Gunderson Funeral Home - Fitchburg Obituaries

Introduction to Gunderson Funeral Home - Fitchburg

Gunderson Funeral Home - Fitchburg is a trusted and respected funeral home located at 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, WI, 53711. For many years, the dedicated team at Gunderson Funeral Home has been providing compassionate and personalized funeral services to families in Fitchburg and surrounding communities. In this article, we will delve into the history of Gunderson Funeral Home, its mission, services offered, and what sets it apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A Brief History of Gunderson Funeral Home

Gunderson Funeral Home has a rich history that dates back to 1964 when it was founded by Robert Gunderson. Over the years, the funeral home has remained family-owned and operated, with a commitment to providing exceptional service to families during their time of need. Today, Gunderson Funeral Home is one of the most respected and trusted funeral homes in Fitchburg, with a reputation for compassion, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Louis Edward Schmidt - December 29, 1932 - April 30, 2024

Departed: 04/30/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Louis Edward Schmidt, age 91, of Fitchburg, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born in Madison on Dec. 29, 1932, the son of Richard and Elmira (Hermann) Schmidt.

Louis served in the U.S. Army. He married Janice LaFrance on June 6, 1960, in Madison.

He worked in maintenance for MG & E. Louis loved landscaping, always ensuring his yard was beautiful. He was an avid racecar fan and enjoyed watching and attending NASCAR races. He also loved going to Florida with his wife in the winter.

Louis is survived by his daughter, Tammy (Tom) Gregg; sister, Charlotte Nelson; and brother, William (Bonnie) Schmidt. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Janice, and brothers, Bud, Harvey, Robert, and Fred Schmidt.

View Full Obituary

Owen Robert Peck - January 21, 2015 - April 26, 2024

Departed: 04/26/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Owen Robert Peck, age 9, of Madison, Wis., died on April 26, 2024. Owen was born in Ames, Iowa, on Jan. 21, 2015, to Brian and Chelsea Peck. Owen’s toddler and preschool years were full of activity. He could often be found doing puzzles, riding his bike up and down the block, spotting airplanes in the sky, and playing with his siblings, Audra and Caleb. Owen had a great sense of humor, telling jokes that were impressive for the limited language he had and always finding ways to share joy and laughter with others. He loved to be outdoors and was very active, running and jumping and climbing at every chance he had. Owen was a cherished part of the Vine Church community for almost his entire life. He loved to wait for “the guys” to come to his home for community gatherings. He enjoyed learning about Jesus at church and at home. Some of his favorite songs to sing were “Holy Holy Holy” and “Jesus Loves Me.”

When Owen was 4 years old, he was diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome, a form of childhood dementia. Though Owen lost many skills over the years, his outgoing love for people and his contagious laughter continued to enrich the lives of all who knew him. One of his most important legacies is the fact that his diagnosis led to the early diagnosis of his brother, Caleb, for whom Owen was a trailblazer.

Owen attended Olson Elementary School in Madison, where he was in the third grade. His teachers at Olson and other schools he attended went above and beyond to include him in the full experience of school, finding ways for him to participate in activities with his peers like roller blading and painting. He was embraced by caring and thoughtful classmates during his time at school.

Owen is survived by his parents, Brian and Chelsea Peck; sister, Audra; brother, Caleb; and a great number of grandparents, great-grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

View Full Obituary

Maria Magdalena Dominguez - May 25, 1979 - April 26, 2024

Departed: 04/26/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MIDDLETON - Maria Magdalena Dominguez, passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024.

View Full Obituary

Eric Hale Pangman - January 26, 1946 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Eric Hale Pangman, age 78, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, April 20, 2024. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our beloved husband and father. Born in Rochester, N.Y., to Hale Pangman and Elizabeth Viergiver Pangman, he spent his formative years in Mclean, Va., "the backyard of the CIA." There he discovered his lifelong love of nature-- the woods, river and birds.In 1965, Eric joined the U.S. Navy and spent the next four years serving in Hawaii, the Philippines, and Vietnam. He was so proud to go to D.C. on the Honor Flight several years ago.After attending college in North Carolina where he majored in physical education, Eric started traveling the country working as a youth counselor for outdoor challenge programs in Maine and the Florida Everglades. For two summers he worked as a river guide in the Grand Canyon, taking people 252 miles down the Colorado River, a trip he and his wife repeated in the early 90s. After landing in Madison he continued his work with teens at Odyssey and Sojourn House.Eric married Gloria Pofahl-Pangman, his pride and joy, on April 25, 1987, and in 1990 they welcomed their daughter, Haley. Through the years, he also cared for his beloved dogs, Jack, Roscoe, Milo and Clif.Eric finished his career in car and motorcycle sales at Kayser, Zimbrick, Stark and Englehart. In retirement he worked as a concierge at the Edgewater Hotel and became a daily "gym rat." He loved his winter trips to Florida - the beach, fishing and oysters - and his summer trips to the Mountain West, always via the scenic route.Eric will be remembered for his adventurous spirit and the way he took to the open road -- for his exceptional taste in music, food and motorcycles, for his unwavering strength and perseverance, and for the way he deeply cared for and loved his family, friends and animals.He is survived by his wife, Gloria ; daughter, Haley; and sister-in-law, Sally Pofahl. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Annie Gilley; mother-in-law, Charmaine Monroe; and brother-in-law, Terry Pofahl.Rest in peace Eric, EP, Dad. Your legend lives on, and you continue to inspire us every day.

View Full Obituary

Katelyn N. Oryall - April 08, 1990 - April 17, 2024

Departed: 04/17/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Katelyn N. Oryall, age 34, of Fitchburg, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Meriter Hospital.

Kate was born on April 8, 1990, in Madison, Wis., to Jeffrey and Lauren (Ingold) Oryall. She grew up in Madison alongside her brother, Daniel. Kate graduated from Verona High School in 2008 and went on to Edgewood College, where she earned her B.S. in Special Education and Child Life. She worked as an Early Education Teacher for various school districts in the Madison area and most recently Bee Balm Learning Center in Madison.

Kate’s dedication to young minds was endless. She started her journey volunteering in a 4K readiness program with high needs children. That experience imprinted on her the desire to one day become a teacher and impact young kids daily. Her greatest accomplishments came with the birth of her two children, Carter and Emeilia. She loved animals big and small, and even earned the nickname “Bugs” because of the numerous collections of jars she accumulated during the summer months. Known to some as “Katie-O Cheerio,” her smile was infectious and ever present while engaging in activities she enjoyed most. Some of these included cheering for the Badgers and Packers, expressing her artsy side with her creations of tie-dye. Her most favorite time was spent at the family’s lake cabin, sitting on the dock watching the sunset and watching the rainbow flames around the fire pit. She valued her friends immensely and talked of them as family, reflecting deeply and often on how they touched her life.

