” (Jane) Huntington, of Wausau, Esther (Dennis) Schutt, of Shawano, Steven (Patricia) Huntington, of Two Rivers, Sally Huntington, of Appleton, Tim (Beth) Huntington, of Gresham, Wendy (Lee) Hafner, of Shawano, Thomas (Lauren) Huntington, of Minnesota, Bert (Mary Beth) Huntington, of Gresham, and Dan (Denise) Huntington, of Gresham, numerous stepgrandchildren, stepgreat-grandchildren, and stepgreat-great-grandchildren. Tony is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Tony was preceded in death by his first wife, Louise, his second wife, Dolores, two stepsons, Charles “Bill” and James Nietzer, one stepdaughter, Kathleen Raasch, his parents, and his brother, Francis “Happy” Zahringer.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2015, at St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church in Gresham with the Rev. Dave Barrett officiating. Burial is in St. Francis Solanus Cemetery. Visitation was held at Swedberg Funeral Home in Gresham on Sunday, May 3, 2015, from 4-8 p.m. and again at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Because Tony was a proud supporter of the Gresham Scholarship Fund, memorials may be directed there. An alternate memorial is being established for the Piarist.

Tony’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone at Paiser’s Oakhaven for everything they did for Tony over the past two years to make him feel loved and at home there.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Richard “Dick” N. Mielke, 70, of Black Creek, passed away Monday, May 4, 2015, at home. He was born Nov. 16, 1944, son of the late Nathan and Marian (Brugger) Mielke.

Dick enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves in 1967. He later was educated as a butcher and was well-versed on his cuts of meat.

Dick returned to the family farm, where he thoroughly enjoyed doing the field work. He had many passions that revolved around farming, including his tractor collection and restoring antique tractors, working with the Belgian draft horses with his dad, and farm equipment maintenance.

He liked to ride motorcycles and snowmobiles. The Fourth of July festivities and fireworks were also some of Dick’s favorite pastimes.

On Sept. 12, 1981, he was united in marriage to Sherry Keen. He was proud to be a father to Sherry’s children. Sherry preceded him in death on Sept. 16, 2013. Richard and Sherry farmed in the town of Maine until retiring in 2003. Following retirement he liked to mow lawn so much he worked at the sod farm in Black Creek cutting all of the grass.

He loved to watch old western movies and could do it all day long. Dick also enjoyed his gun collection.

He was a car connoisseur, and his very first love was a ‘66 GTO. Over the years there were many cars, with one of his favorites being Mustang Sally. He enjoyed going out for a ride with Sherry, watching car shows and had a thing for chrome. There is no doubt his scribbled notes will be found around the farm for years to come.

He is survived by his children, Joseph (Nancy) Richlen, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, William (Rhonda) Richlen, Green Bay, and Christina (Jeremy) Neal, Black Creek; grandchildren, Melissa and Matthew Richlen, Alyssa (John) VandenHeuvel, Connor, Braedon and Emma Richlen, Bethany Froehlich, Breanna Stanelle, Daniel and Candelara Neal; and great-grandchildren, Elijah Richlen and another on the way. He is further survived by his sister, Debra Mielke, California; brothers, Chris Mielke, California, and Gene Mielke, Nichols; sisters-in-law, Marilyn (Thomas) Merkes, Appleton, Nancy (Gary) Kleczewski, Neenah, and Mary (Robert) Summers, Wrightstown; brothers-in-law, John Vogt, Appleton, Jim (Janeen) Keen, Green Bay, and Gary (Sue) Keen, Appleton. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and his dog, Tinkerbell.

Dick was preceded in death by his wife; parents; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Irene and Erwin Keen; and sister-in-law, Paula Vogt.

Friends may call at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, on Saturday, May 9, 2015, from 11 a.m. until the funeral service at 2 p.m. with Pastor Bernard Fergusson officiating. Burial will take place at Highland Memorial Park, Appleton, at a later date.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.muehlboettcher.com.

Thanks to our special neighbor and friend Marlene for everything you have done for Dick to make life easier for him.

Ronald R. Erickson, of West Bend, died on Monday, May 4, 2015, at Cedar Crossings at the age of 78 years. He was born in 1936 near Tigerton to the late Raymond and Erna (nee McFarlane) Erickson, the oldest of seven children.

The family moved to Kewaskum, then farmed in the Kohlsville and Boltonville areas. He graduated from Random Lake High School in 1954.

In 1956, Ron joined the United States Army. While stationed near Kassel, Germany, he met and married Helga Kersting on April 21, 1960. They returned to the states and settled in the West Bend area. His wife, Helga, died in 1970.

