Mathilde Marie Hannemann, 96, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away September 25, 2026, at Sturgeon Bay Health Services. She was born January 18, 1930, at Leasum Hospital which was on the corner of 3rd Ave. and Michigan St. in Sturgeon Bay, the daughter of the late Ole and Elizabeth (Hansen) Bergsland. Mathilde was a proud graduate of Sturgeon Bay High School. In 1950, she met Richard Hannemann I at a Hainesville Sunday School picnic. He proposed a week later and the two were married on February 18, 1950. They enjoyed over 74 years of marriage until Richard preceded her in death on August 11, 2024. Mathilde and Richard operated a dairy farm on Larson Rd. in Nasewaupee from the date of their marriage until 1972 when they moved to Salona Road, east of Maplewood, where they continued to farm for the rest of their lives. She was a very hard worker and loved raising chickens and milking cows on the farm. In addition to farming, Mathilde worked for Amity Leather and Leathem Smith Lodge. Mathilde was a very faithful Christian woman. She was the oldest continuous member of Hainesville Lutheran Church, for 96 years, where she sang in the choir (and knew many hymns by heart) and was very active in the Ladies Aid. Mathilde was also a member of the Homemaker’s Club and the Eastern Star. Being 100 percent Norwegian, Mathilde was very proud of her heritage and able to speak fluent Norwegian since childhood. Most of all, she treasured the time she spent raising her children and the time she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by four children, Sheila (Don) Dipprey, Comstock, WI; Randi (Randy) Tassoul, Brussels; Rick (Vicki) Hannemann and Gary Hannemann all of Sturgeon Bay; 9 grandchildren, Michael Peters, Marcia Willming, Ryan Peters, Cindy Boggess, Lisa Dipprey, Katie Wagner, Matthew Tassoul, Markus Tassoul, and Derek Hannemann; 9 great-grandchildren, Remington Peters, Cambria Willming, Nathan Boggess, Andrew Boggess, Charles Wagner, Lexi Tassoul, Beckett Tassoul, Briggs Tassoul, and Ashlynn Tassoul; son-in-law, Dave Peters, Sturgeon Bay; sister-in-law, Bonnie Hannemann, Miami, FL; nephew, Scott Hannemann, Miami, FL; 2 great-nieces, Maddie and Lexi; and many other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Hannemann I; a daughter, Darlene Peters; her parents, Ole and Elizabeth Bergsland, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kasper and Eleanor Hannemann, and a brother-in-law, Dr. Charles Hannemann. Visitation for Mathilde will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Hainesville Lutheran Church from 10:00 AM until the time of a memorial service at 11:00 AM. Officiating at the memorial service will be Rev. Mary Lou Plummer. Mathilde will be laid to rest at Hainesville Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Hainesville Lutheran Church. Special thanks to the staff at Sturgeon Bay Health Services and Unity Hospice for the compassionate care and support. The Forbes Funeral Home & Cremations is assisting the family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy and memories may be shared with Mathilde’s family on her memorial page at www.forbesfuneralhome.com

William “Bill” David Calkins, 79, passed away from complications from Alzheimer’s. He passed peacefully with family and loved ones nearby. Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Priscilla “Poo” Calkins, (nee Gilbert) and his parents, Betty and Bob Calkins. He is survived by his devoted sister, Julia Calkins Peterson (Jim) of Asheville, North Carolina, and his faithful companion, Rudy, a Maltipoo. Bill was born and raised in Peoria, Illinois. After graduating from the University of Missouri, Bill served in the Army for several years. After his service, he attended the University of Missouri Law School, where he was editor of the Law Review and elected to the Order of the Coif. Bill practiced law in Kansas City, Missouri before relocating to Wisconsin, where he was an executive at Miller Electric Company in Appleton for many years. Bill lived in Door County for 40 years and was a generous supporter of the community. He was a founding board member of the Door County Auditorium and a member of the Peninsula Players board. An avid golfer, Bill was a member of the Horseshoe Bay Country Club and a regular player at the Peninsula State Park course. Bill’s annual golf outing, The Porterhouse Open, was a popular event with his golf buddies. Bill was a founding member of the Reserve Club in Indian Wells, California, where he owned a winter residence for many years. During that period, he served on the board of the Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage. One of Bill’s passions was boating, initially in the Caribbean, and for many years in the waters surrounding the Door Peninsula. When he wasn’t on the water, Bill could often be found on his boat, Wanbli, relaxing and bantering with fellow boaters at the Yachtworks marina in Sister Bay. The family would like to thank the special people who helped care for Bill: Dr. Joseph Rebhan, Mona Rabas, RN, caregivers Colleen Paris and Tracy Matheny, Unity Hospice, Maureen Mercier and Stephany Cosgrove. Also, very supportive of Bill’s journey were his close friends: Patti Seger, Mike Bacsi, Steve Fischer, Patsy Lee, James “JJ” and Kris Johnson, John and Jackie Sawyer, and Dick and Sue Staver. Bill was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Sister Bay, WI. Donations in Bill’s name may be given to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (2336 Canterbury Lane, PO Box 559, Sister Bay, WI 54234; www.stlukes-sisterbay.org). Details regarding a celebration of life and the scattering of Bill’s ashes in Lake Michigan will be announced by the family at a later date. Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC in Sister Bay, is assisting Bill's family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Bill may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

Dennis J. Vogel (b. 1953), 73, was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday August 26th, 2026 after an unexpected heart attack in the recovery room after a minor medical procedure in Savannah, Ga. Dennis was born and raised in Sturgeon Bay, WI. There he grew up on the Vogel family farm, graduated from Southern Door High School, served as a volunteer firefighter, and worked in the ship yard at Peterson Builders. He later moved and spent the last several decades in Savannah, GA where he was proud to serve the Savannah College of Art and Design on their building maintenance team. He is remembered for always having tools ready and for jumping to help anyone in need or who asked. In recent years, Dennis loved his family and friends, fishing, a cold beverage, sitting & enjoying the evening sea breeze on his back deck, and great conversations and fellowship with his loved ones. Dennis was a member of Risen Savior Lutheran Church in Pooler, GA. In his youth he enjoyed deer hunting and driving demolition derbies of which he was highly successful. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents Henry “Hank” Vogel and Jane Vogel, Sister Donna Sacotte, and brother in law Jon Marcussen. He leaves behind: his children Stacey (Dan) Gilson and Paul Vogel, his best friend Cathy Vogel, his uncle Rollie Fengler, his siblings Lynne Marcussen, Leon (Cathy) Vogel, and Terry (Kim) Vogel; a host of nieces and nephews, his life long close friends Louis and Susie Laviolette, and a host of other loved ones too numerous to count. Dennis will have a Savannah based memorial service on September 19th, 2026 at Risen Savior Lutheran Church. Visitation starts at 10AM and service at 11AM. Additionally there will be a celebration of life in Sturgeon Bay, WI on October 10th, from 1-4pm at Wave Pointe, Harbor House Waterfront Bar and Grill.

Garry Allen Richard, age 80, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Aurora BayCare Medical Center from serious injuries sustained in a vehicle accident. Garry was born on February 25, 1946, at Sturgeon Bay Hospital in Sturgeon Bay, WI, to Charles and Genevieve (Cartwright) Richard. He spent his childhood growing up on Horseshoe Bay Farms in Egg Harbor, WI, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. Garry attended Sevastopol High School, where he excelled in both sports and music. Following high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for a short time before choosing to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era. After completing his military service, Garry married Lorraine Brungraber. They were married for 20 years and had two children, Chandall and Robin. Garry later married Chariya Richard, and together they had two children, Amthia Richard and Charles J. "CJ" Richard. At the time of his passing, Garry was living in Suring, Wisconsin, with his wife, Chariya, and son CJ. His daughter, Amthia Richard, lives in Thailand. One of Garry's greatest passions throughout his life was flying. He loved aviation and especially enjoyed flying experimental aircraft, along with the many other airplanes he owned over the years. The freedom of being in the air brought him great enjoyment and remained an important part of his life. Garry also loved hunting and fishing and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He had an adventurous spirit and traveled extensively throughout his life. Wherever his travels took him, Garry had a remarkable ability to find work and make a life for himself, embracing new places and experiences along the way. Garry lived a life filled with adventure, travel, family, and a love for the skies. Those who knew him will remember a man who was willing to explore what was beyond the horizon, whether traveling to a new place, heading outdoors to hunt or fish, or taking to the air in one of the airplanes he loved so much. "He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." -- Psalm 91:11 May Garry now find peace beyond the horizon he spent a lifetime exploring. Garry is survived by his wife, Chariya Richard; his children, Chandall (Curt) Johnson, Robin (Michelle) Richard, Amthia Richard, and Charles J. "CJ" Richard; his grandchildren, Colt Johnson, Deanna (Troy) Krause, Riley Richard, and Kyle Richard; and his great-grandson, Wyatt. He is also survived by his siblings, Nancy Richard, Kim (Russell) Brungraber, Mark (Mary) Richard, Holly (Monica) Richard, and Amy (Robert) Markstrom. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Genevieve Richard; his brother, Leland Richard; his grandson, Michael Lane; nephew Tony Bauer, and niece, Sara Bauer. A graveside service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 1:00 pm, at Egg Harbor Town Cemetery, 7640 State Highway 42, Egg Harbor, immediately followed by military honors. Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Cremation Services in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the Richard family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Garry may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Jacqueline Ann Van Doren, 71, of Fish Creek, WI, passed away on Friday, September 25, 2026 at her home in Fish Creek. She was born on February 22, 1955, in Manitowoc, WI, the daughter of John and Arlene Fisher. Jacqueline graduated from Manitowoc Lincoln High School with the class of 1973. On March 16, 2002 she married John William Van Doren from Raleigh, North Carolina. Jacky and John lived in Raleigh and Lake Gaston, North Carolina, before they moved to Fish Creek in 2021. Jacky worked at Manitowoc Ice Machines in Sales and Customer Service for 19 years. She then worked at the United States Power Squadrons in Raleigh, NC for 18 years in Purchasing and Customer Service. Jacky enjoyed spending time with her family and her many friends. She loved the water including swimming, boating and fishing and winters in sunny Florida. Jacky will be sadly missed by her loving and caring family, her husband, John Van Doren, Fish Creek; her son, Gregory and daughter-in-law, Jenny Musil of Manitowoc; 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; her sister, Judith Korte and brother-in-law, Stephen Korte; nephews, Kevin Korte of Fish Creek and nephew Daron Korte and niece-in-law, Bonnie Korte; great-niece and nephew, Simone and Jude Korte from Minneapolis, MN; in-laws, Steven (Karen) Marlow, Rick (Courtney) Van Doren, Keri (David) Kennedy. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arlene Fisher and John Fisher of Fish Creek, WI. Jacqueline's life will be honored with a gathering of friends to be held at Huehns Funeral Home, 1414 Michigan St, Sturgeon Bay, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am on Saturday, October 24, 2026. She will be laid to rest in Blossomberg Cemetery. A special thank you to Green Bay Oncology and Unity Hospice for their dedicated and compassionate care for Jacky. Memorials may be given in her name to Door CANcer to assist others struggling with cancer or Northern Door Childrens Center. Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Cremation Services in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin is assisting the Van Doren family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Jacqueline may be shared with her family through her tribute page at https://www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.

David A. Bathke, 82, Algoma, passed away unexpectedly at home on September 27, 2026. He was born June 26, 1944, in Algoma to Peter and Ruby (Meverden) Bathke. David graduated from Algoma High School in 1962. David ended up going up to Ketchikan, Alaska where he got his training to be a maintenance mechanic. He met and married Marsha Finnerty in the state of Washington on November 9, 1963. They shared 63 years of marriage. After seven years in Alaska, they moved to Enumclaw, WA, where David worked as a maintenance mechanic at the Jorgensen Steel Mill. He was hurt on the job, so he ended up leaving and they moved to Algoma where they lived for half the year and Sun City West, AZ for the other half of the year. David is survived by his wife, Marsha, son David (Tina Webb) Bathke, three sisters Shirley Haack, Cheryl (Mark) Rankin and Grace (Wayne) Keach, nieces an nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son Robert and his father and mother-in-law. A Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Schinderle Funeral Home, Algoma, from 9:00 AM until the time of services at 11:00 AM with Father Rob Hoppe officiating.

