Obituary Category: Horicon

Ann Marie Malone, age 68, of Green Lake, Wisconsin, passed away at her home on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

Ann was born on March 13, 1957, and grew up in the small town of Monches, Wisconsin. In Ann’s younger years, she enjoyed spending time outside and socializing with her friends. Some would say she was the life of the party. She completed her GED in 1979 and continued schooling several times throughout her life for many additional college credits and certificates. She always enjoyed learning new things. Ann had a passion for her career in mental health support caregiving and loved helping others. She was a hard-working woman her whole life, always working multiple jobs.

She had her first daughter, Sara, in 1979 and her second daughter, Hayley, in 1981. Her kids were always her priority. She built a strong foundation, with grit, strength, and determination. They enjoyed many summers spending time outside and camping. Ann enjoyed playing the guitar. Her favorite songs to play for her children and grandchildren were “Alice’s Restaurant” and “Farmer’s Daughter.”

Ann had love for so many things, but her family was her deepest love. She would do anything for them. She often sent packages and cards to them, to update them on things she saw that week, or just to say she was thinking about them. Some days, she would drive an hour, not knowing if they were home to drop off a surprise. It could be anything: food, plants, rubber ducks, pepper spray, gift cards, or even some socks. She always made her family feel they were important to her.

Ann was the true definition of an empowered woman. She taught people around her to do what is important to them, and they don’t need to rely on others to do it. Ann was a unique, intelligent, very independent, kind, and empathetic soul. She truly cared about those around her. Ann would help anyone whom she believed deserved it.

Ann enjoyed traveling, thrift shopping, collecting, and new adventures. She would love to drive around, taking in the nature and environment, while rocking out to classic rock or reggae music. She lived very independently but always enjoyed taking vacations with her family. Ann loved to collect antiques, rocks, plants, and shells. Despite Ann’s love for many things, nothing beats her daily McDonald’s runs for a large Diet Coke. She made it a priority to watch almost every Green Bay Packer game. She also collected change, not on purpose, though. Her grandchildren used to offer to clean her car and apartment to find the change she left sitting around. They would think they won the lottery with how much change they found.

Ann is survived by her daughters, Sara Malone and Hayley Malone (Donn Renning). Her Grandchildren, Devin Malone-Williams, Ashley Williams (Trevor Blohowiak), Manuel Malone-Chavez, and Fey Lionheart. Along with other friends and family. Ann is so loved and will be missed by many.

A private Celebration of Ann’s life will take place on a later date. “Peace”

Barbara Jean Gehrke, age 83, of Horicon, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, May 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

A Celebration of Life gathering for Barbara will take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Koepsell Funeral Home in Horicon.

Barbara was born on February 16, 1942, to William and Edna (nee Bruesch) Gerretson in Waupun. She was a graduate of Waupun High School. Barbara was united in marriage to Kenneth Gehrke on June 2, 1962, in Dubuque, Iowa. She worked as a secretary for the Newmont Mining Company in Nevada.

Barbara was an animal lover who was especially fond of horses and cats. She enjoyed playing the stump fiddle at Volk Fest in Waupun and gambling. Above all, Barbara adored her family and loved to spend time with them.

Barbara is survived by her children Michelle Falkowski and Michael (Brenda) Gehrke; grandchildren: Joshua, Jason, and Brandon (significant other Cheyenne) ; her great-grandchildren: Logan, Micah, David, and Arrow; and her sister Marge Harper. Barbara is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Kenneth in 2013; and her sister Ann Bonack.

Barbara’s family extends heartfelt thanks to Commonheart Hospice for the support and care shown to Barbara and her family. Your kindness will always be remembered.

Margaret H. Anfinson, age 94, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, died at her home in Horicon surrounded by family on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Visitation for Margaret will be at Zion Lutheran Church in Horicon on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday at church at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Traci Maass officiating. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Horicon.

