James E. Hynek, 76, Luxemburg, died Friday February 24, 2023, at Algoma Long Term Care (Water Fall Health), Algoma.  He was born January 28, 1947, in Kewaunee to the late Edward and Adeline (Swintkoske) Hynek.  Jim graduated from Kewaunee High School in 1965. On May 28, 1977, he married Judith A. Theys at St. Amand Church, Walhain.  He was employed with Vollrath in Kewaunee, until his retirement.  His enjoyments included golfing and bowling, going out to eat and purchasing lottery tickets.  He was lucky twice! Jim served as the Village of Luxemburg Trustee for eight years.  He loved to watch the Packers and the Brewers.

Survivors include his wife of forty five years, Judy; one sister, Rita (Jerry) Meier, River Hills, Wi; nephew, Philip (Chris) Meier, Aurora, Il, and their two children, Ruby and Ben; niece, Sarah Meier, Lexington, Ky; cousin, Sr. Madonna Swintkoske; brothers in law and sister in law, Larry (Carol) Theys, Casco; Lyle (friend Sara) Theys, Luxemburg; godsons, Philip Meier and Justin Theys; many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends; and his cats, Star and Max.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; father in law and mother in law, Edward and Ethereda (LeRoy) Theys; grandparents, John and Josephine (Lishka) Hynek; Peter and Mary (Fiala) Swintkoske.

Friends may call at St. Kilian Church, 2508 St. Kilian Road, New Franken, Wi. 54229, between 9:00 and 10:45 am on Friday, March 3, 2023.  Funeral 11:00 am on Friday at the church with Rev. Carlo Villaluz officiating. Entombment in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum, Green Bay.

McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg, is assisting the Van Ark Family.  www.mcmahonfh.com

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established.

A special thank you is extended to Aurora BayCare Hospital, the Luxemburg Fire and Rescue Squad, Algoma Long Term Care (Water Fall Health), Unity Hospice, dear friend Shirley Frea and others who have offered help to us in any way.

Lois A. Van Ark, age 65, of Green Bay, passed away on Friday, February 24, 2023, under the tender care of hospice with her loving husband of forty-seven years, Neil, at her side.

She was born on December 10, 1957, the daughter of the late Lloyd M. and Ellen M. (VandenBush) Strebel in Green Bay.  She graduated from Preble High School in 1976.  Lois was united in marriage at Holy Martyrs of Gorcum Church to Neil Van Ark on May 15, 1976.   Together they had four children, and Lois spent many years taking care of her family while working at various places , all in customer service.  Lois was happiest when she was caring for or helping others. 

Lois enjoyed Bingo, crafts, camping, coaching bowling, and spending time with family.  She always welcomed others into her home and made sure all had a place to go for holidays.  She became a second “bonus” mom and grandma to many people throughout the years.  

Lois is survived by her husband, Neil, of Green Bay.  Her four children Melissa Van Ark of Green Bay; Larry (Julie) Van Ark of Owen; Micole (Matt) Sautner of Luxemburg; and Scott Van Ark of Luxemburg. She is also survived by the love of her life, her six grandchildren: Madyson, Lydia, Teddy, Grayson, Parker, and Rylee.  She is further survived by one brother in law, Bruce Van Ark and by her siblings: Nancy (Chuck) Foxgrover, Bernie (Sandee) Strebel, John (Laurie) Strebel, Jane Strebel, and Jeff (Kyle) Strebel; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.       

She is preceded in death by her parents and her mother-in-law, MaryAnn Boucher.

Friends may call at St. John Lutheran Church, 700 Heritage Road, Luxemburg, Wi. 54217, between 1:00 and 3:45 pm on Sunday, March 5, 2023.  Funeral 4:00 pm on Sunday, with Rev. Carl Brewer officiating.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in memory of Lois A. Van Ark.

McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg, is assisting the Van Ark Family.  www.mcmahonfh.com

Her family would like to thank Dr. Mendoza and the pulmonary team at Aurora Medical Care Center and Rev. Carl Brewer for their support during this difficult time.

Mary Jane Mueller, 76, of Egg Harbor passed away unexpectedly with her family by her side on her father's birthday, Feb 23rd 2023, at Door County Medical Center.

     She was born to Lavern and Leah (Olson) LeMere on July 19th 1946 in Sturgeon Bay and attended grade school in Egg Harbor, and Gibraltar high school graduating in May 1964. In July of 1964, Mary participated in the Door County Cherry Blossom Pageant. As a child she liked picking cherries, going to the beach & feeding the chickens on her grandparents farm.

     Following graduation she attended Cosmetology school in Green Bay, graduating in 1966. Mary worked in Green Bay a few years before returning home to Egg Harbor where she worked for various salons including Alden's, Delores's and Dannhausen's. While living in Egg Harbor she met Bob Mueller who was co-owner of Mueller Bros Standard, they were married on April 28th 1973 at St John's parish now Stella Maris.

