Obituary Category: Mayville

Bonnie Lou Okon, 84, of Lomira (formerly Mayville), passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, February 23, 2025, at SSM Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac.

A visitation will be held at Koepsell Funeral Home in Mayville on Monday, March 3, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. The funeral service will follow at the funeral home at 4:00 p.m., with Father Mark Brandl officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date at St. Mary Cemetery in Mayville, Dodge County, Wisconsin.

Bonnie was born on February 25, 1940, in Theresa, Wisconsin, the daughter of the late Elmer and Adela (Mueller) Giese. She graduated from Mayville High School in 1958. On June 21, 1958, she married Sylvester (Sal) Okon at St. Mary’s Church in Mayville. Bonnie, known affectionately as “Gigi” by her loved ones, was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who deeply cherished her family.

Bonnie worked as an Optometrist Assistant in Mayville for 27 years under Dr. Curtis Kenitz, becoming a familiar and friendly face to all who visited the practice. After Dr. Kenitz’s passing and the closing of the office, she continued her career for 13½ years at Extended Care Nursing and Rehabilitation before retiring. Bonnie also worked part-time for Wings Over Wisconsin and was one of the founding members of the Wingettes.

A dedicated community volunteer, Bonnie served in numerous positions with the Mayville Legion Auxiliary, the Mayville Fireman’s Association Auxiliary, and the Golden Girls Society. She was a proud member of St. Mary’s Church in Mayville. Bonnie took great pleasure in nature, particularly birdwatching, with a special fondness for cardinals. She cherished playing cards with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often letting them win at Old Maid, Go Fish, and Kings 4 Corners—just a few of her favorite games.

Bonnie will be greatly missed by her children, Brian (Juanita) Okon of LeRoy and Sheri (Mike) Feucht of Rubicon; her grandchildren, Jessica (Marvin Voss) Okon, Jamie Okon, Nikki (Mitch) Wegner, Stephanie (Husband-Vincent Hoffman) Feucht, Doug (Cassandra) Feucht; her great-grandchildren, Kennedy, Kora, Emma, Kenzie, and Henry; her sisters, Dorothy Krueger and Shirley Gruber; sister-in-law, Faye Giese; her former brother-in-law, Jerome (Pearl) Okon; former sister-in-law, Eunice Okon; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Verona (Frank) Hartwig, Oscar (Ruth) Giese, Ruth Mary (Lenord) Schultz, Margret (Marvin) Schultz, Marvin (Marion) Giese, Janet (Ron) Coulter, and Ralph Giese; brothers-in-law, Oliver Krueger and Norman Gruber; former husband, Sylvester Okon; and former in-laws, George (Erna) Okon, George Jr. (Evelyn) Okon, Richard Okon, David (Lila) Okon, and Art Okon.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Hope Nursing and Rehabilitation in Lomira, SSM Hospice Home of Hope, as well as friends and family who visited, sent prayers, and well-wishes over the last several years.

Lorraine L. Feucht, 91, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, at Prairie Ridge Assisted Living in Mayville surrounded by family members.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at1 p.m. with the Rev. Fr. Ed Kornath presiding. at St. Andrew Catholic Church in LeRoy. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church in LeRoy. Interment will take place at St. Andrew Cemetery in LeRoy and a luncheon will follow at the Mayville Gun Club featuring Lorraine’s favorite- ice cream sundaes!
Lorraine was born on January 31, 1934, to Herbert and Ethel (Ries) Franke in Fond du Lac.
She was a member of St. Andrew Catholic Church and Christian Mothers in LeRoy and the Knowles Fire Dept. Women’s Auxiliary. She was united in marriage to Donald F Feucht on January 3, 1953, in LeRoy and the couple enjoyed 63 years together. Lorraine and her husband Donald shined through their 63 years in the livestock trucking business where they touched the lives of so many. She enjoyed answering the phones and talking to all the farmers.
Lorraine leaves behind her four children- Steve (Nancy) Feucht, Gary (Susie) Feucht, Dennis (Marie) Feucht, and Lorna (Greg) Sterr. Family was always important for Lorraine and that can be seen through her eight grandchildren- Travis (Becky) Feucht, Jessica (Jason) Gassner, Chad (fiancé’ Becky Vanderloop) Feucht, Casey (Pete) Buske, Scott (Emily) Feucht, Nathan (Rachel) Feucht, Monica (Adam) Hooper and Christina (Michael) Goetter. Lorraine was also blessed with fifteen great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Also, her feline companion ‘Buddy’. Lorraine is survived by nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Donald.
In lieu of flowers, Lorraine would like memorials to be given to St. Andrews Church and SSM Hospice.
Special thanks to SSM Hospice especially Heather, Amanda, and Sarah. Also, to Mabel Billington, Jackie Gassner, and Patti Wells for the care and support shown to Lorraine and her family.