In the shock of Kate’s passing, a bright light was being able to honor her wish of organ donation, providing potential life to others. Kate would be so proud that she was able to provide a source of hope during a moment when they needed it most.

Katelyn is survived by her parents, Jeffrey and Lauren; brother, Daniel (Kera) Oryall; son, Carter and daughter, Emeilia; maternal grandmother, June Ingold; and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.  She was preceded in death by grandparents, Ronald and Donna Oryall and William Ingold.

A Celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2024.

View Full Obituary

Gary Joseph Van Kauwenbergh - June 25, 1954 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: Gary’s Livestream Service will begin at 11 a.m. CT on Friday, April 26, 2024. Scroll down to the Webcast section and click on “Watch Now.”

MADISON - Gary Van Kauwenbergh, age 69, died unexpectedly of natural causes on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Born on June 25, 1954, in Green Bay, he spent his childhood all over the state of Wisconsin, as his family of seven followed his father’s career through the Ma Bell phone system. Though he grew up in Green Bay, La Crosse, Appleton, and Wausau, the family eventually settled in Superior. There, Gary met his wife of 50 years, Darlene, in the violin section of their middle school orchestra.  He graduated from Superior Senior High School in 1972. He continued playing the fiddle (“not the violin!”) with his family throughout his life.

Shortly after graduating, Gary joined the U.S. Army in 1973. That year, he earned the National Defense State Medal, and returned home to get married. Gary and Darlene honeymooned on their road trip to Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, Colo., where they stayed until being stationed, as a family of three, in the Federal Republic of Germany in 1975, where they became a family of four. In 1977, Gary was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and was honorably discharged from active duty.  The family lived in Superior where Gary and Darlene both attended the University of Wisconsin (UWS) while juggling a young family.

Missing the military, Gary joined the National Guard (WIARNG) in 1978.  The family grew to five in 1979.  He attended the Wisconsin Military Academy (WMA) in ’79-’80 earning a commission as a Lieutenant in 1980.  Also, in 1980, Gary graduated with two Bachelors of Science degrees, in Accounting and Data Processing. Unused to all the “free time,” he decided to join the Civil War Shooting Association as part of Larson’s Raiders, a marksman competition cannon crew. From then on, Civil War history became a major factor in Gary’s life. Always a fan of history, Gary was a passionate amateur historian, spending countless hours researching battles, weaponry, uniforms and flags. Family vacations from that point on centered on touring Civil War historical sites and battlefields. Gary eventually expanded his CWSA competitions to include rifles, pistols, mortars and other period weaponry, as both an individual competitor and as part of teams.

In 1999, Gary was a founding member of the American Civil War Shooting Association (ACWSA), and proudly represented the 2nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry at shoots until the pandemic and his health precluded his participation. He spoke and provided fiddle music with the family band at ACWSA and other historical events throughout the state.

Gary started his Wisconsin State employment in 1980 at UW-Superior.  In 1982, the family moved to Madison, where Gary started working for the Department of Transportation before moving to the Department of Revenue in 1985, where he worked for 26 years until his retirement in 2011. He also transferred to the U.S. Army Reserve, serving with the 389th EN BN out of Dodgeville, eventually retiring as a Captain after 20 years of service to his country. After retiring, Gary became an avid genealogist, researching tirelessly through libraries, cemeteries, churches and genealogy societies all over the state, and finally internationally. A stickler for substantiated data, Gary expanded the depth and breadth of the Van Kauwenbergh family tree countless generations back to our original roots in Belgium. Gary was exceptionally proud of his family heritage and searched high and low to buy back the violins and duck decoys made by his craftsman grandfather, John “Jack” Van Kauwenbergh, in the 1940s and 1950s. He encouraged all his children and grandchildren, as well as his nieces and nephews, to learn the violin, promising each child their very own Van Kauwenbergh Violin as soon as they could play “The Irish Washerwoman.”

Gary is preceded in death by his father, Harold; and his mother, Gladys. He is survived by his wife, Darlene (Amundson); his three children, Jack (Jenni), Brad, and Amy; his grandchildren, Ben, Leah and Max; his siblings, Steve, Wayne, Lynn and Peter; and 11 nieces and nephews.

Our lives were enriched with Gary in it.  We’ll miss you.  You were so driven to provide for your family and friends -- may you finally get the rest you couldn’t give yourself in your lifetime.

View Full Obituary

Nona Arlee Suhr - July 09, 1929 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: VERONA - Nona Arlee Suhr (nee Mani), age 94, of Verona, passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. She was born on July 9, 1929, in Verona, Wis., to Edward and Martha (Zurbuchen) Mani.

Nona attended Mission House College (now Lakeland University) in Sheboygan, Wis., where she earned a degree in Music. It is also where she met her husband, Art, and they married on May 28, 1952. Their son, Mark, was born on Oct. 2, 1957.

Nona taught music to elementary-age students and spent the majority of her 33-year career at Maple Avenue Elementary School in Sussex, Wis. Her students brought her a tremendous amount of joy as she shared her love of music with them. Nona loved to talk about her years of teaching the pleasure and joy it brought her. After her retirement in 1991 she returned to Verona to be closer to her family.

Nona was a faithful member of Memorial United Church of Christ in Fitchburg. Her strong faith sustained her throughout her life, especially through tragedies and challenges she faced during her life.

Nona is survived by her niece, Jean Ann (Peter) Mani Nowak; and a nephew through marriage, Wayne Shannon, and his extended family in Louisville, Ky.; as well as numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Arthur Suhr (1982); her son, Mark Arthur Suhr (1984); brother and sister-in-law, Maynard and Fern Mani; and nephew, Gary (Wendy) Mani.

View Full Obituary

Barbara Joan Coyne - April 20, 1929 - March 24, 2024

Departed: 03/24/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: VERONA - Barbara (Jones) Coyne was born in Livingston, Wis., on April 20, 1929, to parents, Leslie and Grace (Livingston) Jones. Shortly after her birth, the family relocated to South Wayne.