     In the fall of 1973  Bob and Mary built a home south of Egg Harbor, where she opened Mary's Beauty Salon. Mary operated her business until 2015 when the business slowed and licensing demands became higher. As a fire chief's wife, Mary helped Bob with many reports, organizing benefits & making sandwiches & coffee in the wee hours for the guys when large fires were being fought.

     Mary worked 7 nights a week at  Mueller's Mini Mart for many years. She enjoyed chit chatting with the many locals and tourists that stopped to get gas, snacks, newspapers,  beverages and "Smokey treats", or maybe "just to use the bathroom".  When the station sold, she missed that every day conversation with her customers.

     In the 1970’s she bowled on the Gambles team with her sister Donna at Apple Valley Lanes. She also snowmobiled, cross country skied (mostly in the yard), roller skated and ice skated. Mary was involved with St John's Alter Society, Christian Mothers, Egg Harbor Chicks Homemaker Club and The Egg Harbor Lites 4H Club.     

     She enjoyed spending time with her kids & grandkids, and her mother-daughter time with Lisa going to Oneida Casino and Ho-Chunk in the Wisconsin Dells. When she could, she enjoyed seeing her grandson Jake play with the Modern Day Drifters and his many concerts at school. She loved music & dancing. Her grandson Bub was a ray of sunshine for her, spending time with grandma when mom & dad were working,  and playing board games, different card games, and attending his school programs.

     Holidays were Mary’s favorite time to spend with her family, especially Christmas. Many old stories were told, family reminiscing,  and lots of tears were shed from laughing so hard.

     She will be dearly missed by her children, Lisa ( Greg ) Hartl,  Bobby ( Jackie) Mueller; grandchildren, Jacob Hartl & Bobby "Bub" Mueller, who referred to her as "Grandma BP"; two brothers, Jerry (friend, Lorie Bittorf) LeMere, Jim & Cindy LeMere; brother in-law, Norb Mueller; sister in-law, Char Mueller; and many nieces and nephews.

     Preceding her in death were her parents, Lavern and Leah LeMere; husband, Bob Mueller; granddaughter, Samantha Hartl; sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Allen Miller; great niece, Talhia Heroux; great nephew, Bo Johnson Miller; in-laws, Herbert & Catherine Mueller; brother in-law, Herb Mueller; and great nephew, Shane Brown.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 3, 2023 at Stella Maris, Egg Harbor site with Fr. Bob Stegmann officiating.  Burial will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery.  

     Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Huehns Funeral Home and at the church Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m.  A parish wake will be held Thursday 7:30 p.m. at Huehns Funeral Home.  

     In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed  in her name to the Sturgeon Bay High School band program or Door County Fire Chiefs Defib 4.

     Our family would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mark Schleicher, Miranda Bade, Jeff Meyer, and Brad Lautenbach who were the first to render aid,  The Egg Harbor 1st Responders, Door County EMS, & the ER Staff who did everything possible to try to keep mom with us longer. As a family, we would also like to thank Dr Steven Gerndt, vascular surgeon at Bellin Hospital and his team, who did mom's bypasses  in August 2021. He gave Mom another 18 months we might not of had with her.

     Sign online guestbook, offer condolences, share memories and photos of Mary at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com  

Peggy A. Kain, 83, of Sturgeon Bay, died Wednesday February 22, 2023, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton.  Peggy was born March 13, 1939, as the youngest of eight, in Eagle River Alaska, daughter of Frank and Margaret Worden.  In 1935, Frank and Margaret homesteaded in Alaska along with five young children, before having three more Alaskan born.  Peggy’s parents returned the family to Wisconsin in the early 1950’s.

On August 22, 1959, she married Jerome H. Kain in Appleton.  Peggy had various jobs until the birth of her children. While living in Sturgeon Bay she worked at the Bank of Sturgeon Bay and for the School District of Sturgeon Bay. Peggy retired in 1996.

Peggy was a beloved and devoted mother who loved golfing with her husband (boasting 2 Hole-in-Ones during their many rounds), hiking and enjoying the outdoors in both Door County and St. George, Utah.  She was Jerry’s constant copilot on many adventurous road trips. Peggy also enjoyed painting in various forms and photography of the nature and birds she loved so much.

She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Jerry, son Jeffery of Fort Wayne, Indiana and daughter Stacey of Crystal Lake, Illinois; two sisters, Joyce Osborn of San Antonio, Texas and Pat (Bill) Smudde of Milton, Florida, sisters-in-law, Patsy Worden of Appleton and Pat Worden of Appleton, brother-in-law Bruce (Diana) Kain of Appleton and many uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Jack, Ronald, Kenneth and Richard, sister Lois Burns, and brother-in-law James Kain.

There is a visitation scheduled for Thursday, March 2nd at Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay from 4:00 – 6:30 pm.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Crossroads at Big Creek (2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or crossroadsatbigcreek.com).