Obituary: Randall Arnold Nelson September 3, 1926 – September 19, 2026 Randall Arnold Nelson of Jacksonport and Ephraim passed away on the sixteenth day of his 101st year. Randall was born on September 3, 1926, in the rural Sister Bay farmhouse of Arnold and Maimie (Hedeen) Nelson. A midwife assisted at his birth in the very same room where his mother had been born. Randall grew up on the family farm, where the family farmed with horses until he was 12 years old. That year, they acquired their first Allis-Chalmers tractor—a tractor Randall kept throughout his life, and which still sits in his metal building and runs today. He enjoyed working off the farm during cherry season to earn extra money and was known as a very fast picker. Because workers were paid by the pail, Randall was able to save enough one year to buy himself a motorcycle. He was raised as a member of the Sister Bay Baptist Church and attended Appleport School, just a mile from home, before graduating from Gibraltar High School in Fish Creek. After growing up on the family farm, Ranny joined the Merchant Marine. His service was cut short when he contracted Rheumatic Fever and was sent home to recover. Ranny was later drafted into the Army and served 2 years in post WWII Germany. His leadership qualities were soon recognized, and he attained the rank of Master Sargent before the end of his service. Following his service, he returned to northern Door County, where he would spend the remainder of his long and remarkable life. On November 13, 1954, he married Ruth Herlache of Sturgeon Bay. Together they raised five children: Timothy (Kristy), William (Christine), James (Brenda), David (Jolynn), and Paula (Steve Maddison). Known to everyone as "Ranny," he and Ruth built several successful Door County businesses, including Randall Nelson Construction, South Shore Pier boat rentals and tours, and the Ephraim Shores Motel and Restaurant. Through his business endeavors, Ranny formed bonds that extended far beyond work; several individuals who started out as his employees—Roger Johnson (who preceded him in death), John Meacham, and Lana Hall—came to mean much more than that to him over the years. Throughout his century of life, Ranny was also blessed with deep, enduring friendships. He was preceded in death by his longtime friends Jake Kodanko, Bud Evenson, and Don Diekman, and is survived by his dear friend Glenn Gerdman. Following the death of his wife Ruth, Randall married his second wife, Kris Husby, on October 11, 2006. Ranny's children would like to thank Kris for providing their father with companionship and hosting family get-togethers, large and small, for more than 20 years. They especially want to thank her for the loving care she provided him during these past few years, when age finally began to take its toll on him. Her devotion, kindness, and care meant so much to Ranny and to his family. Ranny was a gifted carpenter, woodsman, and backhoe operator. He held a captain's license and was always willing to share his time, knowledge, and skills with others, often helping simply because someone needed a hand. He remained active and adventurous throughout his life. An avid traveler and downhill skier, he stayed on the slopes well into his 80s, once expressing shock that his legs were tired after a day of skiing at Lake Tahoe at age 88. Despite never learning to swim, he loved waterskiing, windsurfing, and iceboating. He broke through the ice several times over the years but always managed to make it safely back to shore. He also enjoyed restoring antique cars, completing two restorations while having four others in progress. Ranny lived a wonderfully long, active, and adventurous life. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by: • Wife: Kris Husby-Nelson • Children: Timothy (Kristy) Nelson, William (Christine) Nelson, James (Brenda) Nelson, David (Jolynn) Nelson, and Paula (Steve Maddison) • Grandchildren: Aja, Alissa, Cole, Cali, Amber, Jackie, Kyle, Sophie, Andrea, Ainsley, Reece, Sadie, and Conner • Great-Grandchildren: 14 great-grandchildren (with a 15th due in February) • Ruth's Siblings: Dr. John Herlache and Tom Herlache • Kris's Siblings: Dorothy Treptow, Kathie Pelow, Susan Eleazer, Fred Boettcher, and Doug Boettcher He is preceded in death by: • First Wife: Ruth (Herlache) Nelson • Stepson: Mark D. Husby • Parents: Arnold and Maimie (Hedeen) Nelson • Sisters: Dona Pritchett and Iris Lappe • Ruth's Siblings: Bunny Williams, Mary Herlache, and Ralph Herlache A memorial service will be held at Ephraim Moravian Church, where Ranny was a member for the past 72 years, on November 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Door CANcer Inc.

Laurabell Erdmann, 82, Algoma, passed away September 26, 2026, at the Door County Medical Center. She was born June 19, 1944, in Algoma to the late Richard and Laura (Neinas) Erdmann. Laurabell began her career in 1962, working as a secretary for St. Paul's Lutheran School and Algoma High School. She retired in 2006. Laurabell was part of the Sweatermakers Club and enjoyed reading, crocheting and knitting. She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Algoma. Laurabell is survived by her cousins, John (Joanne) Neinas, Linda (Dennis) Viste, Becky Neinas, Joe Novotny, Mary Ann (Richard) Melotte, loved by the Erdmann relation cousins, special friends Marie Marin, Audrey Tebon and Carol Nimmer, and other beloved family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Neinas and Sue Novotny. Laurabell always remembered the fond memories she had from all the years she was at the Algoma High School, including all the teachers and students. This was her life for 49 years. There will be a visitation for Laurabell on Monday October 5, 2026, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Algoma, from 8:30 AM until the time of services at 11:00 AM with Rev. John Moll and Rev. Joel McKenney officiating. Burial in the Evergreen Cemetery. Express your sympathy, memories and pictures on Laurabell's tribute page at www.schinderlefuneralhome.com

Charlotte “Char” J. Gilson, 85, Green Bay, formerly of Dyckesville, passed away peacefully Saturday, September 26, 2026. She was born February 23, 1941, to the late Anthony O. and Mildred M. (Blonde) Du Jardin. Charlotte married Myron J. Gilson on July 23, 1960, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Champion. He preceded her in death on November 9, 2016. Charlotte was very proud of driving school bus for the Luxemburg-Casco School District for 48 plus years. Having grown up in the very small town of Champion, everyone knew Charlotte, and would frequently say to her, “I road your bus, remember me?” Like her parents, she was a very social member of the community. She was a hard worker, and it was difficult to find someone who could “out work” her. She was a giver – to her family and the community. Charlotte was a devoted religious person, and you could always see her in the front row every Sunday at St. Louis Church. Charlotte was bookkeeper for the parish for many years. She organized many church fundraisers, and Lions Club festivals. Charlotte is survived by her three children, Thomas (Bernice) Gilson, Green Bay; Ann (Peter) Birdsall, Green Bay; and Scott Gilson, Port Washington; three grandchildren, Jacob Birdsall, Phillip Birdsall, Sophia Gilson; three step grandchildren; four great grandchildren; four step great grandchildren; and one brother, Neil (Sharon) Du Jardin. She was preceded in death by her husband Myron; parents Anthony and Mildred Du Jardin; one grandson, Jack Gilson; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Raymond and Mayme Gilson. Friends and family may call, Friday, October 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at St. Louis Church, Dyckesville. A closing prayer service will follow at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. at St. Louis Church. Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Antonio Palaya officiating. McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg, is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at McMahonFH.com. The family would like to thank all the kind folks in the St. Louis Parish Community, who were a big part of her life. Also, her great neighbors and good friends, the special workers at Carretta Senior Care, Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease, and basically all the nice people that never ran the other way when the going got tough, thank you.

Sharon R. Zeisler, 75, of Fish Creek, passed away Wednesday evening, September 23, 2026 at St. Vincent Hopsital, Green Bay. She was born on December 16, 1950, daughter of the late Roger and Jean (Crawford) Sampson. Sharon was a graduate of Postville, High School with the class of 1968. She attended the University of Northern Iowa for her undergrad studies and received a master’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In 2008 she married her husband, Byron Zeisler. Sharon was employed as a Spanish teacher in the Mukwonago School District for many years before moving to Door County. Recently she had been teaching Spanish online in virtual schools. Sharon was a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and the Sister Bay Quilters. She was preceded in death by her parents: Roger and Jean (Crawford) Sampson; and her sister: Shirley Foels. She is survived by her loving husband: Byron Zeisler., A visitation for Sharon will be held on Monday afternoon, September 28, 2026 at the Forbes Funeral Home, 319 W Spruce St. Sturgeon Bay from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at Frankville Community Presbyterian Church in Frankville, Iowa with burial to take place in the Frankville Cemetery. The Forbes Funeral Home & Cremations, Sturgeon Bay is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be left for Sharon’s family in her tribute page at www.forbesfuneralhome.com.

With deep love and sadness, we share the passing of Jesse Alan Madoche, 53—a beloved son, loving father, grandfather, friend, and true outdoorsman whose life was grounded in family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for nature. He passed away surrounded by the love of those who meant the most to him. He leaves behind a legacy shaped not only by what he built with his hands, but also by the memories, lessons, laughter, and love he freely shared with his family. To know him was to know someone who could build anything, fix anything, and figure out a way to make something work. Whether he was working with wood, tools, engines, mounts, demo cars, or whatever project someone brought his way, he took pride in doing things right. He was creative, resourceful, and talented in a way that seemed effortless. If something was broken, he could fix it. If something needed to be built, he could build it. He brought remarkable detail and pride to everything he touched. His talents were also reflected in his work. Jesse spent many years at Palmer Johnson Yachts as a carpenter foreman, where his eye for detail and skilled hands were part of the craftsmanship he brought to every boat. Later, he worked at CenterPointe Marina as a marine technician, continuing to share his knowledge, skill, and wood working ability to fix just about anything. Jesse was happiest outdoors, surrounded by the woods, water, and quiet peace of nature. A passionate hunter and fisherman, he found joy in every season—from the stillness of the woods to the excitement of a buck in the distance to the pull of a fish on his line. Hunting, fishing, sturgeon spearing, and time spent in the woods or on the water were more than hobbies; they were part of who he was. He shared these traditions with his family, creating stories that will be told for generations and passing along a deep appreciation for patience, hard work, and time spent together. There will be many more fish in the surrounding waters, a thought that brings both a smile and a tear. As a talented taxidermist, Jesse had a special gift for honoring the animals he worked with, bringing them to life with care, artistry, and remarkable realism. His passion showed in every detail, reflecting the pride and respect he put into his talent. He also found great joy in the excitement, noise, and carnage-filled fun of demolition derbies, where his love for engines, craftsmanship, and controlled chaos came alive. He won many derbies, and those who watched him compete felt proud to see his dedication shine through in his hard-hitter awards and trophies. He found deep satisfaction in working with his hands and lived a practical, meaningful life full of stories, laughter, and moments his family will carry with them. Strong, determined, hardworking, and full of humor, he left a lasting impression on everyone around him. Jesse leaves behind memories that will continue to bring comfort, pride, and love to all who knew him. Most of all, he loved his family. He was proud of them, protective of them, and always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or teach by example. His love showed through the things he did: the projects he completed, the repairs he made, the time he spent outdoors with those he loved, and the memories he helped create. Jesse will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Though his hands are now still, the things he built, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave will continue to live on. His legacy remains in his family, in the traditions they carry forward, the skills he passed down, and the love they share with one another. It lives on in every cast of a fishing line, every walk through the woods, every project completed with pride, every smash of a demo car, and every story told in his memory. His spirit will be felt in the wind moving through the woods, in the tall antlers of the bucks, and in the fish that fill the waters. Each time the trees sway or a line is cast, those who loved him will feel him near. He is survived by his parents, Glen and Kay (De Clark) Madoche; his daughter, Rebecca (Adam) Franda; and his grandson, Henry Franda. He is also survived by his beloved life partner and best friend, Jill Hendricks, who was always by his side and shared his love of the outdoors, demolition derbies, and many cherished memories, along with her children, Arissa, Jarrett and Jordan; an uncle Jeff and cousin Jeremy Madoche. He is further survived by his former wife, Holly Vandertie (Jandrin), with whom he shared many years, countless memories, and the unbreakable bond of raising, and always treasuring their daughter, Rebecca. Nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Louis, Sr. and Clarice (Buzzo) De Clark, his paternal grandparents, Alan and Betty (Claflin) Madoche, as well as many aunts and uncles. Visitation for Jesse will be held on Thursday evening, October 1, 2026 at Forbes Funeral Home, 319 W Spruce St, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. A prayer service will conclude the evening at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Friday morning, October 2, 2026 at St. Louis Catholic Church, N8726 County Line Rd., Dyckesville, from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass at 11:00 AM. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be Rev. Rex Palaya. Cremation will follow services and Jesse will be laid to rest at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made for a memorial fund to be established. The Forbes Funeral Home & Cremations, Sturgeon Bay is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy and memories may be shared with Jesse’s family on his memorial page at www.forbesfuneralhome.com.

David N. Sandlund, 84, a resident of Sturgeon Bay, WI, died on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, in San Diego, CA.

Dave was born on Chicago’s South Side, the son of Swedish immigrants. He was raised in Chicago with his sister, Carol (Dr. Allen) Larson.

Dave began his law enforcement career with the Winnetka Police Department in 1964, then joined the Chicago Police Department in 1966, where he served for 33 years. He began his career as a Patrolman in the 20th District but spent most of his career as a Detective at “the old Area 6” at Belmont and Western. Dave was also assigned as a hostage negotiator. Many people knew Dave from the 1970s through the 2000s as he leaned against a barricade, smoking a cigar in front of the Aragon and Riviera in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. He spent much of his off-duty life working security in Chicago’s concert industry.

Dave and his wife eventually retired to Sturgeon Bay.

Dave is survived by his wife, Patricia (nee Melzer), a Sturgeon Bay native, whom he married in 1963, and their two children: Greg Sandlund of Chicago and Sara (Eduardo) Franqui of San Diego. He cherished his granddaughter, Lilian Franqui.

Funeral services will be private and limited to immediate family. A celebration of life gathering will be held in Chicago at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

Allen D. Entringer, 69, passed away peacefully in Green Bay on September 22, 2026, after a decades-long battle with kidney disease, eased for 20 years through the generosity of a stranger’s kidney donation.

Raised on his family’s dairy farm and a lifelong resident of northeast Wisconsin, Al loved travel, being outdoors, and cheering on the Packers and Badgers. A 1975 graduate of Algoma High School, Algoma, WI, he was employed by Schreiber Foods for 35 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ransom and Hazel (Annoye) Entringer.

Al is survived by his brother, Kenneth (Marie Casey), of St. Louis, MO, and his sisters, Linda (Darrell) Delwiche, of Sturgeon Bay and Janet (Mike) Stolarski, of Silex, MO; niece, Anna (Jim Scott) Entringer, of St. Louis, MO, and nephew, Ryan (Will Young) Delwiche, of Minneapolis, MN.

Private services will be held. Donations to the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin are appreciated.

Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Allen may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Andrew "Andy" Latham Hall, 81, of Naples, FL and the Town of Nasewaupee, WI, passed away in the comfort of his Wisconsin home, Tuesday night, September 15, 2026 with his family at his side.

Born April 24, 1945 in Milwaukee, WI, he was the son of the late Robert Lindsley Hall and Jessie Louise "Jay Lou" (Davis) Hall. Andy grew up in Fox Point, WI, where he attended grade school and graduated from from Milwaukee Country Day School in Whitefish Bay, WI. He went on to study sociology and play hockey at Lake Forest College in Illinois. It was at Lake Forest that Andy met Gretchen Wiper. They were united in marriage on July 29, 1967 in Minneapolis, MN. Andy and Gretchen started their family in the Milwaukee suburb of Dousman, WI.

Andy joined the family business that his grandfather started and worked alongside his father for many years, eventually transitioning to ownership of Hall Chevrolet, later adding Hall Imports and CME Inc. (Continuing Medical Education).

Between work and family life, Andy and Gretchen enjoyed traveling, with many trips taken with their beloved friends and family. In addition to traveling, Andy liked spending time on the shores of Green Bay in Door County, where he had traveled since he was a young child. Andy and Gretchen eventually became "snowbirds" splitting time between Door County and Naples, FL. They were blessed to share over 58 years of marriage. Gretchen died January 21, 2025.

