Amado (Padron) Torres

Amado (Padron) Torres, 84, passed away at his home on Thursday, December 4, 2008. He was born in Rio Verde, San Luis Potosi, Mexico, on Sept 13, 1924, to the late Jose and Paula (nee: Padron) Torres. He has lived in Racine since 1956. He was united in marriage to Maria Laurentina Zuniga in Ciudad Mante, Tamaulipas, Mexico, on Feb. 6, 1944.

He retired from J.I. Case Co. He was a member of Cristo Rey Parish.

He is survived by his wife, Maria Laurentina Torres; sons, Raymundo Torres, Florida, Julio (Clara Rose ) Torres, Racine; daughters, Maria (Ventura) Guzman, Racine, Lucia (Michael) Williams, Texas, Blanca Hull, Texas, Rosalinda (J. Lucas) Torres-Ascencio, Racine, Gloria (Jonathan)Lane, Milwaukee; brother, Angel Torres, Mexico; sister, Socorro Torres, Mexico; grandchildren, Sonia, Enrique, Rene', Eduardo, Amanda, Gabi, Jose, Leti, Jorge, Sergio, Alberto, Tony and Erika; four great-grandchildren, Lilly, Isabelle, Elaina and Xavier. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Selvina Torres, Gregoria Torres; sons, Jesus Torres, Jose D. Torres; and son-in-law, Russell Hull.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Cristo Rey Church, 800 Wisconsin Ave., on Monday, Dec. 8, 2008, at 11 a.m. with Fr. Ricardo Martin officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the Wilson Funeral Home, 1212 Lathrop Ave., on Sunday evening, Dec. 7, 2008, from 5 - 8 p.m. With a Rosary Service at 7 p.m. A visitation will also be held on Monday morning at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

The Torres Family would like to thank the nurses and staff, especially Robin Burmann of Vistas Innovative Hospice Care of Milwaukee and the staff of Wheaton Franciscan Cancer Center of Racine.

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

Richard E. Hetland, Sr.

WARRENS, WI – Richard E. Hetland, Sr., 79, formerly of Racine, died at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee on Thursday, December 4, 2008.

He was born in Racine on March 17, 1929, to the late Adolph and Farrel (nee: Smith) Hetland. On May 5, 1951, he married the love of his life, Arlene R. Hoffmann at St. Sebastian Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on September 1, 2006.

Mr. Hetland served his nation with the U.S. Air Force. He worked for many years at Badger Tool Works as a tool and die maker before retiring in 1994.

Before moving to Warrens, the Hetlands were members of St. Sebastian Catholic Church. Mr. Hetland was an outdoor enthusiast who loved spending his free time hunting, fishing and golfing. He realized his dream of owning his own land in Northern Wisconsin and spent many enjoyable years on that land. Mr. Hetland took great delight in, and was always willing to help his sons and son-in-law with numerous home projects. He was a skilled craftsman and his attention to detail made every project a work of perfection.

Mr. Hetland was active in the Racine community while his children were growing up, serving as equipment manager and truck driver for the Ambassa “Dears” Drum and Bugle Corps for many years and as a Cub Scout pack leader and pack master at St. Sebastian School.

His survivors include his children, Richard E. (Sara) Hetland, Jr., Kim (Richard) Krummel of Racine and Gary Hetland of Burlington; grandchildren, Tony (Pam) Hetland, Katie (Aaron) Bassindale, Matt Krummel, Alex Krummel, Eric Hetland, Meghan Hetland (Keith), Stephanie (Travis) Larson; great-grandchildren, Mitchell, Trenton, Trayton, Chloe, Owen, Landon, Cobin; brothers and sisters, Don (Irene) Hetland, Ken Hetland, Beverly Trobaugh, Shirley (Dick) Dedeyne, Lois Gagliano, Jim (Sharon) Hetland, Jack (Joan) Hetland, Bill (Cyndy) Hetland, Tom (Donna) Hetland; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Fran Hetland, Agnes Hetland, Bonnie Poikonen, Ted Hoffmann, Clem Lutkus and numerous dear nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Mr. Hetland was also preceded in death by his brothers, Bob Hetland, Vilas Hetland and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Joe Gagliano, Shirley Hetland, Sam Poikonen, Diane Fliess, Carol Lutkus, Katherine “Kitty” Bydalek and Tim Hoffmann.

Family and friends are invited to meet at the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Tuesday, December 9, 2008, at 6 p.m. for the celebration of Richard’s life with Rev. Jeffrey M. Thielen officiating. There will be a visitation in the funeral home from 4-6 p.m.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home
4600 County Line Road, Racine (262) 552-9000

Nancy A. Drane

Nancy A. Drane, 78, was called Home by her Lord and Savior on Thursday December 4, 2008. She was born in Mayfield, KY, on January 17, 1930, the daughter of the late Hester B. and Adlaide (nee: Dismukes) Drane.