Chad Weinberger passed away unexpectedly on February 13, 2025 at Froedtert Hospital in Menomonee Falls.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, February 21st at 3 p.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church in LeRoy with the Rev. Fr. Tom Biersack presiding. A visitation will be held from 12 noon until the time of the service at church. Burial will take place at St. Andrew Cemetery in LeRoy.

Chad was born the son of Ken and Shirley (Weyer) Weinberger on November 11, 1973. He was a 1992 graduate of Mayville High School. Chad was united in marriage to Jacquelyn Kramer on August 17, 2023. Chad was a journeyman mechanic at John Deere for the last 25 years. His favorite saying was “if it moves, it breaks”. He took it upon himself to learn how to fix everything inside those walls. Outside of work he was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Jacquelyn. They are what most would say a match made in heaven. They are true soulmates and spent almost every minute together. He also leaves behind two amazing daughters, stepson, and stepdaughter. He loved attending their various school activities, sporting events and concerts. He was an avid music lover and enjoyed going to see live music. He never missed a big ten Saturday football game on tv. He was also up for playing a good round of football, baseball, softball, and basketball. He didn’t care what kind of sport it was as long as he could be outside. Chad loved going to flea-markets and grabbing a cold miller high life. You could also find him cruising down the road on his Harley with the wind in his hair and a toothpick in his mouth. He was truly one of a kind with a gentle soul. Always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. To know him was the greatest gift of all.

Chad is survived by his wife Jacquelyn of Germantown. His parents- Ken and Shirley (Weyer) Weinberger of LeRoy, his daughters- Avery and Helena Weinberger, step children-Micah Bosak and Arianna Kochom. His sister Tracy (Tony) Mathweg. Further survived by other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Loretta Hilda Elsa Giese (nee Koepsell) entered Eternal Life on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Clearview in Juneau, having reached the age of 102.

Funeral Services for Loretta will take place on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church (River Church) in Town Theresa at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Douglas Zahner officiating. A visitation for Loretta will take place at church on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow the service at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

Loretta was born on October 13, 1922, to Christian Koepsell and his wife, Agnes (nee Quandt) and was born to new life in Jesus Christ through Holy Baptism on October 29, 1922, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Huilsburg with Rev. Blifernicht. She confirmed her faith in Jesus Christ on May 3, 1936, in Trinity Lutheran Church, Huilsburg with Rev. W Reinemann.

On June 7, 1942, Loretta was united in marriage to Clarence Giese in Immanuel Lutheran Church, Town Theresa. To this union were born five children: Larry, Linda, Lloyd, Loren, and Leroy. Throughout her married life she was a homemaker, loving wife and devoted mother and grandmother. Yet her love for Christ and her God-given gift of music was shown with singing in Immanuel Choir for 50+ years. She was also very active with Immanuel Ladies Aid (Lights) and was the group’s first president, Bible Study, and quilting. Her love to help others was shown by her active duties at working at Bethesda Country Store for many years. Together with her husband they played violin and piano duets many times at nursing homes.

Loretta is survived by her children: Larry (Sylvia) Giese, Lloyd (Karen) Giese, Loren (Shirley) Giese, and Leroy (Cynthia) Giese; son-in-law Sigismund Semrau; 17 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great- grandchildren; and sister-in-law Lorraine Koepsell. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Clarence; her daughter Linda Semrau; and her brothers Arthur and Norbert; and sister-in-law Marjorie (Arthur) Koepsell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Immanuel Lutheran Church (River Church).