Andy was most happy in a Mississippi River duck blind with his loyal hunting dogs by his side or on the bay with a fishing pole in hand. He enjoyed his close group of hunting friends in Wisconsin and tennis buddies at the Wyndemere C.C. community in Florida.

His faith was an important aspect of his life. During their early family days, Andy and Gretchen were active parishioners at St. Mary's Church in Dousman, WI. Later in life he enjoyed services at both, St. John's Episcopal Church in Naples, FL and Christ the King Episcopal Church in Sturgeon Bay, WI. He lived his faith with active participation in the communities where he lived and worked. Andy was an engaged member of the St. Mary's vestry, Kiwanis Club of Milwaukee, and was a longtime board member of both, the Neighborhood House of Milwaukee and the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra.

In Florida, he put his household handyman skills to use with dedicated service to the residents of Collier and Lee counties through his work with Habitat for Humanity. He found tremendous joy in building homes and relationships with his fellow service team.

Andy will be missed by his children, Stephanie (Mike) Delmore of Delafield, WI, Alison (Dean) Delasanta of Sheboygan, WI, Megan (Patrick) Chrysler of Ridgefield, CT, and Charles (Sara) Hall of Colgate, WI; grandchildren, Hannah and Owen Delmore, Samuel and Jasper Delasanta, Charles and Evelyn Chrysler, and Avery, Brynn, and Ryan Hall; devoted companion, Patti; brother-in-law, David (Carla) Wiper of Troutdale, OR; nieces and nephews; other relatives; and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brothers, Robert Hall and Stephen Hall; and other relatives.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Christ the King Episcopal Church, 512 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 with Fr. Glenn Kanenstrom officiating. Andy will be laid to rest in Hainesville Cemetery in the Town of Nasewaupee, beside his wife, Gretchen. Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 9:45 a.m. until the time of Mass.

Memorials may be given in Andy's name for the Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, FL (11145 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34113; www.habitatcollier.org/donate); or the Door County Land Trust (P.O. Box 65, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235; www.doorcountylandtrust.org/donate).

Arrangements have been entrusted with Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC in Sturgeon Bay, WI.

Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Andy may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Living by the motto, Laborare est Orare (to work is to pray), James Otto Ebbeson (Jim), age 92, set his work aside last week and passed away on September 16, 2026.

His final days were made more peaceful by staff at Bay View Senior Care, Unity Hospice, family and friends.

Fleet of body and mind, Jim lived in perpetual motion. Ever-purposeful and curious, Jim spent his life advocating, repairing, competing, making pancakes, bartering, cleaning, painting, giving and caretaking, defending and protecting until his final days. His life was rich in ideas, books, music, multiple-simultaneous projects and family concerns.

Intimates knew his carefree, loving, even zany side. Colleagues and associates knew his rhetorical facility with correspondence and advocacy. His beloved wife Karen and his family are proud of him and deeply saddened to share these words with affection and love.

Jim was born on February 9, 1934 at the Ravenswood Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. He was the youngest of five, the only son, and the third child born to Clarence and Mildred (Goodwin) Ebbeson. In a bureaucratic blunder still echoing today, his hospital birth certificate stated that he was born one month earlier than his mere-moments-older twin, Joanne.

His mother Mildred worked outside the home as a saleswoman and father Clarence did itinerant work, including driving for Bernie Brothers Bakery, Local 734 in Chicago. Jim grew up on the border of the Ravenswood and Andersonville neighborhoods in north Chicago, attending the Ravenswood School. An independent child, Jim spent a great deal of time with his two eldest sisters already in their teens, as his parents were working. Jim graduated from Amundsen High School in 1951.

An avid sports fan and natural athlete, Jim often walked the 45 minutes to Wrigley Field, eventually (and perhaps apocryphally) trying out for the Cubs. Somewhere along the way, he learned to skate, to play basketball, tennis, handball, cycling and to swim competitively. He had a very mean fastball and a lovely golf swing. Karen introduced him to sailing and skiing and they enjoyed many such trips together in the U.S. and Europe.

Jim’s passion was running. In the late 1960s–before distance running was something many amateurs did–Jim could be seen running alone far into the countryside around Door County, carrying a short length of rebar-baton to keep the farm dogs at bay. He participated in a running club in Green Bay and fostered regional interest in running. When Runner’s World was first published, he immediately subscribed and became part of a growing community of runners that helped drive the marketplace for shoes, marathons and community runs. He took great pride in his Boston Marathon qualification and finish time in 1970.

Jim was a man of letters, the first of his family to attend university. He spent a year studying at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, and worked to offset his education expenses. In 1953, Jim joined the Navy and served on a destroyer through the end of Korean Action and beyond, exploring parts of Japan while on liberty. He completed some distance learning while serving in the Naval Reserve and matriculated at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he graduated in 1958. He then moved back to Chicago where he received his law degree from DePaul University in 1963. During law school he worked for Continental National Insurance in Chicago, commuting from Hoffman Estates.

Visits to relatives and the natural beauty of Door County drew Jim and his young family to Sturgeon Bay in 1963. There, he closed on a waterfront home and reached an agreement with attorney Herman Leasum to start work with him over the course of that summer. From about 1965 onwards, Jim ran a solo law practice, first out of the historic Larson & Co Store building on Third Avenue, remodelling and caring for the building, which is now on the National Historic Registry. A small-town law practice places unique requirements on an attorney. Unable to specialize in any one aspect of the law, like one might in a firm, Jim needed to develop broad expertise. As a corporate lawyer, he represented and even helped found some of the most notable names in Sturgeon Bay maritime and banking history. Pleading before Judges in Door, Kewaunee and Manitowoc Counties and as far as Milwaukee and Dane, Jim represented civil and criminal clients at trial.

A senior mentor from Milwaukee submitted Jim’s name to the US Supreme Court, where he was admitted to the bar in a memorable ceremony. Real Estate Law was another large share of Jim’s work. Prior to the establishment of separate Title Insurance companies, attorneys needed to close all real estate deals; researching chain of ownership, representing banks and clients. The Ebbeson law practice was ably supported by a number of assistants and occasional associates, towards whom Jim was very grateful and proud. Family law eventually came to comprise another large share of the practice, especially once no-fault divorce became the de facto standard in Wisconsin in 1978.

Through her own work for families as a social worker, Karen first encountered Jim by way of their work together in family law and advocacy. They would later work to establish and serve on the board of HELP of Door County, the phone line for anyone in Door County seeking assistance, counseling and shelter from abuse or family problems. Resolved to defend the underdog, Jim believed that justice exists to help protect the minority from the majority; to serve victims and the weak, as well as the powerful and connected—blind to influence or stature. In his law practice, as in his community work, Jim didn’t shrink from fighting for his side. He chose to represent individuals taking on the police department or other powerful entities. Another attorney might have referred these cases to other firms outside of the small town where he’d need to live, run a business and maintain a home and family. Anyone who knew Jim wouldn’t have been confused about his views, nor the understanding that he’d want to see something through once it was started.

One of his heroes was fictional Atticus Finch (the attorney in To Kill a Mockingbird), and some of his children referred to him as Don Quixote. Jim often took payment by way of work-for-trade, food, or furniture. He served many clients pro bono, or as a referred public defender; he also helped form Legal Aid of Door County. As a landlord of multiple office buildings in town, he extended leases to counseling services and other community groups. And, in an act of arguably daring public service for a largely conservative small town, he rented space to Planned Parenthood and put a sign for them on his building near the Steel Bridge—showing his commitment to fair access to medical and routine healthcare for women and families.

Community Service was profoundly important to both Jim and Karen. To touch upon just a few key contributions: Jim was instrumental in helping found Sunshine House (now Sunshine Resources), HELP of Door County, and Door Concerts, Inc. He served on numerous boards and volunteered for Hope United Church of Christ, as well as the Methodist church in Sturgeon Bay, the League of Women Voters and many other organizations. As counsel, he helped establish many non-profit organizations, including many of the Friends of State Parks and Nature conservancies in and around Door County. He was a longtime member of the ACLU, and took time away from his practice to work for them in Chicago. Along with judges and regional attorneys from around the country, he served on a commission appointed by President Carter in the late 1970s. He provided early counsel to the founders of Birch Creek.

In their private sphere, Jim and Karen created a home filled with beauty that friends and family loved to visit. They welcomed many to enjoy sumptuous meals and to sit and admire the nature and water views they loved so well. Their frequent travel abroad brought them in contact with design and architectural influences which they poured into places their grandchildren refer to as “magical”. Dog lovers, they and extended family relished the connection to numerous pets past and present.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Karen Ebbeson. Together they shared a large blended family, including seven surviving children: Christy Ebbeson Kurtz (Jon) Kurtz of Centerville, Ohio; Terry (John) Seidl of McFarland, Wisconsin; Shelly (Gene) Bowerman of Adams, Wisconsin; Frida Kumar of Kirkland, Washington; Erika Ebbeson of Egg Harbor, Wisconsin; Kim (Tim) Knaup of Madison, Wisconsin; and Jeffrey Ebbeson. Karen’s eldest son Rod Wedel pre-deceased Jim in 2020. Jim loved his ten surviving grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service honoring Jim will be held at 1pm on October 10, 2026 at the Hope United Church of Christ. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to one of the causes Jim championed: HELP of Door County( https://helpofdoorcounty.org/), Habitat for Humanity, (https://www.doorhabitat.org/), Door County Legal Aid ( https://www.dclegalaid.org/), the Hope United Church of Christ, or the United Methodist Church of Sturgeon Bay.

We would like to thank the Unity hospice care team that helped him through his final days and the team at BayView Senior Care.

We would especially like to thank his daughter Erika who moved back to Sturgeon Bay in 2025 to assist with his final move to BayView, providing loyal companionship to the very end.

Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Jim may be shared with his family through this tribute page. 

Deborah "Debby" Ann Zahn, 75, Algoma, is our sparkling Angel, she passed away Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026, at Amethyst Health.

She was born July 3, 1951, in Sturgeon Bay to Donald and Doris (Hunsader) Ohlrogge. Debby graduated from Sturgeon Bay High School and then got her associates degree from NWTC in accounting. She started working at First National Bank in Sturgeon Bay as a teller and moving her way up to a controller at the bank. After leaving the bank Debby became an insurance agent. She sold all types of insurance. She retired at the age of 55.

Debby married Arnie Zahn in Sturgeon Bay, November 7, 1970. Debby and Arnie enjoyed traveling. They traveled to every state in the United States, except two. She enjoyed her precious time with her family and friends, traveling, camping, making sure there was a pool or beach nearby, going to the casinos, playing cards and cribbage. She also enjoyed time with her girls shopping, camping and making Christmas cookies. She was a member of St. Mary Church, the Rosary Society and the Coachman Club.

She is survived by her husband Arnie, daughter Michele Slaby, two granddaughters Shauna and Sierra; one brother Dennis (Jean) Ohlrogge; and nephew and Godson Dane Ohlrogge Debby was preceded in death by her parents and son Mark.

There will be a visitation for Debby at the Schinderle Funeral Home, Algoma on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 4:00 PM until the time of services at 6:00 PM with Ken Kinstetter officiating. Family and friends are invited for the burial Wednesday, September 30, 10:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery. Please wear red, white and blue in honor of Debby.

Express your sympathy, memories and pictures on Debby's tribute page at www.schinderlefuneralhome.com

Wayne W. Malvitz, 101 of Forestville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026.

Wayne was born during the height of the Roaring Twenties when a postage stamp was just two-cents! A gallon of gas for your Model-T cost a whopping twenty cents a gallon! And, through it all, Wayne was preparing to witness 101 years of incredible human progress. A full century+ he tackled with grace, love and vigor until his passing.

Wayne was born on June 21, 1925, in Kewaunee to the late William and Hilda Malvitz. Wayne married Dorothy Marie Van Dalen, on September 21, 1946. After marriage they moved to Milwaukee where Wayne worked in heavy construction. In 1962, Wayne and Dorothy moved to Brussels in Door County. After a few years laboring in the Sturgeon Bay shipyard, Wayne shifted gears and was employed by Kewaunee Engineering where he was a member of the Boilermakers Union Local 107. Retiring after 28 years.

Always a hard-working man, Wayne also loved working in the woods, cutting timber using both horses and his trusty, small Caterpillar. In 1970, Wayne built a beautiful home in Forestville where he was a faith-filled member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Not only did he truly love caring for his lawn and garden, but he was also a true woodworking artisan, building several items for his home. And, if that wasn’t enough, to keep even more busy after retirement, he enjoyed driving tractor for Jeff Uecker … for another 28 years! He loved every hour he spent in that cab! In June 2024 Wayne moved into an independent living facility in Green Bay.

Wayne was proceeded in death by his parents, William & Hilda Malvitz; wife, Dorothy Malvitz; son, Gene Malvitz; daughter, Mary Kaye Malvitz; grandson, Curtis Malvitz; brothers, Roy (Carol) Malvitz; Harold (Joyce) Malvitz; sisters, Jeanette (Alois) Brusda (Robert Classon); & Dolly (Ken) Schoenike. Wayne is also now reunited with his beloved Schnauzers Teddy & Sophie. Survivors include his children Gary Malvitz, Denver, Colorado; Kenneth Malvitz, Appleton, WI; David (Donna) Malvitz, Craig, Colorado; Donna (Malvitz) McElroy Danny, Callahan Florida. Grandchildren: Kirk & Tonya, Jacob & Jordan, Clint, Jesse & Shannon. Wayne will also be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews.

It’s easy to see that Wayne was the most hard-working person you can imagine. Sunup ’til sundown, he gave his relentless best effort. His favorite saying still resonates with his children: “Well, we can’t get anything done just sitting here … LET’S GO!”

During Wayne’s birth era of the 1920’s, President Coolidge famously said, “No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been rewarded for what he gave.” We lovingly honor Wayne for what he gave … always his best … everything is done … Heaven is now his reward. Rest well faithful servant. You’ve earned it … one-hundred-and one times over!

