Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon Obituaries

Introduction to Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon

Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon is a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the Oregon, WI community. Located at 1150 Park Street, Oregon, WI, 53575, this family-owned funeral home has been providing exceptional funeral services for generations. In this article, we will delve into the history, services, and amenities offered by Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking funeral services in the area.

A Brief History of Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon

Founded on a foundation of trust, respect, and compassion, Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon has been serving the local community for many years. The funeral home's rich history is built on a commitment to providing personalized and dignified funeral services that honor the lives of loved ones who have passed. Over the years, the funeral home has established itself as a pillar of the community, earning the trust and respect of families from all walks of life.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Trygve Dean Olsen - November 23, 1942 - April 21, 2024

Departed: 04/21/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: BROOKLYN - Trygve “Trig” Olsen passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wis., on Sunday, April 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Nov. 23, 1942, to Trygve Sr. and Eunice (Westby) Olsen in Stoughton, Wis. He graduated from Brooklyn High School in 1961. Trig enjoyed sports and played football, basketball, and baseball. He served in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1966, stationed at Camp Kaiser, Korea. After his honorable discharge, Trig joined his father and brother, Arthur, on the family dairy farm.

In 1970, he met physical education teacher, Sheila Davis, at the Oregon Bowl. Their mutual love and knowledge of sports drew them together. They married on Aug. 14, 1971, in Trempealeau, Wis. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Brian and Karla. His grandchildren, Emma and Louis Olsen, brought him tremendous joy. He was so proud of them and never missed a chance to say he loved them a bunch! Trig looked forward to all the times they spent on the farm. Riding the Gator and marking trails with grandpa will be a memory they will never forget.

Trig was a die-hard Badgers, Brewers, and Bears fan. He enjoyed bowling, playing cards, golfing, and taking trips to Vegas with Sheila and good friends. He was a member of the Brooklyn Methodist Church, American Legion, and the VFW.

Trig was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Dorie Underkoffler. He is survived by his wife, Sheila; children, Brian (Christa) and Karla; brother, Arthur (Doris); grandchildren, Emma and Louis; and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Levin and the oncology staff at SSM Health for the compassionate care they provided.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Friday. Luncheon will follow the service.

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Joseph Anthony Vondra - July 01, 1939 - April 19, 2024

Departed: 04/19/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Joseph Anthony Vondra, age 84, of Oregon, Wis., went to be with the Lord on April 19, 2024, at home.

Joseph was born July 1, 1939, in Cuba City, Wis., the son of Bernard “Ben” and Hilda (Reuter) Vondra.  On July 8, 1967, he married Rita Roth at the Nativity Church in Dubuque, Iowa.  Jospeh worked at Vondra Engraving for many years and ETC (Electric Theater Control) and was a Master Engraver.  He also enjoyed working at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

He was a member of the VFW Post 10272 of Oregon, Wis.  Joseph enjoyed fishing in Chetek, Wis., with his wife, son, brothers, and nephews.  He also enjoyed playing horseshoes, bowling, puzzles, telling jokes, and spending time with his granddaughter, Makayla.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Rita (Roth) Vondra; son, Jeffrey (Brenda) Vondra; granddaughter, Makayla Vondra; and sisters-in-law, Norma Vondra, Phyllis Berns, LaVonne Paustin and Donna Olson.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; twin grandchildren, Justin and Ashley Vondra; sisters, Burnetta Nies, Darlene Loeffeholz and Rita Taylor; brothers Donald, Kenneth, Eldon, and infant brothers, David and Bernard; and sister-in-law, Karen Steinlage.

A short service with Military Honors will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024.  A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.  Burial will be at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery in Cuba City, Wis.

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Pauline A. Splittgerber - June 11, 1939 - April 14, 2024

Departed: 04/14/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: BLACK EARTH - Pauline A. Splittgerber, age 84, of Black Earth, passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Heartland Country Village. She was born on June 11, 1939, in Rondout, Ill., the daughter of Paul and Jesse (Wilson) Miller.

She married James Splittgerber on June 11, 1977, in Mt. Horeb. Pauline worked as a bookkeeper for Symdon Motors in Mt. Horeb for many years. She loved flower gardening and canning items grown in their garden.

Pauline is survived by; son, Chad (Andrea) Anderson; daughter, Shellia (Jon) Summers; grandchildren, Brandon and Aaron Summers, Wesley (Angela) and Cael Anderson; and great-grandchildren, Raiden Summers and Nadia Kittle; and her sisters, Aline and Linda.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Splittgerber; her parents; brother, Lonnie; sister, Rona; and her sister-in-law, Elizabeth and her brother- in-law, George.

According to her wishes, no services will be held.

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Jimmie Dale "Jim" Trolinger - October 14, 1944 - April 13, 2024

Departed: 04/13/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Jimmie Dale "Jim" Trolinger, age 79, of Oregon, passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2024. He was born on Oct. 14, 1944, in Licking, Mo., the son of James and Minnie (Casten) Trolinger.

Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army 25th Infantry and earned a Bronze Star Medal for his service in Vietnam. He left the service having earned the rank of sergeant. On April 8, 1967, Jim married Joyce Trolinger at Brooklyn Methodist Church. Prior to retirement, Jim worked as a machinist for BouMatic LLC for 40 years.

In his free time, Jim loved to fish and put on big fish fries for family and friends. His fishing adventures included trips to Canada. He also enjoyed hunting, golf, riding his moped, working in the yard, and helping his kids and grandkids with projects. Jim and Joyce enjoyed spending winters in Live Oak Park in Punta Gorda, Fla., and summers at the campground in Cumberland, Wis., with family and friends. Jim loved his Shih Tzus, Pooh, Bear and Yogi.

Jimmie is survived by his wife, Joyce; sons, David (Bobbi) Trolinger and John Trolinger; grandchildren, Scott, Shianne, Brady and Carter; great-grandchildren, Vivian and Wesson; his siblings, Danny, Sharon, Shirley, Kathy and Ronnie; many nieces, nephews and friends; and his beloved dog, Yogi. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Don; sister, Dorothy; and great-granddaughter, Kingsley.

A memorial service will be held at Brooklyn Community United Methodist Church, 201 Church St., Brooklyn, at 11 a.m. on Saturday May 4, 2024. Burial will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Gunderson Oregon Funeral and Cremation Care, 1150 Park St., Oregon, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024, and also at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

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Jane Esther Smith - November 01, 1934 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Jane Esther Smith, age 89, of Oregon, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born on Nov. 1, 1934, in Elmira, N.Y., the daughter of Louis and Neva (Allen) Bower.

