Thursday, April 28, 2011

Cheryl Lynn (Zaehler) Jensen

Cheryl Lynn Jensen, age 59, passed away late Thursday evening, April 28, 2011, at Wheaton-Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center following a courageous battle with cancer. Cheryl was born in Racine August 21, 1951, daughter of William and Constance (nee: Thompson) Zaehler Jr.

She graduated from J.I. Case High School and earned a degree in Accounting from Gateway Technical College. Cheryl was currently employed with Bombardier and through the years was employed with Career Industries and Laidlaw Bus Co. She also owned and operated the “I Don’t Care Saloon” with her late husband, James Chars, who preceded her in death in 2001. She remarried on June 28, 2003, to Les Jensen. Cheryl enjoyed sewing, photography, scrapbooking, gardening, fishing and travelling. Most of all it was her family that gave her the most joy. She will be dearly missed.

Survivors include her husband, Les; her children, Tammi (Chad) Londre, Scott Reede (Gloria), Clayton Stockwell, Eric Stockwell (Trina); stepchildren, Dawn Jurkiewicz, Daryl (Kimberly) Jensen, Danyl (Cheryl) Jensen, Kay Jensen, Debbie Payan; grandchildren, great-grandchildren; brothers, Kenneth (Lyn) Zaehler, Steve (Ranee) Zaehler; sister, Cindy Bushey; other relatives and dear friends. In addition to her first husband, Cheryl was also preceded in death by her aunt, Deanna Jensen; and her grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend Melvin Miritz officiating. Entombment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home Tuesday evening from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 10:30 a.m.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Michael Mullane and his staff and to the staff at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints for all of their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Marion M. (Kral) Seeger

Marion M. Seeger, age 86, passed away Thursday, April 28, 2011, at her residence. Marion was born in Racine, July 24, 1924, daughter of the late Charles and Anna (Nee: Hilgers) Kral.

On February 24, 1945, at St. Bonaventure’s Church she was united in marriage to Leroy A. Seeger, who preceded her in death on March 8, 2008. Together with their family, Marion and LeRoy owned and operated Douglas Hardware Store for over fifty years. Marion truly enjoyed her time with her friends, family and customers at the store working until this past Wednesday. She was a longtime and active member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. In her younger years she was actively involved with 4H as an instructor. Her pastimes included bowling, knitting, gardening and the outdoors. Marion loved and devoted her life to her family. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her seven children, Fran (Jack) Jones of Wisconsin Rapids, Pat King of Racine, Charles (Cecelia) Seeger of Plant City, FL, James (Julie) Seeger, of Racine, Mary (John) Kletecka of Kansasville, Linda (Duane) Malek of New Berlin, Betty Seeger of Racine; 14 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren with another due in August; brother, Henry (Betty) Kral; sister, Katherine (Nicholas) Willing, all of Racine; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Norman (Doris) Seeger, John Seeger, Allen Seeger, Vernon Olsen, Caroline Seeger; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Charlotte (John) Schumann.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, May 6, 2011, at 10:30 a.m., with Rev. William J. Dietzler officiating. Interment will be held at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home Thursday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and at the church Friday from 10 a.m. until time of Mass. Memorials to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Elizabeth 'Betty' Jane (Zilla) Bernett

Elizabeth “Betty” Jane Bernett, age 87, passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2011, at her residence. Betty was born in Racine, May 28, 1923, daughter of the late Louis J. and Mary “Mamie” (Nee: Benes) Zilla.

On March 1, 1947, at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church she was united in marriage to Spencer D. Bernett, who preceded her in death, January 14, 1980. Betty was employed by St. Mary’s Medical Center for thirty-five years as a switchboard operator, retiring at 79 years of age. She was previously employed by Wisconsin Bell and an answering service for physicians. Betty will be fondly remembered as the “Betty Crocker of Racine,” an excellent cook and baker who made 30 variations of Christmas cookies, kringle and kolaches, and special cakes for everyone’s birthdays. She devoted and cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and newborn babies. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her children, Linda (David) Peterson, Laura J. Bernett, Stuart A. Bernett, all of Racine, Karen (Marvin) Yakos of Eureka, MT, Steven A. Bernett, Spencer A. Bernett, both of Racine; son-in-law, Thomas Lukas of Racine; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers, William Frank Zilla of Racine; sister-in-law, Pat Bernett of Lynn Haven, FL; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Barbara Lukas, on May 20, 2010; brother, Louis Zilla Jr.; and sister, Marcella Lindh.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 3, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Emmaus Lutheran Church, 1925 Summit Ave., with Rev. Mary Janz officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Monday at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Tuesday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Elizabeth Ann 'Betty' (Karcher) Johnson

Elizabeth A. Johnson, age 68, passed away Easter Sunday April 24, 2011, surrounded by her family. Betty was born in Racine July 17, 1942, daughter of the late Arnold and Lillian (nee: Kueker) Karcher and was a lifelong resident,

Betty was a graduate of Park High School, “Class of 1960.” On September 16, 1961, Elizabeth was united in marriage to Gordon R. Johnson at First Evangelical Lutheran Church. Betty was a member of Emmaus Lutheran Church.

Betty will be remembered for her love of animals, especially cats, her devotion to her family as a softball coach for her children, Girl Scout leader, lifelong Avon Lady. Betty served as the “uniform lady” for the Racine Kilties, and was an avid Drum Corps fan. Above all, she will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and will be dearly missed.

Survivors include her loving husband of fifty years, Gordy; three children, Daniel (Kristine) Johnson, Rebecca (Robert) Remster, Jonathan (Wendy) Johnson; five grandchildren, Ryan Johnson, Joshua, Adam and Rachel Ramczyk, and Amelia Johnson; two great-grandchildren, Tyler Johnson and Alexander Lopez; brother, Richard Karcher; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Shirley Johnson, David (Peggy) Johnson, Archie (Bonnie) Johnson, Elaine Johnson, Buck Johnson, Vicky (Allan) Young; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents, Betty was also preceded in death by her brother-in-law, James Johnson.

Funeral services will be held Thursday April 28, 2011, at 11:30 a.m., with Rev. Mary Janz officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home Thursday from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11:30 a.m. Memorials to the Hope Safe House have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Father Richard P. Beck

Father Richard P. Beck, 83, of Sarasota, formerly of Racine, WI,  died April 23. 2011.

Survivors include his sister, Barbara Kardos of Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Father Beck was born Nov, 3; 1927, in Racine, WI, to Joseph and Alma (Rasmussen) Benicek, the second of four children. He attended St. Francis de Sales Minor and Major Seminary in Milwaukee. He was ordained May 14, 1955, for the Milwaukee Archdiocese.

He served as parochial vicar at St. Joseph Parish, Cudahy, WI, and as pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Grafton, WI. In addition, he served 26 years as an active duty chaplain for the U.S, Navy; ministering in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, California, Virginia, Florida, North Carolina, Washington and Vietnam.

He retired from active ministry in the Navy in October 1989 and relocated to Florida where he served as parochial vicar of St. Patrick Parish, Sarasota. He retired from the Milwaukee Archdiocese in 1993 but continued to assist at St. Patrick Parish in Sarasota until August 2003.

Funeral services were held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sarasota, Florida, with private entombment at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32, Racine.

Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Bernadette B. (Oberst) Becker

Bernadette B. Becker, age 95, died at her residence at San Camillo in Wauwatosa on Saturday, April 23, 2011. She was born in Racine, June 23, 1915, daughter of the late Henry and Adelaide (Nee: Yanny) Oberst.