Nancy graduated from Dunbar High School in Mayfield. She had been employed by Servicemaster as a supervisor. Nancy was a longtime and very active member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church and worked with the Kitchen Committee.

Nancy leaves to cherish her memory, two children, Andre Drane and Ramona Drane both of Racine; six grandchildren, five great grandchildren, her church family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sons, James and Paul Drane; grandson, Darvin Martin Jr.; and brother William Drane.

Her Memorial Homegoing Service will be held at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 11th and Center, on Friday, December 12, with Bishop L.L. Kirby officiating. Relatives and friends can meet with the family at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Private inurnment will follow in Graceland Cemetery.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home
4600 County Line Road, Racine (262) 552-9000

Harvey L. Bester

Harvey L. Bester, 38, passed away unexpectedly in the emergency room of Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center, as the result of cardiac arrest, on Thursday, December 4, 2008.

Harvey was born in Racine on September 17, 1970, to Henry and Kizzie (nee: Washington) Bester. He graduated from Washington Park High School in 1989. He was a valuable member of the 1988 Park Football “State Champions” team. Harvey went on to play football for Southwest Missouri University. Following, he returned to Racine when he was diagnosed with hereditary Lymphedema.

Proclaiming Christ as his Savior, Harvey was a member of Fountain of Life Church in Madison under the leadership of Rev. Alex Gee. He was an automobile enthusiast who enjoyed his “Heavy Chevy’s.” Harvey was also passionate for his music and was a talented Disc Jockey. Having a special place in his heart for children and never having kids of his own, he loved caring for and spending time with all his 26 nieces and nephews. Above all, Harvey will be remembered for his kind and gentle spirit, and a loving-heart that was larger than life.

Surviving are his parents, Henry and Kizzie; eleven brothers and sisters, Janet Bester of Racine, Cynthia (Rev. Joe) Buckley of Racine, James (Sherri) Bester of Madison, Johnnie Mae Bester of Madison, Henry Lee (Angela) Bester of Lacrosse, Yvonne Williams of Madison, Virgie Bester of Madison, Kenneth Bester of Green Bay, Clifton Bester of Madison, Cedric Bester and Lakaeshia Bester of Racine; seven aunts and uncles, Mary Bunch of Racine, Sherman Washington of Racine, James Townsend of Racine, Willie(Floristine) Bester of Laurel, MS, Benny Bester of Laurel, MS, Idema Redding of Laurel, MS and Geneva (Rev. Garwell) McGee of Collins,MS; 26 adored nieces and nephews; 5 cherished great-nieces and nephews; best friend, Roosevelt Turner; and a host of special cousins, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name.

Home Going services will be celebrated in the funeral home on Friday, December 12, 2008, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Alex Gee officiating. Interment will follow in Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Friday from 10-11 a.m. In memory of Harvey, hug a child or do something nice for someone in need.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine (262) 552-9000

Francis 'Lee' Sprague

KENOSHA – Francis L. “Lee” Sprague, 83, our beloved dad, passed away peacefully at Harbor House North in Kenosha on Thursday, December 4, 2008.

Lee was born in Coshocton, OH, on May 13, 1925, to Carson and Annabelle (nee: Elliott) Sprague. He graduated from Coshocton High in 1943. He then enlisted and served in the Marine Corps from 1943 to 1946 during World War II. Lee fought courageously in the bloody battle of Iwo Jima with the 5th Marine Division and participated in the Occupation of Japan at Sasebo.

In 1948, Lee moved to Racine and met and fell in love with Louise Maxon. They were united in marriage on September 30, 1950, and married for 34 years before Louise was hit by a drunk driver and passed away on November 12, 1984.

Lee worked for the Racine Water Department on the outside crew for over 25 years prior to his retirement in 1987. He especially loved driving his Water Dept. dump truck.

Lee always remained a small town Ohio boy at heart. He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures -- working in his tomato patch and sitting outside in the sun watching the world pass by. He also enjoyed taking rides through the countryside, watching TV, playing cards and having a couple of beers with his buddies. Lee was unfailingly cheerful and easy-going throughout his life, even at the end. When asked how he was feeling he’d always enthusiastically respond, “Terrific!”

Lee was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and he will be deeply missed and always loved.