Jane worked as a butcher at Double R Dairy while raising her family. She worked for many years at Madison United Hospital Linen (MUHL), retiring as a supervisor in 1998. Jane continued working part time at BJ Hair Salon in Oregon.

Jane loved bowling and bowled with many leagues. She participated in many state and national tournaments, which became cherished memories. Jane was an avid reader and bird watcher, loved collecting anything and everything “M&M,” and especially enjoyed watching TV game shows.

Jane is survived by her children,  Paul (Jacie) Smith Jr., Louis (Barbara) Smith, Theresa Harp, Patricia (Steven) Westphal, Sheri Karns and Tami Lynn Olson; 12 grandchildren, Paul Smith, Joel (Sarah) Smith, Aaron (Carist) Smith, Nathan (Carrie) Smith, Caitlin (Joshua) Ferber, Christopher (Karen) Brown, Brad Brown, Shawn (Angie) Westphal, Woody (Beckah) Westphal, Melissa (Carlos) Romero, Miranda (Justin) Martens and Mallary Hall; and great-grandchildren, Lane and Reid Smith, Ascher Smith, Gavin and Natalie Brown, Leyna and Steven Westphal, EvaJane Westphal, and Ezabella, Luca and Olivia Romero; and sister-in-law, Carrie Bower and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Louis Bower Jr. and Ronald Bower; sons-in-laws, Ron Olson and Rodney Brown; and granddaughter-in-law, Jennifer Brown.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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Bette L. Karrmann - January 28, 1940 - April 09, 2024

Departed: 04/09/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: BROOKLYN - Bette L. Karrmann, age 84, of Brooklyn, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. She was born on Jan. 28, 1940, and raised on a dairy farm in Cobb, Wis. with her five sisters.

Bette married her high school sweetheart, Irvin “Bucky” Brown, in 1958, who passed away shortly after they married. Bette married Steve Karrmann in December 1959 and they raised four beautiful children, Becky, Kim, Diane and Steven Jr. Growing up, they felt like they had everything in the world and were taught their core values and the importance of faith and family.  They moved around Wisconsin raising their family and finally landed in Madison, owning and running the Trails End Motel. Steve and Bette celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with an amazing surprise party thrown by their children, and Steve passed a month later, devastating their family. In addition to running the motel, Bette also worked for ITT Thorp Finance as a branch manager and real estate agent for Mardi O’Brien Real Estate.

Bette married Keith Syvrud in 1994 and they enjoyed nearly 30 years together, spending six months out of the year in Arizona and traveling all over the U.S. in their motorhome. They enjoyed golfing, playing cards and visiting friends and family. They were members of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Oregon, Wis.

Bette loved spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and watching the Packers and the Badgers play. She will be remembered as a beautiful, kind, thoughtful and loving mother, daughter, sister, wife, aunt and grandma. While she experienced more loss than anyone should have to experience in a lifetime, Bette’s faith always remained strong, and we know she is enjoying eternity in heaven with those who have gone before her.

Bette was preceded in death by her parents, Laverne and Wilma (Leffler) Fritsch; her husbands, Irvin “Bucky” Brown and Steve Karrmann, Sr.; her daughters, Becky (Dennis) Buchmann, Diane (Vic) Davis; and grandchild, Kristin Beckmann.

She is survived by her husband, Keith Syvrud; her children, Kim (Jeff) Beckmann and Steve (Sandi) Karrmann Jr.; her sisters, Gloria (Ralph - deceased) Novotny, Vicki (Doug) Timmens, Christy (Jim) Williams, Cindy (Harry) Cork and Tari (Bill - deceased) Cooper; and grandchildren, Sunshine (Mike) Gerrits, Steven (Amy) Shilts, Jeffrey (Annie) Beckmann Jr., Stephanie (Bill) Topel, Steven Karrmann III, Nicole Karrmann, Taylor Karrmann, Dominic Davis and Maddie Davis; great-grandchildren, Josie, Jaden, Sheridan, Stetson, Madison and Rachael; and great-great-grandson, Jaxon. She is also survived by Keith’s children, Kathy Steinhause and Mark, Kevin and Brian Syvrud.

We would like to send out a special thank you to Gera and Mavis from Home Instead and the wonderful team at Agrace HospiceCare. The compassion, care, and respect that you showed our mom will always be remembered and appreciated.

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Diane Marie Christoph - September 03, 1949 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Diane Marie Christoph, of Oregon, Wis., passed away at her home on April 7, 2024, due to pneumonia and subsequent complications.

Diane was born on Sept. 3, 1949, in Waukesha, Wis., the first daughter of Virginia E. and Dr. Roy J. Christoph. She attended Waukesha South High School, Waukesha, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Hamline University in St. Paul, Minn. Diane obtained her master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin -Madison, lived in the Madison area since graduating from college, and was a special education teacher for the Madison School District. She spent many years at La Follette High School as a loving and caring teacher for physically and mentally challenged high school students.

Diane loved ice skating, singing, and had an adventurous spirit traveling quite often throughout the United States with her RV camper and friends. Her favorite parks were Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.  In recent years, since she could not travel far due to health challenges, she would visit places like Devil’s Lake and Mirror Lake State Parks in Wisconsin where she could enjoy the outdoors, birds, and beautiful scenery close by.

Diane was a lover of all animals, and always took care of a dog, cats or both throughout her life! She volunteered to foster kittens and recently adopted two from 9 Lives Rescue because she didn't want to split them up since they were sisters.  One of her other passions was photography, and Diane joined members of the Oregon Wisconsin Photography group, going on outings capturing beautiful pictures of local landmarks, parks, as well as her garden and area plant life. Diane kept up with her gardening at the local Oregon community garden, growing tomatoes, beans and an assortment of flowers and plants.  She had recently moved to a senior apartment complex in Oregon where she had met some wonderful new friends, and felt a special connection and place of belonging there.  She was, as we are, grateful to that special group of people that so warmly welcomed her to her new home, and as one of those persons stated, “We just knew when she pulled in with a Camper, she was the perfect fit.”