Mrs. Becker had a long and active career in Nursing and Allied Health Education. She received her nursing degree from Loyola University, Chicago, and a Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. At the time of her retirement she was Dean of Health Occupation at Gateway Technical College. During her tenure she inaugurated and established several health occupation programs including the Associated Degree Nursing Program.

Surviving are her two daughters, Mary Ellen (Jack) Trimberger of Aurora, IL, and Virginia (Robert) Jacko of West Lafayette, IN, and Miami, FL; three sons, William (Suzanne) Becker of Bloomington, IN, Robert (Faye) Becker of Racine, and Daniel Becker (Joyce Campana) of Milwaukee; eleven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy Soens of Wauwatosa. Her husband Bill passed away in 1998.

Relatives and friends may meet with the family in the Chapel of San Camillo, 10200 W. Bluemound Road, Wauwatosa, WI, on Friday, April 29, 2011, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. A Memorial Mass will follow at 11 a.m. Private interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery. Funeral arrangements by Maresh-Meredith, 262-634-7888. Memorials may be made to The Order of St. Camillus Foundation, 10200 W. Bluemound Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, or to the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, 601 SW 8th Avenue, Miami, FL 33130.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Metha V. Sewell

 Mrs. Metha V. Sewell, 96, passed away at Ridgewood Care Center on Friday, April 22, 2011.

Metha was born in Racine to the late H. Emil and Emma (Nielsen) Hansen on May 2, 1914. She lived in Racine all her life. In Racine, she was united in marriage to Ronald W. Sewell on July 25, 1936. He preceded her in death on December 25, 1986.

Mrs. Sewell was a lifelong member of Gethsemane Lutheran Church. She was employed at Western Printing Company, Sears and Goldblatt's. She enjoyed gardening, canning and freezing the fruits of her work. What was most important to her was that she worked hard as a homemaker, supporting and caring for family.

Metha is survived by four children, Barbara (Gerald) Seitz of Racine, Fred (June) Sewell of Racine, David (Mary) Sewell of Portland, Oregon, and Robert (Diane) Sewell of LaCrosse; ten grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Kermit Hansen; and other relatives and friends. She was also preceded in death by her son, James Sewell, on October 15, 1985; two brothers and one sister.

A funeral ceremony will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home on Monday, April 25, 2011, at noon with Rev. Alice Horton officiating. Interment will follow at Mound Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family from 11 a.m. until the time of the ceremony.

Metha’s family would like to express a special thank you to the staff on 1 East of Ridgewood Care Center for their kind and compassionate care of Metha for the past nine years.

Wilson Funeral Home
1212 Lathrop Ave., Racine 262-634-3361

Charles 'Chuck' Arthur Reeser

Charles A. Reeser, 71, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, April 22, 2011.

Charles Reeser was born in Racine to the late William and Gladys (nee: Webster) Reeser on April 29, 1939, and lived in Racine his entire life. He was united in marriage to Sharon Thomack on June 6, 1959. She preceded him in death on October 27, 2009.

Charles was employed at J.I Case as a truck driver for 30 years and also with the City of Racine as a child favorite and friendly crossing guard on the corner of Kinzie Avenue and Ohio Street. He worked until his illness in December of 2010. Charles was a member of the Moose Lodge and Ridge Runners Square Dance Club. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his boys.

Charles will be dearly missed by his children, Doreen (Tim) Uick, David (Alane) Reeser, William (Melissa) Reeser and Larry Reeser; seven grandchildren, Jeff (Amie) and Steve Uick, Travis, Ryan, Chelsea, Katie and Lea Reeser; great-grandchildren, Savanah, Brianna, Sophia, Bailey, William, Donnie, Harmony, Kenny and Ava; two sisters, Shirley (Tom) Gursky and Roberta (Bob) Peterson; many other relatives and friends. He was also preceded in death by his sister Lois Hadlock; and his brother, William Reeser.

A funeral services will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family on Tuesday evening, April 26, 2011, from 5 until 8 p.m. and also on Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of ceremony.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Tom and Mary Gursky for all their love and support and for being there for Charles.

Wilson Funeral Home
1212 Lathrop Ave., Racine 262-634-3361

Maxine Grace Gambony

Maxine Grace Gambony, 81, passed away on Friday, April 22, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center. She was born January 17, 1930, in Tomah, WI, the daughter of Lewis and Hulda Beardsley.

On April 23, 1949, she was united in marriage to Donald Leon Gambony, who preceded her in death on November 9, 2000.

She retired in 1992 from retail sales and was a warm, generous, naturally humorous and down to earth person who made friends easily wherever she went. New acquaintances often remarked what a delight she was to be with. Maxine loved to travel and her favorite activities were Bingo and a lively game of cards. She also enjoyed Arts and Crafts and made beautiful cross stitch needlework. Most of all she was a good friend to many and devoted to her children and their families. She will be greatly missed but always in our hearts and memories.

She is survived by her children, Donna, Michael, Debra (David), Mark (Darlene), Donald Jr. and Kim (Keith); ten grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by two sons, Steven, on July 3, 1978, and Randy, on Sept. 19, 2008.

Most recently she was preceded in death by her twin sister, Geraldine A. Jordan, 81, on April 10, 2011. She is also preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Hulda Beardsley; sisters, Genevieve Lesky, Margary Bluebough, Virginia Hovorka, Lucille Brown and Lorraine Beardsley; and her brothers, Miles, Robert, Donald and Jasper.

A funeral ceremony will be held at the Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home, 803 Main St., Racine, on Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery, Kenosha. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m,

A very special thank you to her caregivers at Oakridge Care Center in Union Grove and Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center for their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Gary S. Lema

Gary S. Lema, age 50, passed away Thursday, April 21, 2010, at Seasons Hospice Inpatient Facility in Waukesha, WI. He was born in Racine on July 17, 1960, son of Remi and Kathleen (Nee: Fesko) Lema.

Gary was united in marriage to Tami L. Pfleger on Sweetest Day, October 19, 1996. He was a member of Local Union #118, with his trade as a journeyman pipefitter. Gary was an avid outdoorsman, where his passions led him on the open road riding his Harley, hunting, fishing and gardening. He enjoyed time spent with his faithful canine companions, Buddy a.k.a. Moose, Sassie and Titus. He was loved dearly and will be sadly missed.

Surviving are his wife, Tami; parents, Remi and Kathy Lema; daughter, Amanda (Josh) Ritter; two grandchildren, Wyatt and Bryce Ritter; brother, Remi (Theresa) Lema; sister, Sharilyn Lema-Forbes; mother-in-law, Judy Meyer; father-in-law, Carl (Barb) Pfleger; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Traci Pfleger, Todd Pfleger, Tim (Gayle) Pfleger and Scott Forbes; nieces, nephews, Tom (Tara) Nielsen, Kevin Nielsen, Brian Lema, Ian Forbes (fiancĆ©e, Kelly), Amber (Lane) Forbes-Parker, Kaylyn Forbes, Lacy Lema, Christyne Mehalic, Joshua and Samantha Pfleger; great-nephew, D’Amirion affectionately known as “Boy with strange name;” other relatives and many dear friends. Gary was preceded in death by his faithful canine companion, Meghan.

Private funeral services were held. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date. Memorials to the Vince Lombardi Charitable Funds, PO Box 431217, Mil. WI, 53234-1217 (specify Racine Clinic), or the Wisconsin Humane Society, Milwaukee, WI, have been suggested by the family.

A very special thank you to Dr. Michael Mullane and his staff for their loving and compassionate care given to Gary.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Eleanor L. 'Tootie' (Osborne) Nelson

Surrounded by her loving family, Eleanor L. “Tootie” Nelson,  age 76, passed away Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Wheaton-Franciscan All Saints Medical Center. Eleanor was born in Racine, December 11, 1934, daughter of the late LaVerne “Ozzie” and Mary (Nee: Pias) Osborne and was a lifelong resident of Racine.

