Obituary Category: Beaver Dam

Lester Cornell of Lowell, Wisconsin passed away on December 2, 2025, peacefully at Marshfield Remembrance Home in Beaver Dam Wisconsin.

Lester was born in Laona, Wisconsin on May 9, 1934, to Leroy and Leona Cornell. Lester worked as a Tool & Die maker for over 50 years and loved his craft. Lester graduated from Delavan High school where he played as fullback for the Red Devils football team. He then attended Allis Chalmers 4-year apprentice program as a Tool & Die Machinist.

Les’s passion was to spend time outdoors, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and boating. He was a great pool player.  He was an amazing craftsman with metal, reading blueprints, designing any tool or part for anyone in need. Les and Lois loved to travel, taking road trips on their motorcycle or 4 wheeler throughout Wisconsin, visiting family in California, going to Hawaii or a  cruise with friends. He was an avid Packers fan who enjoyed watching the games.  Les and Lois were great dance partners and enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends. They cherished their many years spent up at the lake with their close friends, socializing on their deck and attending Country Western Festivals in their RV. When home, you could find Les in his “shop” and anyone was welcome to pop in, share a beer, tell a joke and talk for hours. Whenever Les and Lois were out and about, they were seen holding hands.

Les and Lois shared their life together for over 43 years and married on June 6, 1992. Les is survived by his blended family of children Jeff (Julie) Cornell, Lezlie Cornell, Cheryl (Bill) Cornell, Kevin Cornell, Dawn (John)Lunde, Jill (Steve) Wegner. Grandchildren, Raven(Renee) Mondragon,  Jennifer Cornell,  Jessica and Kyle Lundsfords, Elijah and Ella Belle Marie Skromme, Jakob Cornell & Ryan Griffith, Stacy(Eric) Chermak, Tracy Baldus, Brian(Zia) Evans, Hope Evans, McKinsie(Todd) Johnson, Megan(Jim) Schraufnagel , Ryan Root, Chase Cranfield and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  Special nephews’ Chet Peterson, Bruce Cornell; Daughter in-laws Amy and Joann Root, son in law Daniel Sumnicht and all the Sumnicht Family along with all his other special friends.

Les was preceded in death by his parents Leroy and Leona Cornell; sisters: Lorraine, Innis, Patsy and Char; Brothers: Blacky, Richard, Donald, Jerry, Bob and Butch. Stepsons’ Greg and Craig Root, Stepdaughter Lori Snyder.

A memorial gathering will be held at the Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Friday, December 19, 2025 from 11 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 12:30 p.m. Inurnment will take place at Oakwood Cemetery in Beaver Dam.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all his amazing caregivers at Marshfield Remembrance Home, whose love and support made his last 3 years filled with joy and happiness and now have become our new extended family. The family would also like to thank Dr. Seth Barudin and Hillside Hospice for all their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charitable organization or helping someone in need.

Goodbyes are not forever, they are not the end, it simply means we will miss you, until we meet again. Your memory will live on in our hearts forever.  Now when you think of Les, he and Lois, are  holding hands in heaven.

Kathryn A. Neitzel, 96, of Beaver Dam passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at the Waupun Christian Home.

Kathryn was born on July 25, 1929 in Green Lake County to Harold and Sadie (Riemer) Schmuhl. She was married to Eldon A. Neitzel on May 16, 1959 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fox Lake.  Katie helped her husband on the family’s farm and she along with Eldon carried rural routes for the Daily Citizen and Milwaukee Journal for 24 years. She was a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church in Burnett. Katie enjoyed canning and loved flowers and gardening around her home.

Katie is survived by her children: Bev Matuszeski of Burnett, Harold (Linda) Neitzel of the township of Trenton, Donna (Rick) Rasmussen of Waupun and John (Rebecca) Neitzel of the township of Beaver Dam; five grandchildren: Hope Rasmussen, Kenny Rasmussen, Jenny Rasmussen, Brad (Mandy) Neitzel, and Lexy Neitzel; four great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Eldon in 2009; sister Arla (Wilferd) Brunn; and son-in-law Carl Matuszeski.

A visitation will be held at the Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12 p.m. Interment will take place at Highland Memory Gardens, township of Trenton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Activity Department at the Waupun Christian Home.

The Neitzel family would like to thank the staff of the Waupun Christian Home and SSM Health Hospice Hope for all their care and support.

Jeaniene Emma (Berent) Hoag, 88, of Beaver Dam passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Jeaniene was born on November 15, 1937 the daughter of George and Leona (Wendt) Berent in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. She was a graduate of Beaver Dam High School and a proud Alumni of University of Wisconsin-Madison.  She was united in marriage with William “Bill” Hoag on October 3, 1959 in Madison, Wisconsin.