A visitation for Wayne will be held Monday, Sept. 28th at the Schinderle Funeral Home from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Prayer service at 6:45 PM. Visitation will continue Tuesday at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Forestville from 9:00 AM until the time of services at 11:00 AM with Rev. Dr. Christopher Jackson officiating. Burial in the Evergreen Cemetery in Algoma.

Beth Ellen Ferris, 89, of Baileys Harbor, WI, and North Fort Myers, FL, passed away in the comfort of her home on Monday, September 21, 2026

. She was born July 10, 1937 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Orville and Lucile (McClintock) Kent. Beth attended Fernwood Elementary School and graduated from Christian Fenger Community High School with the class of 1955, both in Chicago.

She first met Kenneth Earl Ferris on hay ride in high school. They were united in marriage on September 17, 1955 at Beth's home church, Greenstone United Methodist Church in Chicago. Together, Beth and Ken resided in Dolton, IL and attended Sandridge United Methodist Church before moving to Huntley, IL in the late 1980s. There, they attended First Congregational Church of Huntley.

Beth worked as teacher aide in the grade schools in Dolton and Huntley and also worked in the school library in Huntley. She and Ken resided in Huntley until they retired to The Oaks in Baileys Harbor, Door County, WI. They enjoyed wintering in North Fort Myers, FL.

Beth and Ken attended Sister Bay Moravian Church while living in Door County and Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in North Fort Myers. She was active in women's clubs at each church and was also a member of the Baileys Harbor Women's Club.

Beth and Ken belonged to the Woodenshoe Rainmakers Camping Club out of South Holland, IL. They cherished the lifelong friendships they were blessed to make through that group and continued to keep in touch everyone in that group.

Beth was an avid reader and a wonderful writer. She greatly enjoyed many activities with friends.

Beth's love will live on in the hearts of her family who will deeply miss her: her husband, Ken, with whom she shared over 71 years of marriage; children, Valerie (Ronald) Giles of Crystal Lake, IL, Steven (Darla) Ferris of Harvard, IL, and Gregory (Wendy) Ferris of Muscatine, IA; grandchildren, Daniel (Patty) Giles and Andrea (Andrew) Tyrrell, Brady (Maggie) Ferris, and Melissa (Ryan) Deihs, and Kyle (Amanda) Ferris and Bryan (Cora) Ferris; great-grandchildren, Holly and Lily Giles, Bradley, Camden, and Addison Tyrrell, Emma and Cole Ferris, Beckett Deihs, and Bennett and Liam Ferris; sister, Bonnie (Emilie) Garneau of Bloomington, IL; other relatives; and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings-in-law, Howard (Laverne) Ferris, Verna Mae (Robert) Dykstra, Earleen (William) Anderson, and Betty (Raymond) Messmaker; and other relatives.

Beth's life will be honored with a funeral service held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Sister Bay Moravian Church in the Town of Liberty Grove, 10924 Old Stage Road, WI 54234 with Rev. Kerry Krauss officiating. She will be laid to rest in the church cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026. Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. until 12:45 p.m.

Memorials may be given in her name for Sister Bay Moravian Church (10924 Old Stage Road, Sister Bay, WI 54234) or Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (2951 Trail Dairy Circle, North Fort Myers, FL 33917).

Arrangements have been entrusted with Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay, WI. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Beth may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Donald Foster Helm I, 86, of Fish Creek, Wisconsin, passed away Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Door County Medical Center.

Donald was born July 30, 1940, in Danville, Kentucky, the son of the late Foster and Ruby Mae (Glasscock) Helm. After graduating from Parksville High School in 1958, he earned his bachelor's degree from Western Kentucky University and his master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University. He later earned his MBA (MM) from Northwestern University in 1980.

Donald and Cozatta "Cozy" Tucker grew up together in Kentucky, knowing one another long before they would build a life together. They married on October 27, 1961, in Metropolis, Illinois, beginning a marriage that would span nearly 65 years. Through all the places they lived and all the chapters that followed, theirs was a life built around family, love, laughter, and a deep devotion to one another. Donald and Cozy began their married life in Bowling Green, Kentucky, with Donald teaching English at Perryville Hill School in Perryville, Kentucky and at Boyle County High School in Danville, Kentucky.

During those early years, Donald and Cozy welcomed their two children, Don and Susan. In 1966, they moved to Versailles, Kentucky, when Donald joined Rand McNally. His career took the family to the Chicago area in 1972, where he worked at the company's Skokie office. He retired from Rand McNally in 1994 as Vice President of Human Resources.

In 1995, Donald and Cozy built their forever home in Door County, where they created decades of memories with family and friends. Donald was a member of Fish Creek Community Church and served on the board of the Northern Door Children's Center. He was also recognized as a Kentucky Colonel, the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky in recognition of noteworthy accomplishments and service.

Those facts tell the story of Donald's life, but they do not begin to capture the man he was. Donald was kind and generous, patient and wise, with a wonderful sense of humor and an ability to put people at ease. He treated people with genuine interest and respect. Throughout his life, he touched countless people through gestures large and small, often without realizing the impact he had made.

Above all else, Donald loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father and father-in-law, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Family was not simply important to Donald; it was the center of his life. For those he loved, Donald was a source of strength and steadiness. His were the strong shoulders they leaned on again and again, and they were always there. He listened, reassured, and offered perspective. And, perhaps most importantly, he made the people he loved know that they were loved.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife, Cozy; his children, Donald (Polly) Helm II of Fish Creek, Wisconsin, and Susan (Rory) Helm-Murtagh of Boulder, Colorado; his granddaughter, Hannah (Dan) Holdridge of Madison, Wisconsin; his great-granddaughter, Elsie May Holdridge; another great-grandchild on the way; and his sister, Mary Jo Helm of Fish Creek, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Foster and Ruby Mae Helm; his brother, Kenneth Helm; and his beloved granddaughter, Elizabeth "Ellie" Mary Helm, who died in 2017.

There is an enormous hole in the hearts of those who loved Donald. But alongside the grief is tremendous gratitude -- for his long life, his humor and wisdom, his extraordinary kindness, and especially for the privilege of calling him husband, Dad, and Poppa. His family could not be prouder of the man he was or feel more blessed to have been loved by him. The lessons he taught, the example he set, and the love he shared will live on through the generations that follow him. Donald's family is deeply grateful to the physicians, nurses, and staff at Door County Medical Center for the extraordinary compassion and care they provided to Donald and his family during his final days.

A celebration of Donald's life will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026 at The Donald and Carol Kress Pavilion (7845 Church St., Egg Harbor, Wisconsin). Friends and family are invited to gather beginning at 3:00 p.m. The service will begin at 4:00 p.m., followed by a reception with light refreshments.

The family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to The Ellie Helm Foundation, a cause that carries forward the memory of Donald's granddaughter and is especially meaningful to the Helm family. The Ellie Helm Foundation c/o Door County Community Foundation, Inc. 222 N. 3rd Ave. Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 Online donations may be made through the Door County Community Foundation at this link: https://doorcountycommunityfoundation.org/ihelelc/ The family invites friends to sign the online guestbook and share memories and condolences through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

Anthony “Tony” J. DeJardin Jr., 85, Dyckesville, passed away at home Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

He was born on February 25, 1941, to the late Anthony Sr. and Rose (Demoulin) DeJardin. Tony married Sharon Muller on April 8, 1967. Together they raised a wonderful family and worked the dairy farm for many years.

Being a man of faith there were three songs that he loved, “Redeemed”, “Victory in Jesus”, and The Roll is Called Up Yonder”. His favorite bible chapter was Romans 8.

Tony is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; his children Mike (Debbie), Ben (Lori), Josh (Jenny), Paul (Emily), Jonathan, Kim (Rick), Sarah (Dion), Jill (Dean), Charity, Jackie (Shad); twenty-one grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren; and sister Shirley. He was preceded in death by his parents Anthony and Rose; grandsons Dominic and Zachary; and brother-in-law Dick Huguet.

The family is planning a celebration of life on October 9, 2026, from 4-7 pm at Country Bible Church with a prayer service at 6:30 pm.

McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg, is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at McMahonFH.com.

Barbara Ann Mitten (Née Bakic), age 76, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2019 after a long and courageous battle against Parkinson’s Disease.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 52 years, Patrick Mitten. Beloved Mom to Michael (Cathi), Katie and David (Mary). Adoring Grandma to Kayla, Nyrie, William and Ann Marie. Doting Great Grandma to Emma Ann. Cherished Aunt to Cara, Sara, Jake and Rob. Admired Big Sister to Bob (Evie). Also loved by other relatives and friends.

Barbara is a graduate of Pius XI High School in Milwaukee, WI where she met her husband Pat when he asked her to prom. After high school, Barb pursued her passion for teaching at Alverno College and earned her undergraduate degree, later receiving her master’s degree in Elementary Education. Her love of teaching extended far beyond the classroom and truly set the tone for her life as she shared her fervor and inspired many students, family and friends to follow in her footsteps. Barb took great pride in sharing her love of books and reading with her students. She taught in the Brown Deer School District for many years and earned Teacher of the Year during her career there.

Barbara was honored to be the matriarch of the Mitten and Bakic clan and took her role very seriously. Family, especially her husband and children, were always her top priority and she made lifelong friends wherever she went. She had a smile that lit up even the darkest day and was known for her kindness, compassion, and selflessness.

Barb enjoyed helping and giving to others and sharing her love and zeal for life with everyone she knew. While her journey with Parkinson’s Disease was difficult and long, Barb exhibited strength and perseverance. She never allowed it to steal an ounce of the joy she had in her heart.

Barb was blessed with an amazing husband. She and Pat were in love every moment of their 52 years together and their marriage and deep love was a shining example to so many. Patrick was the most dedicated caregiver to Barbara, tirelessly ensuring she was given the highest level of support and care throughout the progression of her disease. During the last four years of her life, Pat provided diligent and loving care 24/7 to his wife so she could remain at home, never once complaining.

Barbara Ann will forever be remembered by her loved ones as a pillar of strength, kindness and grace. We are grateful for the strong example she set in every aspect of her life and for the countless wonderful memories we have with her. She will be deeply missed, and her legacy will live on forever.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Stella Maris Parish – Fish Creek site with Fr. Jerry Pastors as celebrant. Burial will be at Blossomberg Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Huehns Funeral Home is assisting the Mitten family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Barbara may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Erika Ann Marie May, 83, of Sturgeon Bay, was called home to the “garden in the sky” on September 21, 2026, at Door County Medical Center.

She was born on November 9, 1942, in Chicago, the daughter of Richard and Helene (Kekstadt) Fleig. Erika was raised in Ashland and attended Northland College where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education. Her first teaching position was at Sevastopol High School.

In September of 1965, she married Karl May. Together they raised five children. After raising her family, Erika went back to teaching at Southern Door High School where she taught and served as the chair of the English Department until her retirement. While teaching at Southern Door, she also earned her master’s degree in leadership from Silver Lake College.

Erika was a very active member of the community, serving in numerous leadership positions in various organizations throughout the years. She was very involved with CESA 7, the Home and Garden Club, served on the Sturgeon Bay School Board and as an officer for the Women’s Bowling League. She was also the secretary of the Doorfins Swim Club and a den mother for the local cub scouts. She was passionate about her faith and was an active member of the church where she sang in the choir, served as a lector and Eucharist Minister. Erica and Karl were also active in the Rotary Student Exchange Program and hosted 17 foreign students in their home.

Erika enjoyed golfing, gardening and landscaping, bowling, shopping the clearance racks at high-end stores, spending time in Florida during the winter, sewing, knitting, rosemaling, biking, skiing and “suffered through” boating with Karl. She loved celebrating Christmas, filling her house with all her decorations and filling the air with her favorite Christmas Carols. Erika was also an avid sports fan and loved cheering on the Badgers, Packers and Marquette Warriors. Most of all, she enjoyed time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and took great pride in the influence she had on their lives and in their education. Erika loved to travel with her grandchildren and enjoyed a trip to Europe with her granddaughter Sophie.

Erika is survived by her daughter Tia May and her friend Scott Bellisle, son Erik (Shawn) May; grandchildren, Drew Kramer (Sarah Trancik), Derek Kramer, Sophia May, and Brody May; great-grandchildren, Iris Kramer, Jordan Kramer, Hailey Kramer and “One-on-the-way”; 2 sisters, Barbara Heiskala and Irene (Bob) Beyer; nieces and nephews; her good buddy Candy Colombo; her dear friend since kindergarten Rita Sharp and special friend Hjalmer “Jerry” Mayala. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, 2 sons, David and Patrick; 2 brothers, Jim (Marlene) Fleig and Tom Fleig.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at the Forbes Funeral Home from 4:00 PM until 6:30 PM. A prayer service will be held at 6:30 PM to conclude the evening. Visitation will continue on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, in Institute from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass at 11:00 AM. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be the Rev. Douglas Leonhardt. Inurnment will take place at Bayside Cemetery.

Thomas M. Van Lieshout, 94, formerly of Door County, passed away at his residence in Green Bay on Tuesday morning, September, 15, 2026 with his family by his side.

He was born on December 21, 1931 in Kimberly, son of the late Francis and Mayme (Van Heeswyk) Van Lieshout. Both of Tom’s parents were from the town of Uden in the Netherlands. Tom was fond of saying if you “ain’t Dutch, you ain’t much”.

Tom was a graduate of Kimberly High School with the class of 1948. He attended and played football at UW Oshkosh and was drafted into the US Army during his senior year. Tom served as a surveyor during the Korean War. Following his Honorable Discharge, Tom attended UW Madison to pursue the first of his many Master’s Degrees.

On June 16, 1956 he married Betty Davis in Green Bay. The couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary this summer. Tom was an English and Math teacher and football coach at Sheboygan North High School and Green Bay East. He also was a Basketball referee. Later, Tom became the Principal at Southern Door High School and Kewaunee High School until his retirement.