Diane is survived by her brothers, Bruce J. Christoph (Joanne) of Henderson, Nev., and Doug C. Christoph (Laura) of Marietta, Ga.; sister, Susan Thiel (Jack) of Henderson, Nev.; cousins, Jeanie Sniff (Jim) of Verona, Wis., and John Bayley (Eva) and Pacal Bayley of Madison, Wis., Joey O’Connor (Paul) of Winter Haven, Fla., and Josh Gabrielson (Christy) of Lakewood, Colo.; and nieces and nephews, Jenna McQuiston of Brookings S.D., David McQuiston (Sasha) of Las Vegas, Nev., Steven McQuiston of Albuquerque, N.M., Jared Thiel of Las Vegas, Nev., Geoffrey Christoph of Henderson, Nev., Marc Christoph (Jen) of Reno, Nev., and Andrew Christoph of Atlanta, Ga.

A private family only gathering will take place in mid-May at Gunderson Oregon Funeral and Cremation Care.

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Margaret "Peggy" Dillman - March 05, 1963 - April 06, 2024

Departed: 04/06/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: BROOKLYN - Margaret “Peggy” Dillman, age 61, died on April 6, 2024, at UW Hospital after a brief battle with cancer. Peggy was born March 5, 1963, the daughter of Arnold and Judy Igl. She married Donald Dillman on Sept. 24, 1983.

Peggy was preceded in death by her sister, Julie; and in-laws, Barbara Reimann, Brian Dillman and Edward Rowe. She is survived by her husband, Donald; their two sons, Benjamin and Brandon; parents, Arnold and Judy; siblings, Pam Rowe, Sue (Mike) Streveler, Rob (Jodi) Igl and Lee (Kristy) Igl; in-laws, David (Kay) Dillman, Douglas (Pug) Dillman, Debra Florin, Laurie Deglau, John Riemann and Donna Dillman; and many nieces and nephews.

Peggy grew up in the Oregon area and attended Oregon High School. She will be remembered as being a wonderful daughter, sister and mother. Her beaming smile was infectious. Her flowing golden hair, and jolly laugh, brought smiles to all. She enjoyed the outdoors and spent many weekends with her family at their cabin up North. Peggy was a stay-at-home mom, and one of her main accomplishments was her strong commitment to caring for her two sons. She was very involved in activities with the Oregon Special Olympics.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON STOUGHTON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St., Stoughton, on Saturday, April 13, 2024. A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 2 p.m. A private burial ceremony will take place at a later date.

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Mark Anthony Galloway - December 31, 1966 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON / MADISON- With deep sorrow and loving remembrance, the family of Mark A. Galloway announces his passing on April 3, 2024. Mark was born on Dec. 31, 1966, in Madison.Mark graduated from Oregon High School with the class of 1985. At the age of 20, Mark chose to serve his nation, enlisting in the U.S. Army. He honorably performed his duties during the Gulf War / Operation Desert Storm and was honorably discharged on May 30, 1991. Returning home, Mark furthered his education, earning an associate degree in Electronics from MATC.Throughout his lifetime, Mark's interests were diverse. He was interested in current national and world political issues, enjoyed playing golf, and was an avid gamer. Mark is survived by his parents, Joe and Sue Galloway; sister, Christine Copus; daughter, Britney, and her mother, Ana Galloway; step-children, Edwin and Jailane Salgado; and nieces, Sydney and Hayley Copus. He joins his grandparents, who preceded him in death."Gone but not forgotten, may Mark rest in peace."

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Arthur D. "Skeeter" Fredenberg - December 23, 1945 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: ALBANY - Arthur D. “Skeeter” Fredenberg, age 78, passed away on Monday, April 1, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on Dec. 23, 1945, in Madison, the son of Arthur K. and May (Vandenberg) Fredenberg.

Arthur graduated from Madison East High School in 1965.  He then went on to get his auto body apprenticeship from MATC. He was united in marriage to Dora Joyce Bavery on November 7, 1970, at Brooklyn Methodist Church in Brooklyn, Wis.  He worked as a painter for Trachte, retiring in 2013.

Arthur enjoyed bowling on a couple’s league with his dear friends, Bob and Dottie Mellenberger for 33 years, and playing cards with his many friends for numerous years. He also enjoyed feeding and watching birds.

Arthur is survived by his wife Dora Joyce; son, Dale (Toni) Fredenberg; daughters, Dawn Jenkin and Kris Adam; sisters, Shirley (Jim) Paulley and Diane (Bruce) Powell; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his fur baby, Maddy Girl. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Joylynne Kae; parents, Arthur and May; brother, Tim Fredenberg; and friend, Bob Mellenberger.

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John A. Norwell - November 08, 1946 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - John A. Norwell of Oregon, Wis., passed away on Friday, March 29, 2024, after a brief illness. John was born Nov. 8, 1946, to Charles "Chick" and Evelyn Norwell. John grew up in Wausau and moved with his family to Bayfield where he attended high school, graduating in 1964. John then moved to Madison, where he was a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin School of Engineering, and graduated in 1970. John had one brother, Duncan, who predeceased him. John also had two sons, Charles John “CJ” and William. The boys were the light of his life, and he was so proud of both of them. Unfortunately, CJ passed away in 2013. John is survived by his son, Will (Brittany) Norwell;

his wife, Mary Neath Norwell, her daughter, Rebecca Kolb Welch, and Rebecca's family: her husband, Bryant, and two sons, Mason and Fischer. John and Mary would have celebrated 25 years of marriage this April. John only had four employers as an adult. He worked for Saylo Engineering in Duluth Minn., for six years before moving to Monona, where he was City Engineer. He then became Highway Commissioner of Dane County, a role he loved for 25 years. After his retirement from the County, he sold real estate for First Weber in Oregon for 10 years. While he loved selling real estate and assisting people with their homes, he was an Engineer at heart. He left Mary with the most organized cupboards! And John was always interested in how the public works projects were progressing. A trip with John meant learning more about road maintenance and deficiencies than you ever really wanted to know!!

John loved golf and played from the age of eight. It was a life- long passion. He was still searching for the elusive hole-in-one when he passed. John also enjoyed a trip to the casino, time with friends, and just hanging out watching the Badgers and Packers on TV. John's greatest joy was spending time with Will and Brittany. I do not think any Badgers or Packers sporting event went undiscussed between them. He loved taking "the kids" out to eat and spending time with them. He also enjoyed the time with Rebecca and Bryant and times when the grandkids came to stay. Many cherished memories were made with the entire family over the years.