Jeaniene was a lifetime faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Beaver Dam.  She had been an active leader of Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was a member and leader of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Jeaniene will be deeply missed by her son: Brian Hoag (wife Jennifer Low) of Fort Collins, CO their sons: William (wife Crystal) their family Atli and Finnian Hoag of Gibsons, BC, Canada; Sean Hoag and family Ciaran and Laszlo Hoag of LaPorte, CO and step grandchildren: Alyssa and Isaiah Ho; her daughter Jeana Guardiola (husband Victor) of Racine and their son Vincent Guardiola (wife Sophie); her son Brent Hoag of Port Washington and his children: Emma, Ethan, Carmen and Wesley Hoag.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her dear husband William “Bill” in 2021, brother Lloyd Berent and sisters: Eloise Berent and June Rasmussen.

A visitation for Jeaniene will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 a.m. at the Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam. A funeral service will begin at 12:30 p.m. with Rev. Eric Taylor and Pastor Pam Priewe officiating.  Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.

Memorial donations in Jeaniene’s name may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church, 308 Oneida Street, Beaver Dam, WI  53916.

The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.koepsellfh.com.

 

 

Jacquelyn M. Underkofler, 74, of Beaver Dam passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025.

Jacquelyn Marie was born on October 6, 1951. Jackie was the beloved daughter of Joseph Michael and Vera Irene (Rundle) Daniels of Madison, Wisconsin.  She was a 1969 graduate of Edgewood High School.

Jackie had an unwavering dedication to her family.  Nothing brought her more joy than being a mother to her four children and a grandmother to her eleven cherished grandchildren.  She embraced every moment with them and was the heart of the family.

Jackie shared a special bond with her mom, Irene, with whom she traveled to countless Badger and Packer games.  A passionate sports fan, she rarely missed the chance to cheer on her teams.  She loved showing her creativity through her beautiful quilting projects and decorating for the holidays, especially during Christmas.  Her home was always filled with warmth, joy, and thoughtful decorations.

Before welcoming children, Jackie worked as a dental hygienist. She was a mother first, but also took pride in working at Jefferson Elementary School as an administrative assistant. She was known for her kindness, patience, and friendly smile.

Jackie will be deeply missed by her mother, Irene Daniels of Madison; her children: Thomas (Tricia) Underkofler of Madison, Michelle (Jeff) Schmitz of Appleton, Sara (Sheldon) Williams of Johnson Creek, and Jason (Tara) Underkofler of St. Charles, IL. Her 11 grandchildren, who were her pride and joy: Evelyn and James Underkofler; Caitlyn, Drew and Owen Schmitz; Tia (Jonah), Maya and Qadry Williams; Haley, Aubrey and Lincoln Underkofler. She was loved beyond measure by her siblings: Judy (Harry) Bosco, Joseph (Sharon) Daniels, Jenny Daniels, Joan (Doug) Raftery and Jerry (Rosie) Daniels; her dearest friend Suzy Baldwin and her loyal “Burger Buddies” whom she cared for so much.  She is further survived by her nieces, nephews, their children and too many dear friends to count.

She is preceded in death by her father Joseph and her nephew Nicholas Geier. She is also preceded in death by Underkofler family members who loved her fiercely.

Jackie will be remembered for her generous heart, her love of family traditions, being the first one to call you on your birthday, sharing her love of sewing with her grandchildren, her famous lemon bread, her kindness and the many ways she made life brighter for those around her.

A memorial gathering for Jackie will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until Noon at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Beaver Dam.  A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at Noon with Father Will Arnold officiating. Please join us after Mass for a shared meal.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, in Jackie’s name.

The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.koepsellfh.com.

Loretta M. Fischer, 93, of Beaver Dam passed away peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025.  The family appreciates the care provided by Eagles Wing in Beaver Dam, WI and Prairie Ridge Hospital in Columbus, WI.

Loretta was born on February 28, 1932 the daughter of Edward G. and Martha H. (Berg) Ziert in Cassian, Wisconsin.  She was a 1949 graduate of Tomahawk High School.

Loretta had attended Trinity Church United Methodist in Beaver Dam for many years.  She had been employed for over 40 years at Weyenberg Shoe Factory in Beaver Dam and then found her second calling in waitressing, a role she truly loved.  Over the years, Loretta served at Country Kitchen (26+ years), Young’s Supper Club (11+ years), China Palace and most recently Walker’s Diner over the past few years, where she cherished the conversations and memories she made at the horseshoe counter.  She rolled silverware better than anyone!  Loretta had a gift for making people feel welcome and cared for.

Loretta will be deeply missed by her children: Diane “Kay” (Bob) Hull, Donna Fischer and Lyle “Dean” Fischer; 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren; sons-in-law: Thomas Toellner and Rick Hanefeld.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, son David Fischer, daughters: Deborah Toellner and Denise Hanefeld, sister Florence Schmidt and brother Edward Ziert.