Tom was very active at St Mary of the Angels (Green Bay) and Holy Name of Mary (Maplewood) Parishes. He was a lecturer and Eucharistic Minister. He enjoyed taking Communion to and visiting with the people who were unable to come to Mass. Tom kept very active, he loved being a magician, golfing, hunting, fishing, the Packers, Cubs, and Badgers. Owning and operating a cherry orchard in Maplewood was another passion. He was a member of the Maplewood Forestville Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis, and Forestville American Legion Post 372.

Tom is survived by his wife of 70 years: Betty Van Lieshout; four children: Victoria Van Lieshout, Robert (Marilyn) Van Lieshout, Mark (Julie) Van Lieshout, and Patrick (Michelle) Van Lieshout; nine grandchildren: Jaret Ornelas SJ, Myrinda Ornelas, David (Iwona) Van Lieshout, Kathleen (Matt) Lewis, Matthew (Kayla) Van Lieshout, Benjamin Van Lieshout, Alexander (Ashley) Van Lieshout, Joshua (Brianna) Van Lieshout, Jakob Van Lieshout; nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents: Francis and Mayme Van Lieshout; 9 brothers and sisters; one brother-in-law and one sister-in-law.

Visitation for Tom will be held on Wednesday evening, September 23, 2026 at Forbes Funeral Home & Cremations, 319 W Spruce St, from 3:00 PM until the time of a prayer service at 7:00 PM. Mass of Christian burial will take place at 10:30 AM on Thursday morning, September 24, 2026 at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, 7491 Cty Rd H, Maplewood. There will not be visitation on Thursday morning. Officiating at the Mass will be Rev. Bill Brunner. Military Honors will be accorded following Mass. Cremation will take place following services and an additional celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the memorial scholarship fund that has been created at Southern Door High School in Tom’s memory.

The Forbes Funeral Home & Cremations is assisting the family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be left for Tom’s family on his tribute page at www.forbesfuneralhome.com.

Linda (McLean) Spude, 67, of Sturgeon Bay, born on November 19, 1958, in the picturesque town of Harrisville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Linda's life was a testament to love, laughter, and dedicated service to others. She was the cherished daughter of Mary McLean and the late Angus McLean. She grew up in a home filled with warmth and support. The family relocated from Michigan in the 1960’s, settling North, in Door County. Throughout the years, she shared a close bond with her sister, Diana, and brother-in-law, Mitch Veynovich of Ormond Beach, FL.

A proud alumnus of Southern Door High School, Linda pursued a career driven by her innate compassion and kindness. Her work as a care nurse in the Emergency Room and her dedication to hospice care patients left an indelible impact on countless lives. Her colleagues and patients alike were touched by her professional expertise and the genuine care she provided. Linda's commitment to service extended beyond her professional life.

She was a state certified Firefighter and First Responder at the Southern Door Wisconsin, Volunteer Fire Department. Linda and Peter retired in 2011. Linda served her community for 14 years. Linda had a remarkable gift for bringing joy into the world through her crafts and arts. Her passion for knitting resulted in countless baby blankets gifted to new mothers, each crafted with love and care.

On June 24, 1989, Linda married the love of her life, Peter J. Spude. Together, with her rock, they built a beautiful life with their children, right here in Door County. Linda is also survived by her daughters, Megan Lee Little and Erika Spude. Her son Malcom, and grandsons, Zonel and Zomar. She will be affectionately remembered and honored by The Spude family.

Visitation for Linda will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Forbes Funeral Home, 319 W Spruce St. Sturgeon Bay from 3:00 PM until the time of a prayer service at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Saturday morning, Sept. 26, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Dyckesville from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass at 11:00 AM. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be Rev. Rex Palaya. Linda will be laid to rest at the Shrine of the Good Shephard Mausoleum, Green Bay.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with Linda’s family at www.forbesfuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Valerie Mary Soule, 68, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away on September 9, 2026 at her home in Sturgeon Bay. She was born May 4, 1958 in Sturgeon Bay, the daughter of the late Clifford and Marietta (Mellott) Londo. Valerie attended Sevastopol High School and graduated with the class of 1977. Valerie is survived by her siblings, Debbie Pierzchalski, Cindy Kimball, Clifford Londo, Terry Skinkiss, and Diana Londo; and nieces and nephews; She was preceded in death by her parents. Valerie will be laid to rest in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Institute with a private committal. Huehns Funeral Home is assisting the Soule family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Valerie may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Carol Mae (Clark) Kostichka, 79, Algoma, passed away at home with her family by her side. Carol was born January 1, 1947, to Fred and Rita (Frisque) Clark in Sturgeon Bay. As a young girl the family moved to Algoma. Carol graduated from Algoma High School in 1965. Carol went on to school for her license as a beautician, which she held for 50 years. She worked her whole career at Flora Lee Beauty Shop in Algoma. Carol married Dennis Kostichka at St. Mary Catholic Church July 15, 1967. Carol and Dennis have been members of St. Mary Parish for many years. She enjoyed knitting, cooking, baking (including her Monster cookies, chocolate chocolate chip zucchini muffins) and her chili. She also loved going to the casinos, watching the Milwaukee Brewers, game shows and cooking shows on TV. She is survived by her husband Dennis, three children Angie (Todd) Hoffmann, Brian Kostichka (fiancé Penny), and Erica Kostichka; four grandchildren Matthew Hoffmann (fiancé Alexis), Brooklyn Hoffmann (Mitchell), Brittany Kostichka and Zachary Kostichka (Cassidy); one brother Jim (Twila) Clark and one sister Karen (Russell) Delebreau; two sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law Marilyn Gauger and Cindy (Larry) Jacobs and one brother-in-law and sister-in-law Charles (Marge) Kostichka; many nieces and nephews. Carol was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Rita Clark, father and mother-in-law Charles and Helen Kostichka, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Doug (Mary) Kostichka, John (Rita) Kostichka and Eugene Gauger. Family and friends may call at St. Mary Catholic Church, Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM with Father Timothy Machila officiating. Private entombment at a later date at St. Mary Cemetery. The Schinderle Funeral Home, Algoma, was entrusted with the arrangements for Carol and her family. Express your sympathy, memories and pictures on Carol's tribute page at www.SchinderleFuneralHome.com

Janis Carol Schmitz, 76, of Brussels, WI, passed away peacefully in her home on September 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family following a 2 ½ year battle with ovarian cancer. Born on January 8, 1950, the eldest daughter of Dorothy and George Schmitz Jr., Jan is survived by her husband Rick, daughter Greta (Rusty) Lockard and grandchildren Emmeline and Bennett. Jan is also survived by siblings Jerry (Judy), Debbie Peterson, Alan, and Tami, along with lifelong friends Linda Schlise Appleton and Linda Mraz (David Bice). She also had many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Jan was preceded in death by her parents Dorothy and George Schmitz, Jr., mother-in-law Wilma “Umma” Wolfe, brother Mark, brother-in-law Eli Peterson, and sister-in-law Arletta Gilbert. Jan was a 1968 graduate of Southern Door High School and a 1972 graduate of UW-Madison majoring in Early Childhood Education. Jan moved to Washington, D.C. and worked as a volunteer with VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) and then with the Headstart Early Childhood program in Frederick, MD where she met her future husband Rick Wolfe, the love of her life and best friend for over 50 years. They moved to Door County in 1978 and were married in 1984. Jan was a dedicated educator with the majority of her time teaching kindergarten at Southern Door. She retired in 2012 after 30 years of service. Jan was involved with Altrusa (a club dedicated to childhood literacy) and she served as a board member of the Door Kewaunee Retired Educators Association. She enjoyed her monthly Book Club and regular lunches with some of her closest Southern Door classmates. She participated in ballet for years, enjoyed flower gardening, was an avid Packer fan, and was usually the first one on the dance floor. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and her weekly outings with her sister Debbie. She was the ultimate host for the many family and friend gatherings. Jan was an advocate for women’s rights, children’s education, and well-being and caring for our planet. A private burial will be taking place and a Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date. Forbes Funeral Home is serving he family. A special thank you to Green Bay Oncology, DOOR CANcer, Inc. and Unity Hospice for all of their help and care given to Jan over the past two and a half years. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that in the spirit of Jan’s passions for peacemaking, child advocacy and care for the earth donations be made to: Boys & Girls Club of Door County, Door County Land Trust, Southern Poverty Law Center, or Wisconsin Public Radio in her honor. Jan was a shining light for peace and positivity. She will be remembered for her lifelong devotion to service and the uplifting of others. She will be greatly missed as she made the world a better place.

Allen H. Baumgartner, 86, of Kewaunee, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2026, surrounded by the family he so deeply cherished. Born in the town of Casco on October 25, 1939, to the late Allen Sr. and Esther (Haack) Baumgartner, Allen grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work, family, and the land, graduating from Casco High School in 1957. His greatest love story began back in high school when he met the love of his life, Linda, through 4H. That connection grew into a lifetime of partnership, and on September 9, 1961, they were married at Holy Trinity Church. Just days before his passing, Allen and Linda were blessed to celebrate 65 years of marriage together—surrounded by family, polkas, and old fashioneds one final time before he met his Heavenly Father. Allen proudly served six years in the United States Army Reserve beginning in January 1961. Throughout his life, he worked as a rural postal carrier for the United States Postal Service, but his heart was always rooted outdoors. Whether raising dairy cattle, beef cattle, or tending to his farm crops, Allen was outside whenever possible. He worked hard daily caring for his animals, even while his four children were nearby to play, tease, and cause a good-natured ruckus. An avid outdoorsman, Allen loved spending time at the cottage, and taking the family camping in his green Ford pickup truck, making wood, and collecting Oliver tractors and tractor pulls. He treasured annual deer hunting traditions with the Slaby and Popp families—though for Allen, deer camp, playing cards, and being the life of the party were just as important as the hunt itself. In addition, he and Linda also enjoyed traveling and going on mystery tours and visited 48 of the 50 states. Music brought endless joy to Allen’s life. While he loved listening to polka music, his favorite joy was watching his wife, Linda, play the accordion—a sight that brought him pure happiness and kept him joyful through the very end of his life. Above all, nothing brought him more pride than the time spent with his family, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many lifelong friends. Allen is survived by his wife, Linda; children, Ann (Mark) Lambert, Wendy Blazei, Mary (Todd) Socha, and Dale (Barbi) Baumgartner; grandchildren, Josh (Missy) Lambert, Tara (Mike) Leiterman, Lynn Blazei, Kari (Aaron Augustian) Blazei, Ashley (Ryan) Vandermoss, Erica (Al) Janisch, Alex (Kaitlynn) Kassner, Max (Taylor) Baumgartner, Cole (Ashley) Baumgartner, Emma (A.J.) Artreche; great grandchildren, Ryker, Riley, and Rhett Lambert; Kara and Kyle Vogeltanz; Jacob Kuehl; Veyda and Weston Vandermoss; Amelia, Jack, and Evelyn Janisch; Josephine and Mason Kassner; Luka and Enzo Baumgartner; Joel and Liam Baumgartner; sister Elaine (Larry Schultz) Noel; brother-in-law, Clayton Master; further survived by in-laws, Sue (Dave) Tlachac, Marcia Hayes, Joe Pagel, Mona Pagel, Bill (Eileen) Pagel. Although he will be deeply missed on earth, his family takes comfort in knowing he is up in heaven, sitting at the card table, reunited and sharing stories with the loved ones who passed before him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen Sr. and Esther Baumgartner; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Garnet Pagel; his sister, Jane Masters; and his brothers-in-law, Don Noel and John Pagel. A visitation will take place Friday, September 18, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services, Kewaunee. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 12:00 Noon at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Msgr. Jim Dillenburg officiating. Burial to follow in the church cemetery with full military rites. Kinnard Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at KinnardFCS.com. The family would like to thank NP Marcia Hayes, Mary Kay Messmann and the staff at Linden Manor, Bellin ICU, Hospice and 4th Floor staff for the wonderful care given to Allen.

Hawaiian shirts and Vans shoes were sported by family and friends to the memorial celebration for Bruce Kevin Hill on Thursday, September 10, at the Peg Egan Center in Egg Harbor. The shirts and shoes, along with the Spotted Cow on tap, were favored items of Hill. The world lost a big laugh and a good time when Hill died suddenly on April 28, 2026.

 

Hill, a man of ideas, wit and fun who served on the Egg Harbor Village Board of Trustees for eight years, including three as president, was enjoying winter in California when he died suddenly of a heart attack.

 

Hill was born to Everett and Elizabeth (Rehome) Hill on March 11, 1953 in Fargo, North Dakota, and spent his childhood in St. Paul, Minnesota. He attended the University of Minnesota, then began his career working in sales in the grocery industry, fitting for a man who worked nights stocking shelves at the local grocery store in high school. 

 

For many years he worked for ConAgra and Redenbacher Popcorn in sales, and was a discerning popcorn eater for the rest of his life. After working and living in Chicago for many years, he retired to get out of the rat race and moved to Egg Harbor, where he purchased the Lul-A-Bi Inn. He enjoyed running the inn and getting involved in local issues. He joined the Egg Harbor Lions Club, and was an early proponent of room tax to help improve county marketing as tourism waned in the early 2000s. In the early days of the Door County Tourism Zone Commission, he served as a liaison between Destination Door County and community business associations to help distribute and use funds for local efforts. 

 

He soon entered village politics, running for the board, and he loved being involved in his community. When he wasn’t doing that, he loved music, especially Chicago blues, and despite his years in Minnesota and Chicago, he saw the light and became a full-fledged Packer backer. 

 

In 2013, he met Ellen Weidner, who would become his partner in fun for the rest of his life. After selling the Lul-A-Bi and moving to Fish Creek, he loved to find a stool with Weidner and catch up on local scuttlebutt at Bayside, Alexander’s and Hill Street.  They finally got engaged in 2025 in the front seat of a Honda Pilot on I-25 near Wagon Mount, New Mexico, when Ellen finally said yes to his annual proposals. They got married on the beach in San Diego in 2025 in a small ceremony officiated by his niece, Samantha, who he adored.

 

Hill is survived by his wife, Ellen, and his brother Doug of Ontario, Canada. 