Ron worked for the West Bend Police Department as a third-shift dispatcher. In 1991, he retired from the West Bend Police Department after 25 years of dedicated service.

Survivors include three children, Ralph (Christine) Erickson, of Stoughton, Mark (Amy), of LaValle, and Jennifer (Terry) Sell, of West Bend; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; his longtime companion, Elaine Briel; two sisters, Shelby (Darrel) Hills and Cindy Brueggeman, both of Fond du Lac; two brothers, Dennis (Mary) Erickson, of Woodruff, and Niles (Dorothy) Erickson, of De Pere; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Gerald and Marlyn (Delores).

A gathering for family and friends will be held on Saturday, May 9, at the Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with burial services to follow at Washington County Memorial Park.

Memorials to the Washington County Humane Society or the National Kidney Foundation would be appreciated.

The Schmidt Funeral Home of West Bend is serving the family.

Online guestbook and condolences are available at www.schmidtfuneralhome.com.

Robert Harold Breitenbach, 78, of Shawano, passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2015.

Arrangements are pending with Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Ruth M. Mehler, 99, formerly of Bonduel, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2015.

Private family services will be held.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

June Ann Smet, 75, of Shawano, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2015, in Shawano.

June was born on Jan. 14, 1940, in Milwaukee to the late Theodore and Catherine Gumina. On Aug. 15, 1964, she was united in marriage to Lester L. Smet Sr. He preceded her in death on May 29, 1997. She lived in the Milwaukee area until moving to Shawano in 1978. She loved horses and poodles and enjoyed scrapbooking. She also enjoyed her “Birthday Club” with her friends.

June is survived by her sister, Ruth Koepp, of California; special friends, Shawn and Cody Bell and their children, Jordyn and Noah, special friends, David Schmidt and Jane Kohl and their children, Noah Schmidt, Justin (Ashley) Weishoff and their son Blake, special friend LaVern Lucht and Maggie Anderson.

She was preceded by her husband, son, Lester Jr., and her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 12, 2015, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano with the Rev. Luke Ferris officiating. Inurnment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday, from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Mae Louise Baxter, Wakawaknota (“She gets the last word”), 89, Seymour, passed away on Thursday morning, May 7, 2015. The daughter of the late Paul Mose and Lucy (Hill) Christjohn was born on May 11, 1925.

Mae enjoyed playing bingo and cards, especially 500 Rummy. She was a valued and sought-out member of the community, where she volunteered and helped out with her humor and positive attitude. Mae brought joy to many people and loved everyone. Whenever people came to see her, Mae would make sure they got fed. She was the life of the party, and even enjoyed to dance when she could. Most of all, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Mae is survived by two sons, Ron “Ronnie” (Joyce) Christjohn, George “Tony” (Tina) Baxter; grandchildren, Wanda Newcomb, Sue (Rocky) Kauffman, Lee (Pam) Christjohn, Carl “Coyote” Christjohn, Lisa Hirt, Bruce Heidersdorf, Dexter Baxter; stepgrandchildren, Wanda Tucker, Tammy VonDracek, Eric “Bopper” Erickson, Leif “Peefie” (Bonnie) Erickson, Vicki (Greg) Erickson-Strebig, Brandon Joy, Taylor Joy, Skyler Joy; 10 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; special friend, Tina Tatro. She is further survived by her brother, Fox (Karen) Christjohn, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Anna John, Maria Hinton, Rosie “Rosetta” Huntington, Eva Cornelius, Betsy Ridgeway, Francis Christjohn; brothers, Amos Christjohn, Vernon Christjohn, Johnny Christjohn; great-granddaughter, Kayona Ann Christjohn; and daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Christjohn.

Friends and family are asked to gather at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. 20th Street, De Pere, Saturday, May 9, 2015, beginning at 10 a.m. Visitation will continue until 1 p.m. when a funeral service will be held with Chaplain Matthew Cornelius officiating.

Please visit www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences to the family.

The family would like to extend special thanks to all the gals at Shepherd’s Inn, as well as Gina and Craig from Hospice Advantage, for all of their kind and compassionate care.

Charlotte V. Seefeldt, 97, of Tigerton, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2015, at Homme Home of Wittenberg.

The former Charlotte Viola Riemer was born on Oct. 3, 1917, in the town of Mackford, Green Lake County, to George and Bertha (Benz) Riemer. In the late 1930s she was united in marriage to Laurence Scarrah in Little Suamico. The couple had three children, and Mr. Scarrah preceded her in death in 1944. Charlotte married Phillip Kaminski in 1945 in Little Suamico. They had two children, and he passed away on Nov. 22, 1970. On Dec. 17, 1971, she was married to Victor Seefeldt in Caroline, and he preceded her in death on Feb. 17, 1993.