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Marie Maxine Cuta - April 25, 1930 - March 24, 2024

Departed: 03/24/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON, Wis. - Marie Maxine Cuta, age 93, of Oregon, Wis., passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at Brookdale Middleton Stonefield. She was born on April 25, 1930, the oldest daughter and second child of four to Domonic Albert and Agatha Matchey Marsolek in Independence, Wis.

Maxine was a 1948 graduate of Independence High School and enjoyed staying in touch with her family, friends and classmates. She met the love of her life, Robert J. Cuta, on a blind date while pursuing her nursing degree at St. Francis School of Nursing (Viterbo University) in La Crosse, Wis.

Maxine and Robert were married at St. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Independence on May 17, 1952. Maxine followed Robert back to Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne Wy., and began her nursing career at Memorial Hospital. She returned to the upper Midwest when Robert was transferred to a Great Lakes area USAF Radar Installation. They settled at the Williams Bay Air Force Station on Lake Geneva, where they started their family.

Later they moved to Madison Wis., where Maxine and Robert were proud founding members of St. Dennis Parish. She enjoyed being a member of the St. Dennis Education Committee, Annual Festival Committee, was an active Girl Scout Leader at numerous levels, she was also an avid camper and a founding member of the St. Dennis Campers Club.

Maxine continued her Nursing career at St. Mary’s Hospital, Central Colony and the later half of her career at Karmenta and City View Nursing Homes. While at City View, she developed a CNA Training Program that was adopted by MATC. She took great pride in training many compassionate and professional caregivers.

Upon retirement, she and Robert moved to Rolling Meadows Senior Living in Oregon Wis., becoming an active Member of Holy Mother of the Consolation Church. She was honored to be a Faith Formation Guide at HMC, and served on the Brooklyn and Oregon Genesis Housing Board of Directors and assisted with turning Rolling Meadows Senior Living into a Co-op. Maxine enjoyed taking her family camping to nearly every Wisconsin State Park, many western National Parks as well as travels to Florida, Arizona, Hawaii, Poland and Czechoslovakia, Italy and the Vatican, and was honored in meeting fellow Pole, Pope John Paul. She was very proud of her Polish Heritage and was an active member of the Madison Polish Heritage Club. She enjoyed genealogy and helped trace her family's history throughout the United States and “old country.”

Maxine loved being with her children, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends and enjoyed entertaining at her home; from serving meals to playing cards or just visiting. There was always a chair at her table for guests and she brought us many happy memories that we will cherish forever.

Maxine is survived by her children, Mark (Kathy), Mary (Michael) McNulty, John (Brenda), Paul (Kelly), son-in-law, Joe Backes; 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Alberta Gund; brother-in-law, Paul (Donna) Cuta; and many nieces and nephews. Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Jean Backes; husband, Robert; brothers, Marcel “Zeke” and Edward Marsolek Sr.; and sister, Norma Jean (James II) Johnson.

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Michael Capadona - August 28, 1951 - March 24, 2024

Departed: 03/24/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON / MADISON - Michael Capadona, age 72, of Oregon, passed away after a three-year battle with pancreatic cancer on Sunday, March 24, 2024. He was born on Aug. 28, 1951, in Madison, the son of Vito and Jane (Rydberg) Capadona Jr.

Michael graduated from LaFollette High School, with the class of 1969. He was united in marriage to Jeanne Larson on Sept. 3, 1989. He worked in manufacturing for Rayovac until the company transferred out of Wisconsin. Then he worked for Stoughton School District as a custodial maintenance worker and as a crossing guard for the Village of Oregon; jobs and people that he loved.

Michael’s life was music. He taught himself to play guitar and formed a garage band in high school. His love of music, inspired by the Beatles, led him to perform in many bands, especially Chunky Pie, and most recently with Mike and Mike, with his best friend, Michael Allen. Besides his love of music, he was an avid sports fan and Packers and Cubs were his favorite teams. He was also a very proud father, grandfather and uncle. He loved spending time with family and friends, whom he adored more than life.

Michael is survived by his wife, Jeanne; daughter, Charity (Joseph) Greene; grandchildren, Erin Sutter, Trevor Greene and Travis Greene; siblings, Vito (Ann) Capadona, Vicki (Tom) Gilbertson and George (Jackie) Capadona; sister-in-law, Judy (Walter) Olson; brother-in-law, Alan (Doreen) Larson; and many nieces, nephews and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vito and Jane; and brother, Jonny Capadona; as well as cats, Casper and Riley.

A celebration of life is being planned for this summer.

We want to thank Dr. Laura Mendyk, Dr. Ryan Porter, and the Oncology nurses whom he loved for helping him through his journey. “And in the End, the Love you take is equal to the Love you make." by the Beatles

Love you always Michael! ~ Jeanne.

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Edith Marie (Alme) Schulz - September 26, 1931 - March 23, 2024

Departed: 03/23/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: BROOKLYN - Edith Marie (Alme) Schulz, age 92, of Brooklyn, passed away peacefully at home, with her two daughters by her side on Saturday morning, March 23, 2024. She was born on Sept. 26, 1931, in Rutland, Wis., the daughter of Orin and Enid (Miller) Alme. Edith graduated from Oregon High School in 1949. She worked as a CNA for Badger Prairie, retiring in 1996.

Edith loved to travel, enjoying many trips to Alaska to visit her son, Tom. She also visited Ireland, Mexico, Disneyland and Hawaii with family.

Edith is survived by her daughters, Luanne Jackson and Patricia Atkinson; her sons, Norman (Diane) Schulz, James (Maria) Schulz and John (Darsy) Schulz; 13 grandchildren; Jeff (Jen) Jackson, Clayton (Heather) Schulz, Jessie (Pam) Schulz, Brad (Ashley) Schulz, Nikki Schulz, Mike (Traci) Atkinson, Michelle (Cory) Harmon, Jenny (Rob) Mackie, Carrie (Eric) Burkhalter, Seth (Ashley) Schulz, Garrett Schulz, Gianna Schulz and Samantha (Lee) Hageman; 17 great-grandchildren, Brianna Schulz, Leah, Taylor and Alyssa Schulz, Maddy and Maverick Atkinson, Clayton and Carter Harmon, Alex and Reid Mackie, Nolan, Anna and Chase Burkhalter,  Stella, Penelope and Otto Schulz, and Charlie Hageman; and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, DeLyle Schulz, son, Tom Schulz; daughter, Cheryl Schulz; brothers, Donald Alme and Dale Alme; sister, Jean Alme; grandson, Joshua Schulz; great-granddaughter, Kylah Schulz; and sons-in-law, Dale Jackson and Stewart Atkinson.