Jeffrey Kain, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away peacefully at the age of 57, following a short battle with cancer. His father, Jerry, and sister, Stacey, were at his side. Jeff grew up in Sturgeon Bay and graduated from Sturgeon Bay High School in 1987, where he excelled as a student and was active in the music department. Jeff will be remembered by his family, friends, and colleagues for the life he shared with those around him and for the many memories he created throughout his years. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Jeff is survived by his father, Jerry Kain, and his sister, Stacey Kain. He was preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Kain. Jeff was employed as an IT team leader at Sweetwater Sound LLC, where he was respected not only for his exceptional technical knowledge and skill, but also for the kindness and optimism he brought to the people around him. A colleague’s words to the family capture Jeff especially well: “What made Jeff so respected wasn't only his technical skill, though he had plenty of it. It was the way he combined that expertise with genuine kindness. He believed in people. He was optimistic even when things were hard, and he had a way of seeing the best in everyone around him. That combination is rare, and everyone who worked with him felt it. He was the kind of person who would drop whatever he was working on to help someone else, and he often gave up his own nights and weekends to make sure things kept running smoothly for the team. He never made that sacrifice feel like a burden. He just showed up, again and again, because that's who he was.” Those qualities—his expertise, kindness, belief in others, and ability to see the best in people—were a meaningful part of who Jeff was and the lasting impression he left on those fortunate enough to know him. In keeping with Jeff’s wishes, a private family service will be held. In Jeff’s memory, a memorial has been established at Sturgeon Bay High School, 1230 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, for the Robert Nichol Auditorium. Jeff’s memory will live on through his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his wry sense of humor and the twinkle in his eyes.

Sierra Marie Laxo, 33 of Sturgeon Bay passed away Monday evening, September 7, 2026 at Door County Medical Center. Sierra was born June 29, 1993 in Green Bay to Richard and Colleen (Fagan) Kinnard and graduated from Southern Door High School in 2011. On September 17, 2016, Sierra married Michael Laxo in Sturgeon Bay. Together they enjoyed cruising, shopping and taking long walks with Finland. Sierra was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, stepmom, aunt, and best friend. Family was everything to her, and the love she had for the people in her life was something you could feel. She was incredibly proud to be a stepmom. She loved her stepchildren as deeply as any mother could, and she was always proud of the people they were becoming. She supported them, believed in them, and was always there for them. Being their stepmom was one of the roles she treasured most. She had a heart that made room for everyone. She was the kind of person who would help someone without hesitation, give without expecting anything in return, and welcome people into her life with an open heart. For many years, Sierra courageously faced cancer. Through all the challenges and uncertainty, she continued to approach life with incredible positivity and strength. Her positive personality was contagious, and even during the hardest moments, she had a way of bringing light to the people around her. Her strength wasn't just in the way she fought her illness, but in the way she continued to love, laugh, give, and live. And then there was Finland-Fin-her beloved dog and, in so many ways, her child. Fin was her constant companion and brought her comfort, happiness, and unconditional love. Their bond was incredibly special, and he was never far from her side. Those who knew Sierra will remember her for her kindness, generosity, beautiful spirit, and the way she made people feel loved and accepted. She loved her family more than anything and would do whatever she could for the people she loved. She gave of herself freely and never seemed to hesitate when someone needed her. Though her life was far too short, the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in everyone she touched. She was loved deeply, gave freely, lived with hope, and left the world a little brighter simply by being in it. Sierra will be deeply missed by her husband of almost 10 years, Michael; stepchildren, Ariel, Angelica, and Michael "Mickey"; her parents, Richard and Colleen; her sisters, Shannon (AJ) Vertz, and Sammie (Ryan) Fredericks; her nieces and nephews, Tyler Vertz, Sophie Vertz, Deagan Fredericks, and Deveri Fredericks; and her mother-in-law, Debbie LaForge Pagel and Dale Pagel. A Celebration of Life honoring Sierra will be held at a later date. Memorials in Sierra's honor may be directed to Door Cancer (www.doorcancer.com/donate/). Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC in Sturgeon Bay are caring for Sierra and her family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Sierra may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Grant Charles Vytlacil, 48 years, died suddenly of an apparent drowning Monday, September 7, 2026 while swimming at Nicolet Beach near Fish Creek, WI. At 6'9", Grant had a way of standing out in a room before he ever said a word. But anyone who knew him-or was lucky enough to have him wait on their table-or had a custom Hat made by him-quickly discovered that the size of the man was matched by the size of his heart. Grant was kind, funny, intelligent, welcoming, witty, sarcastic, and unmistakably himself. He was born August 22, 1978 in St. Charles, IL the son of George and Rhea (Jones) Vytlacil. Grant graduated from Elgin High School. Grant made Door County his home in 1999, though his family's connection to the peninsula stretched back much further. His maternal great-grandfather's roots in Ephraim date to 1909, and his grandfather, Roy C. Jones, was one of the founders of SCAND in Sister Bay, his family has been coming up to DC all of their lives for four generations and will continue for many to come. His working life took him through some familiar Door County institutions, beginning in produce at Piggly Wiggly and including Northern Grill, Mr. Helsinki's, Hat Head, and Barringer's. Grant loved music, from polka to rap, from house music to Dolly, all at Grant-approved volume, (which was louder). He loved food, cooking, art, politics, swatch watches, hats, jokes, his friends and family, and he was always interested in people and what made them all unique. Grant leaves behind his mother, Rhea Vytlacil; his father, George Vytlacil; his sister, Valerie White (Vytlacil), and her husband, Adam White; his nephew, Drake White, and Drake's wife, Chelsea; his great-nephew, Frances White; his niece, Vyolette White; his girlfriend, Stephanie Hedquist; and a large extended family and an extraordinary number of friends throughout Door County and beyond. He also leaves behind "the boys”, Ichibod and Edgar, and Quincess -because no accounting of Grant's family would be accurate if the animals were left out. Door County will feel different without him. At 6'9", Grant took up plenty of vertical space in this world. But turns out he took up considerably more room in people's hearts. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Grant's memory to The Farm (4285 Highway 57, Sturgeon Bay, Door County, Wisconsin). There will be a celebration of life on Sunday, September 13, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Huehns Funeral Home (1414 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay WI). Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Grant may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Believing in the promise of eternal life, Patrick J. Coffey made his final journey on this earth on Sunday evening, September 6, 2026.

 

Pat was born in Freedom, WI on October 2, 1943, to Herman and Marie (Murphy) Coffey. The Coffey family was well known for proudly celebrating its Irish heritage in a community rich with fellow descendants of Irish ancestry.

 

Pat is survived by his wife of 44 years, Carla (Vandertie) Coffey and three children, Christopher (Lori Bauman) Coffey, Scottsdale, AZ; Timothy (Colleen) Coffey, Westport, CT; and Meghan (David) DeMore, Mequon, WI. Together, they blessed Pat with seven grandchildren, each of whom he loved deeply and in whom he took immense pride: Caitlyn and Ryan Coffey; Caroline, Kathleen, and Ainsley Coffey; and the two "littles," Donovan and Mariella DeMore, who arrived later and reminded their Papa that everything was right with the world. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Ron and Reggie Vandertie and Ed Harding; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Vandertie and Lori Harding, and his Greenwood nieces and nephews whom he often referred to as brothers and sisters: John, Jim, Dan, Bill, Joe and Jeananne Greenwood, Julie Rooyakers and JoAnn Paluch. Pat was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law, Jeanne and Tom Greenwood, and brother-in-law Scott Vandertie.

 

Three educational institutions held a special place in Pat's heart. The first was Abbot Pennings High School in De Pere, where he distinguished himself as Senior Class President and Valedictorian. The second was the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he spent four memorable years as an undergraduate. Among his proudest accomplishments there were serving as Editor-in-Chief of the student newspaper and being selected to write the Class History during his senior year. After graduating in 1965, his Class History was praised as "a work of art," thoughtfully capturing a pivotal moment in American history, including the assassinations, civil unrest, and the growing movement to "give peace a chance." It can be found here: https://bit.ly/1965HC The third institution was the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), where Pat devoted 40 years of service. He began as a teacher in the General Studies Department before becoming Dean of Students and later Vice President of Student Life. Throughout his career, he profoundly influenced generations of students, colleagues, and the university community through his leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to student success. With this commitment, his leadership skills, spirit of teamwork, and well-articulated insights (along with his award-winning smile), he was a major force in helping to transform a very creditable trade school to the well-respected and fully-accredited university MSOE is today. Words cannot fully express the affection Pat held for each of these institutions or the impact they had on his life. Throughout his career, he lived by a simple but enduring philosophy: always give students the benefit of the doubt. It was a principle that earned him deep respect and reflected the kindness, wisdom, and generosity that defined his life. Pat’s remarkable vocabulary and gift for eloquence made him a sought-after speaker for countless presentations, speeches, family celebrations and invocations.

 

Among the addresses he treasured most were his father-of-the-bride speech at his daughter’s wedding, the heartfelt eulogy he delivered at the funeral of his mother-in-law, Ella Mae Vandertie, the commencement address to the Sturgeon Bay High School graduating class of 1992, and the many occasions on which he offered the Irish Blessing to graduating classes at MSOE. A reflection on Pat’s life would be incomplete without acknowledging one of the greatest challenges he faced: addiction. It was a severe and difficult test in his life, and one that required a long and arduous journey to overcome. Through perseverance, courage, and the support of those who loved him, Pat found his way to recovery. In time, what had once been his greatest challenge became perhaps his greatest contribution. Having walked that difficult path himself, Pat developed a deep compassion for others facing addiction, giving him the opportunity to offer hope, understanding, and support to others, and turning a painful chapter of his own life into a source of strength and service to those around him.

 

Funeral services for Pat will be held at St. Hubert Catholic Church in Rosiere at 11:00 am Saturday, September 12, 2026, with visitation at the church that day from 9:30 am until the time of mass. Interment will take place at St. Michael Cemetery in Misiere, located adjacent to the Vandertie family farm. Forbes Funeral Home of Sturgeon Bay is serving the family. On Sunday, September 13, family and friends are invited to a memorial gathering at River Club of Mequon (12400 North Ville Du Pard Drive, Mequon, WI 53092) which will include music, memories, memorabilia, prayer and refreshments. There will be socializing from noon until 2:15 pm when a tribute will be conducted by family members. Memorial donations can be made to Rawhide Youth Services (rawhide.org/give-to-rawhide) or the Miss Wisconsin Scholarship Organization (misswisconsin.org/.payment).

Dorothy V. Walker, 101 of Nasewaupee, passed away surrounded by her family on Monday morning, September 7, 2026 at her home. She was born on July 7, 1925 in New London, daughter of the late Herbert and Gertrude (Meshke) Ohlrogge. On January 12, 1950, she married Charles Walker in Ft. Sheridan, Illinois. He preceded her in death on July 1, 1999. Dorothy was a military wife for over 27 years. During that time, She and Charles were stationed in Michigan, Germany, Alabama, Alaska, Colorado and back to Alaska. While in Alaska, she was employed as a florist with Barb’s Floral in Anchorage and later at May’s Florist in Sturgeon Bay. Dorothy had a green thumb and could grow any indoor plants. It was not uncommon for her to take a dying plant from somebody else and nurse it back to health. Dorothy loved bowling, playing cards and going to the casino. She also enjoyed cutting hair for family and friends. She is survived by her two children: Jeffery Walker and Karin (Don) Heldmann; one step-daughter: Monika Perry; six grandchildren: Christopher (Ammie), Jessica, Daniel (Kari), Lisa (Domingo), Jason and Luke (Katy); great-grandchildren: Elizabeth (Josh), Carolyn, Delia, Madison “Bubba”, Lili, Anthony, Mason, Noah and Beckett; one great-great-granddaughter: Arya; one brother: Clifford Ohlrogge; one sister: Janet Claflin; one brother-in-law: Charles Pichette. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by her husband: Charles Walker; her parents: Herbert and Gertrude Ohlrogge; two brothers: Donald Ohlrogge and Herbert ‘Jr.’ Ohlrogge; and one sister: Jane Pichette. Visitation for Dororthy will be held on Monday morning, September 14, 2026 at Salem Lutheran Church, 3339 Co Rd MM from 10:00 AM until the time of services at 11:00 AM. Officiating at the funeral service will be Rev. Todd Vertz. Burial will be at Schumacher Cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Unity Hospice for the exceptional care given to Dorothy and her family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Salem Lutheran Church, 3339 Cty Rd MM, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or Unity Hospice, 2366 Oak Ridge Circle, De Pere, WI 54115. The Forbes Funeral Home and Cremations is assisting the family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be left for Dorothy’s family on her tribute page at www.forbesfuneralhome.com.

John Michael Curtin, 68, of Scottsdale, AZ and Little Newton Lake, WI, passed away Saturday, September 5, 2026, at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, WI. He was born July 13, 1958, in Algoma, WI, the son of John A. Curtin and Mary M. "Marge" (Condon) Curtin. John attended St. Mary's grade school and graduated from Algoma High School in 1976. The veracity of his graduation remains uncertain due to his full beard and the possibility of being mistaken for staff when he portrayed Tevya in "Fiddler on the Roof". He went on to attend Lawrence University in Appleton, with interesting friends including "Dr. Bob" and Armenrah Loving, The Mime. John later enrolled in law school at UW-Madison where he earned his Juris Doctor and learned to drink scotch on a beer budget. John moved to Arizona to practice law and met his former wife, Victoria (Gruver) Curtin. They were blessed with two beautiful daughters: Mary and Clare. Typical of John, he "shared" his love of lifelong learning with his children by forcing them to listen to the works of Plato and Aristotle. John was attorney and partner in the law firm, Robbins Curtin Millea & Showalter, LLC in Phoenix, AZ where he enjoyed 38 years of defending the underdog, specializing in Medical Malpractice. Later in life, John enjoyed spending summers back in Wisconsin. He was an avid reader, writer and chef. As those who knew him can attest, he was also blessed with the gift of blarney. John will be missed by his daughters, Mary (Benjamin) Aprill of Stoughton, WI and Clare Curtin of Glendale, AZ as well as their mother, Victoria Curtin of Sun City, AZ; siblings, Peg (Jim) Exner, Daniel (Wanda DuChateau) Curtin, Thomas Curtin, Michael (Michaeleen) Curtin and Steven (Mary) Curtin; many nieces and nephews; other relatives; and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hon. John and Marge Curtin; other relatives; and his beloved dog, Mr. Chesterton. There will be a Celebration of Life gathering for John on Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. at the Schinderle Funeral Home, 1600 Schinderle Lane, Algoma, WI 54201. He will be laid to rest near family in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Algoma. Though, John also suggested he be dug up every few years "just to see what's new." Memorials may be given in John's name for the ACLU (www.aclu.org/donate; 1-888-567-ACLU). The family would like to express thanks to the staffs of St. Vincent Hospital and Unity Hospice for the care provided. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of John may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.SchinderleFuneralHome.com.

