Obituary Category: Beaver Dam

Orvie D. Cook, 82, of Fox Lake passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Orvie Dee was born on March 4, 1943 the son of Orville and Ethel (Hayes) Cook in Platteville, Wisconsin.  Orvie proudly served his county in the United States Marines during Vietnam.  Orvie was a painter for most of his life.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing, but most of all, he loved spending time with his family.  Orvie was a storyteller.  It didn’t matter if there was a big family gathering or if it was just a few family members around the kitchen table; he always had a story to tell.

Orvie was a member of the Randolph VFW; he enjoyed his time with his fellow service members whether it was a meeting, parade or a final good bye.

Orvie leaves behind his wife of 39 years, Nancy; his seven children: Todd Cook and Mike Cook both of Florida, Jody Cook of Fox Lake, Nicole Waterworth (Duane Schraufnagel) of Beaver Dam, Amy Cook of Fox Lake, Shane (Erin) Cook of Cambria, and Jamie Cook of Fox Lake; his seven grandchildren: Taylor (Kyle) Giese, Mackenzie Raley, Austin Cook, Alyssa Cook, Julia Cook, Kara Cook and Katrina Cook; his three great grandchildren “The Three B’s” Braxton, Baylee and Brynlee; his brother Orville (Ann) Cook, his sister Linda Cook; brother-in-law Dan Lawton; special nieces: Peggy Sue Cook, Cindy Sedbrook and Amanda Lawton; also many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers: Alvin, Roger, Eldon, his sister Sharon and his son-in-law Dennis Waterworth.

Orvie will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.  He will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery at a later date.

Rest In Peace, We All Love You.

Kathleen M. Schmucki, 84, of Beaver Dam passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 22, 2025 at Agrace Hospice Care of Madison after a brief, week-long illness. Kathleen was born on August 15, 1940 in Beaver Dam, WI to George and Angeline Noll (Cigelske). Kathleen attended St. Peter’s Grade School and was a 1958 graduate of Beaver Dam High School.

She married Jakob J. Schmucki on October 24, 1959 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Beaver Dam. Together they farmed in the Beaver Dam area for many years.

Kathleen often hosted her siblings and their families for gatherings at the farm. She taught generations of family and friends a love of playing games. She was an excellent cook and baker throughout her life, with Christmas Cookies, Cherry Torte, and Maultaschen being her specialties. After raising her children, she worked at Park Plaza Pizza and Foxx Fence in Beaver Dam. She enjoyed traveling to see her children in various locations throughout the United States, and eventually met her husband’s family in Switzerland as well. She was a member of the St. Peter’s Christian Mothers for many years, and served as secretary for the group. She was a lifelong Catholic, and very much appreciated televised Mass in her later years as her eyesight degraded.

Kathleen is survived by her children: Lou Ann Schmucki of Beaver Dam, Nancy (Stephen) Uthke-Schmucki of Eyota, MN, Robert (Andrea) Schmucki of Snow Hill, MD, Michael Schmucki of San Francisco, CA, and Jakob (Rebecca) Schmucki of Beaver Dam; 18 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild, siblings: Mary Ann Ferstl, Eugene (Carla) Noll, Betty (Robert) Eilbes, Sue (Terry) Schraufnagel, sister-in-law Rita Schmucki; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sons: Donald and Peter; great granddaughter Sarina Rose Bruns; one sister Judy Weisensel.

A visitation will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Beaver Dam on July 3, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:50 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. with Fr. John Radetski officiating. Interment will be held at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Beaver Dam with a reception following at Bayside Supper Club in Beaver Dam.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Beaver Dam.

The Schmucki family would like to thank St. Mary’s Hospital and Agrace Hospice Care of Madison for their care and support.

Donald John “Donnie” Linde, 87, of Beaver Dam passed away on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at his home.

Donald was born the son of John “Jack” and Eleanor Linde. He was the eldest of four children including his siblings: Jerry, Jack Jr., and Carol Wedel. Donnie was a graduate of Beaver Dam High School. He was employed with Kraft Food for over 47 years until his retirement. Donnie was married to June Ladwig in 1958 and they had two children: Kathleen and a son. They were married for 67 years. He is further survived by two grandchildren: Nikki (Joe) Elgersma and Jericho Hagstrom; as well as other relatives and many friends.

It was Donnie’s wish that no formal funeral services be held and cremation is to take place.

Donnie’s family would like to thank Fond du Lac SSM Hospice Care for all the care and support they provided Donnie and his family.