On June 20, 1953, she was united in marriage to Clemen N. Nelson. Eleanor was employed by In-Sink-Erator for seventeen years until her retirement in 1992. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother who cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren. Eleanor also enjoyed time spent up north. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her loving husband of fifty-seven years, Clem; her children, Debra (Kenneth) Morrall, Neil (Mary Ann) Nelson, David Nelson; her grandchildren, Caitlin (Jacques) Machol, Parker Nelson, Davis and Dillon Nelson; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Bonnie Sarchet, Fred (Carol) Nelson, Dan (Judy) Rassmussen, and Hildegaard Osborne; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother, Bernard.

Relatives and friends may meet with the family Saturday, April 23, 2011, at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. for a time of remembering. In lieu of flowers, memorials to one’s favorite charity have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Dr. William J. Madden

Dr. William J. Madden, age 92, passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center. The son of the late John W. and Agnes (Nee: Devine) Madden, was born in Racine, Wisconsin on May 11, 1918. In 1944 he was united in marriage to Helen Mary Cowick with whom he shared a wonderful, 65-year marriage. She preceded him in death on May 27, 2010.

Dr. Madden attended William Horlick High School, St. Norbert College and Marquette University Medical School. He served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps His specialty training was taken at the Milwaukee County General Hospital, now known as the Froedtert Memorial Hospital in Milwaukee. He spent his years as an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with the Kurten Medical Group, of which he was one of the original founders, and retired in 1986.

Dr. Madden was very active in community and medical organizations, serving on boards of many social service agencies and hospital staffs in addition to many medical societies. He was a member of the Racine Country Club and was an avid golfer. Other hobbies included music, gardening, reading and cheering for the Green Bay Packers. Above all, his passions were his wife, his family, friends, golf and Racine residents.

Survivors include his sons, Dennis (Suzanne), John (Rose); granddaughters, Amy (Bryant) Davis, Paula (Matthew) Andersen, Anne (Josh) Pudelko and Megan Reeves; as well as seven great-grandchildren; a sister, Rosemary McNally; nieces, nephews and many dear friends. In addition to Helen, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Maureen; brothers, Lester, Roy, Joseph, Tom, Richard and Robert; and sister, Kathleen Cooper.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1533 Erie St., Racine, with Rev. Jack Flynn, OSA, officiating, assisted by Deacon Russell Missureli. Private interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family on Wednesday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Health Care Network have been requested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888

Monday, April 18, 2011

Allen C. Buhler

Allen Clarence Buhler, age 88, passed away Monday, April 18, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center. He was born in Racine on February 11, 1923, son of the late William and Amanda (Nee:Haas) Buhler.

Allen graduated from St. Catherine's High School “Class of 1940.” He furthered his studies at Marquette University, eventually earning a degree in Law. Allen served in the U. S. Army Infantry during WWII stationed in Europe, earning the rank of Second Lieutenant. On May 11, 1944, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church, he was united in marriage to Virginia M. Devine.

Allen was employed by S.C. Johnson as a Patent Attorney and then as the Head of the New Products Department. He left S.C. Johnson to develop a new dairy product and founded Butter Buds Food Ingredients. This company has grown and flourished with an extensive product line sold worldwide. Allen loved his business and continued to work into his 88th year. In 2000, he was honored with the St. Catherine's Alumni Hall of Fame Award in the area of business. He was a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. When not at work, Allen enjoyed time spent with his golfing buddies, volunteering for hospital visitations and most of all he loved to spend time with his family. He will be dearly missed.

Surviving are his wife of 67 years, Virginia; six children, Lynn Buhler, William (Kam) Buhler, Ellen (Joseph) Albrecht, Laura (Michael) Palazzola, Thomas (Marcia) Buhler, John Buhler; 14 grandchildren, Jennifer and Natalie Buhler, Catherine (Dwight) Gilbertson, A.J. Albrecht, Sarah and Mary Underhill, Michael (Stephanie) Palazzola, Heather (John) Lemcke, Max, Grace, Alec and Stefan Buhler, Paul and Sean Buhler; a great granddaughter, Alaina Buhler; a brother, David (Edith) Buhler; sister-in-law, Ellen Devine (Joe Mandelert); nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Ann; two brothers, William and James; two sisters, Barbara (Jim) Murray and Amanda Buhler.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, April 26, 2011, at 11 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6400 Spring St., with Reverend Jeffrey M. Thielen officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Tuesday at the church from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass. A private interment with full military honors will follow at Holy Family Cemetery on Hwy. 31 Memorials to St. Catherine’s High School, the Health Care Network, or RAM have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Elroy C. Janota

Sturtevant -- Elroy C. Janota, age 66, passed away Sunday, April 17, 2011, at his residence. Elroy was born in Bloomer, WI, on July 11, 1944, son of the late Charles P. and Anna E. (Nee: Prihoda) Janota.

During the Vietnam War Elroy proudly served in the United States Army. On November 9, 1968, he was united in marriage to Beverly V. Gunn. Elroy was employed by Bosch for several years. He enjoyed philosophy studies, writing and fishing. He was a devoted and loving father and grandfather who will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his loving wife of forty-two years, Beverly; his children, Tim (Dawn) Janota, Angela (Lance) Peavler; his  grandson, Torgor Janota; brothers and sisters, Arthur (Dorothy) Janota, Dale (Michele) Janota, Jolene (Eugene) Kowalski, Larry (Kim) Toufar, Robert Janota, Rollin (Mary) Janota, Shirley Janota, Tom (Kathy) Toufar; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Clayton (Rosemary) Gunn, Keith (Joan) Gunn, Rodney (Joanne) Gunn, Dena Gunn, Joe Gunn; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant sister, Sharon; and Mildred Toufar, who lovingly cared for and was affectionately known as the mother of the entire family.

Relatives and friends are welcome to meet with the family Saturday, April 30, 2011, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., celebrating Elroy’s existence at Sportsman’s Bar, Chetek, WI.

Existence gives us the gift of five senses that we may experience the fantasy of the physical world. Existence is reality. The physical is not.


MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Ruth I. (Long) Owens

Ruth I. Owens, age 61, died peacefully at her home Saturday morning, April 16, 2011, in the presence of her children and grandchildren. Ruth was born in Greensboro, Alabama, on January 1, 1950, daughter of the late Enoch and Willie Mae (Nee: Woods) Long Sr.

Ruth was a Law and Order fanatic, loved her gospel music, and enjoyed fishing. She did her best and let the Lord take care of the rest. She will be deeply missed by her family.

Survivors include her daughter, Arniessie Owens; her son, Christopher Owens, both of Portage, WI; her four grandchildren, Joseph Owens, Christopher F. Owens, Julian Owens, all of Portage, WI, Laticia Jones of Cudahy, WI; her great-grandson, Darrien Franklin; sisters and brothers, Isabella Benison of Greensboro, AL, Enoch (Joyce) Long Jr. of Racine, Eva Mae (Harry) Jones of Greensboro, AL, Rosie Lee Davis of Lansing, MI, Lula Rogers of Kenosha, Moses (Sue) Long of Iowa, Annie Long of Racine, Robert (Pamela) Long of Racine, Bobbie (David) Griggs of MI; brother-in-law, William Richardson of Chicago, IL; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Fred “Poon” Owens Jr. on October 31, 1998; her granddaughter, Amasha Lee Mack; two infant siblings; and by her sister, Irene Richardson.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 23, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Faith Christian Fellowship Church, 1200 Racine St., with Rev. Sheila Nienhaus officiating. Interment will be held at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Mildred J. Gibson

Mildred “Gibby” Gibson, 75, died Saturday, April 16, 2011, at the United Hospital System in Kenosha.