Jeffery "Jeff" Allen Braun of Thiensville, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on September 2, 2026, at the age of 71. He was born on August 3, 1955 in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin to Ruby and Donald Braun. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed. Jeff is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Wanda Braun (née Wachtel); his son, Christopher (Stephanie) Braun of Germantown, Wisconsin; his daughter, Caitlin Braun (fiancé Rosemary Gervais) of Longwood, Florida; his cherished grandchildren, Jaxson and Rylie Braun; and his brother, Daniel (Peggy) Braun of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. He is further survived by many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and close friends. A proud graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, Jeff built a fulfilling career as an optometrist dedicated to serving his community. Over the years, he cared for patients at Dr. Weisner’s Office in Sturgeon Bay, the Detroit VA Medical Center, Milwaukee Eye Care Associates, Family Health Plan, and was currently employed by QuadMed in West Allis and Lomira. He truly loved his profession and the opportunity it gave him to connect with people from all walks of life. He often said he enjoyed work and his patients so much that he didn’t want to retire. Outside of his work, Jeff had a vibrant passion for life. As a lifelong and dedicated Green Bay Packers fan and proud season ticket holder, Jeff rarely missed attending a home game; cheering on the Packers was a core family tradition and a source of countless memories. He was also an avid IndyCar racing enthusiast who attended the Indianapolis 500 for more than 40 consecutive years. Jeff loved exploring the world alongside his wife, traveling frequently with the Homestead High School Orchestra and the WTMJ radio travel group. Among his favorite destinations was Walt Disney World, where his enthusiasm and sense of wonder made every visit special, including his last family visit in June. An accomplished photographer, Jeff spent years capturing the people, places, and moments that mattered most to him, while generously donating his time and talents to support the Homestead High School Orchestra program. Beyond his passion for travel, Jeff was an avid lover of live music who found immense joy in attending concerts and supporting local performances. Whether taking in a symphony or enjoying a live show with family, music was a constant backdrop to the happiest moments of his life. Jeff will be remembered for his generosity, his vibrant passions, and his deep devotion to his family. His absence will be felt profoundly, but the traditions, laughter, and memories he created will live on. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who knew Jeff to honor his memory by doing something he loved—cheering on the Packers, watching a race, taking a photograph, traveling somewhere special, supporting live music, or simply spending quality time with those they love. For those wishing to make a charitable contribution, memorial donations may be made in Jeff's honor to the Homestead High School Orchestra program. A visitation will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Schramka-Densow Funeral Home, 423 N. Main Street, Thiensville, Wisconsin, with a memorial service immediately following at 6:00 PM.

Carol Margaret (Richter) Lemon, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and lifelong Washington Islander, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, adventure, and an extraordinary life well lived. Carol was born on December 12, 1941, in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, to Arni and Mary Richter. She was raised on Washington Island alongside her three sisters, Adele McClaren, Estelle Richter, and MaryJo Purinton. Carol often spoke of her childhood on the island with her sisters as something truly remarkable-a childhood filled with family, adventure, and the unique experiences that come from growing up in a close-knit island community. She attended Washington Island Grade School. While in the 8th grade, she teamed with Diane Stelter and they were nighttime janitors at the school. Carol graduated from Washington Island High School in 1957. She went on to attend Lindenwood College for Women in St. Charles, Missouri, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree. She furthered attended the Medical School of Milwaukee, becoming a Registered Medical Lab Technician. It was during this time that she met her first husband, a Navy serviceman. Their life together took them to Virginia, where they welcomed four children, before being stationed in San Diego in 1970. Carol worked at Kaiser Permanente Hospital in San Diego while raising her children in Santee. There, she would meet her second husband, Bob Lemon. Together, Carol and Bob owned and operated four construction companies, building a life through hard work, determination, and their entrepreneurial spirit. Tragically, Bob died in an accident in 1981. Carol remained in San Diego, raising her children and continuing to build a life for her family. But the pull of Washington Island-and the place she had always considered home-never left her heart. In 1987, Carol returned to Washington Island and began what would become one of the most beloved chapters of her life. She ran the Northport Pier Restaurant for nearly 20 years, becoming a familiar and cherished face to generations of islanders and visitors. She was there nearly every day, greeting travelers from around the world with her beautiful smile, warm hospitality, and genuine love for people. At Northport Pier, Carol mastered her craft. She loved creating incredible food, providing wonderful service, and making people feel welcome in a beautiful place. For countless visitors, a meal at the Northport Pier Restaurant-and a conversation with Carol-became part of their Washington Island experience. After her years at Northport, Carol continued doing what she loved. She returned to work in the kitchen at KK Fiske, where she spent years sharing her talents and her love of cooking and hospitality with the island community. But perhaps Carol's greatest gift was her ability to make life an adventure. She loved entertaining friends, traveling, discovering new experiences, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and simply being surrounded by the people she loved. She had a tremendous curiosity about the world and a remarkable ability to find joy wherever life took her. Carol held a particularly deep love and appreciation for Mexico, where she spent considerable time. She built lifelong friendships there and cherished the many experiences, stories, and memories she brought home with her. Mexico became another special place that held a piece of her heart. Carol was fiercely independent, adventurous, funny, compassionate, devoted, and generous with her love. She worked hard, played hard, and loved deeply. She lived life on her own terms and left an impression on nearly everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Washington Island was not simply where Carol was born and raised-it was home. It was woven into who she was. And after a life that took her across the country and introduced her to countless people and places, she returned to the island she loved and made her mark on the community she called home. Carol was preceded in death by her grandparents, Carl and Margaret Richter; her parents, Arni and Mary Richter; her sisters, Adele McClaren and Estelle Richter; her husband, Bob Lemon; and her son, Arni Lemon. She is survived by her sister, MaryJo Purinton; her daughters, Brenda Franco, Trish Valdez, and Kimberly Toro; her grandchildren, Crystal Arps, Carol Schwegel, Chelsea Dodd, Connor Toro, and Colton Valdez; as well as many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who became family along the way. Carol leaves behind much more than memories. She leaves behind stories, traditions, friendships, recipes, laughter, and the imprint of a life lived boldly and wholeheartedly. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. And for those who knew Carol best, it is easy to imagine her exactly where she belongs-on Washington Island, smiling that beautiful smile, welcoming everyone home, and reminding us all to live a little harder, laugh a little louder, love a little deeper, and never stop seeking the next adventure. The funeral service for Carol will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church, 1763 Town Line Rd, Washington Island. A visitation for family and friends will be at the church from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, and again on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, LLC in Sister Bay is assisting the Lemon family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Carol may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

It is with profound sadness we announce the death of beloved wife, mother, grandmother and sister, Carol M. Kurtz. Carol was 76 and passed away suddenly Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at her home following a health emergency. She was a longtime Door County resident, born December 1, 1949 in Sturgeon Bay. Carol was the daughter of Joseph and Cecelia (Zelhofer) Delchambre. Carol attended S.S. Peter and Paul grade school and went on to graduate from Sevastopol High School in 1967. Carol would marry her high school sweetheart Robert D. Kurtz on January 31, 1970. They were together since their freshman year at Sevastopol. After they were married they lived in Sheboygan where Carol worked for the State of Wisconsin Department of Social Services. In 1970 they moved to Green Bay when Robbie accepted a position with Green Bay Paper manufacturing and Carol worked for the HC Prange Company. In 1976 they moved to Sturgeon Bay and built their home and helped Robbie's parents with the farm. In 1979 they bought the Donald Kurtz dairy farm and along with daily chores, she raised her children, Jenny and Greg. During this time Carol also worked weekend admissions at Door County Memorial Hospital until her illness resulted in her retirement in 1991. She has spent 37 years in debilitating health. Never giving up on life, she continued to stay in touch with those she loved. Pushing through pain and exhaustion to create joy for others. Her cooking creations were her love language. Some of our families fondest memories are of the trips to California by car and by train. The mom and dad Trip Tik's and map reading class held in the cars front seat are legendary. Such spirted debate was often followed by an extended time of Carol's total silence. When she was able to be more active, she enjoyed singing with the S.S. Peter and Paul Choir, serving on the S.S. Peter and Paul School Board, and playing softball with friends in the Ladies Double-Header League. She will be missed by her devoted husband, Robert "Robbie"; two children and their families, Jennifer (David) Kacmarynski of Sturgeon Bay and their children, Caden, Ella and Reid; Greg (fiance, Renee) Kurtz of Plainfield, IL and his children, Ethan, Mikayla, and Trenton; her three sisters, Mary Kay Junk of Manitowoc, Doris (Rod) Ash of Manitowoc, and Sharon (Robert) Haen of Institute. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and special family friends, Steve Davis and Johnny Quinn. Carol is also survived by her beloved cats, Henry Kuger and Harvey Corman, who kept her entertained every day and brought plenty of laughter, comfort, and companionship into her life. Preceding her in death were her parents; brother, Joseph; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Corrine and Donald Kurtz, brother-in law, Stanley Junk, and nephew, Michael Ash. A Mass of Christian burial will be prayed at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 18, 2026 at S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Institute with Fr. Mathew Rappl officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call on the family at Huehns Funeral Home on Thursday, September 17, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday at the church from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. There will be a parish wake held Thursday evening at 8:00 p.m. at Huehns Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Carol may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.

Charles John Wagner, “Chuck”, age 56, formerly of Door County, passed peacefully, on May 22, 2026, while being cared for at the Sharon Richardson Community Hospice Center in Sheboygan Falls. Chuck was born on July 27, 1969, at the Algoma Memorial Hospital, to Rodney and Terri (Bahlert) Wagner and grew up in Egg Harbor. After graduating from Sevastopol High School, he worked for several different contractors in the plumbing, heating, and electrical fields. After moving to Sheboygan, he became a Master Electrician and ran his own business, Wagner Electric, which he started in January of 2011 and ran until he no longer could work due to his illness in 2026. Chuck was very interested in family history and did much research on this topic. His love of hunting and fishing were his passions in his free time. Many happy memories were created in these activities with his dad and Chuck’s two sons, Sam and Nick. When Chuck moved to Sheboygan, he and his soulmate, Patty Schleicher, had two children Sam and Nick. They shared many happy years together and Patty was an integral part of Chuck’s care when he was diagnosed with cancer in July of 2025. She spent many hours with Chuck making sure he was taking his meds, helping him with his appointments, etc… The family will always be grateful for the compassionate care she gave Chuck. Patty is a dear friend of the family and always will be. Chuck will be remembered for his quick wit and silly sense of humor, anyone on Facebook will remember his cooking posts. He loved to create things in his kitchen. He would often post a photo of his latest creation with the caption “Chef Vogner is at it again.” Chuck and his oldest son Sam, started an online fishing lure business, making lures and selling them on line. Chuck is survived by and will be deeply missed by his parents, Rod and Terri, sons, Sam and Nick, dear friend Patty Schleicher, many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by many friends both here in Door County and in Sheboygan. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at the Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay with a visitation from 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be in the Town of Egg Harbor Cemetery. The family wishes to thank the Vince Lombardi Cancer Center, St. Luke’s in Milwaukee, and the Sharon Richardson Community Hospice Center for the attentive and compassionate care given to Chuck. The family would also like to thank the many friends and relatives for their support and kind words during this difficult time.

Judith A. Kerscher, 87, of Luxemburg passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 3, 2026. She was born in Door County on September 5, 1938 to the late Cletus L. and Verna A. (Wautier) Mathey. On June 25, 1992, Judy married Donald “Dean” Kerscher at St. Francis Church, Brussels. He preceded her in death on September 18, 2014. Judy worked at Tillmann Landscaping for 25 plus years in the office where she made many friends. She retired and went to Younkers Department Store, where we often joked that she paid them more than her weekly paycheck. Judy was a good cook preparing many meals when working at her family owned business Palm Gardens. She also worked hard on the family farm in Champion. One of her greatest joys was gift giving. Known for her love of a Judy deal, red/blue light specials, and yellow dot sales. She could fill a gift box or gift bag better than any magician. The contents seemed never ending. Whether it was her grandchildren doing the Christmas Gift assembly line or her pick em box game, watching her smile while giving was priceless. Her Catholic faith was very important to her. She was known to pray the rosary at the Chapel and even known to wear holes in the knees of her pants. Her chicken booyah and coleslaw were some of her specialties. You know she was a good mom since each of her four children would claim that they are her favorite. She is survived by four children Cindy (Tony) Salentine, Sandy (Tom) Duquaine, Dean (Mary) Abts, Amy (Paul) Lewandowski; fifteen grandchildren: Tracy (Bob) LeCaptain, Brian Salentine, Scott (Ashley) Salentine, Katie (Luke) Kostreva, Matthew (Gabrielle) Salentine, Melissa (Tom) Wagnitz, Ashley Duquaine, Justin (Kayla) Duquaine, Keith (Stephanie) Abts, Kory (Emily) Abts, Kristin (special friend Tony) Abts, Kimberly (Jacob) Deterville, Jacob (fiancé Eden) Lewandowski, Anna (special friend Gage) Lewandowski, Joshua Lewandowski; twenty nine great grandchildren, three step-children: Kelly Doehler, Lori Kruswick; Vicki Nellis; five step-grandchildren; two siblings: Ron (Connie) Mathey, Pam (Allen) Vogel; sisters in law and brothers in law Barbara Glaser, Karen (Terry) LaViolette, Agatha (Don) Pigeon, Agnes (Norris) Servais. She was preceded in death by her husband Dean Kerscher; one granddaughter Christy Duquaine; her parents; one sister Betty (Harlin) Mercier; brothers in law and sisters in law Gerald Glaser, Mabel (Henry) Delwiche, Florence (Martin) Heim, Robert (Florence) Abts, Russell Abts, Loretta (Vernon) Wautlet, Calvin (Joyce) Abts, Clifford (Marge) Abts; additional family members Milton (Marlene) Delwiche; the father of her children Ted Abts Jr. Friends may call at the McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 3:30 to 6:30 pm. Closing prayer service 6:30 pm on Wednesday with Deacon Bob Miller. Visitation will continue between 9:00 and 10:15 am. At St. Mary Church, Luxemburg on Thursday September 10, 2026. Funeral Mass 10:30 am on Thursday at the church with Very Rev. Daniel Schuster officiating. Burial in St. Francis Cemetery, Brussels. McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg, is assisting the Kerscher family. McMahonFH.com.