A memorial service for Loretta will take place at a later date.  Details will follow when available.

Scott Edward Kepler, 57, passed away on November 18, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. Born on October 8, 1968, in Slayton, Minnesota, Scott lived a life marked by quiet generosity and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that made each day meaningful.

A proud member of Prior Lake High School’s Class of 1987, Scott answered the call to serve shortly after graduation by enlisting in the United States Army. Stationed overseas in Germany for much of his service, he embodied loyalty and selflessness—values that remained central throughout his life.

Following his military service, Scott pursued higher education at Sam Houston University, where he earned an Associate of Arts and Science degree. His commitment to learning reflected a thoughtful nature and a desire for personal growth.

At the heart of Scott’s life were his two daughters, Cheyenne Kepler and Faith Kepler Kampstra. He cherished their presence and took immense pride in their accomplishments. His love for them was unwavering and deeply felt. Scott was blessed to witness Faith and Trevor Kampstra joined together in holy matrimony with their wedding on 11-8-25, as they begin their life together. Scott was overjoyed with the news that his eldest daughter Cheyenne is engaged to be married to Robert Jones. Scott was really excited to be welcoming these two young men into the family as his sons and looking forward to being a doting grandfather.

Scott is also remembered by his younger brother, Tony Kepler and his life partner Paula Torke; his stepfather, Michael Abitz; and many others whose lives were touched by his kindness. He was preceded in death by his mother, Donna Worden Abitz; grandfather Sherwood “Skip” Worden; and grandmother Irene Worden.

A lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan, Scott followed the team with passionate devotion. Really a love/hate relationship as Vikings fans understand. He found peace in fishing trips and time spent outdoors—moments that brought him renewal and joy.

Those who knew Scott will remember him as a man of quiet strength and heartfelt generosity. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched with his steady presence and open heart. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn him today.

A memorial gathering for Scott will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until Noon at the Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home, N7199 N. Crystal Lake Road Beaver Dam. A Celebration of Life will begin at Noon with Rev. Jim Wendt officiating. Military Honors conducted by the Beaver Dam American Legion Post #146 will follow the service.

Barbara J. Kaiser peacefully departed this life at her home in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, on November 22, 2025, at the age of 87.

Barbara was born on August 4, 1938, in Fayette, Michigan, to Harold and Camilla (Welch) Pizzala. Her journey began with her marriage to Joseph A. Kaiser on August 10, 1953, in Manistique, Michigan. Their union was a testament to love and partnership, as they navigated life’s joys and challenges hand in hand. As a devoted wife and mother, Barbara dedicated herself fully to her family. Her number one job was raising her sons and maintaining a warm and welcoming home. She was not just a homemaker; she was the matriarch of the family; a guiding force whose love knew no bounds. Barbara led a life full of interests that painted her days with joy. She found pleasure in the simple things, enjoying ice skating and roller skating, as well as the thrill of gambling. Barbara made lasting memories with the trips that she took with her sister, Marlene and niece, Robin. Her hands were never idle; she loved putting puzzles together and crafting Indian bonnets, sharing the fruits of her creativity with her family and friends.

Barbara’s legacy is continued through her cherished sons, Joseph Kaiser and Stanley (Cindy) Kaiser; grandchildren, Josiah, April, and Elizabeth; great-grandchildren, Michael, Zachary, Landon, Taylor K., Angaleana, Gage, Taylor L., Autumn; a special niece, Robin Kenevan; other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sister, Arlene; and brother, Ronald.

A memorial gathering will be held at Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Friday, December 5, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A memorial service will follow at the funeral home on Friday at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Randy Schaub officiating. Inurnment will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Craige Benisch, age 56, of Columbus, left this world peacefully from a pre-existing illness on November 17, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.

Craige was born on October 9, 1969, in Madison to Carol Benisch. He graduated from Sun Prairie Senior High in 1987. For the past 15 years, Craige worked at Metalcraft of Mayville in Fall River, where he excelled as a technical lead on the paint line. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Craige was a man of simple pleasures. He had a profound love for the outdoors, especially while “deer hunting”. Riding his Harley brought him joy and a sense of freedom that he cherished. He was also an avid Green Bay Packers fan, often found cheering for his team with friends and family. Craige had a special bond with his mother, often taking joy in cooking meals for her, and those moments were filled with laughter and love. Craige was a simple man who found joy in the company of his family and friends. His down-to-earth nature and kind heart left a lasting impression on all who knew him. In his quiet way, he taught us the value of genuine relationships and the importance of cherishing the moments we have together.

