Phyllis W. James Hebert

Phyllis Wilma James Hebert 76, passed away on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, after suffering a sudden stroke which left her hospitalized for five weeks. Phyllis was a committed Christian who was loyal and faithful to her beliefs; she assumed her place in heaven reaching her eternal reward.  Phyllis shared her life with her loving husband, Fred Hebert, her life partner for nearly 30 years, in Fall River, Wisconsin.

Phyllis was born in New York City to Delores Hook, but later moved to Bay City, Michigan, where she was raised by caring foster parents who helped form Phyllis’ character as a strong, vibrant, loving, gracious, and charitable woman.

Phyllis was a practicing real estate agent for many years, in both Bay City, Michigan and in the Madison, Wisconsin area. In addition to her career, Phyllis spent her days gardening, baking and cooking, caring for her pets and volunteering. Her priority and her highest calling was to take care of others. She was a loving wife to Fred and brought endless joy to his life. Phyllis had a beautiful smile for everyone she encountered. She loved to make special treats for neighbors and co-workers, bring flowers from her garden to friends and share her bounty of delicious homegrown garden treats with many. Phyllis loved holidays, especially Christmas, and spoiled everyone with her home-baked cookies and special gifts and she loved to entertain with amazing home-cooked multi-course meals.

Phyllis had so many friends and associates in Michigan and Wisconsin, too many to mention, but be assured that Phyllis loved and remembered each of you. Please keep those fond memories and continue to pray for Phyllis and your own family.

Phyllis is survived by her husband Fred Hebert of Fall River; two stepdaughters: Therese (Dave) Bishop of Mequon and Beth (Jack) Van Ess of Cedarburg; and two granddaughters: Ella Bishop (18) and Eleanor Van Ess (10).  She is also survived by a stepson, Tracy Archer, from a previous marriage.

She was preceded in death by her mother and her stepson, Greg Hebert.

A memorial gathering will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in East Bristol on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 10 AM to 11 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 AM at the church.  Lunch will be provided after mass at The Round Table, located at 1611 N Bristol Street, Sun Prairie, WI.

Arthur L. Sharpee

Arthur L. Sharpee, 95, of Rio passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024 in Rio.

Arthur was born on September 18, 1929 to Carl and Sena (Fadness) Sharpee at his family’s home in the township of Hampden. He was a graduate of Columbus High School. Art proudly served his country as an M.P. in the U.S. Army where he was a witness to the first detonation of the hydrogen bomb in Eniwetok Atoll. Art enjoyed being a farmer and drove semitruck for many years. He was also employed with Chase Lumber. He was married to Elaine R. Hamre on March 7, 1953 at Spring Prairie Lutheran Church in Keyeser.

Arthur was baptized, confirmed, and married at Spring Prairie Lutheran Church in Keyeser where he was a member for over 50 years. He later joined Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus where he was a member for over 40 years. He will be remembered by many as a story teller extraordinaire. Art loved to drive combine especially if he could take his grandkids for a ride.

Art is survived by his children: Paul (Donna) Sharpee of Rio, Gregg (Denise) Sharpee of Lodi, Diana Krug of Sun Prairie, Judy (Patrick) Fritz of Marshall, Valerie (Thaddeus) Monthie of Columbus, Eric Sharpee of Sun Prairie, and Kristen (Paul) Wolf of New Lisbon; 19 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; as well as other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Elaine in 2010; siblings: Perry, Ella, Edwin, Irene, Neenah, Robert, and Olive; and good friend Shirley Johnson.

A visitation will be held at Spring Prairie Lutheran Church in Keyeser on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12 p.m. Interment will take place at the church cemetery with military honors to be conducted.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Spring Prairie Lutheran Church or to Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus.

Deborah Jean Altschwager

Deborah Jean (Deb) Altschwager, aged 73, after a long battle with dementia and with her husband by her side, passed away Friday, October 25, 2024.

Deb was born May 30, 1951 in Columbus, WI to Kenneth and Gertrude Fritz and graduated Columbus High School in 1969. Before graduating, Deb met a fellow with a flashy and fast car, and she was inclined to introduce herself.  Little did she know that the guy with the flashy and fast car, Joe Altschwager, Jr., would be her future husband and partner in life. Deb and Joe were married on Valentine’s Day 1970 and would spend the next 54 years together.