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Donald R. White - June 25, 1943 - March 19, 2024

Departed: 03/19/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: A Trucker takes his final drive.

On March 19, 2024, Donald R. White of Oregon, Wis., with his darling wife, soul mate and life partner Dorothy White by his side went to answer his call to the Lord, after a brief but well fought battle with cancer.

Donald was born at home on June 25, 1943, in Manila, Iowa by his loving grandmother, Hattie Fouts, who at the time was the area midwife.

In 1961 Donald graduated from Platteville High School, and on Aug. 6, 1974, Donald married his best friend, Dorothy (nee Kocovsky).

For 42 years Donald did what he loved almost as much as Dorothy, that was driving long haul! Donald obtained a perfect safety driving record with over two million miles under his belt.

As handsome as he was, Donald did not like having his photo taken. He would always run away from the camera. He enjoyed playing computer games and traveling, especially to the northwest and Canada. He was a collector of die cast model cars and coins. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Donald is survived by his wife, Dorothy; daughter, Miriam Ranger; four grandchildren, Ashley (Robert) Leighton, Rebecca (Blake Berry) Thompson, Justin (Tarrah) Ranger and Jordan (Ashley Armstrong) Ranger; great-grandchildren, Gabriel, Cali, Simon, Cheyenne, Sam, Tommy, Lucy, Jace, Westin, Allie, Bentley, Nash and Oaklyn; sisters-in-law, Judy White and Ann (Del) Stenjem; brother-in-law, Robert Kocovsky; nieces, Pauline (Dell), Cheryl, Christina (Bobby), Laura, Shirley (Jeremy), Rhonda, Megan (Tom), Sharron (Tom), Melissa, Michelle and Susan (Dennis); nephews, Justin, Duane (Mary), Edward (Jennifer) and Christopher (Jill); and many great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Alta; sisters, Carolyn (Paul) Jansen, Marilyn (Duane) Bobholz, Patricia White and Marlys White; brothers, Robert White, Jerry (June) White and Ronald (Pam) White; infant brother, David White; niece, Teresa; five nephews, Michael, Jim, Roger, David and Darrell; and sisters-in-law, Gloria Kocovsky and Catherine Knickmeier.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mariana Bigham and SSM Health at Home staff, especially Cassie, Tina, Jody, Hannah, Polly, Ace and Chaplain Robert Groth for all their care and support they gave to Donald and family during this time.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 28, 2024. Family and friends who wish to view the service via LIVESTREAM may visit Donald’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com at 11:30 a.m. and click on Watch Now in the Webcast section. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday.

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Janet Evelyn Michaelis - December 18, 1950 - March 17, 2024

Departed: 03/17/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: BROOKLYN - Janet Evelyn Michaelis, age 73, of Brooklyn, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at home. She was born on Dec. 18, 1950, in Portage, the daughter of Robert and Gertrude (Hibner) Nehrlich.

Janet graduated from Portage High School in 1969.  She married Richard Douglas Michaelis on May 17, 1975, in Pardeeville. Janet was employed as a CNA with the VA Hospital in Madison, worked carpentry jobs with her husband, did in-home childcare for several years and was an adult caretaker for various residents in the Dane County area. She was also a member of the Four Lakes SCUBA Club in Madison.

Janet loved swimming, camping, reading, knitting, crafting, ice skating and watching figure skating.  She loved playing cards and games. She was an avid Packers and Badgers football fan and loved her popcorn while watching a game. She was a collector of hot air balloons and lighthouses. She loved attending country music festivals and concerts. Most of all, she cherished the time spent with her family and friends.

Janet is survived by her daughter, Sarah (Michael Long) Michaelis; stepdaughter, Nicole (Kip) Rosenthal; sister, Jean (Dean) Simonson; two grandchildren, Austin and Connor Long; six step grandchildren, Kassidy, Kozette and Klaara Rosenthal, and Stephanie, Erika and Emily Pospichal; and step great-grandchild, Melody Pospichal. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Gertrude Nehrlich; husband, Richard Michaelis; son, Matthew Michaelis; stepdaughter, Melanie Pospichal; and sister, Joanne Schwoch.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, 2024. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

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Vito La Rocca - July 28, 1954 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: Brooklyn - Vito La Rocca, age 69, of Brooklyn, passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at his home with his wife and daughters at his side. He was born on July 28, 1954, in Marsala, Italy, the son of Giuseppe and Anna (Laudicina) La Rocca. Vito served in the Italian Army from 1972 - 1975. He immigrated to the United States with his family in 1978, initially settling in Rockford, Ill. On Sept. 22, 1984, he married Caterina (Pipitone) La Rocca in Stoughton, WI.

Vito didn't eat to live, he lived to eat! If you talked to him about food, it was going to be a good day. Working in the restaurant business all of his life, work and family were his main focus in life. He was the owner of several businesses over the years, including Marsala’s Pizza, Great America and La Rocca’s Pizzeria.

In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, spending time with family and his grandkids, cooking, drinking wine, and telling stories. He was known for his great sense of humor. He also loved to garden, raising his flowers, vegetables and plants from seeds.  He was a proud Italian who carried his culture with him even after years of having left his home-country and maintained those childhood friendships throughout his life.

Vito is survived by his wife, Caterina; daughters, Anna Lisa (Karl) Larson and Tiziana (Jamison) Mize; grandsons, Joseph and Jack Larson; mother, Anna Laudicina, sister, Enza (Giovanni) Bua; sister-in-law, Maria Pipitone; brother-in-law, Tony (Jessica) Pipitone; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Giuseppe La Rocca; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mattia and Mariano Pipitone.

A memorial gathering will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.

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Christina Marie Knapton - October 19, 1974 - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Christina Marie Knapton was released from her lifelong pain on Monday, March 4, 2024.

Christy was born in Madison, Wis., on Oct. 19, 1974. She graduated from Oregon High School in 1993. Upon graduation she went on to cosmetology school and also earned a certificate in substance abuse. She worked at numerous jobs throughout her time, her favorite job being at Dollar Tree where she made many friends and enjoyed talking with the customers.

Christy was a huge animal lover, especially of her cats and dogs.

Christy was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents; some beloved aunts and uncles; her Godmother, Anna; and some of her most special pets. She is survived by her parents, Jan and Andrew Knapton; her daughter, Mya Knapton, who was her world; her sister, Melissa (Jeremy) Landphier; her niece, Hailey Landphier; and her nephew, Mason Landphier. She is also survived by many special aunts, uncles and cousins.