Margaret Harriet Pufahl was born on July 24, 1930, in Red Granite, Wisconsin to Frank and Eleanor (Beyer) Pufahl. She attended Van Brunt High School in Horicon. Margaret worked at a canning factory in Beaver Dam, as well as Stokely Canning Factory in Horicon; she also worked at Wagner’s in Hustisford. On August 19, 1950, she was united in marriage with Andrew “Gump” Anfinson at Zion Lutheran Parsonage in Horicon. Together they raised their family in Horicon and they enjoyed traveling. Margaret was a member of the American Legion Post #157 Auxiliary in Horicon since 1960 and served as president for four years. She was also a member of Zion Lutheran church where she served on the Altar Guild and the funeral luncheon committee. Margaret enjoyed playing Bingo and cards, Canasta being one of her favorite games. She also enjoyed playing Rummy 500 with the kids and simply spending time with the grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include her six children, Sandra Germer of Horicon, Thomas “Toby” (Deborah) Anfinson of Horicon, Elaine (Chuck Bunts) Dollar of Wautoma, Andrea (Randall) Samplawski of Horicon, Timothy (Lisa Zarling) Anfinson of Horicon, and Lisa (Tiny) Anfinson of Horicon; eight grandchildren, Wade (Stacy) Samplawski of Fall River, Tommy (Robin) Anfinson of Oshkosh, Brandon Anfinson of Horicon, Kristin (Carl) Twardokus of Horicon, Nathan (Mara) Anfinson of Columbus, Brett (Jamie) Anfinson of Beaver Dam, Nick (Shannon) Dollar of Beaver Dam, and Aaron (Cassandra) Samplawski of Green Bay; 13 great grandchildren; a niece Joyce Toellner of Mayville; other relatives and friends. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2003; her son-in-law, Carl Germer; two sister, Blonda Pufahl and Elizabeth Zimmerman; four sisters-in-law, Caroline, Anna, Gertrude, and Charlotte; a brother-in-law, George Anfinson; a step brother, Harvey Beske; and a niece Joanne Flag.

Richard Leroy Herman, age 86, of Horicon, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

A memorial service for Richard will take place on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Koepsell Funeral Home in Horicon with Pastor Renae Dymond officiating. A visitation for Richard will take place at the funeral home on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m.

Richard was born on June 5, 1938, in Portland, Oregon to Erwin and Catherine (nee Kelly) Herman. Richard moved to Sparta, Wisconsin shortly after birth and lived on a farm until he was fifteen years old. Richard attended and graduated from a one room school between Leon and Melvina, Wisconsin. He attended freshman year at Sparta High School and was the class president. Richard moved to Milwaukee where he attended and graduated from Washington High School. He lettered in track and football. Richard attended UWM for two years and participated in the ROTC. Richard honorably served his country in the United States Army Reserves from 1957-1961.

Richard was married in November of 1959 and was blessed with four children.

Richard began his career in graphic arts at WA Kreuger in Brookfield. He worked at several paper and printing companies. In 1983 he moved to Palm Springs, California and received his bachelor’s degree from Chapman College. He served on the regional board from 1986-1990. Richard later went on to work at Paul Associates Inc. in Palm Springs and worked his way up to eventually become the owner. He continued affiliations with Paul Associates through 2016.

Richard belonged to the Rotary Club, Paul Harris Fellow, and was an American Legion Member of Post #133 in Wisconsin. Richard was a former member of the Police and Fire Commission in Horicon.

In his spare time, Richard enjoyed playing bingo, going out to eat, and spending time with family.

Richard is survived by his best and special friend Marge Geshke; his children: Anne (Dean) Kotecki, Richard (Consuelo) Herman, and Melissa (Jim aka Diamond Jim) Hartung; his seven grandchildren: Danielle, Michelle, Sarah, Jessica, Josh, Jacob, and Joey; and his four great-grandchildren: George, Waverly, Inga, and Harriet. Richard is further survived by other dear relatives and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Elizabeth Herman.

