Obituary Category: Columbus

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, 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, 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., 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.

Carolyn J. Vertz, 84, a resident of The Meadows of Fall River passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024 at the Watertown Regional Medical Center.

Carolyn was born on August 17, 1939 in Jackson, WI to Harry and Selma (Gierach) Tews.  She was baptized on September 3, 1939 and later confirmed her Christian faith on March 29, 1953 at David’s Star Lutheran Church in Jackson.  She was a graduate of Winnebago Lutheran Academy in Fond du Lac and Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN.  Carolyn was married to Rev. Karl Vertz on August 25, 1963 at David’s Star Lutheran Church.  Carolyn taught for six years after college and later dedicated herself as a caring homemaker.  She was a member of Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in Columbus.

Carolyn is survived by her three children: Tod (Beth) Vertz of Sturgeon Bay, Tricia (Matthew) Affholter of Canton, MI and Joy (Matthew) Huber of Columbus; her daughter-in-law Peg Vertz of Lemoyne, OH; seven grandchildren: Laura (Shane) Christianson, Michael (Megan) Vertz, Sara (James) Jamieson, Logan Affholter, Derek Affholter, Carter Huber, and Megan Huber; four great grandchildren; her siblings: Roger (Lynne) Tews and Judy Diener; as well as other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Karl; and her son Jon.

A memorial gathering will be held at Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in Columbus on Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10 a.m.  Rev. Benjamin Zuberbier will officiate.

Memorials may be directed to the Zion Lutheran School Building Fund.

John T. Ehlers, age 73, of Neillsville, WI; Columbus, WI; Milwaukee, WI; Omaha, NE; Keller, TX and lastly Oconomowoc, WI, passed away Feb. 24, 2024.

John would like to share his life journey to thank the people along the way who helped mold his wonderful life.

I was born August 26, 1950 in Milwaukee, WI to Eugene and Mildred Ehlers.  I was the big brother to Brownie, Donald, Roger, Doris, Ruth, and Gordon.  I lived in Neillsville until age 10 where I attended a one room school house which I rode my horse Bud across the field to attend.  I was driving tractor at age 7 to work the fields with my father.  We moved to Columbus, WI in 1960 where I attended school and graduated in 1969.  During my life in Columbus my father owned the Mobil Station where I worked many hours helping him out and learned a great deal about automobiles which contributed to my love for fine cars and motorcycles.  My parents were wonderful, loving and giving and were great examples of how to work hard and live life well.

I served in the US Air Force as a weekend warrior with the WI Air National Guard from July 1969 until July 1975 which entitled me the honor of being a Vietnam Era Veteran.  My military service gave me many wonderful memories and lifelong friendships.

In 1971 I began my life long employment with the railroad.  I Retired in 2016 after 45 years with the distinguished title of Director of Dispatch for the Union Pacific Coal Division.  I began my work with the Chicago Northwestern Railroad and ended my career with the Union Pacific Railroad.  My career also gave me so many wonderful memories, good times and lifelong friendships that filled my life with joy and laughter in Milwaukee, Chicago, Omaha and Fort Worth TX.

Throughout my life I loved cooking, gardening, especially roses, and helping many friends and family with yard work.  One of my biggest joys was treating family and friends to a great meal at one of my many favorite restaurants.  The nice weather in TX allowed me to fall in love with bicycles. I spent many years riding my bike 30 miles to work, teaming up with buds and touring many of the roads around TX.  I celebrated 21 years of my birthdays doing the Hotter ‘N Hell 100 bike ride in Wichita TX with family and friends.  Most of all I loved camping along the Black River every year and working on the beautiful land I grew up on in Neillsville WI.

I was preceded in death by my parents, my grandparents, my brother, many aunts and uncles and cousins, who I have missed dearly.  I am survived by my two loving and wonderful daughters and son-in-law’s, Jamie (Brian) and Jackie (Steve) and my beautiful grandchildren who I am so proud of and love dearly, Ashley and Hunter; my stepson Scott and my stepdaughter Heather whom I have both loved unconditionally,  many nieces, nephews and cousins, my sister Doris and my brother Brownie who have been my go-to people throughout my life.

In closing, thank you to everyone who gave me a life which was so fulfilling and full of love.  You will never know how much help, joy and satisfaction you all gave me.  And always remember that Cardinals appear when Angels are near!  Celebrate my life with a glass of good wine.

 

 

 

 

 

It is with profound sadness that the family of Corine (Cyrus) Bastien announce her sudden passing on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. We bid farewell to a soul whose essence radiated love, kindness, and enduring memories. Affectionately known as Cori, her journey, which began on January 5th, 1975, unfolded as a testament to compassion and generosity.

As a dedicated nurse practitioner, Cori devoted her life aiding those less fortunate, leaving an indelible mark of fairness and love on all she touched. Her contagious laughter filled every room, creating an atmosphere of joy and warmth that will be forever cherished. The unwavering love she had for her sons Xavier and Marcus is a timeless testament to a mother’s enduring devotion, shaping their lives with the gift of warmth, guidance, and boundless affection.

Cori’s presence illuminated the lives of all who knew her. She possessed a rare ability to uplift others, offering solace during times of hardship and celebrating joyous moments with an infectious spirit.

Cori’s legacy lives on through those she held dear; sons, Xavier (age 10) and Marcus (age 7); their father, Andre Bastien; father, Chet Cyrus; and brother, Joseph (Amanda) Cyrus; niece, Elle; and nephew, Cash. Her impact extended beyond immediate family, and was a cherished cousin and niece to many across the country. In heaven she joins her mother, Brenda Cyrus; brother, Nick Cyrus; aunt, Bonnie Carney; grandmother, Rita Gavinski; and grandfather, William Gavinski.