Barbara loved living in a little town of 300 people where she knew everybody. She played snare drums in the band, and participated in forensics and cheerleading. She also enjoyed shooting sports, and she had fond memories of working in the local grocery store. She was very close with her sisters, Jean (Don) Swanson and Norma (George) Maddrell.

After graduating high school in 1947, Barbara studied math and social work at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Barbara and Mike Coyne married in Evansville, Wis., on June 19, 1948. They raised six children and divorced in 1974.

The family lived in Richland Center, Milwaukee, Los Altos, Calif., and eventually settled in the Madison area in 1971. They also spent many summers at Fish Lake, Wis., with extended family.

Barbara became a realtor and then spent the remainder of her career as a research librarian at the Forest Products Laboratory. Barbara was known for her delicious baked goods. She was also an avid reader, bridge player, and an enormous Badgers basketball fan. More than anything, she enjoyed spending simple, everyday time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she tried her best to never miss any event that they participated in. During this time, she earned the nickname "Granny" as she became known to everyone.

Barb resided at Ingleside Communities in Mount Horeb for the last five of her 95-year life. Her favorite part of Ingleside was spending time with her resident friends in the activities room and frequent drives through the surrounding countryside, visiting places and people from her past. Barbara passed away surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, March 24, 2024. Barbara is survived by her six children, Susan (Andrew) Krembs, Jane Coyne, David (Joy) Coyne,

Thomas Coyne, John (Vicky) Coyne and Robert (Wendy) Coyne; 17 grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, as well as their spouses and significant others; 14 great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Alice Gundlach; many much-loved nieces, nephews, and their families; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her firstborn child; her parents; and her two sisters.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2024. Please join us, as we will be serving cookies from Granny’s delicious recipes. Burial will be at EASTMAN CEMETERY, 3491 Wehinger Road, South Wayne, at 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Memorials made to the family will be given to the Ingleside Activities Fund. Online condolence may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care 2950 Chapel Valley Road (608) 442-5002

View Full Obituary

Paula Marie Hansen - April 20, 1949 - March 21, 2024

Departed: 03/21/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. - Paula Marie Hansen, age 74, of Wesley Chapel, Fla., passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at UW Hospital.

Paula was born on April 20, 1949, in Brooklyn, N.Y., the daughter of Nicholas and Marie (Chiarulli) Martino. She married Karl Hansen on June 8, 1985, in Valley Stream, N.Y. Paula graduated from Valley Stream Central High School in Valley Stream in 1967. She received her bachelor’s degree from SUNY of Cortland and went on to receive her master’s degree at Penn State University. She was a teacher and guidance counselor at schools in Boston, Mass., and then a special education teacher in Long Island, N.Y.

Paula loved animals - fostering, adopting, and spoiling numerous dogs throughout her life. She was an avid New York Yankees fan, but most of all she loved spending time with her family, especially her two grandchildren who were her greatest sources of joy.

Paula is survived by her husband, Karl; son, Kyle; daughter-in-law, Rebecca Hansen; grandchildren, Lyla Hansen and Isaac Hansen; and brother, Joseph Martino. She was preceded in death by her parents.

View Full Obituary

Mary Kathryn (Hansen) Lourigan - July 24, 1941 - March 18, 2024

Departed: 03/18/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Mary Kathryn (Hansen) Lourigan, age 82, passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024. She was born on July 24, 1941, to Ralph and Margaret (Hrach) Hansen in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She married Gerald W. Lourigan on June 6, 1964, in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin. They resided in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, for almost 50 years.

Mary always left a positive impression on those she met, due to her gentle and kind nature. She worked many years as a playground supervisor and a cafeteria cook at Sacred Hearts School in Sun Prairie. She was also a librarian at the Sun Prairie Public Library. Mary was a dedicated volunteer for many years. She was a Girl Scout member for over 50 years and volunteered as a troop leader, community chair, day camp director and first aider, and head cook at Camp Blackhawk Women's Week. Mary was a Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park volunteer guide. In her free time, Mary enjoyed reading, knitting, quilting, and traveling with friends. Above all, Mary was a loving mother and grandmother.

Mary is survived by her husband, Gerald W. Lourigan; children, Gerald R. Lourigan, Margaret Lourigan, Joseph Lourigan (Tanya), Colleen Lourigan (Jon) and Kathryn Dutton (John); grandchildren, Celeste Lourigan (Jake McGinnis), Alison Lourigan, Cadie Lourigan, Eileen Dutton, John Dutton, Theodore Dutton and Mary Dutton; and sister, Dolores Kabara.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Margaret Hansen; and companion in shenanigans, Jean Wilder.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be scheduled at a later date.

In honor or memory of Mary, donations may be made to the League of Women Voters (https://www.lwv.org/give), UW Health Carbone Cancer Center (https://cancer.wisc.edu/ways-to-give/giving), or the National Park Service (https://www.nps.gov/getinvolved/donate.htm).

View Full Obituary

Charlotte Jean Kruger - June 21, 1930 - March 14, 2024

Departed: 03/14/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Charlotte Jean Kruger, age 93, of Madison, Wis., passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at All Saints in Madison, Wis.

Charlotte was born on June 21, 1930, at the Ladysmith Hospital in Rusk County, Wis. Her parents were Henry Duckart and Beulah Searls Duckart. Surprisingly (to her parents, at least), Charlotte accompanied her twin brother Francis “Frank” into the world. From 1922-1941, the family resided in Bruce, Wis. Henry was an attorney in private practice and was later elected Rusk County District Attorney, a position he served in until the family moved to Wisconsin Rapids to run the Jacob Searls family cranberry business. Beulah was a home economics teacher in Wisconsin Rapids.

Charlotte (who became known as “Hod,” a name her brother Frank called her as a child) had four older siblings, Donald, Richard (“Bubber”), Wayne (“Took”) and Patricia (“Pat”). Char recalled many happy and funny stories about growing up in Bruce. Of course, life was challenging during the pre-and post-Depression era, yet she shared that they never lacked essentials, nor was there a lack of love in their household.

Attending school in Wisconsin Rapids, she, Frank, and Pat were members of the Lincoln High School marching band. Her father, Henry, was the youngest of 14 children and one of his sisters, Barb, often came to the Duckart home to assist with the management of the active family. Beulah had one sister, Fern, who married a famous photographer and portrait artist, Takuma Kajiwara, “Taki.” Taki’s brother, (later the head of Pentax camera company), named the “Takumar” lens after Taki. Taki and Fern resided in Manhattan, where she worked as a social worker. Char enjoyed the visits from Aunt Fern and Taki who had interesting lifestyles and travel experiences.