Timothy (Tim, Peanut) J. Welak, age 67, of Horicon passed away with his loving family by his side on May 5, 2025, following a long, courageous battle with cancer.

A Celebration of Tim’s life will take place on a later date.

Tim was born on February 23, 1958, in Beaver Dam to James and Elinore (nee Serwe) Welak. He attended St. Mary grade school and graduated from Mayville High School in 1976.
He started working at the age of 14 for WW Builders. He later retired from Metal Craft of Mayville after 36 years.

Tim was a family man and looked forward to anytime when they could be together. Growing up, he supported his girls and even coached their basketball team. His pride and joy were his grandchildren and loved to take the time to watch them at their sporting and school activities.

Tim was a true Wisconsinite and loved the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Milwaukee Brewers. When he wasn’t cheering on his favorite teams, Tim could be found pontooning on Lake Sinissippi and the Rock River.

Tim is survived by his wife Patricia “Patti”; his 3 daughters Jennifer (Mitch) Matuszeski, Heather (Blake II) Tonn, and Ashley (Becki Herbst) Welak; his eight grandchildren: Molly, Maddie, and Maverick Matuszeski, Taylor (Zach) Beekman, Lauren, Blake III, Jaxon Tonn, and Morgan Bronk; sisters Arlitt Del Ponte, Kathleen “Kate” (Keith) Sieve; brother Dennis (Kim) Welak; brother and sister-in-law: Bob (Sandi) Clement. Tim is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Wayne Del Ponte.

Judith Ann Roggenbauer, age 82, of Burnett, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Brillion West Haven in Brillion, Wisconsin.

A Funeral Service for Judy will take place on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Horicon with Rev. Traci Maass officiating. A visitation for Judy will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. at church. Interment will follow the service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Horicon.

Judy was born to Frank and Hildengard (nee Schendel) Pfister on November 14, 1942, in Horicon, Wisconsin. She was a graduate of Horicon High School.

Judy was united in marriage to Marvin Roggenbauer in Galena, Illinois on September 20, 1964, and the couple were blessed with 3 sons. Judy was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Horicon. Judy attended the School of Cosmetology in Milwaukee and ran Judy’s Style Inn in Horicon.

Judy was a member of the Red Hat Doll Club and enjoyed collecting dolls. Family and friends were important to Judy, especially her grandchildren. She was a very proud grandma. Judy enjoyed casino trips and the Green Bay Packers.

Judy is survived by her children: Brad (Bill) Roggenbauer and Buddy (Amy) Roggenbauer; daughter-in-law Debbie Roggenbauer; grandchildren: Amanda (Ian) Alissa, Amber, and Kristen; and one great-granddaughter Aila. Judy is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Marvin in 2018; son Brett in 2019; and her brother Tom in 2011.

The family extends their sincerest gratitude to Brillion West Haven and St. Croix Hospice, and Lakeland Care for the support and care provided to Judy and her family during this time.

Patricia Porten, age 86, of Horicon, passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025, at her home.

The visitation for Pat will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Horicon on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at the church on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at St. Malachy Cemetery in Horicon.