Timothy T. Ligon, 60, of Neosho passed away peacefully at his home with his wife by his side on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 after a long battle with lung and heart issues.

Timothy Thomas Ligon was born on September 20, 1964 the son of Clifford and Judy (Kletsch) Ligon Sr.  He was married to Susan Hopf on April 22, 2011 at Lake Tahoe.

Tim was a man who lived life on his own terms and found joy in the open road.  He especially loved riding his Harley and cherished the trips he took to Sturgis, where he felt most free.  Tim enjoyed traveling, discovering new places and spending time at local establishments with a glass of his favorite VO whiskey in hand.

Tim had a deep love for his dogs and shared a strong bond with his family.  His connection with his Mom was especially meaningful-a relationship filled with love, respect and shared memories.

Tim will be deeply missed by his wife of 14 years Sue; his mother Judy Ligon; his brothers: Clifford Ligon Jr. and James Ligon; his sisters: Kimberly Donnell and Samantha Weissenborn; his step children: Joshua (Amanda) Kosloski and Nicole (Daniel) Carpenter; step great grandchildren: Valan and Dytrik Kosloski, Anna Kosloski, Jayden Nelson and Jasmine Carpenter; nieces: Kayla and Karissa Donnell, Anna and Olivia Weissenborn, nephew Karmen Donnell and his faithful companion Kojak.  He is further survived by other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Clifford Sr. in 2004, his nephew Kaleb Donnell and his favorite dog Tiger.

A Celebration of Tim’s life will be held at a later date.

Barbara Ann (Boelter) Budde, age 88, of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025.

Born on December 20, 1936, Barb was the beloved daughter of Agnes (Beers) and Raymond Boelter. She was a woman whose life was defined by faith, family, and a deep appreciation for the simple beauties of the world.

On October 6, 1962, Barb married her grade-school sweetheart, Edward Budde, and their love for each other never lost its spark. Their devotion to one another was evident to all who knew them. Even during Barb’s seven years as a resident at Hillside Manor, Ed was by her side nearly every day.

Together, they found joy in the traditions they created over the years—celebrating anniversaries with trips to Door County, watching the Canada Geese at Horicon Marsh, taking long drives, searching for the perfect ice cream cone, and playing their favorite card game, Sheepshead. Music continued to be a part of their shared life, from Sunday morning radio to “The Old Barn Show” at dinner time.

A devoted wife and mother, Barb’s greatest joy was her family. She loved to cook for celebrations and parties, always ensuring there was more than enough for everyone. She had a contagious smile and could engage in conversation with anyone she met.

A passionate music lover, Barb worked in a record store as a young adult and built an impressive album collection that reflected her eclectic taste and deep appreciation for music. She always enjoyed being outside, tending to her plants and garden, and pointing out the simple, profound beauty found in nature.

Her strong Catholic faith was a guiding principle throughout her life. She exemplified that in her daily life, and through many hours volunteering for the St. Vincent de Paul Society and delivering Meals on Wheels.

Barb is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Edward H. Budde; her four children: Mark (Suzanne) Budde, Anne (Gavin) Yoder, Paul (Kimberly) Budde, and Catherine (Kevin) Loughney. She was a proud grandmother to Zachery (Emmi), Madeline (Andrew), Andrew (Kirra), Jacob, Hannah, Noah, Joshua, Caleb, Daniel, Elliott, and Collin, and a great-grandmother to Stella Budde.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Jim Boelter; her grandson, Matthew Loughney; and other beloved family members.

Barb’s life was one of quiet generosity, deep faith, and enduring love. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever by those who knew her.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hillside Manor for the wonderful care they provided.

Visitation will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated immediately following, at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at St. Peter Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at Bayside Supper Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Barbara’s memory. https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-AlzheimersChampions?pxfid=967398&fr_id=1060&pg=fund

Alice J. Lock, 95, of Beaver Dam passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at Dimensions Living in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.

Alice was born on January 4, 1930, the daughter of Walter and Agnes Uminski. Alice was a dedicated, loving wife and mother.  She was a devoted caregiver to her husband Stanley J. Chap and her second husband LeRoy Lock until their passing.  She was also a very caring “Gramma”, proudly keeping all the newspaper articles of their accomplishments.

Alice loved music and dancing, especially polka.  She enjoyed planting flowers, sewing, and as she got older playing cards at the Senior Center in Portage.  While living in Racine, she belonged to the Women’s Hospital Auxiliary and volunteered there for many years.