Char and her sister, Pat, were very close spending many hours with friends and with their high school sweethearts/future husbands, John Kruger and James Rude. Both couples married in 1951 and moved to San Antonio, Texas, where both men served in the military during the Korean Conflict. Char and John’s first child, David “Dave” was born in San Antonio, Texas in 1952. After returning to Wisconsin, Char and John had three more children. Cynthia “Cindy” 1957, Linda 1959 and Mark 1961. All four children benefited from college educations which were especially important to Char and John.

When Char and John returned to Wisconsin in 1953, they lived and ran a cranberry farming operation in City Point (Birch Bluff Cranberry Company). They worked hard to make a living, supplementing it with trapping, moss harvesting and raising turkeys. They were engaged in simple rural life with limited formal plumbing. When Char became pregnant with Cindy, they decided to move to Wisconsin Rapids. Had they stayed in City Point, it would have been a 45-minute drive to procure groceries, and their children would have attended a one-room schoolhouse in City Point.

John, who had a degree in Biochemistry from UW-Madison, secured employment with Consolidated Papers. He worked there for over 30 years in a variety of positions ranging from sales to manufacturing. Char and John enjoyed downhill skiing, curling, camping, golf, and family gatherings with their large extended family. In 1971, the family moved to Stevens Point to accommodate John’s job promotion. Cindy, Linda and Mark then all attended and graduated high school in Stevens Point.

Dave practiced law for several years and now oversees a real estate investment company. Cindy had a long career as a chemical engineer which eventually led her to move to Tennessee to manage an engineering group for an evaporator manufacturing company. Linda is a CPA working in the software industry providing tax compliance solutions for business entities. Mark obtained several certifications in computer software and works as an IT specialist for an international bank.

During the 1960s, Char and John got involved in curling, a sport they enjoyed for many years. Char kept busy running the household and became an accomplished furniture refinisher. She had the ability to give great attention to detail and her pieces were always of extraordinary quality. In addition to a life-long passion for reading, gardening, and doing crossword puzzles, she was a beautiful seamstress, knitter, and needlepoint artist. She never denied a last-minute request for assistance, whether it be for a prom gown, help with childcare, home-improvement-whatever was needed.

In 2015, after almost 43 years of residing in her well-maintained, warm, and welcoming home in Stevens Point, she moved to Verona to be nearer to her children, grandchildren and now, five great-grandchildren. Char was a funny, sometimes strong-willed and a very loving woman who lived each day to its fullest. One of her greatest qualities was her ability to listen, a gift we all admire and cherish and all would benefit from doing more of.

Charlotte is survived by her children, David (Sarah) Kruger, Cynthia Kortebein, Linda (Robert) Wilson and Mark (June) Kruger; grandchildren, Joshua Kruger, Courtney Kruger, Lindsay Kruger (Daniel Sarbacker), Eric Kortebein, Sarah Kortebein (Nick Yetter), Brigette (Wade) Zebro, Robert Wilson IV, Kevin Wilson, Natalie Kruger and Brianna Kruger; and great-grandchildren, Oliver Kruger, Adelaide Sarbacker, Augustus Sarbacker, Finnegan Sarbacker and William Yetter. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Donald, Richard, Wayne, Frank and Patricia; and former husband, John Kruger.

A brief service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday.

View Full Obituary

Signe E. Peterson - October 25, 1950 - March 14, 2024

Departed: 03/14/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Signe E. Peterson, age 73, of Madison, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at BeeHive Homes. She was born on Oct. 25, 1950, in Viroqua Wis., the daughter of Ernest and Sigfreed (Jacobson) Peterson.

Signe graduated from Viroqua High School in 1968, and went on to earn a teaching degree from UW-La Crosse. She taught English at Memorial High School in Madison, and at Taravella High School in Coral Springs, Fla.

Signe enjoyed spending time with her family and friends in Wisconsin and Florida. She liked playing golf, and was an avid fan of football, basketball and baseball. Throughout her life, Signe was never without a dog as a faithful companion. And, of course, purple was her signature color.

Signe is survived by her nieces, Vicki (John) Wilson, Ellen Berg, Carla (Joe) Cebula, Sarah (Randy) Spah and Amy (Roger) Bohn; nephews, Joel (Laura) Olson and Eric (Amy) Peterson; and sisters-in-law, Gloria Fetty and Cathy Peterson. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Jerry Peterson and Steve Peterson; and sister, Ann Olson; and niece, Judy Buckli.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2024. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Friday.  Reception to follow.

Memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare and Alzheimer's Association.

View Full Obituary

Joshua D. Burrington - July 03, 1990 - March 11, 2024

Departed: 03/11/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MONONA - Joshua David Burrington, age 33, of Monona, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2024. He was born on July 3, 1990, in Hinsdale, Ill., the son of David and Kimberlee (Wilson) Burrington. His family moved to Madison in 1992, where he spent many happy years for the rest of his childhood.

Josh graduated from Edgewood High School in Madison in 2009, and from UW-Eau Claire in 2014, with a degree in Health Care Administration.  He worked at National Guardian Life (NGL) for nine years, most recently as an Account Success Associate.

Josh was blessed with many friends and family that all loved him dearly.  He had such a kind heart, never had an unkind word for anyone, and showed great empathy and caring for others. He delighted in giving to others but also loved to get surprises and gifts.  His love of surprises was reflected in the joy that he had collecting Pokémon cards, Legos, video games, and Amiibos. He loved his work family at NGL and was one of the few people that missed going to the office during the Pandemic.

We were blessed to have Josh as our son and we truly enjoyed doing things together as a family whenever possible.  We took many ski trips, and also visited England, Scotland, France, Switzerland, Ireland, and most recently New Zealand. We loved visiting new places and seeing the joy that Josh had exploring and discovering. When Josh wasn’t spending time with family, he enjoyed golfing, boating, gaming, and socializing with his friends. He loved sports and shared many fun times with his family and friends attending Badgers, Packers and Bucks games. We were especially blessed to have him close by because he would often drop by to take a walk with us and our dogs, have dinner together, or just hang with Mom and Dad. We will miss him every moment of every day but hold the hope that we will see him again. “Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with the heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.”

Joshua is survived by his parents, David and Kimberlee; sister, Claire (Sam Palmer) Burrington; grandmother, Charlotte Burrington; aunts, Cheryl (Dennis) Mittleider and Kara Wilson; and cousins, Adam (Mikaela) Mittleider, Chelsey (Jason) King, Sarah (Luke) Romano and David Kuhn. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Meredith Burrington and Lee Wilson; and grandmother, Karen Wilson.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2024.