The former Patricia Ann Dimel was born on September 26, 1938 in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin to the late Henry and Bertha (nee: Wille) Dimel. After graduating from Beaver Dam High School, Pat went on to earn her teaching degree from UW Oshkosh. Pat taught first and second grade at St. Malachy Grade School; she then went to the Horicon Public School to teach special education and finished her career as a substitute teacher. On April 4, 1959, Pat was united in marriage with James A. Porten at St. Peter’s Church in Beaver Dam. He preceded her in death in 2012. Her faith was very important to Pat. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was active with the Christian Mothers. She also taught CCD at St. Malachy and at St. John’s in Juneau. Pat was an avid sports fan and always cheered for the Badgers, Bucks, Brewers, and Packers. She enjoyed spending time at their cabin on Pelican Lake and she enjoyed her flower gardens. Nana G cherished the times spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Pat will be missed by her sons, Patrick (Lisa) of Medford, Daniel (Lisa) of Markesan, John “Radar” (Julie) of Horicon, Timothy (Robin Rauch) of Iron Ridge, Dennis (Tina), Christopher, Thomas, and Richard “Hank”, all of Horicon; grandchildren, Samuel (Sarah), Benjamin, Sean, Ian (Morgan), and Colin, Carly and Matthew, Katherine Neuberger (Tim Frank), Karen (Richard) Burwitz, Heather (Grant) Tillman and Kimberly, and David (Alyssa) Sayles; great grandchildren, Rylan, Branson, and Sylis Burwitz, Landri, Acelynn, and Finley Neuberger, Zoe Frank, Brayden and Adeline Sayles, Osman Porten, Kenedie Porten, Nolan Masconi, Fletcher Feathers, Aria Gallegos, Baylen Porten, and Dylan Porten; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her brother, Robert Dimel.

If desired, memorials may be made in Patricia Porten’s name to Sacred Heart Parish or to St. Katharine Drexel Parish.

On March 11th, 2025, Grace T. LaBlanc (Meyer), beloved wife of Robert LaBlanc and loving mother of Debra, Nancy, Kristen, and Brian LaBlanc, passed away.

Born January 23rd, 1944 to Edward and Esther (Warras) Meyer she had a happy childhood. She grew up loving music and fondly recalled seeing musicals with her mother. It was in Milwaukee where she met Robert ultimately leading to a loving, lifelong marriage. She lived in Wisconsin all her life where she raised her family.

She was preceded by her husband, Robert LaBlanc, her brothers Kenneth and James, and her sister Jane (Zachow). She is survived by her 4 children, her sister Carol (Grube) and brother Jerry , her 11 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. She was a soft spoken woman but had an open heart for everyone. She treasured family above everything and was always looking forward to another camping trip and exploring new places with them. She left everyone effortlessly smiling and was a testament to a life filled with kindness, grace and love. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all.

A memorial service for Grace will take place on Friday, April 4, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Parish with the Rev Fr. Mark Brandl presiding. A visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. at the church. Inurnment will take place at St. Malachy Cemetery in Horicon at a later date.

Joyce Marie Drozd (nee Cundy), age 81, of Horicon, passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mayville with Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Miniatt presiding. A visitation for Joyce will be held at church on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 2:30 p.m. until the time of service at 5:00 p.m.

Joyce was born on December 7, 1943, in Hustisford to Kenneth Sr. and Lillian (nee Ehlert) Cundy. She was united in marriage to Robert F. Drozd at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Woodland on December 17, 1960.

The importance of her faith was instilled in Joyce early on and she was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Parish in Horicon. In her younger years, Joyce enjoyed bowling and spending time up north with her husband, family, and friends. She took pride in her flower gardens and crafting various projects.
Joyce loved her family deeply and time spent with them was something she always looked forward to. Joyce was very giving, almost to fault, but wanted to make sure her family and those around her were always cared for and loved.

Joyce is survived by her daughters: Sherry (Jim) Krueger of Hustisford, Dawn (Mike) Stortz of Horicon, and Jodie (Dan) Laabs of Horicon; grandchildren: Jamie (Tommy) Kulkee, Stacie (Dusty) Lackas, Rachael (Jason) Blatz, Erin (Matt) Perry, Andy (Samantha) Stortz, twins Cassie and Angie Laabs, and Rissa Laabs; great grandchildren: Allie and Gavin Kulkee, Riann and Callen Lackas, Rhett and Kason Blatz, Liam and Paige Perry, and Levi and Emmett Stortz; brother Ken Jr. (Cathy) Cundy; brother-in-law David (Laurie) Drozd; and sisters-in-law Ruth Cundy and Mary Cundy. Joyce is further survived by her special dog Sassy, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Robert; her parents; her parents-in-law Frank and Lillian Drozd; and her two brothers Rodney “Butch” Cundy and Bruce Cundy.