Carolyn Selma (Anderson) (Jessen) Cornell, Lake Havasu City AZ formerly of Washington Island WI left us for a better place February 18, 2023. Carolyn was born May 29, 1933 to the late Clarence and Hildegard Anderson and was raised on Washington Island. Carolyn spent her summers growing up on Pilot Island as her father was the lighthouse keeper at the time and carried on a long family history of Great Lakes maritime heritage. She enjoyed telling many interesting stories of her unique upbringing from island to island.

Carolyn was united in marriage to Thomas Jessen Sr. in May of 1955 and together they operated Viking Village Motel welcoming guests from all over with open arms. Tom was a commercial fisherman, but Carolyn was Tom’s best catch. Tom and Carolyn raised three children: Susan, Jane and Thomas Jr. and shared a beautiful marriage for 39 years before Tom’s death.    

Carolyn had many interests, including a career in real estate on the Island, but had a deep love for cooking (especially her delicious peanut brittle), Washington Island and all its natural surroundings, Washington Island baseball games, sewing and quilting, gardening, traveling, camping and spending time with friends and family. Carolyn was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the Rotary Club, and a proud dame of the Red Hatters Club.

She is preceded in death and joined in heaven by her parents Clarence and Hildegard, older brother Clarence Paul, first husband Thomas Sr., second husband Jerry Cornell, son Thomas Jr., and daughter Jane Young. She is survived and will be sadly missed by daughter Susan (Frank) Schlegel, son in law Tony Young, grandchildren Jessica (Brian) Baptiste, Matt Young, and Ben (Laura) Young, great granddaughters Jordan and Zoe Baptiste and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Havasu and extremely generous neighbors for all of the comfort provided in her last moments.

Margie Elizabeth Hedsand, 92, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away in the loving arms of her family and was reunited with her husband, Fred, late Monday afternoon, February 20, 2023 at Door County Medical Center in Sturgeon Bay.

She was born December 8, 1930 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of George William Mathauser and Margie (Eller) Mathauser. Margie grew up in Chicago and graduated from Lincoln High School and then went on to study contometry.

She met Fred Ronald Hedsand at a roller rink while there with friends. They were united in marriage in on June 3, 1951 in Chicago. Marige and Fred eventually settled in Dolton, IL where they raised their family. Together, Margie and Fred and their family attended Ivanhoe Reformed Church in Riverdale, IL.

Margie initially worked nights for various places through an agency in Illinois.

She and Fred and their family moved to Door County, WI in 1971, and they resided in the Town of Gardner. Margie was initially employed with Dorco Manufacturing in Sturgeon Bay where she worked as a assembly worker. She worked at KMart in Sturgeon Bay in the deli. Margie also helped in the kitchen, washing dishes at the Mill Supper Club just north of Sturgeon Bay in the Town of Sevastopol with the Petersilka family and then at Sunset Grill on Rileys Point Road in the Town of Gardner with many of her children. Despite all of the places she worked, her primary care was taking care of her family and home.

Margie and Fred were blessed with over 43 years of marriage. Fred preceded her in death on February 2, 1995.

Margie was an avid knitter who would make sweaters, hats, mittens, and stockings for her family. She loved playing bingo at Oneida Casino. Many friends and community members enjoyed riding “Fred’s Bingo Bus” to the casino with Margie and Fred. Margie was a proud Chicago Bears and Cubs fan, despite (some of) her family’s hopes for her to sport the green and gold, having moved to Wisconsin. When Fred died (and throughout her life), she devoted herself to her family and cherished the time she spent with them.

Margie’s love will live on in the hearts of her children, Kim (Clayton) Hartwig, Lori Flick (Jerry) Langer, both of the Town of Gardner, Fred “Ron” (Lynn) Hedsand, Jr. of the Town of Sevastopol, David (Renee) Hedsand of the Village of Ashwaubenon, Paul (Gina) Hedsand of the Village of Bellevue, and Margie (Troy) Gigstead of the Town of Nasewaupee; she was “Nanny” to her grandchildren, Christopher (Jodi) Pagels, Jessica (Kevin) Voss and Heather (Andrew) Flick, Amber (Brent) Ryalnd and Ashley (Markus) Tassoul, Devin (Stephanie) Hedsand, Dustin (Sara) Hedsand, Hanna (Kris Gallagher) Hedsand, and Haley Hedsand and Jordan Hedsand; and “Nanny Nanny” to her great-grandchildren, Tyler, Logan, Owen, and Sydney, Rylee and Dalton, Alex and Nick, Briggs and Ashlynn, Lexi, Abby, and Grace, and Shelby and Anari; other relatives; and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; granddaughter, Kelly Pagels; son-in-law, David Pagels; three siblings, Lorraine (Erv) Irwin, Francis Smith, and Eugene (Isabel) Mathauser; sister-in-law, Janet (John) Madden; and other relatives.