Deb and Joe filled those many years with Wisconsin Badger football games, both at home and on the road, and were active in the Big Red Club, helping to establish a chapter in Columbus, with Deb serving as Secretary. The two of them put on many thousands of miles on their Harley Davidson motorcycle. They darkened the door of many bars, saloons and breweries on those road trips and made friends with many of the people they met along the way. The two of them also enjoyed traveling together without the Harley. Alaska and Hawaii were two destinations that they enjoyed immensely.

Over the years, Deb held several jobs including working at Sharrow Drug Store, as an office manager for several different dentist offices and her last job managing the office at Sheet Metal Specialties in Fall River.

However, the real pride and joy of her life was her family. Deb and Joe raised two children, Sue and Bill, with Deb volunteering and serving as a Son Beam Leader at Zion Lutheran School.  As “Gramma Deb” she doted over her grandchildren, all 13 of them.  She succeeded in creating everlasting family memories for them, always remembering to celebrate every accomplishment, every birthday, and every holiday with gift baskets and packages.  She truly enjoyed being the matriarch of the family she and Joe built and loved.

Deb is survived by her loving husband Joe, children Sue Pankow of Beaver Dam and Bill Altschwager  (Barb) of Denmark, sister Cindy Green of Lavernia TX, and brothers Bill Fritz (Karen) of Columbus and Kevin Fritz (Sheri) of Columbus. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren Alec (Shayla) Pankow, Morgan Pankow, Connelly Pankow, Rachel Altschwager, Dominique (Cole) Kleiboer, Elexa Landvatter, Dieter Altschwager, Jordan Landvatter, Kylee Landvatter, Ashlyn Dykstra, Brock Dykstra, Connor Dykstra and Colton Dykstra, as well as three great grandchildren, Nora and Emilie Pankow and Aria Kleiboer.  Deb also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and countless family friends.

Deb was preceded in death by her parents (Kenny and Gert), parents-in-law (Joe Sr. and Ruth) and brother-in-law (Larry Green).

A visitation will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus on Monday, October 28, 2024 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and also on Tuesday, October 29th from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. Rev. Benjamin Zuberbier will officiate. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Zion Lutheran Church and School.

Clara Sennhenn

Clara Sennhenn, 99, of Columbus passed away on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at Prairie Ridge Health Center in Columbus, Wisconsin.

A memorial gathering for Clara will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus. A memorial service will begin at 11:30 a.m.  Inurnment will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus, Wisconsin. After the inurnment a luncheon will be held at Zion Lutheran Church.

Clara was born on December 16, 1924 the daughter of Herbert F. and Lydia (Schmidt) Sennhenn.  She graduated from the Madison General Hospital School of Nursing and the University of Wisconsin as a registered nurse.  She was employed for 22 years with Columbia County Public Health Department and later for 8 years as a school nurse with the Fall River School District.

Clara was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church and a member of the Ladies Society.  After her retirement, Clara enjoyed traveling and volunteering.  She volunteered at the Columbus Community Hospital, now Prairie Ridge Health Center, Bethesda Thrift Store in Watertown, and the Senior Center delivering meals.  Clara had been a member of the Hillside Cemetery Board for over 48 years. She had also belonged to the Thimble Collectors International, Dairyland Thimblers and the WELS Quilts of Comfort.

Clara is survived by her nieces: Jean (Bill) Schaefer of Fond du Lac, Kristi Hoekman of Whitewater, Jacalyn (Ken) McCarty of Kalamazoo, MI, Tina (Mark) Schuman of Beaver Dam nephews: Herbert Sennhenn of Edgerton, Rudolph Jr. (Beth) Sennhenn of Beaver Dam and Nickolas (Sandra) Cipollone of Milwaukee; step nieces: Gina (Rick) Voelker and Mina (Mark) Kenevan both of Columbus and Lisa (Patrick) Garski of Plover; also other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Rudolph Sr., Dorothy Cipollone and Verola Sennhenn and her nice Lynn Finger.

Memorial donations in Clara’s name may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, Columbus, Wisconsin.

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

Wayne D. Slade

Wayne David Slade, age 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at his home in Columbus, surrounded by his loving family. Wayne was known for his big heart, his mischievous sense of humor, and his devotion to his family and friends. He is survived by the love of his life, “the old gal,” Gloria Slade (nee Heimerl), who was his partner in all of life’s adventures, including their membership in the notorious “A-H Club.”

Born on May 12, 1946, in Columbus, Wisconsin, to the late Clyde “Leroy” Slade and Grace Slade (nee Kohls), Wayne was a proud graduate of Columbus High School, class of 1964. Shortly after graduation, he served his country in the United States Marine Corps. On January 27, 1968, he married Gloria, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a bit of sass. This was a true love story.