She was born in Clinton, MA, a suburb of Boston, on December 3, 1935, and was the only child of Isaac and Mildred Gibson. “Gibby” was named after her mother, but as an adult she chose to be called by her father’s nickname.

Gibby grew up in Hudson, MA, another nearby suburb of Boston, where she attended and graduated from the local public grade school and high school. After graduation she trained and worked as a lab and x-ray technician for a couple of years on Nantucket Island. But she really wanted to be a nurse, and there was no nursing school on the island. In a medical magazine she saw an ad for a nursing school at St. Luke’s Hospital in far off Racine, Wisconsin. She responded, was accepted, and finally convinced her father to let her travel a thousand miles to enroll as a student. During her training here she lived at Henrietta Benstead Hall which was then the dormitory for female nursing students at St. Luke’s and later became the Christmas House.

When she completed her training at St. Luke’s, Gibby took and passed the national test for her license as a Registered Nurse. For the following thirty years she practiced her craft at hospitals both in Racine and Milwaukee, but principally at old St. Luke’s and St. Mary’s in Racine, and retired from nursing in 1985.

Gibby also enjoyed nature studies and was fascinated by butterflies and turtles. One of her proudest achievements was incubating a small turtle egg which produced “Maggie,” the sole survivor of her turtle pets whom she nurtured tenderly for the past seven years.

She particularly loved her home on College Avenue and sitting on the front porch on summer evenings when neighbors came by – neighbors who were always there for her. When she needed help, they were by her side – John and Karen Apple on the north side, and Carole Johnson on the south.

Gibby is mourned by and survived by Don Rintz, her domestic partner for more than 25 years.

By his three children – Maria, Jeremy, and Barnaby.

By his two granddaughters – Anabella Maria and Carolina Maria.

By his son-in-law Shawn, Maria’s husband, and

By his daughter-in-law Tamara, Barnaby’s wife.

All of whom Gibby thought of fondly as family.

Gibby’s ashes will be committed to the soil of the Secret Garden at the DeKoven Center following a short “Ceremony of Remembrance” – inside – at St. Mary’s Chapel in Taylor Hall, starting at noon on Wednesday, April 27, 2011.

Memorials in Gibby’s honor may be made to the DeKoven Center, 600 21st Street, Racine, WI 53403.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Atty. Arthur J. Hansmann

Arthur J. Hansmann, 87, of Wind Point died peacefully on Saturday, April 16, 2011, surrounded by his loving family at Wheaton Franciscan Hospital in Racine, WI.

Art was born May 8, 1923, in Stevens Point, WI, to Killian John and Susan (Krieg) Hansman. After graduation from high school there, he served in the First Guided Missile Battalion, U.S. Army, from 1944-1946. Art worked his way through school at the University of Wisconsin at Madison and, in the span of six years, completed a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and a J.D. in Law. He then earned a Master of Patent Law at the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois.

In the summer of 1946, Art met Dorothy Duroux at a dance in the Great Hall of the UW Memorial Union, just prior to Dorothy’s departure to teach at Vassar College in New York. The following week, friends brought them together at a dinner, which sparked a two-year correspondence by mail and eventual engagement. They were married on April 17, 1948, at Holy Trinity Church in Poughkeepsie, NY.

In 1953 Art moved his young family to Racine, WI, to open a law practice as a patent and trademark attorney in the then very invention-active city. It was the first private patent law practice to open in southeastern Wisconsin. He was a Member Emeritus of the State Bar of Wisconsin and continued to practice law until this year.

In high school Art had excelled in baseball and basketball and coached the basketball team at St. Patrick’s School in Racine when his son attended there. He later took up tennis and in the late 1950s built a tennis court at his home from clay excavated during construction of the Racine lakefront YMCA, encouraging young tennis players in Racine to use the court for practice. Art and his son, Doug, also played state competition doubles tournaments.

Art and Dorothy earned international teacher certification from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance in London in 1986, Art having achieved Fellow status, the highest degree awarded. Together they shared their enthusiasm for ballroom and Latin dance by teaching and sponsoring dance clubs in Racine and Milwaukee for over 40 years. They were also regularly asked to serve as judges in U.S. championship dance competitions. Art was the author of a book titled, “Ballroom and Latin Dancing for Today,” published in 2007.

Art is survived by his devoted wife, Dorothy; his three loving children, Suzanne Duroux (Barry Stoner) of Seattle, WA, Doug (Denise Thornton) of Madison, WI, and Alice (Michael) Williams of Houston, TX; and six grandchildren, Caroline Stoner, Della and KJ Hansmann; and Keith, Matthew and Stephanie Williams. He is also survived by his brother, Marvin Hansman, of Green Valley, AZ; and sister, Marcille (Hansman) Andersen of Wisconsin Rapids, WI.

Art and Dorothy were members of St. Richard of Chichester Catholic Church in Racine. A Catholic Memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 23, at the Maresh-Meredith and Acklam Funeral Home, 803 Main St., in Racine, at 1 p.m. Visitation with the family will begin at noon and will continue for a short time following the service.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Richard of Chichester Catholic Church for memorial masses, or to the American Society of Hematology, or to the USA Dance Scholarship program, just for the joy of it.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Jeanette E. (Luelsdorff) Nelson

Jeanette E. Nelson, age 79, departed on Saturday, April 16, 2011. Jeanette was born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 22, 1931, the daughter of the late Joseph and Marie Luelsdorff, sister of Joseph Luelsdorff.

Jeanette married Robert T. Nelson on March 1, 1951. Together they had two sons, Robert (Mary Connolly) and Peter (Renee); grandchildren, Kira (Ram Ganesan), Caitlin (David Chien), and Dane Connolly-Nelson, William and Theresa Nelson. Jeanette cherished and deeply loved her family. She was an excellent cook and loved to sing. She was overjoyed to meet her first great-grandson just this past month. Robert preceded Jeanette in death on June 30, 2007. They will now be together.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, April 21, 2011, at 11 a.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Ave., with Rev. Kevin Mullins OSA officiating. Private interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Racine, WI. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Thursday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to NAMI Racine, 2300 DeKoven Avenue, Racine, WI 53203.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Violet E. Nelson

Mrs. Violet (nee: Goodland) Nelson, 99, passed away on Thursday, April 14, 2011, at Walnut Grove Assisted Living Center.

Violet was born in Racine on December 13, 1911, to the late John and Marie (nee: Ergish) Goodland. She was united in marriage to Orland J. Nelson on February 17, 1932. He preceded her in death in December 1982. She had been employed at Times Call which is now the Racine Journal Times. After her marriage, she was later employed at JI Case Company before her retirement in 1976. She was also an avid reader and walker and loved playing Bingo.

Violet will be dearly missed by her children, James (Nancy) Nelson of Effingham, IL, Carol (Thomas) McGuine of Woodstock, IL, and Roseanne Nelson of Racine; six grandchildren, Debbie, David, Betsy, J.B., Amy and Jim; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; sister, Dorothy (Robert) Hackler of Racine; three sister-in-laws, Kay Goodland, Jeanette Buckett, Vernell (Donald) Comstock; brother-in-law, Darrel (Violet) Nelson; and several nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Patricia Nelson; two brothers; and five sisters.