Christy was loved by many.

Her family would like to thank Gale and Tony for all they did for Christy. She loved them dearly. Her family would also like to thank her Hospice nurse, Allie.

A celebration of her life and freedom from pain at HEADQUARTERS BAR AND RESTAURANT, 101 Concord Drive, Oregon, Wis., will be held from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, 2024.

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Donald "Don" Braatz - March 22, 1942 - March 03, 2024

Departed: 03/03/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: WINONA, Minn. - Donald “Don” John Braatz of Winona, Minn., passed away on March 3, 2024, at BeeHive Homes of Oregon, Wis., at the age of 81.

Don was born on March 22, 1942; he was raised by parents Charles and Virginia (Woodward) Braatz along with his three siblings, Ken, Suzanne, and Bill. Don graduated from Winona Senior High School and attended Winona State University for two years before being drafted for the Vietnam War. Upon returning, Don worked a few different jobs before being hired at Fiberite engineering where he worked for 40 years.

In 1978, Don met Paula Kolter in Winona and they married on June 11, 1983. Don and Paula welcomed their son, Joe, into their lives in 1990.

Don enjoyed many sports throughout his life. In high school he earned all-conference honors in track and field along with participating in wrestling, football, and basketball. He then went on to run track at Winona State before being drafted for Vietnam. Don was also a passionate member of the bowling community and was elected to the Winona Bowling Hall of Fame in 2015.  Later in life, after retiring, Don picked up golf as a hobby and it became an absolute love of his. He could be found walking 18 holes a day all summer long at Westfield Golf Course.  Don also enjoyed playing cards, watching Nascar, and cracking jokes. His sense of humor will stick with those who knew and loved him.

Don is survived by his wife, Paula Braatz; son, Joe (Kelly) Braatz; grandchildren, Conor and Jackson Braatz; brother, Ken Braatz; and nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Virginia; brother, Bill; and sister, Suzanne.

An open house celebration of life will be held for him at the AMERICAN LEGION, 302 E. Sarnia St., Winona, MN 55987, from 12 noon until 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, 2024.

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Mark Allen Amato - April 16, 1961 - February 25, 2024

Departed: 02/25/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Mark Allen Amato, age 62, of Madison, passed away after a short battle with lung cancer on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, surrounded by family at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on April 16, 1961, in Madison, Wis., the son of Joseph Amato, Jr. and Janet (Thiers) Gandolph.

If you knew Mark you knew he was funny, kind and hard working. Mark grew up on Lake Waubesa and graduated from Oregon High School in 1979. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and retired from the State of Wisconsin after a long tenure as a prep cook and food service worker for many of the dorms at the University.

In his free time, Mark liked following sports - he loved the Badgers, the Packers and was an avid Cubs fan, GO CUBS GO! He enjoyed bowling and was in the 300 club and also enjoyed going to the casino playing the lottery hoping to hit it BIG. He loved fishing and spending time with his friends and family.

Mark is survived by his daughter, Staci Amato; sisters, JoEllen Amato-Tuck and Alicia Amato; his girlfriend, Jane Zuelsdorf; and numerous other family members who loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends and family will be contacted for a celebration of life to be held at a later date.

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Norma A. (Payne) Richmond - September 08, 1935 - February 24, 2024

Departed: 02/24/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON-Norma A. (Payne) Richmond, age 88, of Oregon, Wis., passed away on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024, in Verona, Wis.  She was born on Sept. 8, 1935, in Ferryville, Wis., the daughter of William and Elnora (Tyrer) Payne.

Norma graduated from Seneca High School in 1954. She married the love of her life, Donald Richmond, on April 27, 2002, in Oregon, Wis. She worked for the State of Wisconsin in the Department of Motor Vehicles, Public Instruction, and Consumer Rights for many years and then Kwik Trip before retiring. Norma loved spending time with family, traveling with Don and she enjoyed a good western movie.

Norma is survived by Don's children and grandchildren; her brothers, Wayne (Donna Gokey) Payne of Livingston and Stephen (Connie) Payne of Pine, Colo.; and many very special nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters, Elaine Gaston, Dee Spink and Orva Payne; brother, Vilas Payne; brothers-in-law, Donald Gaston and Louie Spink; and sister-in law, Janet Payne.

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JoRita L. Willis - August 17, 1973 - February 24, 2024

Departed: 02/24/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - JoRita L. Willis, 50, of Oregon, Wis., passed away on Feb. 24, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison. She was a proud member of the Deaf community.

JoRita was the youngest of six daughters, born on Aug. 17, 1973, to Joe and Jan Connor of Almond, Wis. She was raised to know and love Jesus, and her faith remained a cornerstone throughout her life’s journey.

JoRita graduated high school at the Wisconsin School for the Deaf in 1992. She received her associate degree as an Information Processing Specialist from Northcentral Technical College in Wausau, Wis. She worked as an educational assistant for Deaf students in the Hustisford and Lomira school districts. JoRita was most recently an associate at Walmart for over 20 years.

JoRita married her best friend, Jeff Willis, on July 19, 2003. They shared a love of travel, taking an unforgettable trip to Hawaii for their 20th wedding anniversary. Jeff cherished every moment with JoRita and will forever hold her close in his heart.

JoRita was a beautiful communicator with an ability to write chapters with one facial expression. She inspired several of her sisters to go into the field of Deaf education. Time with family was always a priority. She was a proud aunt to 15 nieces and nephews and 12 great-nieces and nephews. To be her friend on Facebook meant visually stunning posts and positive comments that revealed her kind and gentle soul. JoRita loved to try new recipes from her impressive collection of cookbooks. Wine tasting with friends and family was a favorite pastime.