The family wishes to extend their sincerest thanks and gratitude to the staff of Clearview Nursing Home as well as Rev. Douglas Zahner and Rev. Allen Behnke. The care and support shown to Loretta and her family will always be remembered.

Reuben Roy Pribnow, 99, passed peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, February 15. Reuben Roy Pribnow was born to Arthur and Viola (Schlegel) Pribnow on August 28, 1925. He became a child of God through Holy Baptism on September 13, 1925, at St. Petri Lutheran Church, town of Theresa, and was confirmed on October 9, 1938, at St. Petri Lutheran Church. On August 28, 1948, he was united in marriage with Arlene Kuehl, they were married for 73 years before Arlene’s passing in 2021.

Reuben was a member of St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church, Town of Lomira, where he served his Lord on many boards. His faith was very important to him. Reuben and Arlene farmed together on the family farm until 1977 when they moved to their current home that he helped to build. He was an insurance agent for Theresa Mutual Insurance Company, also serving as director for 33 years. Reuben also served as president of St. Petri Cemetery Association and president of the local Aid Association for Lutherans. Family meant everything to them, taking grandchildren with them on many camping and fishing trips. He spent many hours making wood crafts, including a play barn and shed for the grandsons, and a play kitchen cupboard for the granddaughters. These treasures are now being passed down to his great-grandchildren so more memories can be made. Up until Reuben’s last days, he loved to see the little ones come visit, and the love you saw when he was holding a new baby was priceless. Reuben had the blessing of time with many of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as they were there to help care for him since Arlene’s passing. He truly appreciated each and every one that took the time away from their families to be there for him.

Reuben is survived by 8 children, Ronald Pribnow, Rodney (Dee) Pribnow, Ralph (Donna) Pribnow, Annette Meyer, Randall (Anita) Pribnow, Audrey (Randy) Greene, Arlette (Marv) Lindert and Arlesse (Dave) Groth; 21 grandchildren, Brian (Danielle) Neitzel, Jeanette (Kris)Roehl, Melissa (Jay) Schroeder, Holly Muench, Heidi (James) Lockerby, Billy Kasuboski, Andrea (Ernie) Ernest, Rick (Jessica) Pribnow, Amy (Heidi) Meyer-Bremer, Allen (Tammy) Pribnow, Aaron (Ashley) Lindert, Andy Kasuboski, Dale (Mallory) Lindert, Robbie (Jenny) Pribnow, Faye (Jason) Franklin, Amanda Sisley, Kim (Jeremy) Moore, Beckie (Erik) Haefs, Megan (Rich) Sexton, Katie (Alex) Krueger, and Kari (Brandon) Krapfl; 51 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene, his parents, Arthur and Viola Pribnow; father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Ella Kuehl; sisters, Amelda (Harold) Zahn, and Esther (Walter) Zahn; brothers-in-law, Clarence (Gertrude) Kuehl and Harold (Phyllis) Kuehl; sister-in-law, Elvira (Hilbert) Kamrath; son-in- laws, Kenneth Neitzel and Ron Meyer; granddaughter, Rose Pribnow; grandson-in-law, Phillip Muench.

Funeral services for Reuben will be held Thursday, February 20th, at 2 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Town of Lomira, with the Rev. Matthew Kuske officiating. Visitation will be held from 12 noon until 2:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will take place at St. Petri Cemetery, Town of Theresa. The family has requested that memorials be directed to St. Petri Cemetery Association.

The family would like to thank the staff at SSM Hospice for their care and support to Reuben and his family. A special thanks to Amanda from SSM Hospice who could always put a smile on his face.

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Cheryl Ann Grulke, 68, of Lomira, WI, who peacefully entered eternal rest after extended illnesses on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Hope Nursing Home in Lomira.

