The burning of the winter witch this year in Ephraim was 35 years in the making for resident Jim Stollenwerk. The former construction equipment manufacturer from Milwaukee was elected as the village’s Fyr Bal chieftain, which was celebrated Saturday night when he lit the ceremonial bonfire. Stollenwerk has served the village in a number of capacities including three terms as a trustee and a member of the Hardy Gallery Board. After moving to Ephraim 35 years ago, the village continues to be a place Stollenwerk loves.

At age 89, Stollenwerk hopes that even though he and his wife Alice will likely have to go to an assisted living facility that he can continue to stay at his beach house for summers in Ephraim for many years to come.

Photo by Ephraim Business Council