JoRita is survived by her loving husband, Jeff Willis; her mother, Jan Connor of Weston; sisters, Joleen (Rich) Hunkins of Pulaski, Juanita (Carl) Weinert of Oregon, Janette (Dino) Calarco of Theresa, JoAnn (Robin) Vercimak of Schofield and Jelaine (Steve) Olsen of Janesville; her sister-in-law, BethMarie Willis of Kenosha; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

JoRita was preceded in death by her father, Joe Connor; special neighbors, Marion and Glen Reader; her grandparents, Helen and Edward Bell and Margaret and Joseph Connor; her mother-in-law, Bonnie Willis; her father-in-law, Basil Willis Jr.; her brother-in-law, Basil Willis III; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

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Philip August Helmke - February 08, 1942 - February 20, 2024

Departed: 02/20/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Philip August Helmke, age 82, passed away peacefully at BeeHive Homes of Oregon, Wis., surrounded by his loving family on Feb. 20, 2024. He was born on Feb. 8, 1942, in Marshfield, Wis., the son of August and Mercedes (Weber) Helmke. Phil grew up on the family dairy farm in the Town of Eau Pleine, Marathon County, Wis. He attended a one-room school for his first eight years of education before graduating from Stratford High School, Stratford, Wis.

Phil earned a B.S. degree in chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1964 and a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry with a minor in geology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1971.

From 1964-1967, Phil taught chemistry, physics and algebra at Edgar High School, Edgar, Wis.  While there, he served as advisor to the Class of 1968 who dedicated their annual high school yearbook to him.  In 1967, he enrolled at University of Wisconsin-Madison to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry.  This was a lifetime goal that began on the farm where he studied rocks and performed experiments with his youth chemistry set.

While a graduate student, Phil analyzed lunar samples brought back to earth from the moon by the NASA Apollo missions.   In 1970, he co-authored his first scientific paper, “Rare Earth Elements in Returned Lunar Samples,” that was published in the journal Science.  Phil was a professor in the Department of Soil Science at UW-Madison from 1973 to 2007.   He skillfully taught graduate courses in environmental chemistry and trained and inspired many graduate students from around the world to conduct research about the soil-water-plant system.

In 1996, Phil and his brothers, Kenneth and Richard, took over the family farm near Stratford, Wis.   They formed Helmke Brothers LLC and operated the farm as a cash grain business which continues to operate today.  Phil was an accomplished ballroom dancer, a skilled woodworker, an avid gardener, and a natural leader whose advice was often sought by friends and family.

Phil is survived by his wife and dance partner, Denise M. Ney; son, Austin Philip Ney Helmke (fiancée, Sarah); brothers, Kenneth M. (Sue) Helmke and Richard L. Helmke; mother-in-law, Ottilie Ney; nieces, Cara Helmke, Cindy Adamick and Cathy Moran; and nephew, John Helmke.  Phil was preceded in death by his parents; and father-in-law, Laurie Ney.

Phil was a loving and dedicated husband, father, and friend whose spirit lives on.

A private celebration of life will take place at a future date.

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Isaiah Phillip Crigger - November 04, 1996 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: MADISON - Isaiah Phillip Crigger, age 27, passed away at his home in Madison, Wis., on Feb 18, 2024. Isaiah was born prematurely, on Nov. 4, 1996, at Cleveland Regional Medical Center in Shelby, N.C., after showing he was a fighter from before birth, surviving what doctors said was nearly impossible odds.

Isaiah was homeschooled until 8th grade and during that time, was involved in the TEACH Homeschool Group, playing cello for his local church and nursing homes, was a competitive public speaker, performed with the annual “Great Lakes Music Festival”, and was a member of the MAHS Tigers Basketball team.

After transferring into the Oregon School District, he played on the OHS Soccer Team, was a cellist with the OHS Orchestra from 2011 to 2015, under the direction of Leyla Sanyer and Nick Lane. He also participated in the OSD Saturday Music Clinic’s “Music Mentor” program, where he prepared and taught 30-minute classes, ranging from technique and conducting to history and improvisation, to elementary students in the district. He went on to earn his High School Diploma with the Class of 2015. He worked hard toward his senior trip to Chicago and San Francisco, which was a highlight in his short life. During that time, Isaiah worked part-time at Subway Oregon and Verona locations where he quickly became a shift lead.

After graduation, he used his operations supports skills, leadership abilities, and communication skills to gain work experience in retail and food service. Isaiah also developed software components for the E-grants System used by several states, including the State of Wisconsin. At the time of his death, he was a valued employee at Jimmy John’s Sandwiches. Isaiah enjoyed longboarding around his beloved city, fishing with his brothers and sisters, playing video games, going to concerts, attending fairs, haunted houses, art museums, and spending time in nature, where he said he “felt closest to God.”

Isaiah was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Lee C. Crigger and Mary Lou Crigger of Cullman, Ala.; and his maternal Oma, Sieglinde E. Perry of Huntsville, Ala.

He is survived by his grandparents, James O. and Anita Perry of Homosassa, Fla.; his parents, Lee “Clint” Crigger II (Judith) and Linda R. Perry (Tom Kershner); his siblings, Lee C. Crigger III, Luke S. Crigger (Kristen), Hope E. Crigger (Christopher), Seth W. Crigger, Abigail J. Crigger (Nic) and Samuel G. Crigger (Lexie); his twin brothers and best friends, James E. Crigger and John A. Crigger; step-siblings, Jon (Hui), Lauren (Joe) and Kathryn (Marty); and his nieces, Ava and Shyler.

A celebration of life will be held for Isaiah at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, Wis., at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. The family will receive guests from 2 p.m. until 2:30 p.m., and again after the celebration of life until 4:30 p.m. All who knew Isaiah are welcome to attend.

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Darlene Marie Grover - August 16, 1940 - February 17, 2024

Departed: 02/17/2024 (Oregon)

Obituary Preview: OREGON - Darlene Marie Grover, age 83, of Oregon, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Aug. 16, 1940, in Hays, Kansas, the daughter of Willis Montgomery and Irene (Rupp) Montgomery.

Darlene was an amazing lady with a contagious laugh that will be remembered by all those who knew her. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her devotion to her family and friends would only be equaled by her devotion to her faith and love of God. She truly practiced her faith and never wavered to be there for those she loved and would give everything to those in need be it a family member, friend, or stranger even if it meant she had less.

Darlene was one of 11 children in the Montgomery family and being one of the eldest, she learned early on to be a caregiver, helping with her younger siblings. The Montgomery family was tight-knit, and she remained very close to them throughout her life. Darlene moved from Hays as a young mother and settled in Oregon, Wisconsin where she raised her six children. She valued her friends and became a big part of the Oregon community through the church and school functions.

In her free time, Darlene enjoyed bowling and was active in a league at the Oregon Bowl. She created lasting, lifelong friendships with her bowling teammates. Darlene was incredibly hard-working and selfless. Despite the long hours she worked to support her family, she never missed her children’s many important sporting or school events. She was always going above and beyond to make sure her children had all they needed to perform at their best.