Cori’s legacy shines as a beacon of hope and love, leaving an irreplaceable void in her absence. In mourning, we celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the lasting influence she leaves behind. May she rest in peace, forever cherished and never forgotten.

In honoring her memory, the family kindly requests donations to her GoFundMe.com/corine-cyrus-bastien account to assist with funeral costs and support of her children.

The visitation will be at Koepsell-Zeidler Funeral Home in Columbus on Saturday, March 9, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. The funeral service will follow on Saturday at 11:30 am. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus, following the service.

Ruth I. Esser, 81, formerly of Oconomowoc, WI passed away peacefully on Monday, February 12, 2024, at Parkside Village in DeForest with family by her side.

Ruth was born on February 14, 1942, the daughter of Earl and Isabel Tremaine in Oconomowoc, WI.  On September 17, 1966, she was united in marriage to Robert J. Esser.  They shared 53 wonderful years together before his passing in 2020.

Ruth lived her entire life in the Oconomowoc and Ashippun area. Oconomowoc is where she and Bob raised their family, where Ruth was a beloved cafeteria lady at Greenland elementary, and the family snowmobiled with the Throttle Jockey Snowmobile Club.  With her family grown, Ruth helped Bob operate the family business, Bob’s Blacktop Sealing.  After retirement, they enjoyed taking bus tours and motorcycle trips and traveled all over the United States. Ruth was a faithful member of the Holy Name of Jesus Ev. Catholic Church in Ashippun, WI. She loved her yard and took great pride in keeping it free of leaves and dandelions. She dearly loved her faithful canine companion, Sparky and captured the hearts of all she met throughout her life.

Ruth will be deeply missed by her daughter Tina Esser of Watertown; her son Tim (Sue) Esser of De Forest; her grandchildren: Amanda, Danielle, Kyle, and Kade; great grandson Ferris, her brother Dale (Jane) Tremaine, and sisters-in-laws: Joan Raasch, Mary Priesgan, and Carole Esser.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bob, stepsons Mike Esser and Joey Esser; and her sisters: Frances Tremaine, Lois Baker and Shirley Gourlie.

A visitation for Ruth will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. at Glenview Memorial Gardens, W1219 Glenview Ave., Ixonia, WI. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Father Dave Verhasselt officiating.  Entombment will follow at Glenview Memorial Gardens.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and residents at Parkside Village of DeForest for making Ruth feel at home, and to Brighton Hospice for their compassionate care the last few months.

 

 

 

Nancy May Kind, age 81, was called to her eternal home on February 09, 2024 from complications related to a stroke that took place in early December.

Nancy was born on May 27, 1942 in Hampden Township, Columbia County, to Raymond and Grace (Helwig) Kind.  She graduated from Doctor Martin Luther High School and Doctor Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota.  Nancy was a teacher in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod for over 25 years, serving in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin before returning to Columbus and working at the F&M Bank for many years.   She was very active in civic and charitable causes. Nancy married Wallace (Wally) Weidemann on October 29, 1993 and was married until his passing in 1996.

Nancy was true to her name – a ‘Kind’ person who gave freely of her time to help family and friends. Though she had no children of her own, she was a special Sister, Aunt and Great Aunt to her extended family, often driving hours to attend sporting events, plays, concerts or ceremonies. She loved her church, enjoyed traveling, collecting clocks and Ford tractors and dabbling in investments.

She is survived by her sister Janice (Len) Blau, a step-son David (Marcia) Weidemann and a step-daughter Karen (John) Plantenberg and a step daughter-in-law Mary Jane Weidemann and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.  She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Wallace Weidemann, her parents, two brothers, Charles and Roger Kind, two sisters, Doris Price and Beverly Adam, two brothers-in-law, Eugene Price and Donald Adam and one sister-in-law, Marlene Kind and one step-son Roger Weidemann.

Visitation will be at Zion Lutheran Church in Columbus on Monday, February 19, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30. The funeral service will follow at the church on Monday at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Tim Schwartz officiating. The burial will be at Hampden Cemetery and will be followed by a luncheon at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, the American Kidney Foundation or a charity of your choice.

 

 

 

 

 

Dale F. Sennhenn, 76, of Columbus passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024 at Alden Estates of Jefferson Rehab Center.

Dale was born on December 30, 1947 in Columbus to Frederick and Dorothy (Lange) Sennhenn.  He was a graduate of Columbus High School.  Dale served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War where he was awarded the Purple Heart.  He was married to Jean Drews on July 17, 1970 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fox Lake.  Dale worked as a carpenter and handyman in the area for many years.  He also spent many years working on his sister’s farm in North Dakota.

Dale was a member of Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in Columbus.  He was member of the Columbus VFW, Legion, and 40&8.  Dale was an avid bowler and bowled a 300 game.  He enjoyed fishing and in his later years enjoyed spending time at his cabin up north.

Dale is survived by his wife Jean of Columbus; three children: Jennifer (Paul) Manssen of Watertown, Rebecca Sennhenn of Columbus, and Brian (Lyndsy) Sennhenn of Fall River; three grandchildren: Brett Schraufnagel (fiancée Melanie) and Greysen and Nolen Buckingham; four siblings: Donald Sennhenn of IL, David (Monica) Sennhenn of Cuba City, Deborah (Kent) Albers of ND, and Diane Sennhenn of Columbus; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death his parents; sister-in-law Carolyn Sennhenn; and brother-in-law JC Meyers.

A visitation will be held at Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in Columbus on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.  Additional parking is available at the Columbus Nursing and Rehab Center.  A visitation will also be held at church on Saturday, February 3^rd from 9:30 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 with graveside military honors to be conducted.