Margie's life will be honored with a funeral service held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023 at Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay with Rev. Carol Reynolds and Rev. Phillips Sweet officiating. She will be laid to rest in Hainesville Cemetery in the Town of Nasewaupee, beside her husband, Fred.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Memorials may be given in Margie’s name for the Wisconsin Humane Society-Door County Campus (3475 Park Drive, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235; 920-746-1111) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org; 1-800-822-6344).

“Our family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the staffs of the Pete and Jelaine Horton Skilled Nursing Center at Door County Medical Center and Door County Medical Center for the wonderful and compassionate care given to our mother.”

Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Margie may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.

Michael T. Olson, 76 of Ellison Bay, died Saturday February 18, 2023, at Door County Medical Center after living with Parkinson’s the past few years.

     He was born May 5, 1946 in Sturgeon Bay, the son of the late Clyde and Bessie (Tong) Olson.  Mike graduated from Gibraltar High School in 1964.  On November 6, 1965, he married his high school sweetheart Mary J. Smith at St. Rosalia’s before being drafted into the U.S. Marines to serve in Vietnam from 1966-1968.  Mike started at PBI welding and eventually worked his way up to project manager at PBI and with Project Management Solutions.  He worked 28 years with PBI here in Sturgeon Bay and in Louisiana.

     Mike was a member and past commander of VFW Post 8337 in Ellison Bay.

     From an early age, Mike loved adventure and the outdoors.   His time spent outdoors was with the wind in his face riding a motorcycle, hunting, fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing with his family and friends.   Mike enjoyed working on collectible cars and hanging out with his Sister Bay car group.

     He was an all-around great guy, selfless, giving of himself when you needed a hand.   Mike never passed up a chance to offer stopping to eat with those he would be around or find an excuse to stop for ice cream.

     Surviving family include his wife, Mary of Ellison Bay; two sons, Christopher (Melissa) Olson, David (special friend, Darcey) Olson both of Sturgeon Bay; grandchildren, Monica (Craig) Turner, Matthew (Kayla) Olson, Melanie (Martin) Ramirez, Marshall (Taylor) Olson, Levi (finance, Lexi Lautenbach) Olson, William Olson, Emma Olson, Josephine Olson, Ava (special friend, Mack Ellison) Olson, Jackson Olson; twelve great-grandchildren with #13 on the way;  brother, Robert (Carol) Olson; Smith family in-laws, Yvonne (James) Speiser, Kathy Manson, Michael Smith, Thomas Smith, Richard Smith, Debbie (Don) Lettie, Bruce Smith, Brian Smith, Annette Nagel Olson; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

     Preceding him in death was his parents, Clyde and Bessie Olson, and his brother, James Olson.

     Funeral services and military honors are being planned for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 25, 2023, at Stella Maris Parish in Sister Bay with Fr. Tom Farrell officiating.  Burial will be at Ellison Bay Cemetery. 

     Friends may call on Saturday at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m. 

     Casperson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.   

Marion “Mimpsy” L. Orlock, 94, of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, passed away Thursday, February 16, 2023, in the late afternoon surrounded by her family. She had been battling various health ailments for the past few months, so when the end came, it was a blessing that relieved her suffering however much she’ll be missed.

     The oldest of three children of Elmer and Adeleine Giovannoni) Tracy, Mrs. Orlock was born November 11, 1928, in Hinsdale, Illinois. She grew up a farm girl and attended public schools in the community, graduating from Hinsdale High School before taking a secretarial position at the Homer Gwinn Insurance Company, where she met her future husband, John A. Orlock. The two were married on January 27, 1950, and together raised a family of seven children, residing first in Hinsdale and later in Downers Grove: Pamela Louise Foulk of Sturgeon Bay, Michael John (Liz) of Sturgeon Bay, John Orlock of Sturgeon Bay, Robert John (Trish) of Madison, Alabama, Jane Louise Bawel (Brandon) of Downers Grove, Patricia Louise Schaefer (Mark) of Evanston, and Amy Louise Wagner (Joe) of Downers Grove.

     Mrs. Orlock and her husband retired to Sturgeon Bay, a favorite vacation spot, in 1989. She became active in the community, volunteering for various organizations, such as Helpline and continuing adult education in learning in retirement, where she developed an interest and talent in watercolors and acrylic painting. Some of her work appeared in various galleries and displays in the Sturgeon Bay Public Library. She was also active in church affairs at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Sturgeon Bay. She enjoyed socializing with friends and relatives, especially during summer months. She and her husband were enthusiastic bike riders and could often be seen cruising the quiet country roads of the county on extended “bike hikes”. She also enjoyed reading, writing silly poems, the occasional movie and play, caring for her cat, Pudd’n, and playing bridge on a regular basis up through late 2022, when growing health problems curtailed her social activities.