Charlotte worked as a bartender for many years at several different taverns in Tilleda, Leopolis and Thornton. She was also employed for some time at the grocery store and at the meat market, both in Pella. Charlotte always enjoyed flowers, gardening, fishing and living up north. She also created beautiful plastic canvas craft items. For many years, Charlotte was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and the American Legion Post Ladies Auxiliary, both of Tigerton. She liked watching Brewers baseball and Packers football whenever possible. Her favorite poodles were Brandy and Cherry. Charlotte will be remembered most as a devoted wife, a hard-working mom, and a proud homemaker who especially loved spending time with her family.

Survivors include five children, Robert Scarrah, of Green Bay, Betty “Betsy” (Elwyn “Al”) Suehring, of Amherst Junction, Mary (Ron) Lutzewitz, of Marion, Gloria (Dennis) Resch, of Antigo, and Gary Kaminski. There are two stepsons, Ivan (Sandy) Seefeldt, of West Bend, and Victor Seefeldt Jr., of Keller, Texas. There are 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by a sister, Patricia “Patsy” Prill, of Markesan, many other relatives and friends.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her husbands, a sister, Marie Poor, and two brothers, Ed and Clarence Riemer.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 9, at 11 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, Tigerton. The Rev. Matthew Uttenreither will officiate, and burial will follow at Union Cemetery, Tigerton. Friends may call on Saturday from 9 a.m. until time of service at the church.

Beil-Didier Funeral Home, Tigerton, is assisting the family.

Gerald “Jerry” E. Echtner, 79, of Cecil, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2015.

Jerry was born on May 3, 1936, to the late Edward and Harriet (Yeager) Echtner in Shawano. He married Beverly “Bev” Weisnicht on Oct. 21, 1961, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Town of Washington.

Jerry was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Town of Washington, served as an elder for St. Paul Lutheran Church and was a member of the church choir. He was a very gifted musician, playing the saxophone in a band. He served as president of the Wisconsin State Rabbit Breeders and was the superintendent at the Rabbit and Poultry Barn at the Shawano County Fairgrounds for over 30 years.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Beverly “Bev” Echtner, Cecil; a sister-in-law, Barbara Harr, Pulaski; a brother-in-law, Bruce (Peggy) Weisnicht, Bonduel; a special nephew, Brad Weisnicht, Bonduel; a foster son, John (Margie) Ritschke, Neshkoro; a sister, Betty (Larry) Koeller, Menasha; a niece and a nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, and a brother-in-law, Harold Harr.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2015, at 6 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Town of Washington, W4496 County Road E, with the Rev. Steven Pockat officiating. Family and friends may call at the church on Tuesday from 4 p.m. until the time of the service.

The family would like to thank the staff at Unity Hospice, especially Leah and Jen.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given.

Zastrow Funeral Home in Cecil is assisting the family.

www.zastrowfuneralhome.com

Lorraine “Lorie” (Masawn) Thom, 70, passed away May 6, 2015, after a long and courageous battle with diabetes. Lorie was born on Jan. 31, 1945, to Elaine Menore in Keshena. Lorie was a gifted jewelry enameller at Erffmeyer & Co. in Milwaukee until her retirement in 1992. She was a member of St. Michael’s Church in Keshena. Lorie was creative, fearless and a very proud member the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. Lorie loved doing beadwork, scrapbooking and other crafts, but above all else she loved being a grandma.

Lorie is survived by her beloved mother, Elaine Menore; daughters, Charlotte (Tom) Menore, Yvonne (Dean) Pyawasay, Sharon (Shelley) Fredericks and Tammy Thom; her grandchildren, Antonio, Javier, Leah, Maria, Jessica, Angelica, Rosalie, Nicole, Alex, Andrew, Orialis, Jose, CJ, Dakota, Jackson, Zander, Kenehsaeh, Gregory, Nicolas and Katalina. Lorie is further survived by 21 great-grandchildren.

Lori was preceded in death by her daughter, Dawn; one grandchild, Marisol; three great-grandchildren, Nayeli, Alexis and Adrian.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 16, 2015, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Keshena with the Rev. David McElroy, O.Praem, officiating. Burial will be in the St. Michael’s Cemetery immediately following the service. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday, May 16, 2015, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service.

Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano is assisting the family with the arrangements.