Verna R. Christoff, 96, Luxemburg, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, surrounded by family. She was born to the late Mathias and Rose (Kozlik) Wessely on April 9, 1930, in the town of Montpelier. She graduated from Luxemburg High School. She married Elmer Christoff on May 21, 1941, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pilsen. Verna was an active member and dedicated volunteer at St. Mary Catholic Church, Luxemburg. She was a member of the St. Mary Christian Mother Society, the Financial Life Court 1186, and served as treasurer. She was a member and volunteered for the American Legion Ralph Klein Auxiliary Unit 262 of Luxemburg. Verna cooked many meals for parish funerals and counted weekend collections. She served as a poll worker for the Town of Luxemburg and as a courier for the Bank of Luxemburg. After marrying, she and Elmer ran the family farm and were blessed with five children. She enjoyed flowers, gardening, music, and making her own Christmas candy. She also enjoyed going to lunches, bowling and playing cards. Verna and Elmer enjoyed attending naval reunions. Survivors include her children Tom (Judy) Christoff, Green Bay; Dr. Kathleen DeJardin, Arlington, VA; Jim (Nancy) Christoff, Luxemburg; Diane (Bruce) Beecroft, Little Chute; and sister-in-law Christine (Ed) Eckert, Gilbert, AZ. She is further survived by seven grandchildren, Brian (Bethany) Christoff, Ann Arbor, MI; Stacy (Erik) Bartelsen, Verona; Melanie DeJardin, Luxemburg; Jennifer (John) Jacques, Mount Vernon, MO; Sarah (Danny) Peterson, Summerville, SC; Laura (Ross) Neher, Green Bay; and Matthew Christoff, St. Paul, MN; ten great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. She was preceded in death by husband Elmer; daughter Nancy Hass; parents Mathias and Rose Wessely; two brothers Joseph (Eleanor) Wessely, Daniel (Ruth) Wessely; and one sister Audrey (Marcellus “Sib”) Bricco. Friends may call between 9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 1412 Main Street, Luxemburg. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. with Very Rev. Daniel Schuster officiating and Rev. Matthew Colle, concelebrating. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Luxemburg. McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg is assisting the Christoff family. Online condolences can be shared at McMahonFH.com. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Moments Hospice as well as Mindy Strnad and her staff of Sycamore Lodge Assisted Living in Luxemburg.

David A. Hanlin, 72, of Washington Island, WI, died on the island on August 30, 2026. He was born in Waukegan, IL on July 27, 1954 to Effie (Anderson) and Richard Hanlin. He graduated from Washington Island School in 1973. Dave was a proud, self-made man, known for his hard work, loyalty, and deep care for anyone who was struggling or in need. He held his values highly. He loved striking up a conversation with a stranger and catching up with old friends. His home was a revolving door of folks taking a pit stop on Main Road to join him for a cup of coffee or a swing in the front yard. All visitors were met with spirited and entertaining conversation and stories. Dave worked at Peterson Builders Incorporated (PBI), a ship building company, in Sturgeon Bay for five years as a welder, ship fitter, and carpenter. Starting in 1981, he proudly ran Dave's Garage, formerly owned by his father, and has run Hanlin Excavating since 2008. The garage included gas pumps for the first 10 years, sold fudge, and has been notoriously known for its 23-hour towing and snow plowing. He was a volunteer firefighter for 23 years, served as a town board member for two terms, and he even drove the island school bus for many years. To say that Dave has done it all would be an understatement. Dave's greatest legacy remains his large and loving family. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, Adam (Breana) of Washington Island, Alan (Tracy) of Green Bay, Austin of West Haven, CT, and Arthur (Barbara) of San Antonio, TX; stepchildren, Nichole (Kent) of Sturgeon Bay, and Brian (Denise) of Sturgeon Bay; and 16 grandchildren. He is survived by his sister, Crystal (Matthew); sisters-in-law, Netta, and Genevieve; other relatives; and many friends, including his nephew, Bobby Hanlin, and dear friend, Cathy Patel. Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Effie; brothers, Richard, Donald, John, and Daniel; and sisters, Patricia, Annette, and Linda. Dave's life will be honored with a memorial service held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Bethel Evangelical Free Church on Washington Island with Pastor Rick Smith officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. He will be laid to rest in the Town of Washington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Bethel Evangelical Free Church (www.islandbethelchurch.com), Unity Hospice (www.unityhospice.org/donate), or Washington Island Fire Department (910 Main Rd, Washington Island WI 54246). Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC in Sister Bay, is assisting David's family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of David may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

Michele K. Tahlier, 74, Algoma, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 1st, 2026, at home with her loving family by her side. She was born July 17th, 1952, in Algoma to Milton and Doris (Hartel) Duerst. Michele attended Algoma High School, later earned her GED and furthered her education at NWTC earning an accounting degree. Michele later married Michael Tahlier on June 19th, 1993 with their families by their side. Michele was a very caring, loving and accepting person. She started volunteering at the Violence Intervention Project a few years before she was hired as an advocate to help victims of violence. She worked there for 17 years, retiring in 2014. Michele loved and cherished her time with family and friends, had many hobbies, including knitting and crocheting, Harley rides and took many bike trips around the country while still volunteering and being an advocate for victims of violence. She was a member of the Red Hatters for many years and a also a member and leader of the Christian Motorcycle Association since 2014. Michele is survived by her children, Bryan (Nancy) Duerst; Anne (Devon) Allen and their family Cherity (Steve) Seiler - Dylan, Sarah Paque - Avalyn and Abel, Craig Paque Jr.; Christin Engelking; April Deringer (Howard) - Baylen, and family Rayanne Caudle - Deziray, Annaray, Matthew, Oleana, Otto, Redlee, Atticus; Justice Engelking - Hunter; William Ouradnik; Anton Sahm; Richard Engelking (Cheyanne) - Deringer, Legacy; Jordon Deringer (Kourtney) Liam; Bonus daughters Jessie (Kenny) Malcore - Michael, Bailey, Bree; Michelle "Mickie" (David) Bouche; siblings Marie Stuebs, Marilyn LaViolette, Monica Larson, Madonna (Bernie) VandenAvond, Melinda Thor, Tim (Brenda) Duerst, Margie (Larry) Kadletz and Tom (Teresa) Duerst; In-laws Luann Kellner, Peggy Tahlier, Jerry (Lisa) Tahlier and Duane (Julie) Tahlier as well as many other family and friends. Preceded in death by her husband Michael Tahlier, great granddaughter Oaklee Engelking, father and mother Milton and Doris Duerst, father and mother-in-law, Gerald Sr. and Donna Tahlier, brothers-in-law Dick Stuebs, Fred Thor, Brian Kellner. Per Michele's wishes, she would like people attending funeral services to wear bright colored clothing as she was a bright and beautiful person. Also, as she loved Harley rides, please ride your bikes as a tribute and in honor of her memory. We would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Jaslowski and all the nurses and staff at Green Bay Oncology and Door County Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care. Also thank you to Unity Hospice for the compassionate care they provided and to all who made Mike and Michele meals or helped support them in any way over the last couple years going through cancer treatments. Family and friends may gather at the Schinderle Funeral Home, Tuesday, Sept. 8th, 2026, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM, continuing on Wednesday, Sept. 9th, at Lakeside Community Church, E6295 County Road K, Algoma, from 10:00 AM until the time of services at 1:00 PM with Pastor Brian Pursley officiating. Social gathering after service. Express your sympathy, memories and pictures on Michele's tribute page at www.schinderlefuneralhome.com.

Rosemary “Rosie” Leppert, 91, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, August 30, 2026. She was born on May 14, 1935, to late Michael Martin and Wilma (Karasek) Martin. Rosie was the third of five sisters and grew up on the family farm near Lyndon Station, WI which was homesteaded by her great grandfather from Tipperary, Ireland in 1853. She and her sisters cherished their many adventures in Seven Mile Creek and often shared fond memories of their childhood. She attended the Martin School, St. Mary’s Catholic School and later Mauston High. Rosie was a waitress at the Huntley Hotel in Reedsburg, WI when she met the love of her life, Marvin “Marv” Leppert. They were married on April 27, 1957, at St Aloysius Catholic Church in Hillsboro, WI. They went on to share 69 beautiful years together. Marv and Rosie raised their 3 children in Waunakee, WI. They were active members of St. John’s Catholic Church, where Rosie frequently volunteered for events over the years. She was a proud supporter at countless sporting events and school functions for her children. In 2001, Rosie and Marv built their retirement home in Door County, WI where they vacationed for many years. They became members of Stella Maris Catholic Parish, where she served as Eucharistic ministers. Together, Rosie and Marv led the popular “Steak and Shrimp Dinner”, a fundraiser supporting the Youth Faith Formation Program for Stella Maris Parish. Rosie also volunteered for 12 years at Scandia Village Nursing Home. Rosie and Marv enjoyed traveling, exploring many places across the U.S., Europe and spontaneous adventures around Wisconsin. They loved entertaining family and friends around a table full of delicious food. Rosie never passed up a shopping day with lunch, and she never left a store empty handed! Rosie’s greatest joy was being a homemaker, devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She took pride in her home, and guests could always expect a warm welcome, wonderful meals and fresh baked goods. She was especially known for her Christmas baking, cookie plates, creating beautiful trays with over 30 varieties of treats each year. These trays were eagerly anticipated each holiday season by family, friends, neighbors and Marv’s employees. Some even shipped to Afghanistan while her son, Col. Martin Leppert was stationed, where he shared with his fellow soldiers. Rosie also loved decorating her home for every holiday and celebrating with family and friends. She deeply cherished her time spent with loved ones and will be dearly missed by many. She is survived by her loving husband, Marvin; children, Cindy (Phil) DeKok, of Menomonie, WI, Martin (Tania) Leppert, of Kalispell, MT, Mardel (Chuck) Curwick, of Glendale, AZ; grandchildren, Sean (Sara) DeKok, Heather (Jason) Wiseman, Bradley (Sidney) Leppert, Markes (Charity) Leppert, Ryan (Shannon) Curwick, Dr. Lauren Curwick; great-grandchildren, Peyton, Annabelle, Gerrit, Aspen, Violet, Daisy, Lilly, Stella, and Forest; sisters, Theresa Meleski, of Roseville, CA, Wilma Zant, of Reedsburg, WI, Kathy (Melvin) Nickel, of Wisconsin Dells, WI; brother-in-law, Bill Liegel and many nieces and nephews. Rosemary is preceded in death by her parents, Micheal and Wilma Martin; sister, Marcella Leigel; Marv’s parents, Henry and Wanda Leppert; sister-in-law, Elaine French; brother-in-law, Bernard Meleski; niece, Vicky Fry and nephew, Terry Nickel. Our family wishes to thank the entire staff of doctors, nurses, CNAs, and social workers for the wonderful professional care given to Rosemary the past months. A special thank you to Rosie’s three angels, Amanda, Jessica, and Connie! A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Stella Maris Catholic Church, 2410 S. Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation for family and friends starting at 10:00 a.m. at the church. A Christian burial will take place the following day in Reedsburg, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes all memorials be made to Unity Hospice of Green Bay, 2366 Oak Ridge Circle, De Pere, WI 54115. Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, LLC in Sister Bay is assisting the Leppert family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Rosemary may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

Matthew W. Zelten, 51, Kewaunee, passed away at home on Thursday, August 27, 2026. He was born on March 3, 1975, to Bert and Kim (Dorn) Zelten. Matt married Leah Meinders on April 21, 2023. Matt served his county in the United States Air Force for 9 ½ years. This included tours overseas in Saudia Arabia and Bahrain. Matt was a member of the Alaska Golf Club and enjoyed spending his free time playing darts, bowling, and golfing. He also loved singing karaoke and, more than anything, making people smile and laugh. Matt had a wonderful sense of humor and was always ready with a joke or a smart comment, especially when someone was having a bad day. Matt is survived by his wife, Leah Zelten; his parents, Bert and Kim Zelten; his son, Jordan (significant other, Bethany) Zelten, of New Orleans; stepsons, Blake Meinders, Ronnie (significant other, Kaitlyn) Hunt, Tristan (significant other, Caitlin) Hunt; grandchildren, Jayda and Wyatt; brother, Adam (significant other, Marissa) Zelten; grandmother, Shirley Zelten; Aunts and Uncles, Chery Dorn, Steven (Mary) Dorn, Jim (Wanda) Dorn, Michael (Helen) Dorn, Mark (Francine) Zelten, Terry (Tom) Lischka, Tammy (significant other, Mike) Zelten; nephew, Archer; special family friend, Chyann; cousins, Eric, Stacey, Jessica, Jamie, Samantha, Ryan, Benjamin, and Alisha; and father-in-law, Jack Meinders. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Darlene Dorn; Grandfather Jerome Zelten; mother-in-law, Joyce Dixon; and Aunt Lori Dorn. A visitation will take place Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services, Kewaunee. Funeral Service at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pat Ratajczak officiating. Full Military Rites will follow outside with Kewaunee American Legion Post 29. Online condolences can be shared at KinnardFCS.com.