     She is survived by each of her children; 21 grandchildren, Jennifer Arias, Eric Cletcher, Meghan Cletcher, Ryan Cletcher, Daniel Cletcher, Anne Cletcher, Tara Evans, Christopher Orlock, Nicholas Orlock, Jessica Herzog, Emily Orlock, Gus Orlock, Jason Happel, Tim Happel, Melissa Happel, Chuck Bawel, Brooke McCarty, Sam Graf, Danielle Schaefer, Lawrence Wagner, and Anne Wagner; and 21 great-grandchildren, Erin, Evelyn, Stella, Opal, Levi, Lyla, Kapri, Kayla, Rory, Rosi, Addie, Connor, Parker, Carson, Hayley, Jaden, Jacob, Valis, Carter, Nash, and Tripp.

     Mrs. Orlock was preceded in death by her parents; two younger siblings, Melvin and Jeanne; her beloved husband of 60 years, John, who passed away October 13, 2010; and great-grandson, Mason Potter.

     A Memorial Mass to honor her life will be held on Monday, February 27, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Sturgeon Bay at 11:00 a.m.

     Visitation for friends and family will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be given to Compassus Hospice in consideration of the care offered by their wonderful staff in the last weeks of Mrs. Orlock’s life.

     Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC of Sturgeon Bay are assisting the Orlock family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Mrs. Orlock may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.

James Alan Rose, known by family and friends as Jim, died on February 6, 2023, in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, at 56. Jim was born in Beech Grove, Indiana, and spent the majority of his childhood abroad, living in France, Puerto Rico, and England. He attended Bard College in New York briefly before completing a BFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1988, with a focus in sculpture.

Jim met his future wife, Suzanne, at SAIC, and they became partners in life and art in 1986. They transplanted to southern Door County in 1994, where they settled down and raised their daughter Delilah, enjoyed country living, and feverishly gardened.

Jim was a force in the studio furniture movement for more than three decades. He was a nationally recognized artist with his work in private and public collections from coast to coast, with gallery representation in Chicago, Milwaukee, Pittsburg, Buffalo, and Fish Creek.

As an artist, he was an expert at looking carefully and seeing the world through many lenses. Renowned for his superb craftsmanship, Jim created a minimalist style that honored and was influenced by culturally grounded sensibilities, including those of the American Shaker, Asian, and African American quilting traditions.

Jim spent most of his career making steel furniture though he expanded his portfolio to create a vast collection of small, house-like structures, paper collages, and sculpture.

Jim was a skilled sailor, loved swimming in both Lake Michigan and the Sturgeon Bay canal, and, in recent years, became an avid cyclist. He was fluent in French and Spanish and could mimic a flawless Scouse accent. Forever charming Jim will be remembered for his dry humor and the mischievous sparkle in his eyes.

He is survived by his daughter, (ex) wife, father, sisters, extended family, and many friends – far and wide - who loved him deeply.

Today, Jim’s artworks are held in important private and museum collections, including the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC, the Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh, PA; The Museum of Arts and Design, New York, NY; The Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI, the Society for Contemporary Craft, Pittsburgh, PA, The Chipstone Foundation, Fox Point, WI, the Museum of Wisconsin Art, West Bend, Wisconsin, the Racine Art Museum, Racine, WI; the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan, WI, and others.
 

If so inclined, please make donations in remembrance of Jim Rose to either the Sturgeon Bay United Methodist Church Annual All Community Thanksgiving Dinner or CERF+.

Please know there is always someone to speak to no matter how heavy the burden – dial 988 or 920-746-2588 for 24-hour Emotional Support, Suicide Prevention, and Crisis Lifeline.

Cecilia (Katie) V. Freund died peacefully at Scandia Village on February 03, 2023, surrounded by special friends, music and prayer. She was born in Milwaukee, WI, to Jerome and Angeline (nee Beth) Van de Kamp on October 14, 1929, the eldest of their three daughters.

     As a young teen Katie entered the Sisters of the Divine Savior, where she became Sister Cecilia, named in honor of the Patron Saint of Music. As a Sister of the Divine Savior, she earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Alverno College and a Master of Music degree from Northwestern University. Katie taught English and Music at Divine Savior – Holy Angels High School, and later Music at Divine Savior Junior College in Milwaukee. She went on to be the Chairman of the Fine Arts Department for Mount St. Paul College in Waukesha, WI.

     Katie returned to secular life in 1969, focusing on studies at Northwestern University, where she earned a Ph.D. in Musicology, after completion of her two-volume dissertation on the Cantate da camera of Alessandro Scarlatti.

     In 1974, Katie married Nick Freund. They traveled to Europe multiple times for Katie to study Scarlatti in preparation for her thesis. They spent over 20 years in the Chicago area where she gave private keyboard lessons to youth and adults and was the organist at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, having been hired to make the parish “a singing church”. In 2000, Nick and Katie moved to Door County, a beloved vacation destination. Once in their new Bailey’s Harbor home, Katie began teaching piano. She was the organist at the Stella Maris Fish Creek site for 14 years. Early on she began a choir and welcomed all to pray through music. In addition, she was the organist and choir director at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Baileys Harbor.