The family would like to thank Paiser’s Oakhaven, where Lorie was a resident for the past six years, especially Nyla and Lynn. Special thanks to Dr. Kevin Culhane, the Menominee Tribal Clinic and the staff at St. Vincent’s CCU, especially Jessica, as well as Davita Shawano for the excellent care they provided Lorie over the years.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Dale E. Braun, 75, of Marion, passed away Monday, May 11, 2015, at his residence.

The Eberhardt-Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory, Marion, is assisting the family.

eberhardtstevenson.com

Hilton “Buddy” A. Blankenburg, 91, of Embarrass, passed away peacefully Monday morning, May 11, 2015, at the Pine Manor Health Care Center in Embarrass.

The Eberhardt-Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory of Clintonville is assisting his family with the arrangements.

Richard Dean “Dick” Amel, 95, Green Bay, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2015. He was born on April 7, 1920, in Shawano to Marvin and Evelyn (Kuester) Amel.

Dick survived a childhood as the only boy in a house with four sisters and one bathroom. He graduated from Shawano High School in 1938, attended the Marinette Vocational School for a year and then enrolled in the Wisconsin Mining School at Platteville, where he received a diploma in mining engineering in 1942. He met his future wife, Mary Katherine “Kate” Cox, while working for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation during the summer of 1942 in Minong.

Dick served four years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during World War II on Canton Island in the South Pacific and on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. He was honorably discharged in 1946, having achieved the rank of first lieutenant. Upon his return to Wisconsin, he and Kate were married in Eau Claire in 1946. They were happily married for more than 68 years and raised four children.

Soon after their wedding, Dick and Kate moved to Rolla, Missouri, where Dick finished his education at the Missouri School of Mines, receiving his degree in mining engineering later that year. In 1947, he worked for Magnolia Oil Company of Dallas, doing oil exploration in Texas, Oklahoma and Wyoming. In 1948, the couple returned to Wisconsin, where Dick was employed as a highway engineer for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Green Bay office. He worked for the Wisconsin DOT for 36 years, retiring in 1983.

After retirement, Dick enjoyed many years of hunting, fishing and planting trees “up north.” He and Kate owned and operated a 160-acre tree farm in Oconto County that was his pride and joy. Dick was a member of the American Tree Farm Association and even sponsored a bill in the state Legislature promoting tree farming. It became a tradition for him to spend the opening days of hunting season and fishing season with friends and family at the cabin in the woods.

Dick was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, where he served on the vestry and taught Sunday School, and later became an active member of Blessed Sacrament Episcopal Church.

Dick is survived by his wife, Kate, Green Bay; his daughters and sons, Susan Kellicut, Orlando, Florida, Cynthia May, Madison, Gary (Jill Gmack), Green Bay, and Dean (Terry Savela), Arlington, Virginia; his sister, Jeanne Hintz, Clintonville; grandchildren, Corrinna (Dana Fleischmann), Velissa (Chad Jewell), Jonathan, Jennifer (Mark Ronsman), Allison and Alex; great-grandchildren, Josslyn, Vanden, Jayna, Dax and Zoey; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Rachel Williamson, Mary Slichter and Jewell Hainey, and his son-in-law, John Kellicut.

Dick was a man of great integrity, with an impressive work ethic and a wonderful sense of humor. He has left behind a legacy of clever sayings and rejoinders for any and all occasions. Dick’s unique brand of wisdom, and his love for all those close to him, will survive in the fond memories of his family and friends.

The family will be greeting friends and relatives at Blessed Sacrament Episcopal Church, 825 N. Webster Ave., Green Bay, from 9-11 a.m. Friday. The Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the church. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Shawano City Cemetery.

Blaney Funeral Home is assisting the family.

To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be made to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, College of Engineering, Mathematics and Sciences.

The family expresses their sincere gratitude to the staff of Marla Vista for their compassionate care.

Ronald A. “Ron” Kupper, 73, of Shawano, passed away Friday, May 8, 2015, at his home surrounded by his loving family after fighting a long battle with cancer.

Ron was born on Feb. 8, 1942, in Appleton, a son of the late Adrian and Dorothy (Kehl) Kupper. Ron spent his childhood years in Antigo, attending Peace Lutheran School. The family moved to Shawano in 1956. He attended Shawano High School, graduating in 1960. Following high school, Ron attended Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, earning his master barber and shop manager license. He barbered in Green Bay and Shawano. In the late 1960s he went to work for Wright Broiler as a salesman, retiring in 1999 after 30 years of service.