Surviving are his daughter, Sherry (Gary) Horton; and sons, Rick of Racine, Dave and former daughter-in-law, Lorie, of Huntington Beach, CA.; grandsons Kevin (Amy), Mark (Jessica), Kyle, Jason and Austin; and his granddaughter, Heather. He is further survived by his great-grandchildren, Luke, Chase, Cornelious and Jaden. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Eyster, and niece, Mindy (Jim) Shank of Springfield, OR.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his infant brother, Garvey; sisters Betty and Yvonne; daughter-in-law Wendy Leittl Sprague; brother-in-law Edwin Eyster and long-time companion, Esther Markus.

Visitation will be at the funeral home on Sunday, December 7, 2008, from 5 to 8 p.m. Private interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Lee’s family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Julia, Candace and all the other wonderful and compassionate caregivers at Harbor House who lovingly cared for Dad for the past four years. Thanks to all of you and your deep commitment to your residents, Dad was able to live the last years of his life with dignity in a loving and caring environment. Thanks also to Pat and Colleen from Hospice Alliance for the care, compassion and support you’ve given to Dad and us.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine (262) 552-9000

Daniel L. Gillett

Somers- Daniel L. Gillett, 65, passed away at his home, surrounded with the love of his family, on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, following a valiant battle with Appendiceal Carcinoma.

Dan was born in Canada on July 31, 1943, to the late Rex and Annabelle (nee: Burd) Gillett, Sr. He immigrated to Wisconsin in 1969. On July 16, 1980, he was united in marriage with Judy E. Pelkey.

With a profound and tireless work ethic, Dan has owned and operated Gillett Services Inc., a Racine based power sweeping, lawn care and property management company, since 1972. He was a lifetime servant of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He was passionate in the ministry of sharing the Kingdom news.

Among his interests, Dan had a special interest in older automobiles and owned an extensive die-cast car collection. He also liked to fly airplanes and sail; and had a great appreciation for music and nature. Above all, Dan will be remembered for his fun-loving personality, his infectious smile and constant determination to constantly love and cherish all his family and friends.

Surviving are his loving wife, Judy; children, Karen (Keith) Ostrom, Dan (Sammi) Gillett, Brett (Debbie) Madore and Troy (Shawn) Madore; grandchildren, Jarrett and Jaden Gillett, Marshall Ostrom, Ashley Wyman and Amanda Madore; great-grandson, Abel Ostrom; brother, Rex (Margaret) Gillett, Jr.; sisters, Sharon Okane and Helen (Manuel) DePiedra; sisters-in-law, Judy Gillett, Edna (Eugene) Theriault, Linda (Roger) Hawkins and Mary (Jerry) Moore; brothers-in-law, Fred Pelkey, Richard Pelkey and Michael (Jenny) Pelkey; many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name, especially his brothers and sisters of the Kingdom Hall.

In addition to his parents, Dan was preceded in death by his grandson, Justin Madore, and brother, Rod Gillett.

In accordance with Dan’s wishes, cremation will take place. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2008, at 4 p.m. in Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1600 N. Summerset Drive. A gathering, to continue celebrating Dan’s life, will immediately follow at Roma Lodge. There will be time to visit with the family at the Kingdom Hall on Saturday from 3-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Watchtower have been suggested.

A special note of thanks to Hospice Alliance for the compassionate end-of-life care and our sincere gratitude to Dr. Michael P. Mullane -- for not only doing everything in his power to save Dan’s life , but for his sincere friendship.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine (262) 552-9000

Sharon M. (Dennis) Wood

Sharon M. Wood, age 66, passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2008, at her residence. Sharon was born in Milwaukee, WI, on April 14, 1942, daughter of the late Clayton D. and Frances J. (Nee: Kapcha) Dennis.

On September 19, 1959, she was united in marriage to David D. Wood who preceded her in death on June 27, 2004. Sharon was a professional waitress for numerous years and had worked at Athens Restaurant, last working at O & H Bakery. Sharon enjoyed gardening but was especially fond of taking care of her grandchildren. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her children, Joseph (Tracie) Wood of Crivitz, WI, Christine Wood of Neenah, WI, Anne Marie (Jesus) Hernandez of Jourdanton, TX, Antoniette Wood of Racine; 14 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Shirley Brown of Milwaukee, WI, Gary Dennis of Phoenix, AZ, Clayton (Joanie) Dennis of Milwaukee, WI, Diane (John) Timmerman of Racine; sister-in-law, Darla Dennis of Milwaukee, WI; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her brother, Gaylord Dennis; sister-in-law, Midge Dennis; and brother-in-law, Nick Brown.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Friday, December 5, 2008, at 5 p.m. with Rev. Mark Danczyk officiating. Private interment will be held at the Wisconsin Memorial Cemetery, Milwaukee, WI. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Friday from 4 p.m. until time of service at 5 p.m. and following the service until 7 p.m.

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