Funeral services in memory of Violet will be held at Wilson Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at 11 a..m. with Rev. Dr. Warren Williams officiating. Interment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park at a later date. Relatives and friends may meet with the family from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

“Thank you to Walnut Grove and Odyssey Hospice for their kindness and loving care.”


Wilson Funeral Home
1212 Lathrop Ave., Racine 262-634-3361

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Lois Grace Chadek

Mrs. Lois G. (nee: Ziesemer) Chadek passed quietly into the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ on April 12, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan Hospital in Hospice Compassionate Care.

Lois was born in Racine on July 30, 1924, to Carl and Lydia Ziesemer. She graduated from William Horlick High School, Class of 1942. Lois worked at Hamilton Beach and, for many years, as a waitress at the Racine YMCA Coffee Shop and Krocks Restaurant in Kenosha. She was also a seamstress and worked sewing draperies. She was a past member of St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary and was a lifetime member of the American Legion Auxiliary-Post 171 in Union Grove, working at their many banquets and rummage sales. She was a past president and past chaplain of the Auxiliary. Also, Lois loved to knit and did beautiful hand stitching which will be forever enjoyed by her family. In her early years she was a member of Racine United Brethren Church (now United Methodist Church) and later became a member of Racine Bible Church being part of Phoebes.

Lois is survived by her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Jerome, whom she married on June 2, 1945. Together they enjoyed camping and traveling, as family was very important to her. She is also survived by her children, Gloria (Garry) Friesema of Racine, Thomas (Denise) Chadek of Racine and Dawn Chadek Mortenson (Matt MacDonald) of Seattle, WA. She was always joyful to see her loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Rick (Sue) Friesema, Michele and Matthew; Cherie (Ron) Groen, Megan, Erika and David, all of Racine; Susan (Ralph) Frank, Michael of Burlington; Carrie Chadek of Oak Creek and Ryan and Kyle Chadek of Racine; Eric Mortenson of Chicago, IL, and Brett (Leah) Mortenson, Jonah of San Diego, CA. Lois is further survived by her sisters, Joyce Rohner of Racine and Janet Green of Sheboygan; sister-in-law, Elva Chadek of Oconomowoc; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She will be greatly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Lydia Ziesemer; sisters, Virginia Crueziger and Lorraine Lange; brothers-in law, Harold Green, William Lange, Ken Krause and Robert Chadek; as well as her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Frank and Mary Chadek.

Funeral services in memory of Lois will be held at Racine Bible Church (12505 Spring St.) on Friday, April 15, 2011, at 10 a.m. with Pastor John Miesel officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family on Thursday April 14, 2011, at Wilson Funeral Home from 5-8 p.m. and again at the church on Friday from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be directed to American Legion Post 171 in Union Grove or to Walnut Grove Assisted Living Home.

“The Family wishes to thank those who lovingly cared for Mom at Walnut Grove Assisted Living Home and for the wonderful care given to her at Wheaton Franciscan Hospital and in hospital Hospice Care. We will always be grateful to all of you.”

Wilson Funeral Home
1212 Lathrop Ave., Racine 262-634-3361

Marjorie J. (Harwood) Piemeisl

Marjorie J. Piemeisl, age 87, passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2011, at her residence. Marjorie was born in Racine, August 2, 1923, daughter of the late Harry and Ann Harwood.

During World War II she proudly served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). She was united in marriage to Clarence Piemeisl, who preceded her in death in 1973. Marjorie worked at “The Butter Churn” Restaurant, and retired from Wingspread after twenty years of catering events and conferences. She volunteered in the Gift Shop with the St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary and was actively involved for years with the Kilties with Molly Chekanoff as the official uniform chair ladies.

Marjorie was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She was a longtime member of the Racine Country Club where she enjoyed camaraderie with friends golfing and bowling. She was proud to have been one of the first ladies to get a “Hole in One” on the golf course. Marjorie will be fondly remembered as a great cook and baker, and for her delectable desserts, especially the banana cream cakes and pies she generously shared with her neighbors. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother who will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her sons and daughter-in-law, Scott Piemeisl of Racine, Wayne (Pam) Piemeisl of St. Paul, MN; her four grandchildren, Krystle (Tony) Griepentrog of Scottsdale, AZ, Ryan Piemeisl of Milwaukee, Jason Piemeisl and Cheri Piemeisl of St. Paul, MN; daughter-in-law, Pattie (Steve) Brusko of Racine; cousin, Shirley Grieshaber and family; dear friends, Sue Faust, Lucky LaMeer-Sokolowski, Mary Rome; other relatives, wonderful neighbors and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, April 18, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1533 Erie St., with Rev. Ronald O. Crewe officiating. Entombment will follow at Calvary Garden Crypts, Kinzie Avenue. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Sunday at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and Monday at church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass at 10:30 a.m. Memorials to the Wisconsin Veterans Home, Town of Dover, have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888

Sue Z (Zahn) Sisak

Sue Z. Sisak, age 76, passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center. Sue was born in Wauwatosa, WI, on April 2, 1935, daughter of the late Russell and Leona (Nee: Bulgrin) Zahn.

Sue was a graduate of Washington Park High School “Class of 1953” and attended Lawrence University. On September 6, 1958, at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church she was united in marriage to Matthew V. Sisak. Prior to her marriage she was employed at Zahn’s Department Store. Sue was a longtime member at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church and a lifetime member of St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary. An excellent baker and cook, Sue was well known for her outstanding flaky piecrust, kolaches, potato salad and Boston baked beans. More than anything, she cherished time with her family and adored collies. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her loving husband, Matthew; her children, Judith A. Sisak of Racine, Jeffrey M. Sisak (Linda Horn) of Franklin, Peter R. Sisak of Watertown; sister, Judie (Robert) Moeller of Sturgeon Bay; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Wencel (Irene) Sisak, Helen Urbush, all of Racine; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and her beloved collie, Captain E.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, April 16, 2011, at 10 a.m. at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church, 1903 Green St. Interment will follow at Holy Family Cemetery, Caledonia. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Friday at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday at the church from 9 a.m. until time of Mass at 10 a.m.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Monday, April 11, 2011

Josephine J. (Zamecnik) Kuhns

Josephine Jane "Jo" Kuhns, passed away Monday, April 11, 2011, in Palm Beach Shores, FL, following a brief illness. Jo was born in Racine on December 24, 1932, daughter of the late Frank and Josephine (Nee: Block) Zamecnik, Sr.

Jo graduated from Lutheran High School. On January 6, 1953, in Tennessee she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Henry C. Kuhns. Jo was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Racine and was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Florida where she chaired many events with the Womens Aid. She and Henry owned and operated Johenri’s Shoes for 15 years in the North Point Shops. She enjoyed traveling, working in the yard, anything that had to do with crafts, flower arranging and Turtle Patrol on the Florida Beaches. Above all she was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and will be dearly missed.

Surviving are her husband, Henry; two sons, David (Sandie) Kuhns and Donald (Dawn) Kuhns; grandchildren, Mitchell (fiancƩe, Danielle Dyer), Maxwell, Mollie, Meghann, Matthew and Melissa; her great-grandson, Brayden; brothers and sisters, Frank (Mabel) Zamecnik, Fred Zamecnik (Shirley), Dorothy Borowsky, Arlene (Kelly) Hanek; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her sister, Ruth Mako; and four brothers, Charles, Elmer, Harold and Edgar Zamecnik.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2065 Geneva St., with Reverend Stephen Jennings officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet Wednesday at the church from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. Memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Tracy Lynn Squires

Tracy Lynn Squires, age 42, passed away Monday, April 11, 2011, at St. Luke’s Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI. She was born on November 4, 1968, in Racine to Rick and Linda (Nee: Grove) Squires.