Ron missed his career, so following his retirement he went to work for Fisher Meat Products of Deerbrook. Ron continued to be active in sales for several years until retiring due to declining health. Ron was active in his community, serving on the city of Shawano Tree Advisory Board and the Shawano County Board of Supervisors. He attended meetings until a few months before his death.

He was an active member of St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano. In the past he served on the St. James School Board and as a Cubmaster. He and his wife, Karen, chaperoned several national youth gatherings for St. James. Ron was a family man. He lived his life for his Lord and family, instilling values he felt were important.

Ron was very proud of his cabin in the woods that he built with the help of family and friends. Ron’s idea of relaxing was playing cribbage, camping, golfing, gardening, making wood or working on cabin projects. He also enjoyed spending time with his family either at home or at the cabin. He was the pillar of the family and will be sadly missed.

Ron is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Karen (Gould) Kupper, who was his high school sweetheart. They were united in marriage on Feb. 16, 1963, at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church in Clintonville. He is also survived by his two loving children, Kellie (Dean) Hartmann and Kip Kupper (special friend, Ruth), both of Shawano; three grandchildren, Sarah (David) Puma, Emily Hartmann (fiancé Carmine Linea) and Jacob Hartmann (special friend Ashley), all of Shawano; four great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Marribelle Puma, Sophia Hartmann and Violet Linea. Ron is also survived by one brother, Curt (Jean) Kupper, of Shawano.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services for Ron will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2015, at 11 a.m. at St. James Lutheran Church of Shawano. Pastor Ted Andrada will officiate. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery following the service. Relatives and friends may call at Mickelson Funeral Service on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, from 4-7 p.m. and at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the hour of service.

In lieu of flowers and plants, the family prefers memorials in Ron’s name for St. James Lutheran Church and School.

Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.

Janice “Jan” M. Wallin, 82, of Shawano, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2015, in Shawano.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27, 2015, at Zion Lutheran Church in Shawano. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery in Webster. A full obituary will be printed at a later date.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Elnora Laura (Retzlaff) Herm, 92, of Shawano, died on Friday, May 8, 2015. Elnora was born on July 24, 1922, in the town of Belle Plaine to the late David and Amanda (Stubbs) Retzlaff Sr. On June 2, 1945, Elnora was united in marriage to Harry W. Herm at St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano. Harry preceded her in death on Aug. 29, 2012. The couple raised two children, Sharon and Ken, while owning and operating their own dairy farm. Elnora also worked at Eagle Knit for many years. In her spare time she enjoyed sewing, reading, flower gardening and working on word-search puzzles. Elnora was a member of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Shawano.

Elnora is survived by her daughter, Sharon (Reuben) Langhoff, of Shawano; her son, Ken (Mary) Herm, of Shawano; seven grandchildren, Brian (Rebecca) Langhoff, Elsa Kay Langhoff, Dana (Jennifer) Langhoff, Darci (John) Beatty, Kelly (Jennifer) Herm, Keith (Jennifer) Herm, Chris Herm; 12 great-grandchildren; a sister, Delilah Seehafer, of Shawano; and a sister-in-law, Edna Mueller.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry; an infant son, Karl; her parents; four brothers and three sisters.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 14, 2015, at the Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano with the Rev. Ronald Raddatz officiating. Visitation will be held at the Swedberg Funeral Home on Thursday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. Inurnment will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Harley E. Kroening, 93, of Shawano, passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, in Shawano.

Harley was born on Dec. 29, 1921, the son of the late William and Ella (Dirks) Kroening. On April 20, 1946, at Stony Hill, Harley was united in marriage to Rose Blank. He worked at Shawano Paper Mill from July 17, 1946, until his retirement in January 1983. He and Rose enjoyed travelling and visited all 50 states and visited the Great Wall of China, Ireland, Australia, a salt mine in Poland, the pyramids in Egypt, the Dead Sea and cruised through the Panama Canal. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church Stony Hill and served on its finance committee. He enjoyed creating beautiful tables and complete bedroom sets out of both oak and cherry.

Harley is survived by his wife of 68 years, Rose; one son, Roy (Darlane) Kroening, of Shawano; one grandson, Paul (Nichole) Kroening, of Hudson; and great-granddaughters, Lucy Rose and Lily Jane. He is further survived by his brother, Raymond Kroening, of Krakow, and his sister, Alice (Larry) Veeser, of Neenah.

He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 18, 2015, at St. Paul Lutheran Church Stony Hill with the Rev. John C. Eyer officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Shawano. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Sunday, May 17, 2015, at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano and again at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com