Cheryl was born on October 4, 1956, in Milwaukee, WI. After moving from Milwaukee where she grew up and transferring from John Marshall High School, Cheryl was a member of the 1974 graduating class of Lomira High School. On August 7, 1976, she married the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” L. Grulke, at Immanuel Lutheran Church (River Church); together they created a home filled with warmth, faith, and family.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, Cheryl’s greatest joy was caring for those she loved. She is survived by her beloved husband Gene, and their children: Jason (Jamie) Grulke, Timothy Grulke, Jennifer Grulke (Michael Stapelmann), and Melissa Grulke. She was also a proud grandmother to Alexis Smith, Ayden Grulke, Ashton Grulke, and Oliver Hunt, who will forever cherish her support of all their activities, memories of card game shenanigans, and most of all, love.
Cheryl is also survived by her siblings Don (Dawn) Forster, Nancy (Dan) Zastrow, Sandy Adelmeyer, and Dave (Jeanne) Forster, along with her in-laws Pete Thompson, Garold (Susie) Bartel, Sandy Grulke, Nancy Grulke, and Richard (Terri) Grulke.

She was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Lois (Wasedalek) Forster, parents-in-law Reinhard (Norma) Grulke, Darrell Forster in infancy, and Carolyn Thompson, Phyllis Bartel, Fritz Grulke, and Steven Grulke.

Cheryl worked at various factory jobs throughout her life but found the greatest fulfillment as a homemaker and as the janitor at Immanuel Lutheran Church (River Church) for over 10 years. Her love for her family and community was evident in everything she did.

She had a deep appreciation for nature, especially her flowers and gardens, and found joy in watching hummingbirds and cardinals as they visited her home. As much as she appreciated hearing bird songs, she also enjoyed singing and listening to live music. Whether with the radio, at concerts, or as a part of the Immanuel choir, Cheryl’s voice could be heard carrying a tune.
Cheryl’s passion for baking and cooking was well-known. She had many delicious recipes and was often asked to bring her famous scotcheroos, caramel brownies, and taco salad to gatherings. Each dish carried a special touch—her “secret ingredients” that made them truly “unique” and irreplicable.

Cheryl’s kindness, unwavering faith, and selfless love touched many lives. She will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and the entire community.

The family of Cheryl Grulke wishes to express their gratitude for the kind thoughts, prayers, and love sent her way. A special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and staff through the years, as well as Pastor Zahner for his visits and the church community for their countless prayers and support. It is deeply appreciated.

A visitation to celebrate Cheryl’s life will be held Sunday, February 23 from 2:00 – 5:00pm at Koepsell Funeral Home in Mayville, WI and again on Monday, February 24 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church (River Church). Funeral Services will be held on Monday, February 24, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to the Immanuel Lutheran Church Fund, American Heart Association, or American Diabetes Association.

Donald Butler, age 85, of Horicon passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Clearview in Juneau.

No formal services for Donald will be held.

Donald was born the son of William and Marcella (nee Muehl) Butler on September 15, 1939, in Sussex. He had worked as a service manager for Schultz Ford and Roskopf Ford and FDL Motors. He also had his own business, Don’s Auto Repair. Don was united in marriage to Judy Persha on October 3, 1959, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Woodland.

Don was an alderman for the city of Horicon. He assisted the Salvation Army with their Red Kettle Holiday Fund collections.

In his spare time, Don enjoyed watching the World of Outlaws. He also liked horses and horse racing as well as listening to country music and polka music.

Don is survived by his wife Judy of Horicon; his sons Michael (Connie) Butler of Naples, Florida and Randal (Robbie) Butler of Clarksville, Texas; his grandchildren Sabrina (Zach) Hafeman and Amanda Butler; one great-grandchild on the way; his siblings Richard (Virginia) Butler of Beaver Dam, Roger Butler of North Fond du Lac, Wayne (Betty) Butler of Virginia, and Peter Butler of Nashville; his nephew Kendal Strysick of Fairfax, Virginia; his brothers- in-law Ronald Persha of Juneau and James (Kate) Persha of Iron Ridge; his sister-in-law Dorthy Butler of Land O’ Lakes, Florida; special friends Robert Dornfeldt, Dave Niemeyer, Jeff Palsky, and Jim Breselow; and his feline friends Tuffy and Mickey. Don is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Camille and infant sister Marilyn; brother James; and sisters-in-law Marilyn Persha and Teresa Butler.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Clearview for the care and support shown to Don and his family during his stay.