Darlene enjoyed bringing her ever-growing family together. She loved the holidays and the traditions of good food, sharing love and laughter among family, and giving to others. She was always in her happiest place when she was able to spend precious time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was extremely proud of all of them. Grandma Dar was blessed with 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren who will forever share memories of sleepovers that included lots of sweet treats like strawberry sundaes and spreading her infectious laughter.

Darlene is survived by her children, Ren (Kari) Grover, Eric (Martha) Grover, Stu (Tesia Thomas) Grover, Karri (John) Lynch, Kurt Grover and Kristi (Scott) Probelsky; grandchildren, Enna (Noah Schreiber) Grover, Nicole (Matt) Cardenas, Andy (Ellen) Grover, Emily (Casey) Higgins, Alyssa (Demetrios Heniadis) Grover, Calli (Jesse) Schneiter, Kyle (Amy) Grover, Klint (Libby) Grover, Jake Lynch, Chantel Lynch, Austin Lynch, Samantha Probelsky, Jack (Andreya Jackson) Grover, Logan Probelsky and Hannah Grover; great-grandchildren, Demetrios, Andreas, Maddox, Amelia, Gavin, Adriana, Aaron, Shawn, Colin, Charlotte, Aurora, Penelope, Landon, Violet, Eleanor, William, Ophelia, Brixton and Laylah; and siblings, Carolyn (Vernie) Leiker, Jeanetta Snyder, Judy (Jim) Nile, Bill (Lila) Montgomery, Dale (Kathy) Montgomery, Richard (Roxie) Montgomery, Lavana (Steve) Neptune and Tom (Ellen) Montgomery.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Wilma Adams and Phyllis (Louis) Wintholz.

Services will be private. A very heartfelt thank you to all her special caregivers at Sienna Crest Assisted Living and to her nurse, Holly, along with all the other wonderful staff with Heartland Hospice.

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Funeral Services Offered

Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon offers a wide range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and celebrations of life, their experienced team will guide you through every step of the process. They understand that every individual is unique, and they strive to create personalized funeral services that reflect the personality, interests, and spirit of your loved one.

Pre-Planning Services

Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon also offers pre-planning services, allowing individuals to plan and prepare for their own funeral in advance. This thoughtful approach can provide peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones, ensuring that their final wishes are respected and carried out. By pre-planning, you can also lock in costs at today's prices, protecting your family from future inflation.

Amenities and Facilities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends gathering to celebrate the life of their loved one. Their spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while their visitation rooms offer a more intimate setting for smaller groups. Additionally, Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon provides ample parking and is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all guests can participate in the funeral service.

Staff and Expertise

The team at Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to families during their time of need. Their licensed funeral directors possess a deep understanding of the funeral industry and are knowledgeable about local customs and traditions. They will work closely with you to ensure that every detail is taken care of, allowing you to focus on celebrating the life of your loved one.

Community Involvement

Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon is deeply committed to the Oregon community they serve. They regularly participate in local events and sponsor charitable organizations, demonstrating their dedication to giving back to the community. By supporting local initiatives, they aim to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Why Choose Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon?

When faced with the loss of a loved one, choosing the right funeral home can be a daunting task. Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon stands out from other funeral homes in the area due to their unwavering commitment to excellence, compassion, and personalized service. Their experienced team will guide you through every step of the funeral planning process, ensuring that your loved one receives the dignified farewell they deserve. By choosing Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon, you can trust that you are in good hands.

Contacting Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon

If you are in need of funeral services or would like to learn more about Gunderson Funeral Home - Oregon's offerings, please do not hesitate to contact them. You can reach them by phone or visit their website to explore their services in more depth. Their caring team is always available to answer any questions you may have and provide guidance during your time of need.

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 platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need to know about the passing. They help notify people of the funeral or memorial service details, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences to the grieving family.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The responsibility of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with the writing process. The writer should be someone who knew the deceased well and can provide an accurate and heartfelt tribute.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the deceased'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 accomplishments. You may also include details about the funeral or memorial service, charitable donations, and any other relevant information.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it's recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important details. Aim for around 150-200 words, but some publications may allow for longer or shorter notices.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral homes allow you to upload photos of the deceased. This can be a wonderful way to personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers. Check with the publication or platform for specific guidelines on photo submissions.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process. They may have specific requirements for formatting, word count, and deadlines. Be prepared to provide all necessary information and payment for the notice.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your story is told accurately and authentically. Consider sharing your draft with loved ones or a trusted friend to get their input.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, date of birth and death, and funeral service details. It's often used when a full obituary is not desired or feasible.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, location, and length of the notice. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 or more for a single publication. Online obituary platforms may offer more affordable options or even free listings.

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

In most cases, it's difficult or impossible to make changes to an obituary once it's been published in print. However, online obituary platforms may allow for edits or corrections within a certain timeframe. Be sure to proofread carefully before submitting your notice.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The publication timeline varies depending on the newspaper or platform. Some may publish notices within hours or days, while others may take several weeks or even months. Plan ahead and submit your notice well in advance of any deadlines.

Can I request corrections to an already-published obituary?

If you find errors in an already-published obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately to request corrections. They may be able to issue a revised version or publish a correction notice.

What is a living obituary?

A living obituary is a biographical sketch written about someone who is still alive. It's often used as a way to celebrate milestones, achievements, or special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a wonderful way to capture the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to use discretion and consider the tone appropriate for the audience.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive topics or family dynamics involved, it's essential to approach them with care and respect. Consider consulting with other family members or close friends before including potentially controversial information.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the deceased's personality or spirit.

What if I'm unsure about what to write in an obituary?

Drawing a blank? Don't worry! Many funeral homes and online resources offer guidance and templates to help you get started. You can also ask friends or family members for input or suggestions.

Can I republish an obituary on social media or my personal website?

In most cases, yes! You're free to share an obituary on social media platforms or your personal website as long as you're not infringing on any copyright laws. Be sure to cite the original source if applicable.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The duration varies depending on the platform or website. Some may keep notices online indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period (e.g., 30 days). Check with the specific platform for their archiving policies.

Can I create a memorial page for my loved one?

Yes! Many online platforms offer tools to create memorial pages where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences. These pages can become a lasting tribute to your loved one.

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

If you're struggling to write an obituary due to emotional overwhelm, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional counselor for support. They can help guide you through the process and offer valuable insights.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for someone who was young or died suddenly?