Craige leaves behind his mother, Carol of Columbus; special cousins, Kristie (Gabe) Gallegos of Columbus and Kim (Dennis) Egner of McFarland; his former wife and long-time friend, Lisa Benisch; as well as numerous other family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul and Gertrude Benisch; two uncles, Vernon and Paul Benisch; his aunt, Marge Benisch; and his loyal companion, Duke.

A special thank you to Samantha Dulgar, as well as the staff at St. Mary’s Hospital for the exceptional care that was given to Craige.

A celebration of Craige’s life is being planned for a later date.

Sally Jean Adam, 83, of Beaver Dam, WI, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 14, 2025 at Hillside Manor in Beaver Dam WI.

Sally was a lifelong Beaver resident, graduating from Beaver Dam High School in 1960.  She married Raymond Adam in 1961.  She was a homemaker, raising her three boys on the family farm for over 25 years.  She also worked at ITW Industrial in Watertown for several years. Sally was a 32 year long survivor of a liver transplant.

Sally loved to crochet and knit with her hot pads becoming legendary in the family.  These, along with knitted mittens, were often donated to local charities. Sally had a passion for genealogy and researched multiple family lines (Adam, Edgerton, Bradley, Parsons, Herr), back to European origins. She organized the annual Edgerton family reunion for many years, bringing together generations of the family

She was also a long-time member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Sally and son Ron regularity attended Civil War reenactments across the Midwest, with their favorite being in Keokuk, IA, each summer.

Sally always had a giving mentality – we often said half-joking that, “if someone on the street had less than her, she would give them the shirt off her back”. Looking back at the good work she did in her lifetime, it is safe to say this is not an exaggeration.

Sally is survived by her brother Don (Yoli) Edgerton of Guadalajara, MX, sons Ronald Adam of Beaver Dam, Edward (Jody) Adam of Milton, WI and Jon (Kim) Adam of Duncan, SC.  Sally is also survived by 5 grandchildren: Saraina, Chester (Hannah), Karis, Quinn and Dana (James), 2 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Marion (Parsons) Edgerton, her husband, Raymond Adam and sister-in-law Marisol Edgerton.

A visitation for Sally will be held on Friday, November 21, from 10: 00 a.m. – Noon at the Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam. A funeral service will begin at Noon with Rev. Mark Runke and Rev. Randy Carey officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Memory Gardens in Beaver Dam.

The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.koepsellfh.com.

Donallee Rita Kuenzi, age 94, formerly of Beaver Dam, died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Songbird Pond Assisted Living in Plymouth.

Donallee was born on April 9, 1931, at St. Mary’s hospital in Racine to Walter and Delrene (Hamernik) Haworth. She attended schools in Racine, Beaver Dam and Appleton, graduating from Beaver Dam High School in 1949. She attended classes in both Lawrence University in Appleton and Madison Business College. Donallee worked for Community Welfare Council of the United Givers Fund in Madison until she married Orland “Otto” Kuenzi on December 28, 1957, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Beaver Dam. Otto passed away in 1977 and Donallee entered the workforce again, thoroughly enjoying working in the jewelry department of Beaver Dam Shopko from 1981 until her retirement in 1996.

Donallee was a member of St. Katharine Drexel Parish where she was an active member of Christian Life Community Prayer Group. She was a core team member of RENEW. She was actively engaged in her grandchildren’s activities, be it sports (football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, gymnastics, figure skating, hockey, and tennis) or concerts and performances. She volunteered much of her time with Meals on Wheels and at the Beaver Dam Senior Center Greenhouse. She enjoyed watching the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, and Badgers, going cross country skiing, hiking, biking and bird watching. Donallee was an enthusiastic member of the Friday night dance club at Fox Lake and a was a participant of the HUGS (Hospice Unlimited Grief Support) program.

Survivors include children, Thomas (Deanne) Kuenzi, Manitowoc; Karen (Matthew) Thull, Plymouth; six grandchildren: Nicholas (Stefanie) Muche, Eagle River, AK; Mariah (Keith) Hovland, Glendale; Kirsten (Nick) Pilsner, Mayville; Gabriel Thull, Selfoss, Iceland; Philip Kuenzi, Stevens Point; and Elizabeth (fiancé Adrian Reczek) Kuenzi, Beaver Dam; six great-grandchildren, Berkeley, Parker, Nash, Benji, Hattie, and Tessa; brother-in-law, Norbert Kuenzi, Oshkosh; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; four infant sons; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Nick and Louella Kuenzi; brother-in-law, Fred Dearth; and sisters-in-law, Shirley Dearth and Barbara Kuenzi.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Donallee’s name to St. Katharine Drexel Parish or School.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Songbird Pond Assisted Living and Lily Hospice for their compassionate care of Mom.

The visitation for Donallee will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, 511 South Spring St. in Beaver Dam on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at the church on Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. with Fr. Will Arnold officiating. Burial will be at St. Peter Cemetery in Beaver Dam.