Tracy was such a happy little girl and was always a joy to be around. She attended Jerstad-Agerholm Elementary and Junior High School, William Horlick High School, and received her GED from Gateway Technical School. Along her chosen paths of life she made many friends. Her most wonderful accomplishments were the births of her son and daughter.

Tracy is survived by her son, Redipher Jones; and daughter, Ashley Jones; her mom, Linda Lexa; sister, Melanie (Mike) Zember; Uncle Bob (Judy) Grove; special friend, Ron Burton; nephews, cousins, and many dear friends. Tracy was preceded in death by her father, Rick Squires; grandparents, Ted and Mildred Squires, Glen and Ethel Grove; and stepfather, Charlie Lexa.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, April 14, 2011, at noon at the funeral home. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Thursday at the funeral home from 10:30 a.m. until time of service at noon. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Tracy’s children would be appreciated.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Pandy and Dr. Kumar, nurse Jesse at Surgical ICU and the 9th floor nurses at St. Luke’s Medical Center, Milwaukee.


MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888

Vernon C. Riekena

Vernon C. Riekena, age 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 11, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Hospital with his family at his side. Vernon was born November 14, 1932, in Crystal Lake, Iowa, son of the late Henry and Amanda (Nee: Helm) Riekena.

On March 23, 1963, at Freidens Lutheran Church in Kenosha he was united in marriage to Carol L. Kaddatz. Vernon served in the United States Air Force (during the end of the Korean War) from March of 1952 to December of 1955. Vernon earned an Associate's Degree in Applied Science and Electronic Technology from DeVry Technical Institute in Chicago, IL. He worked at Oster Manufacturing as an Engineering Technician for eight years and then as a Test Technician at J.I. Case Company for twenty-seven plus years. After retiring from J.I. Case Company, he worked five years for VRI Technical Services (at J.I. Case Company) retiring in November of 1997. He attended Atonement Lutheran Church. Vernon enjoyed playing golf. He enjoyed his grandchildren and especially enjoyed attending their sporting events (hockey, soccer, basketball and baseball).

Survivors include his loving wife of forty-eight years, Carol; his children and their spouses, Dwayne (Beth) Riekena of Racine, Darrell (Kimberly) Riekena of Minneapolis, MN, Deborah (Dan) Andersen of Racine, and Dana (Sean) Traci of Wilmette, IL; his eight grandchildren, Justin, Amanda (fiancƩ, Dylan Sucharda) and Matthew Riekena, Jack Riekena, Nicholas and Alyssa Andersen, Colm and Bridget Traci; his one great-granddaughter, Alexis Riekena; one brother and five sisters, Kenneth (Carol Macken) Riekena of Sun City, AZ, Vivian Pletcher of Britt, Iowa, Arlene (George) Schmidt of Garner, Iowa, Lorraine (Shelly) Bohn of Mason City, Iowa, Janice (Jim) Marshall of Austin, MN, and Marilyn (Tom) Haley of Ham Lake, MN; many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, LeRoy; a sister, Donna; his grandparents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law; two brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 15, 2011, at 5 p.m. at Atonement Lutheran Church, 2915 Wright Ave., with Rev. Dr. Warren Williams officiating. Private interment with full military honors will be held at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Friday at the church from 3 p.m. until time of service at 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Parkinson’s Foundation or Atonement Lutheran Church.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Chelsia Nicole Dean

Sturtevant - Chelsia Nicole Dean, 19, struggled with cardiomyopathy and received a heart transplant in March of 2010 and battled other health issues that eventually overcame her. She died on Sunday, April 10, 2011, at Children’s Hospital.

Chelsia was born in Racine on November 8, 1991, to Ray Erwin and Kimberley Dean. She graduated from Walden III High School in 2010.

Chelsia was an animal lover, aspiring to become a veterinarian. She was an avid reader and enjoyed the game of basketball. She was a very giving and selfless person, putting others ahead of herself.

Chelsia is survived by her father, Ray Dean; her mother, Kimberley Dean; two brothers, Chad (Lisa) Dean and Brandon Dean; two sisters, Angela Mateo and Kayley Dean; nephews, Chase and Connor Dean and David Mateo; maternal grandfather, Brad Miller; aunts, uncles, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Diane Miller; paternal grandmother, Jeanette (Juan) Kearns; and paternal grandfather, Roy Edward Dean.

A memorial service will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home, on Saturday, April 30, 2011, at 4 p.m. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Saturday from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. Memorials to Children’s Hospital or Make a Wish Foundation have been suggested.

Wilson Funeral Home
1212 Lathrop Ave., Racine  262-634-3361

Joan Clair (Clair) Schorsch

Joan Clair Schorsch, age 83, passed away Sunday, April 10, 2011, at Condell Medical Center, Libertyville, IL. Joan was born in Chicago, IL, on February 8, 1928, daughter of the late William C. and Ellen M. (Nee: Le Coq) Clair.

On May 15, 1948, she was united in marriage to Stephen L. Schorsch, who preceded her in death on July 14, 2003. She was lately a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, Racine, Wisconsin, and formerly a member of Our Lady Mother of the Church, Chicago, Illinois.

Survivors include her ten children, twenty-two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren: Stephen William (Mimi) Schorsch, Matt (fianceƩ Angela), Alex and Jeff; Susan Ann (Craig) Hansen, Craig Jr. (fianceƩ Brittany) (Brooklynn and Braelynn), Kyle (Matthew), Christian, and Kelsey; Lucille Martha (Herbert) Mark Jr., Kevin (Katie) (Elizabeth and Michael), Nicole (Brett) Satkamp (William), Thomas and Laura; Carl Peter (June) Schorsch, Peter, Philip and Victoria; Eric Joseph (Denise) Schorsch, Tyler, Abigail and Ryan; Mary Ellen Schorsch, Carmen Veronica Ceron; Joanne Louise (Barry) Juister, Angela and Nicholas; Andrew Paul Schorsch (special friend Ginger Cox); Julia Clare Schorsch; and Joseph Anton Schorsch, Kellie and James.

She is also survived by her brother, William Le Coq Clair; and brother-in-law, Anton F. (Jackie) Schorsch Jr.; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by her son, Peter Joseph.

Relatives and friends in Wisconsin may meet with the family at Maresh-Meredith Funeral Home on Wednesday April 13, 2011, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6400 Spring St., Racine, Wisconsin, 53406, on Thursday, April 14, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. with visitation from 9 a.m. until time of Mass, Rev. William J. Dietzler officiating.

Relatives and friends in Illinois may meet with the family at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 Talcott Road (at Cumberland), Park Ridge, IL 60068 on Friday, April 15, 2011, from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady Mother of the Church, 8747 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL, 60656, on Saturday, April 16, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. with visitation from 9 a.m. until time of Mass, with interment at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, River Grove, IL. Memorials to St. Paul the Apostle Church or Our Lady Mother of the Church.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Lusia F. (Vela) Rodriguez

Lusia F. Rodriguez, age 64, passed away Sunday, April 10, 2011, at her residence. Lusia was born in Racine on August 20, 1946, daughter of Raul J. and Hermangilda (Nee: Yanez) Vela.