View Full Obituary

Mark Joseph Schweiger - March 12, 1945 - March 03, 2024

Departed: 03/03/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Mark Joseph Schweiger, age 78, of Fitchburg, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on March 12, 1945, in Duluth, Minn., the son of Joseph and Justine (Ivance) Schweiger.

Mark graduated from Duluth Denfeld High School in 1963. He received his bachelor’s degree in education with a concentration in history from the University of Minnesota - Duluth and a master’s degree in education from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee.  He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1965 until 1979.

Mark taught for ten years and connected well with students, particularly at-risk youth. He left teaching and started working for Western Publishing becoming the national account manager for the iconic Little Golden Book series.

Mark was funny and joyful, always lightening the mood. He loved sports and played hockey, baseball, football, and track. He coached his children's sport teams, belonged to the booster club and attended all of their events. He was a supportive and engaged partner, parent, and friend.

Mark’s passion for classic cars was at a level that couldn't be matched. He liked hot rods and owned many over the years; his 1949 Mercury being a particular favorite. He spent hours washing, polishing, and tinkering on them.

Mark is survived by his life partner, Marsi Schindler; his sons, Scott (Molly) Schweiger, Ryan (Kate) Schweiger and Justin (Lauren) Schweiger; grandchildren, Savannah Schweiger, Avery Schweiger, Max Schweiger, Stella Schweiger and Declan Schweiger; stepsons, Jake (Rebecca Stern) Schindler and Kaleb Schindler; stepdaughters, Grace (Chris Raiser) Schindler and Theanna Schindler; step grandson Koda Schindler; and a brother, Gregg Schweiger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Justine.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

View Full Obituary

Timothy "Tim" McCormick - July 13, 1968 - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Timothy “Tim” McCormick, age 55, of Fitchburg, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, at home after a long battle with ocular melanoma. He was born the youngest of six children to Michael and Patricia (Kane) McCormick, on July 13, 1968, in Madison.  He grew up on the shores of Lake Monona and developed a passion for sailing and iceboating.

Tim graduated from LaFollette High School in 1986, where he met his wife, Amy, at a high school hockey game. Together, they attended the UW-Madison, where Tim graduated with a Master of Science in Engineering Mechanics in December 1991.

Tim and his high school sweetheart, Amy, married on May 21, 1994, at St. James Church in Madison.  They shared a love of boating, traveling, Badger sports and watching their two daughters, Katie and Molly, compete in swim meets.

Tim worked as the Chief Engineer for the Anesthesia and Respiratory Care business for GE Healthcare, where he dedicated 29 years. He was on the Committee of Technology for Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation and a contributing author to the Society for Technology in Anesthesia. Recognized as a leader in the field, he currently has 11 patents assigned and three pending.  Tim made countless friends at work, where he will be remembered for his intelligence, attention to detail, humor, compassion, and patience.  He was also an avid golfer and was a member of the GE golf league for over 20 years.

Tim was a member of Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club, Lake Monona Sailing Club (past commodore), National Iceboat Authority and Renegade Iceboat Association. He was an enthusiastic sailor and iceboater and although he loved to win on the race course, it was the time he spent with friends and family that brought him the most joy.

Tim touched the lives of many people and he will be dearly missed by all.

Tim is survived by wife, Amy; daughters, Katie and Molly McCormick; sisters, Penny (John) Scott and Pamela (Henry) McCormick Geib; brothers, Robert, William and Andrew (Cyndi) McCormick; mother-in-law, Kathe King; sister-in-law, Kristine Germann; brother-in-law, Mark (Laurie) Halzel; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Patricia.

A visitation will be held at 11 a.m. with a memorial service to follow at 12 noon on Friday, March 15, 2024, at MONONA TERRACE AND CONVENTION CENTER, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison, Wis.

View Full Obituary

Paul John Palzkill - June 23, 1935 - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Paul John Palzkill, of Madison, Wis., passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, in Middleton, Wis. He was born on June 23, 1935, in Kendall Township, LaFayette County, Wis., the son of Bernard and Rose (Bradley) Palzkill.

Paul married Bonnie Jane (Cleary) Palzkill on Oct. 5, 1957, in Briggsville, Wis. After Bonnie's death, he married Margaret Ann (Cleary) Palzkill on June 3, 1994, in Madison, Wis. He graduated from Mineral Point High School in May of 1953. Paul worked as a barber at State Street Barber Shop and Kings Korner and was the co-owner of Oliver Shagnasty’s Wine Shack with his dear friend and partner, Jon Jackson.

Paul enjoyed fishing and golfing. He was a member of the Fitchburg Jaycees, a volunteer of the Fitchburg Fire Department, a parishioner of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and a Knights of Columbus.

Paul will be missed by his wife, Marge Palzkill; children, Dennis (Lisa (Russell)) Palzkill, Anita (Warren) Germann and Brian Palzkill; three grandchildren, Nicole (Brett) Bilzing, Ryan (Lauren) Germann and Elizabeth Audrey Palzkill; six great-grandchildren, Calex, Saila, Scarlett, Myles, Clara and Alexander; and sisters, Mary Faith Argall, Josephine Von Swol and Jane (Russ) Tonelli. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Palzkill; and son, Gary Palzkill.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, 2024, with Father Jay Poster presiding. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 12 noon until the time of the service on Saturday.

View Full Obituary

Kerry A. Podolske - April 19, 1945 - February 17, 2024

Departed: 02/17/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Kerry A. Podolske, age 78, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb.17, 2024, at her home. Born on April 19, 1945, in Cassville, Wis., she was the daughter of Donald and Deanne (Adrian) Oelke.

Kerry's early years were spent in the town of Cassville, where she graduated from Cassville High School.  Kerry then attended Milwaukee Area Technical College, where she completed the Dental Assistant Program.  Kerry spent over 20 years as a waitress, first at Perkins on the Beltline, and most recently Alt n’ Bach’s Town Tap.  Waitressing for Kerry was not just about work; it was something she enjoyed - an opportunity to connect with people, sharing stories and creating memories.