     Although Katie left religious life, its impact never left her. She continued to encourage deep spirituality in others and practiced the discipline of prayer and meditation she had learned as a Sister. Katie loved good political discourse, nature, her cats, reading the New Yorker from cover to cover, poetry, theatre, musical performances and sharing her love of music. She reveled in a student’s joy of commanding a new piece of music and was proud of their hard work and successes. She inspired her students and choirs to make music throughout their lives.

     Katie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Nick, her two sisters and their husbands, Rita and Gordon Robertson and Phyllis and Richard Runde and sister-in-law Charlotte Korus. She is survived by her brothers-in-law and their wives, Daniel and Ruth Freund, and Victor and Katherine Freund, special niece Beth Leedom, special grandniece Kaitlyn Runde Kulseth, and close friends, Marcie Jennings, Julie Kudick, Becky Nash, Angela Packard and Linda Schwaller. Other survivors include numerous nieces and nephews on both sides of the family.

     A Funeral Mass and celebration of Katie’s life will be held Friday, February 24, 2023, at Stella Maris Fish Creek site at 11:00 a.m. Friends may call at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

     Memorials in honor of Katie may be made to Birch Creek Music (P.O. Box 230, Egg Harbor, WI 54209), Midsummer’s Music Ltd (10568 Country Walk Ln, Unit 43, Sister Bay, WI 54234), or the Stella Maris Liturgical Music Program (P.O. Box 49, 7710 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor, WI 54209).

     Katie greatly appreciated all those who provided caring assistance to her while living at Scandia Village, especially Lori, RN.

     Casperson Funeral Home in Sister Bay, WI is assisting with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos may be shared on the tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.

Don “YUKON” Erickson, age 85 of Sun City Center, FL and originally from Sister Bay, Door County WI passed away on February 8, 2023 after a brief illness.  He was born March 6, 1937 to Paul Erickson and Alice (Linden) Erickson and lived most of his life in Sister Bay.  A man of many talents, he started in the building trades as a mason, then moved on to be one of the founding partners of Carlson-Erickson Builders, had Don Erickson Excavating, owned and developed Appleport Storage, owner of Champeau Floor Covering, developer partner of both Skogland Condominium and Woodcrest Condominium in Sister Bay.  He was a member of Nor Dor Lodge and Billy Weiss American Legion.  Many will remember him as umpire for Sister Bay’s softball league, not to mention, giver of many nicknames (he rarely called anyone by their given name).   After retirement, he, along with his wife, Judith relocated to their vacation home in Sun City Center, FL.  Yukon’s talent of gardening bloomed in the Florida climate and he found endless hours of enjoyment working in his yard and gardens.  He also enjoyed and expanded his wood carving abilities, earning blue ribbons at the Florida State and County Fairs every year.  Every Wednesday you’d find him volunteering at Sun City Center’s Front Porch Pickers greeting friends and fellow fans.

Yukon married his beloved Judith (Ostran) on March 12, 1960, who preceded him in death.  Others passing before him were both his parents, sister Barbara Scheider, granddaughter Tessa Erickson, and James Adams.  He is survived by his three children; Andrea Erickson, Kirsten (Croydon Kemp) Erickson, and Linden (Debra Anderson) Erickson, 5 grandchildren; Tyler Adams, Alissa (Marcus) Anschutz, Amber (Rich) Fleckenstein, Isaiah Erickson, and Eli Erickson, along with 6 great grandchildren, niece Susie Schieder and many cousins.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date in Door County.

Memorials may be made to:  Sister Bay Historical Society

Dean Joseph Schlise, 61, of Forestville, passed away on February 10, 2023, surrounded by his family following a battle with cancer.

Dean was born on November 19, 1961, in Algoma to Robert “Scoop” and Janice (Dandois) Schlise. He graduated from Southern Door High School and began a life-long career working with his hands. He soon found his passion in woodworking as a successful carpenter by trade, installing his work across Northeast Wisconsin while also building beautiful, hand crafted pieces for his family. Dean was proud to end his career at CTI Hospitality, where he enjoyed working for 14 years.

He married the love of his life and best friend, Brenda Lee Denil, on September 2, 1989, at Holy Name of Mary Church in Maplewood. They were blessed with two wonderful sons, Maxwell and Mitchell.

Dean had a true love for aviation, traveling to Oshkosh with Scoop for the annual EAA Airventure. It eventually became an annual family trip; year after year he, Brenda and the boys, spent more and more time there, volunteering, camping, and creating life-long friends. Dean obtained his own private pilots license and both of his boys are following in his path.

Dean was a kind, compassionate, and giving man. Whether serving on Knights of Columbus, helping his children with home remodels, or making Scoop’s famous mettwurst sausage for anyone who asked. He was a devout Catholic, whose faith and kindness shined through to everyone he met.

Dean is survived by his wife, Brenda, his sons, Max Schlise (Blair Wautlet), and Mitchell (Rachal) Schlise; and grandson, Bensen Schlise. Also surviving are his mother, Janice Schlise, his brother David (Karen) Schlise, father and mother-in-law, Walter and Mildred Denil, brothers- and sisters- in law, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is proceeding in death by his twin infant sons, Tyler and Travis Schlise, his father, Robert “Scoop” Schlise, and his brother-in-law, Donald “Woody” Denil.