On July 31, 1987, she was united in marriage to Hugo Rodriguez. Lusia was employed by J.I. Case Company for thirty-two years, retiring in 2006, and belonged to their “20 Year Club.” She was an avid bingo player and enjoyed going to casinos. Lusia cherished time spent with her family and will forever be remembered for her strong love and devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her husband, Hugo; her daughters, Lydia Vela, Julie Vela; her grandchildren, Marina and Joseph, Micaela, Lusia, Gabriella, Samuel; one great-granddaughter, R’Monica; her mother, Hermangilda “Mary” Vela; her sisters, Gloria Aguilar, Angeline (Jesus) Ortega, Adeline (David) Hollis; brothers, David (Sue) Vela, Reynaldo (Linda) Vela; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Raul; and her brother-in-law, Miguel Aguilar.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 15, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Kinzie Avenue. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Thursday at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Friday at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until time of service at 10:30 a.m.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Friday, April 8, 2011

Louis J. 'Uncle Luigi' Klinkhammer

Louis J. Klinkhammer, age 91, passed away Friday, April 8, 2011, at the Wisconsin Veteran’s Home, Union Grove, WI. Louis was born in Caledonia on February 27, 1920, son of the late Joseph and Josephine (Nee: Mutchie) Klinkhammer.

During World War II he proudly served in the United States Army. On February 1, 1945, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church he was united in marriage to Delores E. Mullenburg, who preceded him in death, June 19, 2003. He was employed by American Motors Corporation and Massey Ferguson. Louis was a longtime member of St. Lucy Catholic Church and member of the Racine Moose Lodge. Louis enjoyed motorcycles, farming, hunting, fishing and gambling. More than anything he cherished time spent with his family. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his children, Mary Ann (Fred) Tomkiewicz of Rhode Island, Norbert (Shirley) Klinkhammer of Sun City, AZ; his grandchildren, Deborah (John) Cline, Cherie (Peter) Conover, Frederick Tomkiewicz Jr. Michael Klinkhammer, Richard Klinkhammer (Kim Little); his great-grandchildren, Justin, Evan and Ben Conover, Andrew Cline; brother, Edward Klinkhammer of Racine; sister, Lucille Braun of Racine; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Mary Thomas of Racine, Ann (Chet) Frye of Kenosha; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph E. Klinkhammer Jr.; and sisters, Bernice Klinkhammer, Marie Deandre and Eleanor George.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Lucy’s Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., on Tuesday, April 19, 2011, at 11 a.m., with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Entombment with full military honors will follow at All Saints Cemetery, Kenosha. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Tuesday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass at 11 a.m.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the entire staff at Boland Hall for their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Mary E. Shea

Mary E. Shea, age 87, passed away Wednesday, April 6, 2011, at Waukesha Memorial Hospital, Waukesha, WI. Mary was born in Laurium, Michigan, on June 17, 1923, daughter of the late James and Mary (Nee: Donahue) Shea.

Mary was a graduate of Dominican College in Racine. She furthered her education, graduating from St. Agnes School of Nursing in Fond du Lac. Mary taught in a number of parochial schools in Racine. Mary was a director of education at Virginia Nursing Home in Waukesha for a number of years. She was last employed as a Registered Nurse at the Sisters of Notre Dame in Elm Grove, WI, until her retirement. Her passion was caring for others. She will be deeply missed.

Surviving are her sister-in-law, Maryann Shea of MI; her nephew, Dr. Michael (Julianne) Shea of Ann Arbor, MI; great-nieces and nephews; special friend, Alice Cramer; and many dear friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Robert and Paul Shea; and by her sister, Margaret Shea Katte.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, April, 15, 2011, at Siena Center, 5635 Erie St., at 4:30 p.m. with the Very Rev. Joseph Hornacek officiating. Private interment will be held.

A very special thank you to her dear friend and caregiver, Sarah Zachow for her loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Ethel (Nelson) Ellefson-Rein

Ethel Sofie Ellefson-Rein, age 89, passed away Sunday, April 3, 2011, at her daughter’s residence. She was born in Drummond, WI, daughter of the late Alfred and Ingrid (Nee: Holmberg) Nelson.

Ethel resided in Franksville for 40 years, retiring to Barnes, WI, where she was a member of Barnes Community Church. She was also an honorary member of Racine Harbor Lite Yacht Club.

Surviving are her daughters, Cindy Sobczak of Racine, Debra (James Doner of Pembroke, Ontario, Canada; four grandchildren, Zachary and Hannah Sobczak, Abigale and Casey Doner; sisters, Inez Faulkner, Mary Ann Peterson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Clarence Ellefson and Michael Rein.

A celebration service will be held at Barnes Community Church in Barnes, WI, on Saturday, April 23, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. with a luncheon to follow.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888

Walter 'Wally' Schulz Jr.

Walter “Wally” Schulz Jr., left-handed and proud of it, passed away April 3, 2011, at age 86 ¾. Wally was born in Racine on June 29, 1924, son of the late Walter and Meta E. (Nee: Wiese) Schulz, Sr.

A lifelong Racine County resident, he spent his early years on Racine’s Franklin Street before the family moved to a farm on 3 Mile Road, West of I-94. He graduated from Hunter Grade School, then Horlick High School in 1944.

Wally was an accomplished figure-eight ice skater and loved roller skating, especially waltzing. In fact, he met Wayne Marie Kappel roller skating at Reggie’s Beachland Roller Rink in 1944. They were united in marriage on August 23, 1947, at the First Methodist Church; the love story would always include the weather: that day was the hottest day of the year at 105 degrees.

He loved playing horseshoes and fast-pitch baseball, playing on the Case Co. team in the late 1940s. A true farmer at heart, his “field” and garden was a bit famous for asparagus, cantaloupe and his potatoes. His love of planting turned his backyard into “almost a local park.”

During World War II he served with honor in the U.S. Army as a rifleman, in Central Europe and Rhineland; receiving the WWII Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, EAME Campaign Medal and two Bronze Service Stars

As an electrician, Wally was employed by JI Case Co; Charlie Jones Electric; 23 years at Van's Electric; Gerber Electric, MaGaw, and contracted work at SC Johnson Wax Co. He proudly wired homes, churches, factories, attics and schools all around Racine, including the airport runway lights, wiring in the Zoo’s lion’s cage, and the movable Main Street Bridge electrical system. He retired in 1989, a 50+-year member of the IBEW Union and Apprenticeship Board, Local 430.

He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church for 65 years, serving on the Board of Trustees, six years Fun & Fellowship president, MYF youth director with his wife; personable auctioneer of the annual church Holiday Bazaar & Ham Ball Dinner, a leader of the adult Sunday school group, the “go-to” electrician and resident humorist.

As community volunteer he served as Chairman of the 1956-57 Building Committee for the one-room Tucker School; was actively involved with the Racine County 4-H and Racine County Fair youth building for many decades; taught the electricity project for 37 years in the Tucker 4-H Club.

Recognitions included the 1994 Franksville Business Community Service Award; Tucker 4-H Leadership Award; 1998 Reminisce Magazine featuring two photos of Wally; quotes of “his weather observations” were included on the 10 p.m. Milwaukee TV News plus a front page 1963 Racine Journal Times story.

Wally valued “studying” things and problems, keeping records and track of statistics, figuring out how things work, and watching the weather. Everyone benefited from his electrical knowledge, car maintenance skills, gardening talents and analytical skills.

Wally loved all ice cream, and as this was the special treat for his birthday since he was a boy, so it was fitting that the last thing he ate was chocolate ice cream.

Wally’s brand of humor arrived in many forms. He was famous for his teasing and kidding of absolutely everyone, with a kind and friendly style that made us all smile right along with him. He made you feel included and necessary in his “fun.” He usually called you by someone else’s name, just to get a gentle rise out of you. Year-'round, he would mention when his birthday was, just in case you wanted to drop off a gift, of any sort; as he would say, “any time would be just fine.” His style included introducing people to electricity by having them touch low electric current resulting in everyone getting a tickle out of this “shocking” fun. His humor included a sentimental touch when Wally would say, “I’m perfect now, thanks to my wife Wayne,” followed by a bit of a smile.