Kerry's love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, evidenced by the ever-growing collage of photographs adorning her kitchen cabinets over the past 30-plus years! She is survived by her two sons, Frank (Sayhra) Schiro and Robert (Kim) Schiro; their father and former husband, Joseph Schiro; her grandchildren, Sophia, Dante, Carlito, Francesco, Salvatore, Nina, Francesca and Samantha; great-grandchildren, Francesco (aka “Nooch”) and Stassi; her sister, Sharon Chapman; and special niece, Jeannie (Jim) Mellon.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Mike Podolske; and siblings, Marinette Bink, Donna Mae Radloff, Calvin Oelke and Jackie Russell.

Her granddaughters will fondly remember the shopping sprees that were filled with laughter and love, while her great-grandson, Nooch, will cherish the many memories of hanging out at his dear Grammy Kerry’s.  Those who knew Kerry will recall that she loved to dance, enjoyed bowling, and was a Packer super-fan.  She delighted in the color pink, warm sunshine on her face, having a stack of celebrity magazines to peruse, the movie Grease, playing the lotto, was a voracious reader, and thoroughly enjoyed the companionship of her ever-pampered cats.

View Full Obituary

Thomas F. Hasz - May 14, 1966 - February 11, 2024

Departed: 02/11/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Thomas F. Hasz, age 57, of Madison, unexpectedly passed away of heart issues on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024. He was born at Madison General Hospital (now Meriter) on May 14, 1966, in Madison, the son of William Junior (aka Bill) and Donna (Anderson) Hasz.

Tom was a lifelong Madison man. He absolutely loved Madison and the surrounding communities. Some of his favorite spots were the Capitol, Arboretum and Olbrich Gardens, but he also loved to explore trails and parks around the area. He was also a Frank Lloyd Wright architectural buff. He attended the Madison Metropolitan School District, graduating in 1984 from Madison West High School. Tom attended MATC where he became a Journeyman Pipefitter. He worked for North American Mechanical Inc. (NAMI) for 20 years and enjoyed showing off the work he did on many buildings in the downtown/campus area with his HVAC expertise. After that Tom worked at the iconic Overture Center for the Arts for about three years.

Tom met his second wife, Tracey (Ziegler/Donnelly), on an online dating site in 2007. They were married on the 10-year anniversary of their first date on July 21, 2017. In 2015, while still working full time at the Overture Center, Tom helped his wife, Tracey, start T&T Pet Care Services, a business providing dog walking, small animal care visits, boarding, pet sitting, doggy daycare, etc. In February of 2020 Tom left the Overture Center to work full time at T&T. The COVID-19 shutdown was hard on them like everyone else, but they made it through it. The shutdown allowed them to spend a lot of quality time together and they played a lot of cribbage. In September of 2020 they expanded their business with a second doggy daycare location on the Northside. After the shutdown ended, Tom was thankful that pet owners went back to work and started traveling again. Their business took off and is still going strong.

Tom lived for his wife, kids and granddaughter. He loved to spend time with them golfing/going to the driving range, going out to eat, watching movies/TV shows, playing cribbage, getting together at family gatherings, and mostly, making everyone laugh… He would do anything for them. He had a special bond with his granddaughter, Ella. She had him wrapped around her finger. They often ate treats and ice cream together. He would take part in any play scenario she asked him to. He was known for his quirky often offbeat sense of humor. He looked for ways to make people smile and laugh.

Tom was interested in a wide variety of subjects. He didn’t love school, but he loved learning. He was an avid reader and loved watching documentaries. His clients called him kind, caring and sweet and enjoyed that he always had something to talk about, be it the weather, sports or their pets. He was really into sports. He followed all Wisconsin sports, both pro and college.

Although Tom looked forward to all holidays, his favorite was Christmas. Starting in November he required that only Christmas music was played. He made it a big event getting the Christmas tree, putting it up and decorating it. Each year his hilariously creepy “frosty” ornament made its way onto the tree. It gave him pleasure to drive around town looking at the holiday lights.

Tom is survived by his wife, Tracey; daughters, Brooke Hasz and Paige Hasz; son, Jacob Hasz; granddaughter, Ella Hasz; mother, Donna Hasz; sisters, Sally (Dan) Luck and Barb (Jim) Hasz-Paul; and brother, Bill (Christal) Hasz. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill.

A celebration of life gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, March 4, 2024.

In lieu of sending flowers the family asks that you make a donation to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org. in his name.

In true giving spirit, Tom donated to the American Tissue Services Foundation.  It warms his family's hearts to know he'll help so many people, potentially throughout the world.

View Full Obituary

Stephanie Ann Branstetter - October 23, 1978 - February 03, 2024

Departed: 02/03/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Stephanie Ann Branstetter, age 45, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was born on Oct. 23, 1978, in Madison, the daughter of Linda (Rick) Statz and Steven Branstetter.

Stephanie attended Edgewood High School. She worked as a caregiver and was a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Stephanie loved being a grandmother and spending time with her grandchildren.

Stephanie is survived by her daughter, Amari Hampton; son, Gregory Hampton; three grandchildren, Aamir Hampton, Kingston Hampton and Olivia Joyce Hampton; parents, Linda and Rick; and sister, Courtney Branstetter.

View Full Obituary

Norman Paul Moore - May 05, 1961 - February 02, 2024

Departed: 02/02/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Norman Paul Moore, age 62, of Madison, passed away on Feb. 2, 2024, doing what he loved most: biking.

Norman was a man of many names, passions, and adventures; but most importantly, he was a man of service. Norman found his purpose in life by volunteering and serving those in need.

"Stormin' Norman" proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, from 1981 to 2001, and retired honorably as a Master Sergeant.

"Norman the Choreman" served his community and the greater Madison area by helping others with household projects while making lifelong connections along the way. "Norman the Nomad'' brought joy to anyone lucky enough to cross his (bike) path as he explored some of his favorite National Parks, such as Big Bend in Texas. His adventures can be viewed in perpetuity at www.youtube.com/@normanthenomad22

When he wasn't traveling the country in his van, his service did not stop. He spent his time between travels peddling bikes for his favorite bike shop, Motorless Motion. His greatest acts of service were to his family, friends, and loved ones. Anyone who knew Norman understood that he loved, and was proud of, his three boys. Through his actions and words, he promoted kindness, love, and allowing yourself some grace. It is fitting that one of his favorite sayings was "Love more, judge less. Even when it comes to yourself."

Norman is survived by his mother, Margaret; sisters, Natasha (Joel) and Gloria (Tamra); brother, Leon (Gini); three boys, Jason, Joshua (Melba) and Nathaniel (Nassim); mother of his three boys, Barbara; grandsons, Matthew and Joaquin; all of his extremely close extended family; and all of his biking family. He was preceded in death by his father, James.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, at 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024. Military honors will follow. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Friends and family who wish to view the service via LIVE STREAM may do so by visiting Norman’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com and clicking on the Watch Webcast link at the time of the service.