Dean’s life will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 15 with visitation from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay. Visitation will continue on Thursday morning at Holy Name of Mary Church in Maplewood at 10:00 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Holy Name of Mary Cemetery.  On-line condolences may be offered at forbesfuneralhome.com

Ruth M. Frisque, 90, Casco, passed away on February 8, 2023. Ruth was born on December 8, 1932, to the late Horace and Rose (Naze) Bellin. On February 6, 1951, she married Bernard Mark Frisque at St. Hubert Catholic Church in Rosiere. He preceded her in death on May 2, 2018.

Together with her husband Ruth helped run the family farm. She was an Altar Society member at church always helping with the Kermis and funeral meals. She was dedicated to her faith praying the rosary often. She loved polka music, snowmobiling, visiting with people, and above all spending time with the grandkids and great-grandkids.

Ruth is survived by her son, Jerry (Jackie) Frisque; son-in-law, Joe Jerabek; grandchildren, Aaron Jerabek, John (Amolia) Jerabek, Jordan (Chelesy) Jerabek, Jenny (Jeremy) Rentmeester, Justin Frisque, Leah (special friend Blake) Bloomer, and Ronni (Jesse) Ledvina; great-grandchildren, Sam, and Marina Jerabek, William, and Evelyn Jerabek, Ella and Emmitt Rentmeester, Aaylah and Rowen Bloomer, and Atlas and Josie Ledvina; as well as by nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard Mark Frisque; daughter, Mary Jerabek; son, Kelly Frisque; parents, Horace and Rose Bellin; brother Cletus Bellin; sister, Delores (Norbert) Dhuey; father- and mother-in-law, Oliver and Jane Frisque; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Ada (John) Retzlaff, Priscilla (Roy) Bournoville, and Mary Jane (Harold) Kinnard.

Visitation will take place at Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services – Casco from 3:00-7:00 pm on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 pm with Deacon Bob Miller. Visitation will continue on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church from 9:00-11:00 am. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am with Fr. Edward Looney officiating. Burial to follow in the church cemetery. Online condolence messages may be shared at KinnardFCS.com.

Gerald Francis Murphy, "Jerry" to all who knew and loved him, 93, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away Sunday morning, January 29, 2023 at the Pete and Jelaine Horton Skilled Nursing Center at Door County Medical Center in Sturgeon Bay with his family at his side.

     He was born October 27, 1929 in Chicago, IL, the son of Edward and Mary (Davey) Murphy. Jerry grew up attending St. Cyril Grade School and then St. Cyril High School, both in Chicago. He served his country with the United States Army, entering into active duty on October 30, 1946. While in the Army, Jerry completed school for food service. He was honorably discharged from the Army on April 1, 1948 and from his service.

     Upon his return home, Jerry worked part-time as a butcher in Chicago for a short time and for the Illinois Central Railroad. He then worked for Prudential Insurance Company in Chicago. After that, Jerry’s career was in sales with several paper and packaging companies.  He mostly worked for National Checking Company and Chippewa Paper Company in traveling sales. Jerry lived in Chicago, IL, then Cleveland, OH, Seattle, WA (for over 30 years), then California for a short time before moving to Sturgeon Bay seven years ago where his daughters, Donna and Joanne were living. Jerry was a resident of Anna's Healthcare CBRF until late December 2022.

      He enjoyed attending horse races in Arlington, IL, Cleveland, OH, and Seattle, WA. Jerry was an avid reader, walker, and golfer. He was definitely a foodie. Jerry loved being with family and cherished the time spent with them. He had an appreciation for travel and genealogy and looked up relatives from Ireland. Jerry enjoyed his trips to France and Ireland to visit family.

     He will be missed by his three daughters, Donna Murphy, Joanne (Greg) Patterson, both of Sturgeon Bay, and Francine Murphy of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; five grandchildren, Elena Santiago and Brandon Gerald (Chelsey) Jubelirer, and Katherine Patterson, Margaret Patterson, and Hannah (Nick) Lamson; great-grandson, Slade Rudniski; and many nephews and one niece.

     Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, John (Geraldine) Murphy and James (Betty) Murphy; and other relatives.

     Jerry will be laid to rest in Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King (near Waupaca) with a private committal for family at a later date.

     Memorials may be given in his honor for any local AA group.

     "Our family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff of Anna's Healthcare, especially Brenda and Heather, for the wonderful care you gave during Dads time with you.. Also to the staffs of the skilled nursing facility and Unity Hospice, especially Ashley RN for the kind and compassionate care you gave this past month."

     Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC in Sturgeon Bay are assisting the Murphy family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Jerry may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.

James R. “Flash” Gordon, 62, of Baileys Harbor died peacefully at his home on the farm Friday, February 3, 2023 with wife Ann at his side.