Thus he will always be remembered as the family teaser, an exceptionally devoted and loving husband, the energetic and interested father and playful grandfather who will be deeply missed. We are sad that he has gone, but joyful that he has joined his wife.

Wally’s ancestors immigrated from Germany to the Midwest: great-grandparents Henry Wm.T. and Dorothea T.(Roggenkamp)Bein of Scott County, Iowa; Hans and Silke (Veraks) Wiese, Avoca, Iowa; grandparents, Julius and Emma (Ballenski) Schulz, Chicago; Ferdinand and Emma Theresa (Bein) Wiese, Avoca, Iowa

Survivors include his children, Judith D.Schulz (Doug Harris), Burlington,WI, Karen R.(David) Gropman, Mill Rift, PA, David W. (Stacy) Schulz, Mequon, Scott C.(Jenny) Schulz, Racine; six grandchildren: Meta Schulz-Berg Carnahan (Marc) and Katrin Schulz-Berg, Elizabeth and Yale Gropman, Aubree and Alec Schulz; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Herbert Earl C. (Marilyn) Kappel of Racine, Peggy (Ronaldson) Schulz of Racine; nieces and nephews, Sandy, Harry, Kathy, Lori, Terry, Linda, Larry, Don, Nancy, Janet, Kurt, Sherry, Lysette; other relatives and many interesting friends. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife of 62 years, Wayne Marie, on April 15, 2009; his brothers and sister, Harry F.Schulz, Robert “Bob” W. (Dorothy) Schulz, Ruth C. (Si) Stice, Raymond “Ray” Schulz, Richard “Dick” Schulz; and niece Barbra Joy.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 15, 2011, at 6 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, 745 Main St., Racine, WI, with Rev. Brad Van Fossen, officiating; visitation is from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Private interment with full military honors will be at West Lawn Memorial Park. . Memorials are suggested for youth leadership programs at First United Methodist Church, Racine; Racine County 4-H Leader’s Assn., 14200 Washington Ave., Sturtevant, WI 53177; or Hospice Alliance, Inc, 10220 Prairie Ridge Blvd, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Jean C. Mandernack

Jean C. (nee Minnis) Mandernack, 98, fell asleep in the arms of the Lord Saturday evening, April 2, 2011, at Woodstock Health and Rehabilitation Center in Kenosha.

Jean was born June 15, 1912, at the family home in Salem, the youngest daughter of Leslie A. and Annie (nee Clark) Minnis. Over the years, the family resided in Salem, Burlington and Whitewater. She was a graduate of Burlington High School, and attended Whitewater State Teachers College.

While in high school, Jean met her future husband, George M. Mandernack. They were married on June 10, 1932, and took up residence in Racine, where Jean became a homemaker, enjoying gardening, bird-watching and being a mother.

As members of Grange Avenue Methodist Church of Racine, the family became regular attendees and volunteers. Jean began teaching kindergarten-age Sunday School in 1947 and continued doing so for over thirty years. She also became a United Methodist Certified Lab School Teacher/Trainer, sharing her expertise with children to help others learn to teach Sunday School.

In the late 1950s she began working at the Racine Family Service day-care center, first as a volunteer, then a substitute, and finally helping to provide full-time care for children of working parents. She continued doing this for over ten years.

More recently, Jean continued her activities, as she was able, with Christ Church, United Methodist of Racine. After she and George sold their home of 49 years, they resided at the Imperial Apartments, where she became known for being a good friend to other residents. In 2008, she moved to Home Harbor Assisted Living, and continued to be a loving presence to all she met. In January, after a fall, she needed more care and moved to Woodstock Health Center.

Jean is survived by her two daughters, Lesly A. Kovac and Carol M. Bartlett, both of Round Lake, IL; three grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George; and all four of her sisters.

A Memorial Service celebrating Jean’s life will be held Thursday, April 7, 2011, at 2 p.m. at Christ Church, United Methodist, 5109 Washington Ave., Racine. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Christ Church, United Methodist, Elementary Christian Education program.

Wilson Funeral Home
1212 Lathrop Ave., Racine  262-634-3361

Joseph V. Biondi Sr.

Joseph V. Biondi Sr., age 84, passed away Saturday, April 2, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center. Joseph was born in Granger, IA, on August 17, 1926, son of the late Joseph and Mary Louisa (nee: Berti) Biondi.

During World War II, Joe proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy Seabees, while stationed in Okinawa and the Pacific Theater. On November 24, 1955, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Racine, he was united in marriage to Mary Ann Fischer. He was a dedicated member of St. Richard Catholic Church, formerly Holy Name, and the American Legion. He was employed with American Motors/Chrysler for thirty years until his retirement Jan. 1, 1989. Joe always had a great love for baseball, playing when he was a child, playing for the Navy baseball team and later playing with his children and all of the neighborhood children. Joe will be best remembered as a loving and dedicated husband, father and grandfather with a strong faith and love for his family, church and country. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years Mary; his children, Joseph V. Biondi Jr. of Racine, Mary (Gerald) Kasinski of Caledonia, Robert (Glenda) Biondi of Fond Du Lac, Michael Biondi of Racine, John Biondi of Sturtevant, Richard (Debra) Biondi of Caledonia, Ann Biondi of Sturtevant, Gina (Anthony) Dentici of Racine; grandchildren, Kelli and Karen Kasinski, Jeremy Biondi, John Biondi, Sarah Biondi, and Jessica Mielke, Gemma and Sofia Dentici; great-granddaughter, Madelynn Mielke; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Laura Biondi, Edith Biondi, Tina Biondi, Robert (Carol) Fischer, Anthony (Carol) Fischer, John Fischer; nieces, nephews, special friends, Carl Cyrkovich, Jim McGinnis and Leonard Dembrosio; other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his siblings, Ann (Giuse) Brugioni, Elio (Esther) Biondi, Aldo Biondi, Eldo Biondi, Elis Biondi, Edward Biondi, Elmer (Frances) Biondi, Virgina Biondi, Virgil Biondi, Richard Biondi and Marilyn Biondi.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, April 8, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Richard’s Catholic Church, 1503 Grand Ave with Reverend Ronald J. Gramza officiating. Interment will full military honors follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet Thursday at the funeral home from 5-7 p.m. and on Friday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass. Memorials to St. Richard’s Catholic Church have been suggested.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Joe’s nurses at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints, Ben, Veronica, Carolyn, and Rebecca for their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racinee   (262) 634-7888

Joanne M. (Adams) Sholly

Joanne M. Sholly, age 70, passed away Saturday, April 2, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center after a short battle with cancer. Joanne was born in Racine, July 14, 1940, daughter of the late Emil F. and Catherine L. (Nee: McMahon) Adams.

She was a graduate of St. Catherine’s High School “Class of 1958.” Joanne was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church and was employed with them for thirty years until her retirement in 2005. She was a longtime fan of Elvis and enjoyed Racine’s local John Van Thiel’s impersonation of Elvis. Joanne will forever be remembered for her devotion and love for her family. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her children, Kevin (Liliana) Sholly of Mt. Pleasant, Kim Sholly (Suzanne Rosenblith) of Greenville, SC, Kurt (Michelle) Sholly of Waterford; her grandchildren, Raul Zbengheci, Dustin Sholly, Kamryn Sholly, Mikayla Sholly, Kolby Sholly, Emilia Sholly, Eli Sholly; lifelong friend, Gale Markus; many close cousins from the Adams and McMahon families; other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her son, Kent.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 9, 2011, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Charles Wester officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Friday at the funeral home from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 10 a.m.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888