View Full Obituary

Janice Elaine Love - August 08, 1945 - January 26, 2024

Departed: 01/26/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Janice Elaine Love, 78, of Fitchburg, Wis., passed away on Jan. 26, 2024, at Agrace Hospice with her husband, Dale, and son, Matthew, by her side. In her final weeks, she was surrounded by many family and friends who loved her.

Jan was born on Aug. 8, 1945, to Raymond and Beulah (nee Stotts) Murken of Boone, Iowa. She grew up on the farm as the youngest of five kids. After graduating high school, she went on to study at Boone Junior College and then Iowa State University. It was there that she met her husband, Dale. They eventually put down roots in Wisconsin with their three wonderful children, still making frequent trips to Iowa for family visits. Jan’s faith was important to her. The family joined Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Madison, where she remained a faithful member of the congregation for many years.Jan was such a loving and proud mother who enjoyed spending time with her family. She loved to cook and eat with her family. She would try new recipes but always continued to make her old favorites. It was a long list so she would frequently ask her kids for recommendations, which usually only made the list a little shorter.

Both her immediate and extended families were an important part of her life. Staying in touch with her siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews and dear friends brought her so much joy. She liked to talk about baseball, and the weather, and generally keep up with what everyone was doing. She rarely missed a celebration and was almost always willing to travel for one. If you invited her to a wedding, no matter how far away, you better believe she would be there early so she could get a good spot.Jan loved the outdoors. Growing up on a farm instilled an appreciation for nature and animals. She always kept a garden (even though she kept saying she wouldn’t the last few years). She took pride in her flower beds and enjoyed walking around the yard to talk about what garden tasks were up next and what she might like to plant in open spots.

Traveling and seeing the wonders of the natural world was another favorite pastime. She would vacation to visit her kids when they were in Houston and Colorado, her brother when he was in Arizona, and friends on the beach in Florida. She loved to travel with Dale and together they went on trips. Hiking at Pictured Rock National Lakeshore, Glacier National Park, the Grand Canyon, the Sedona Desert, and the Smokey Mountains. She went sailing in the Apostle Islands and explored so many more places. Near to her heart was Ledges State Park back home in Iowa.

Jan will be remembered for her beautiful singing voice. She never missed an opportunity to sing with her family and friends in church or other gatherings. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. We rest in assurance that she is now welcomed by all of the loved ones who passed before her.Jan is survived by her loving husband, Dale; children, Kimberly (Jake), Matthew and Nicholas (Emily); siblings, Lois and Mel; and many nieces, nephews and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Ken and Daryl; and brother-in-law, Bob.

A memorial service will be held at GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5701 Raymond Road, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Family and friends who wish to view the service via LIVE STREAM may visit Jan’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com and click on the Live Webcast link at 11 a.m. on Friday. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

The family would appreciate flowers to be ordered through Wood Violet Floral Design (woodvioletmke.com/jan).

View Full Obituary

Peter Nelson Anderson - October 17, 1966 - January 25, 2024

Departed: 01/25/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Peter Nelson Anderson, age 57, of Madison, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, at SSM Health - St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on Oct. 17, 1966, in Madison, Wis., the son of David Anderson and Mary Power.

Peter learned carpentry at an early age, taking after Grandpa Stan, then moved on to food service like both grandmas were so good at, and then on to I.T. for the State of Wisconsin, which none of his family knew a darn thing about. He was a graduate of Herzing University in Madison.

Peter’s love of the oceans and mountains took him on many great adventures. Peter will be greatly missed by his family and his many lifelong friends.

Peter is survived by his parents, step-parents, brother, step-siblings, other relatives and many friends.

Peter’s family welcomes your visit at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2024.

A special thank you to Dr. Douglas Hobson at SSM Health, Madison. Memorials may be made to the Fitchburg Serenity Club (fitchburgserenityclub.com) or the American Parkinson Disease Association - Wisconsin Chapter.

View Full Obituary

Joshua Teter - September 22, 1986 - January 20, 2024

Departed: 01/20/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Joshua Teter, age 37, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. He was born on Sept. 22, 1986, in Valley Stream, N.Y., the son of Gene and Jean (Ewers) Teter.

Josh graduated from Columbus North High School, Indiana, in 2004. While Josh held several mainstream jobs in the service industry, he was always happiest working with his hands doing any type of home repair or handyman work.

Josh was a man of many talents. He was a naturally kind, generous, and empathetic person who could easily make connections with people from all walks of life. He had a quick wit and shared his sense of humor with everyone around him. As a tinkerer, Josh could figure out a way to fix anything from cars to home repair projects. Josh’s work was always meticulous and done with much care. Josh had a passion for learning - he spent his downtime reading and watching videos to learn about a variety of topics, and he loved to share this knowledge with his family and friends. His happiest moments were time spent with family, especially his young niece and nephew.

Joshua is survived by his parents; sister, Sarah (Christopher Pauly) Teter; three half-sisters, Donna (Tom) Smith, Terri Whitney and Catherine (Rich) Michelitsch; three nephews, Aidan Pauly, Brent Whitney, and Jason Whitney; and niece, Nadia Pauly.

A private burial will be held at Natural Path Sanctuary in Verona, Wis.

Memorials may be made to Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic (SAFEproject.us/memorial).

View Full Obituary

Wayne Norris Pflieger - October 30, 1943 - January 18, 2024

Departed: 01/18/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: FITCHBURG - Wayne Norris Pflieger, age 80, of Fitchburg, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on Oct. 30, 1943, in Columbus, Ga., the son of Clarence Pflieger and Lorraine (Muhlig) Pflieger.

Wayne graduated from Kelvyn Park High School in Chicago in 1962. He proudly served his country by serving in the U.S. Army, something he was proud of. He married Gina Petrucci on Jan. 18, 2003. Prior to retirement, Wayne worked as a truck driver for United Express. Wayne was a big fan of the Chicago Bears, enjoyed playing online poker, and was a jokester with a great sense of humor. He liked to tell people he was “strong as a bull!”

View Full Obituary

Denise Ulickey Hubbard - October 16, 1955 - January 08, 2024

Departed: 01/08/2024 (Fitchburg)

Obituary Preview: Trenton, Fla. - Denise Ulickey Hubbard, age 68, of Trenton, Fla., passed away on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. She was born on Oct. 16, 1955, in Milwaukee, Wis., the daughter of Vern Kramer and Betty (Ulickey) Lenz.