He was born to Phillip and Clara “Curly Root” Gordon in Sturgeon Bay and was a lifelong resident of Door County with Gordon Lodge being his home until 1985. Jim attended Liberty Grove and Baileys Harbor grade schools, graduating from Florida Air Academy in 1977. He pursued continuing education classes including hospitality, food service industry certifications, bakery, Auto CAD, festival and event planning, and had membership in the Wisconsin Bakers Association.

Jim and Ann Miller were married on July 20, 1993 but waited to celebrate till October 31 due to the busy tourism season. They were the inseparable duo. In 2003 they established Door County Kraut Company on the Miller Family farm keeping its agricultural heritage alive. In 2006, after the duo completed restoration of the Robert Miller’s 1887 log farmhouse, Gustav’s Getaway historic German Settlement vacation home rentals opened. This was the first of three historic German Settlement homes he and Ann would restore/renovate through the years. Jim believed in saving history for future generations.

Jim had a deep sense of patriotism and community volunteerism. This included the Baileys Harbor Community Sign, Community Calendar Group, and Business Association. Events included the 1998 Sesquicentennial Festival, Autumn Fest Auto Shows, and 4th of July festivities. Jim assisted with technical support in the application processes for the Door County Coastal Byway in their successful quests for both State of Wisconsin and National Scenic Byway designation. These designations brought him great joy and pride in place.

Survivors include his wife, Ann; sister, Bonnie of Wapiti, WY and Mesquite NV; and nephew, Eric of Chicago.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents; parents, Phillip and Clara Gordon; brother, Tom; aunts and uncles.

As Jim requested there will be no funeral service.

Thanks go out to the Door County Emergency Services, the skilled staff at Door County Medical Center and St. Vincent Hospital, Unity Hospice, Ann’s cousins, neighbors, and friends who assisted Ann during his hospice time and friends and relatives who got that chance to say goodbye in person while he was yet alive. It meant more than you will ever know to both he and Ann.

Jim desired to live with Ann to a ripe old age, but glioblastoma quashed this quest. His humor and unwavering love and friendship will be greatly missed. He always had my six. Ann

Direct memorials in Jim’s memory to Ann Miller, 2604 Grove Road, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202.

Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Sister Bay is assisting the Gordon family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of James may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.

Beverly Jane Wienke, 82, of rural Algoma, founder and owner of Wienke’s Market, peacefully gained eternal life on February 5, 2023. She was born October 11, 1940, in Algoma WI, to Elden and Edith (Stuebs) Nelson. 

Jane graduated from Algoma High School in 1958 and attended UW-Oshkosh, earning a  bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1962.  Jane was an inaugural faculty member of Southern Door High School that same year.  She married Don Frederic Wienke on October 13, 1962 at Forest Lutheran Church in Carnot, WI and they had four children.

In the mid 1960’s, Jane went on to help Don operate the Piggly Wiggly Store in Algoma.  In the early 1970’s, Jane and Don established the Wienke’s Market and through her untiring work ethic proved to make the business successful with the help of all her loyal employees through the years.  She also drove school bus for Southern Door High School for many years.

Jane was very active throughout her life.  She would always be seen weeding, cultivating, and harvesting.  Her love of sports was evident in her attendance at her childrens’ and grandchildrens’ events.  She also loved golfing and bowling.

Survivors include her four children, Hans and Kaye Wienke, Iron Mountain, MI; Sigrid and David Slaby, Algoma; Tollef and Sheila Wienke, Forestville; and Marit and Jim Virgin, Sturgeon Bay; grandchildren, Nelson (Lisa), Ian, and Aidan Wienke; Sam Slaby (Lindsey Brehmer), Nate (Lyanne) Slaby; Ella, Sanya, Paula, Shambo, Tre, Zone, Daniel, Kemal, Maria, and Jhonatan Wienke; Wolfgang, Greta and Sven Virgin; great-grandson Declan Slaby, sister- in-law Theresa Nelson, Ripon; brothers, Roger and Mary Nelson, Algoma; Lyle and Monica Nelson, Sturgeon Bay; Alfred “Fritz”and Joyce Nelson, College Station, TX; in-laws, Kenneth Cocking, Prophetstown, IL; Jon and Gail Wienke, Sturgeon Bay, WI; Aunt Fama (Curt) Baxstrom, Sequim, WA; she is further survived by many nieces and nephews.

Jane was preceded in death by her husband, parents, in-laws Fred and Ruth Wienke, brother Eric Nelson, sister-in-law Joanne Cocking and infant nephew Carl Nelson.

A celebration of life will be held at Wienke’s Market (292 County S, Algoma) on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, from 12:00 – 4:00 pm. A memorial fund has been established in her name. Forbes Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Special thanks to Pam, Dusty, Nikki and staff at Helping Hearts Assisted Living for your loving care, Unity Hospice, Bob Steiner for his spiritual guidance, and special friends of the family, Hope Impullitti and Janel Kettering.

When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart. Then I shall bow, in humble adoration And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art.