Alice is survived by her daughter Kathy (Randy) Murray of Gleason; grandchildren: Matt Heck, Robyn (Eugene) Beske both of Beaver Dam and Jenni Chap of Racine; her great grandchildren: Eleanor, Evann and Trevor and her step great grandchildren: Danielle, Sarah and Dan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, and her brother Edward Uminski. Also, her son David Chap and daughter Christine Williams.

Private family services will be held for Alice.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the entire staff of Dimensions Living (formerly Sylvan Crossing) and St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful and compassionate care of Alice.  Their kindness allowed her to pass away in peace and dignity.  The family will always remember their thoughtfulness.

Theresa K. Cardinal, 74, of Beaver Dam passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Hillside Manor in Beaver Dam.

Theresa was born on October 14, 1950 in Fort Meade, MD to Eugene and Shirley (Hauer) Cardinal. She was a 1968 graduate of Menasha High School and later received her BA in Library Science from UW-Oshkosh. Theresa began her career managing periodicals at UW-Milwaukee. Afterwards, she was employed with UW-Hospital and retired after 44 years of employment with Dane County and the State of Wisconsin. She was married to William J. Joslyn II on May 1, 2007 in Madison. Theresa will be remembered as a wonderful and caring person who was loved by all.

Theresa is survived by her husband Wil Joslyn; her siblings: Debbie (Walter Burt) Cardinal, Andrew Cardinal, Martha Davis, and Anne Marie (John) Tessmer; step-sisters: Janet Drury and Nancy Whittaker; sisters-in-law: Leona Joslyn, Lyn (Kevin) Blackston, Julia Mink, Jennie (Mark) Becker, and Sarah Joslyn; nieces andnephews: Zeke Tessmer, Maxx Tessmer, Nicholas (Christine) Davis, Becky Joslyn, Meghan (Dan) Simons, Jay (Shannon) Joslyn, Jason (Lisa) Blackston, Korie (Jon) Mitchell, Joslyn (Charlie) Mink, Halie Becker, and Hannah (Steve) Kelly; and step-niece Tara Drury.

She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother Marcella Cardinal; in-laws Jay and Ana (Blodgett) Joslyn; brother-in-law Tom Joslyn; and niece Nicole Joslyn.

It was Theresa’s wish that no formal services be held and cremation is to take place.

Peggy Ann Cook, age 79, of Beaver Dam, passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Hillside Manor Nursing Home.

Peggy was born on June 1, 1946 the daughter of Ferdinand and Charlotte (Le Moine) Reitz. She was married to Eldon Clyde Cook (Squeak/Cookie) on July 22, 1967.

Peggy was the matriarch of her family, always caring and doing for others before caring for herself. She welcomed her nephew and niece, Lee and Tammy, into their home temporarily while her sister was handling a tumultuous time in her own life, and they are forever grateful for the love and care they received. She also took guardianship of her niece, Cindy, in her time of need.

Peggy worked many different jobs throughout her work life but prided herself in being a union representative at Oscar Mayer where she fought hard for her fellow workers. Peggy enjoyed thrifting at St. Vinny’s, family time, cooking great meals for gatherings, giving amazing hugs, and putting a smile on other’s faces. While she could have a tough exterior, lovingly earning the nickname “Pitbull Peggy” at the nursing home, it was always a means of standing up for herself or others.

Peggy leaves behind her daughter, Peggy Sue; niece, Cindy Sedbrook; two brothers-in-law: Orvie (Nancy) Cook of Fox Lake and Orville (Ann) Cook of Lone Rock, WI; sister-in-law, Linda Cook of Dubuque; Peggy is further survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Peggy is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Eldon, daughter, Lisa, son, Tommy, sisters Donna and Cathy, brother, Freddie, brothers-in-law, Alvin and Roger, and sister-in-law, Sharon.

The family would like to thank Preceptor Hospice for their very short but tender care.

A Celebration of Peggy’s Life will take place at a later date.

Linda Christina Derleth, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. She was 74 years old.

Born July 9, 1950, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Violet and Henry Derleth, Linda carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life—kind, resilient, and full of heart. Her vibrant personality, compassionate nature, and fierce loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

After graduating from Beaver Dam High School, Linda went on to earn her degree from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. She became a high school guidance counselor, a role in which she thrived and touched countless lives. Linda believed deeply in equality, justice, and the power of education, values she instilled in the students she mentored. In every position she held, she brought her sharp intellect and unmistakable social spark.