Denise attended grade school and high school in Milwaukee.  She married the love of her life, Neal Hubbard, on Feb. 2, 1974, in Milwaukee and they were weeks shy of celebrating their 50th anniversary. She enjoyed being a mother and a homemaker. Denise valued her family and put their happiness above all. She was loving, sweet and witty, and was known for her great sense of humor. She loved playing card games with her Aunt Judi, who she was very close to. Denise was a member of the Church of Christ in Chiefland, Fla. In a word, Denise was the rock of her family.

Denise is survived by her husband, Neal; sons, Bobby "Bob" (Trellany) Hubbard and Joey "Joe" (Tracy) Hubbard; daughter, Amanda (John) Lew; grandchildren, Kalin Hubbard, Ashlyn Hubbard, Denise Hubbard, Mia Hubbard and Mandell Lew; and aunt, Judi Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Mission and Values

The mission of Gunderson Funeral Home is to provide personalized and compassionate funeral services that honor the lives of loved ones who have passed away. The funeral home's values are centered around respect, dignity, and compassion, with a focus on supporting families through the grieving process. The staff at Gunderson Funeral Home understands that every family is unique, and they strive to create customized funeral services that reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased.

Funeral Services Offered

Gunderson Funeral Home offers a wide range of funeral services to meet the needs of families in Fitchburg and surrounding communities. These services include:

- Traditional funerals with visitation and burial or cremation

- Memorial services with or without visitation

- Cremation services with options for scattering, burial, or memorialization

- Pre-planning and pre-funding options for funerals

- Grief support resources and counseling

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Gunderson Funeral Home are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. The funeral home features a spacious chapel with seating for up to 200 people, as well as several smaller rooms for more intimate gatherings. Additionally, Gunderson Funeral Home offers ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment.

Staff and Leadership

The staff at Gunderson Funeral Home is comprised of experienced and licensed funeral directors, embalmers, and support staff who are dedicated to providing exceptional service to families. The funeral home is led by a team of experienced professionals who are committed to upholding the highest standards of excellence in funeral service.

Community Involvement

Gunderson Funeral Home is deeply involved in the Fitchburg community and supports a variety of local organizations and charities. The funeral home participates in annual events such as the Fitchburg Farmers' Market and the Fitchburg Fall Festival, and also provides educational seminars and workshops on topics related to grief support and funeral planning.

What Sets Gunderson Funeral Home Apart

So what sets Gunderson Funeral Home apart from other funeral homes in Fitchburg? It's the combination of personalized service, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence that makes Gunderson Funeral Home stand out. From the moment you walk through the door, you'll be greeted with compassion and understanding by a team of professionals who truly care about helping you navigate the funeral planning process.

In conclusion, Gunderson Funeral Home - Fitchburg is a trusted and respected funeral home that has been serving families in Fitchburg and surrounding communities for many years. With its rich history, mission-driven approach, and commitment to excellence, Gunderson Funeral Home is an excellent choice for families seeking personalized and compassionate funeral services. Whether you're planning ahead or need immediate assistance, the staff at Gunderson Funeral Home is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary website, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who knew them. They help to notify people of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and offer a way for loved ones to pay tribute and share memories.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or obituary writers may also assist in crafting the obituary, especially if the family needs guidance or support.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), surviving family members, and any notable achievements or hobbies. It may also include details about the funeral or memorial service, such as date, time, location, and burial information.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or website it will be published in. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some newspapers allow you to include photos, videos, or audio clips to make the obituary more personal and engaging. These additions can help tell the story of the person's life and provide a more meaningful tribute.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and requirements. Some newspapers may have online forms or email addresses where you can submit the obituary, while others may require you to visit their office in person.

What is the cost of publishing an obituary in a newspaper?

The cost of publishing an obituary in a newspaper varies depending on the publication and its policies. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for longer notices.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, it's possible to write your own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and legacy. Keep in mind that your family may still need to review and finalize the details when the time comes.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional print obituary. It's published on websites dedicated to hosting obituaries, social media platforms, or funeral home websites. Online obituaries often remain available for an extended period, allowing people to access and share them easily.

How long do online obituaries stay posted?

The duration for which an online obituary remains posted varies depending on the website or platform. Some sites may keep them up indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period (e.g., 30 days).

Can I edit an online obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, yes. You can usually edit an online obituary through the website where it was published. However, it's essential to check with the website's administrators or moderators beforehand to understand their editing policies.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement that informs readers of someone's passing. It typically includes only basic information like name, age, date of birth and death, and sometimes funeral service details. Death notices are often shorter than full-fledged obituaries.

What is the difference between a death notice and an obituary?

A death notice provides minimal information about the deceased, whereas an obituary offers more detailed biographical information and often includes personal anecdotes and tributes. Obituaries aim to celebrate the person's life, while death notices primarily serve as notifications.

Can I include humor or lighthearted moments in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humorous anecdotes or stories can help capture their essence and make the tribute more relatable and engaging.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive details about the deceased's life or circumstances surrounding their death, it's essential to approach these topics with tact and respect. Consider consulting with family members or close friends before deciding what information to include.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to mention charitable organizations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This allows mourners to make donations in memory of their loved one.

What is an "in lieu of flowers" request?

This phrase indicates that instead of sending flowers to the funeral service or family's home, mourners are encouraged to make a donation to a specified charity or cause in memory of the deceased.

How do I find archived obituaries from past years?

You can search online archives of newspapers or websites that host historical records. Many libraries also maintain microfilm collections of old newspapers that can be searched manually.

Can I republish an old obituary online?

If you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder, you can republish an old obituary online. Be sure to cite the original source and respect any copyright restrictions.

What if I want to write an anonymous tribute or message in an obituary?

This is generally not recommended, as anonymity can lead to confusion or misunderstandings. Instead, consider reaching out directly to the family or using alternative channels like condolence books or online guestbooks.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, poems, or lyrics that resonate with the deceased's personality or spirit can add depth and meaning to the tribute. Just ensure they're relevant and respectful.

How do I proofread an obituary for errors?

Carefully review the text multiple times for spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and factual inaccuracies. Ask others to review it as well before submitting it for publication.

What if I need help writing an obituary due to emotional distress?

DON'T hesitate to reach out for support! Funeral homes, bereavement counselors, or professional writers may be able to assist you in crafting a meaningful tribute during this difficult time.