Wayne was a hard worker, spending many years at Mosinee Paper in Columbus, and he also proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the Columbus Fire Department for 15 years. He was passionate about travel, especially road trips with Gloria and their dearest friends, the Giecks. His favorite trip was their adventure to Alaska, where his love for the beauty of nature truly shined.

Wayne was also a sports enthusiast with a deep love for his Wisconsin Badgers. In fact, he was so passionate that he requested to be buried in his Badger attire and invited all those attending his services to do the same. He was a storyteller, always ready to share a tale, whether it was about his travels or his beloved sports teams.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Gloria Slade of Columbus; his two daughters, Lea (J.R.) Henrichs of Columbus and Becky (Brian) Pederson of Boerne, TX; his five grandchildren, Brandon (Zoe), James (Kara), Emily, Gavin, and Zade; and seven great-grandchildren as well as his sister Denice (Ken) Kachelski. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde “Leroy” and Grace Slade, and his daughter, Lindsey.

A visitation for Wayne will be held at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Columbus on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, from 9:30 am to 10:50 am. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am, officiated by Pastor Tim Schwartz, with burial to follow at Hillside Cemetery. The family invites everyone to join them in celebrating Wayne’s life in their favorite Badger gear, if you do choose.

Wayne was a Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church member in Columbus.

The Koepsell-Zeidler Funeral Home in Columbus is honored to serve the Slade family during this time. Please feel free to share your condolences, and any stories of Wayne, on this website.

James W. Nehmer

James W. Nehmer, 76, of Columbus was called to his eternal home on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.

Jim was born on July 21, 1948, the son of Lester and Phyllis (Brueckner) Nehmer in Columbus. He became a child of God through baptism and remained so throughout his life. Jim graduated from Columbus High School in 1966. On November 6, 1971, he was united in marriage to Helen Lindert at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus.

Jim was a lifelong Town of Elba farmer, and his pride and joy was his sweet corn. When he was asked when the sweet corn will be ready, his answer was always “two weeks” no matter what time of year it was. Farmer’s Markets were a highlight of his weeks where he loved visiting with other vendors and all of his customers. Jim also enjoyed family cookouts, sharing his love of fishing with the grandkids, and baking with the girls. He was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church.

Jim will be deeply missed and is survived by his wife Helen; son Nathan (Amy) Nehmer of Columbus; daughter Laura (Ryan) Jaeger of Two Rivers, WI; six grandchildren: Taylor and Brooklyn Nehmer and Joseph, Matthew, Silas, and Levi Jaeger; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Howard Nehmer; and sister Diane Williamson.

A visitation will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus on Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. Rev. Benjamin Zuberbier will officiate. Interment will take place at Okeeg Cemetery, township of Elba.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus.

Reuben C. Langfeldt

Reuben C. Langfeldt, 98, a lifelong resident of rural Columbus passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024 at the Columbus Health and Rehab Center.

Reuben was born on May 19, 1926 in Columbus to Ervin and Elsie (Boese) Langfeldt. He was a lifelong farmer in the Columbus area. In his spare time, Reuben enjoyed attending farm auctions.

Reuben is survived by his cousins; as well as other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Norma Langfeldt; and his brother Clarence Langfeldt.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus.

Elaine P. Schultz

Elaine P. Schultz, 90, of the township of Elba was called to her heavenly home to be reunited with Jesus, her loving husband Fred, and her beloved grandchildren Kristina and Derek on Saturday June 29, 2024.

Elaine was born on November 16, 1933, the daughter of George H. and Paula (Haase) Guenther, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. She was baptized a child of God and confirmed in her faith at St. Stephen’s Ev. Lutheran Church. On August 11, 1956, she was united in marriage with Frederick E. Schultz at St. Stephen’s Ev. Lutheran Church.

Elaine was a devoted farm wife and mother, known for her hard work and dedication. She was a pillar of strength, heart, and soul for her family and dedicated her efforts to building its legacy.  A fantastic cook, Elaine enjoyed preparing meals for her family and friends, always ensuring they were made with love and care.  Her home and yard were immaculate and a testament to her meticulous nature. Her passion for gardening was evident in her beautiful flower and bountiful vegetable gardens she maintained with pride.  She found joy in nurturing her plants and feeding the birds by her home. Traveling with her family brought her great happiness and created many precious memories. Elaine also cherished spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, lovingly supporting them in all their interests, activities, and events. They could always count on grandma for a big hug, sage wisdom, and a teasing remark.