Linda lived a life rich with experience and purpose. A true adventurer at heart, she traveled extensively—from Nigeria to Europe and across the United States—always seeking connection, meaning, and stories. She lived in many different states, forging deep relationships and memories along the way.

A free spirit through and through, Linda was passionate, spunky, stubborn, and deeply loving. She embraced life on her own terms and was unapologetically herself. She loved the outdoors, camping, was an avid golfer, and treasured time at the family cottage in Fox Lake, but it was her brother and sister-in-law’s cottage in Eagle River that became her true haven—a place of peace and being one with nature.

A proud Wisconsinite, Linda was a devoted sports fan. She rarely missed a Badger football game (often side-by-side with her sister Melody), had a deep love for the Brewers, faithfully tuning into every game on her radio, and spent Sundays cheering for her beloved Packers.

Family was at the heart of Linda’s world. One of six siblings, she deeply valued the close bonds she shared with each of them. She extended that love generously—to friends who became like family, and to the many nieces and nephews whose lives she enriched with her warmth, humor, and amazing home-cooked meals and treats. In her sister Melody’s final years, Linda offered care and love, embodying compassion and grace.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Violet and Henry Derleth; her sisters Carol Hartl, Kim Derleth-Hussli, and Melody Derleth; her brother Frank Derleth; and her beloved niece Heidi Hussli.

She is survived by her brother Hank and sister-in-law Gretchen Derleth, as well as 11 nieces and nephews, 15 great-nieces and nephews, and 3 great-great-nieces and nephews—all of whom she loved deeply.

Linda had the gift of storytelling. Whether you had five minutes or all afternoon, she’d captivate you with tales—woven with humor, honesty, and a signature twinkle in her eye. Her stories were filled with adventure, sports triumphs, family history, and her candid observations on life.  Her laughter, love, and vibrant spirit will be dearly missed and remembered every single day.

In accordance with Linda’s wishes, there will not be a visitation or funeral service; per her wishes, a private family gathering will be held at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, any memorial donations will be donated to the H.H.Derleth Citizenship Award; which is given to a graduating BDHS senior boy and girl and will be award in May 2026.

The H.H. Derleth awards are named in honor of Linda’s father, a cause close to Linda’s heart.  Checks can be made out to Henry Derleth and marked for “H.H. Derleth” and mailed to

Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home, N7991 N. Crystal Lake Rd, Beaver Dam, WI, 53916.

Barbara J. Schmidt, 77, of Juneau passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at Hillside Manor in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. Barbara will forever be remembered by her infectious personality, warmth, and how she lived out her faith.

Barbara was born on June 7, 1947 the daughter of Roland and Norma (Miller) Kison in Port Washington, Wisconsin. Barbara was confirmed in her Christian faith in 1961 at First Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cedarburg. She was a 1965 graduate of Cedarburg High School and a 1969 graduate of Concordia Teachers College in Seward, Nebraska. As a passionate educator in Fort Smith, Arkansas and Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Barbara cared deeply about her students and their growth.

Barbara met Ray at a wedding; however, when their families hosted a Harvestore Tour in 1981, they met again and a love was sparked that would last a lifetime. Barbara was united in marriage with Raymond Schmidt on October 16, 1982 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Sheboygan. Barbara and Ray soon purchased a farm outside of Juneau, Wisconsin where they raised their sons Daniel and Peter. This farm rapidly became a home where she and Ray grew their family and welcomed two daughters in law and four grandchildren. Barbara was an avid gardener and an excellent cook who loved to take care of the people around her. She was a longtime and faithful Sunday School teacher at Peace Lutheran Church in Beaver Dam.

Barbara will be deeply missed by her husband of 42 years, Ray; her sons: Daniel (Claudia) Schmidt of McFarland and Peter (Amy) Schmidt of Juneau; grandchildren: Harvey, Ernest, Francis and Elodie; her siblings: Darwin (Judy) Kison, David (Mary) Kison, Eddie (Connie) Kison and Susie (Mark) Pipkorn.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Roland and Norma Kison.

A visitation for Barbara will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until Noon at Peace Lutheran Church, 400 Hillcrest Dr., Beaver Dam.  Celebration of Eternal Life Service  will begin at Noon with Rev. Bruce Meier officiating.  Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.

Memorial donations in Barbara’s name may be directed to Peace Lutheran Church-Sunday School Program.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff of Hillside Manor and the Hillside Hospice nurses for all their care and support.  Your compassion and loving care was greatly appreciated and will always be remembered.