As a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church, Elaine raised her children with strong values and a deep faith in God.  Her faith was central to her life and instilled a strong work ethic in her children.  Elaine’s legacy of love, faith, and hard work will continue to inspire her family and all who knew her.

Elaine will be deeply missed by her children: David (Diane) Schultz of Elba Township, Dale (Doreen) Schultz of Waterloo, Daryl (Lori) Schultz of Marshall, Donald (Wanda) Schultz of Elba Township, and Denise (Chris) Ganser of Waterloo; grandchildren: Claire, Jack and Jesse Schultz, Daniel (Laura) Schultz, Dana (Henry) Tews, Dylan (Tasha) Schultz, Hanna (special friend Nick) Schultz and Kristian Schultz, Amanda Schultz, Arron (Hillary) Schultz, Matthew (Mandy) Ganser, and Megan Ganser; step-grandchildren: Tracy (Corey) Johnson, Jared (Stephanie) Thompson and Colin Thompson; great grandchildren: Blake, Alexis, Hayden, Rhett, Levi, and Raelynn; step great grandchildren: Henrick, Lottie, and Addie; her brother Norman (Audrey) Guenther of Beaver Dam.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 65 years, Fred, grandchildren: Kristina Schultz and Derek Schultz; her brothers: Reynold (Doris) Guenther and Donald (Grace) Guenther and her sisters: Eunice Guenther and Betty Guenther.

A visitation will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus on Friday, July 5, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at Noon.  Rev. Ben Zuberbier will officiate.  Interment will take place at Elba Cemetery, township of Elba.

Memorial donations in Elaine’s name may be directed to Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus.

 

Gene A. Herzberg

Gene A. Herzberg, 87, of Columbus passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024 at Wisconsin Dells Health Services.

Gene was born on February 25, 1937 in Columbus to Leonard and Erna (Rahn) Herzberg. He was a graduate of Columbus High School. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army where he was stationed in Germany. Gene was employed with Columbus Products as a supervisor until his retirement. He was married to Jacqueline D. “Jacquie” Gorsuch on April 19, 1958 at Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in Columbus.

Gene was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus. He loved being outdoors whether it was hunting, fishing, gardening, or feeding the birds. When he wasn’t outdoors he enjoyed doing puzzles. Gene loved being around his family and his grandchildren.

Gene is survived by his three children: Todd (Kim) Herzberg of Neenah, Tammy (Dave Drinkwater) Holzwarth of Madison, and Cindy (T.O.) Boge of Wisconsin Dells; grandchildren: Erica (Gordon) Casey, Tiffany (Andy Thompson) Holzwarth, Forrest Holzwarth, Tyler (Emily) Herzberg, and Kylee Herzberg; six great grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Jacquie in 2021; and three brothers; Ralph, Robert, and Roger.

A visitation will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1 p.m. Rev. Tim Schwartz will officiate. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus with military honors to be conducted. A luncheon will follow back at church.

Memorials may be directed to Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus.

The Herzberg family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for all their care and support.

Thomas Jo Davis Jr.

Thomas Jo Davis, Jr., passed unexpectedly on April 16, 2024.

After graduating from Sun Prairie High in 2006, he proudly served in the United States Army. Tours included Germany, Iraq, and Afghanistan, retiring honorably in 2012.

Thomas had many passions, including music, concerts, singing, dancing, and even playing his friends’ drums. He also loved riding his motorcycle, roller skating, movies, camping, video games, and swimming, as well as having a serious obsession with legos. Thomas had a gift for entertaining and making friends, and he cherished every moment he spent with his son, Thomas Jo Davis III. He was a proud homeowner in Beaver Dam and had previously resided in Sun Prairie, Columbus and Fall River.

Thomas is survived by his son Thomas Jo Davis III; his mother Brenda Davis; his brother Taylor Kruchten (Brooklynn Poquette); grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews; as well as many friends. Preceding in his death; his father Thomas Davis, grandparents, aunts and an uncle.

A memorial gathering will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m., followed by a funeral service with Rev. Tim Schwartz beginning promptly at 4pm, ending with military honors and concluding with a brief reception in the fellowship hall.

A Celebration of Life Event will take place in the weeks that follow, followed by an organ donor awareness event in June, and multiple other activities honoring Thomas.

In lieu of flowers, cards and donations for Thomas may be sent to Brenda Davis, PO Box 281, Hudson, Illinois, 61748.