Thomas S. Zuelsdorf, age 72, of Mayville, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving daughters and sister Heidi, on Sunday, February 9, 2025.

Visitation for Tom will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, from 9 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Mayville with Rev. Dr. Mark G. Cutler officiating with a memorial service starting at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Graceland Cemetery in Mayville with graveside military honors conducted by the Mayville American Legion Post #69.

Tom was born the second child of Rosemond (nee Metke) and Jerry Zuelsdorf on October 6, 1952, in Mayville, Wisconsin. He was united in marriage to Patricia Zuelsdorf on September 25, 1976, in Mayville, Wisconsin. Tom has missed Patti dearly since her passing in 2023 and is now reunited with her in heaven.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Nichole and Jamie, his two sons-in-law, and three grandchildren. Tom was grateful to be connected, in recent years, with his son Dave Andrews and 2 grandchildren. He is further survived by other relatives: Rosemond Zuelsdorf, Jim Zuelsdorf, Jill Borgardt (Craig), Heidi Luehring, his loving sisters-in-law Elaine Muche, Carol Bonner, brother-in-law Dennis Gremminger, and friends.

Tom was an intellectual man of few words. He most cherished the time spent with his two daughters and grandchildren, always making them feel loved and valued. Known for his gentle way of engaging people in conversation and witty sense of humor, Tom made friends easily. He could light up any room with his presence, often becoming the life of the party. His love for dancing and spinning his dance partner on the dance floor will be fondly remembered by many.

He found joy in reading history books, organizing his many hobbies, and listening to music, often content in the quiet moments these activities provided. Tom had a deep knowledge of geology, Native American studies, geography, and history. He enjoyed sharing his insights with others, enriching their understanding of the world. One of the highlights of his year was spending time at Camp with public school kids, known as “the rock guy,” or in recent years, visiting his grandchildren’s school to bring in his Native American artifacts and rock collections, where he made a lasting impact. Tom loved children and sharing his knowledge in a tangible way.

Tom will forever be remembered as a loving and caring man, whose warmth and wisdom touched the lives of many.

Betty Ann Sell age 90, formerly of Wausau Wisconsin, went home to Jesus on January 21, 2025. Her parents were Fred and Tena ( Winter ) Fromfeld. She is preceded in death by her husband, William James Sell, and survived by her daughter, Teri (Sell ) Fowles, three granddaughters, Hana (Fowles) (Emory) Salberg, Emma Fowles, and Abby Fowles (Horicon, Wisconsin ). Her son Ronald (Gladys) Sell , two grandsons, Archie and Ezra Sell ( Wausau, Wisconsin ). Her two sisters, Myra Genovaldi and Ruth Henkleman , and one brother, Charlie Fromfeld. Proceeded in death by brothers Dennis Fromfeld, Paul Fromfeld, Fritz Fromfeld, and sisters Lila Matsche, and Esther Golds.

Betty married William James Sell, on September 10, 1955, and moved to Milwaukee, where she lived until 2013. At that time she moved to Campbellsport, to live with Teri and her daughters.
Betty previously worked at St. Luke’s Hospital in Milwaukee for many years, and was a skilled phlebotomist.

She was very artistic, and enjoyed ceramics, lapidary arts, sewing, needlepoint, cross-stitch, jewelry making, cake decorating, and last but not least, quilting. She loved people, was an active member of Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, and attended several Bible studies and prayer groups each week. She stayed busy with her quilting clubs, and red hat groups, all while traveling with her sister, Ruth. She was an avid follower of politics, was very opinionated, listening to radio talkshows her entire life. She had many pets over the years, and in particular loved her dogs Sam and India, along with her cat Hazel.

Her Family would like to thank Preceptor Hospice (Chaplain Rick Boone, and RN Renee).
The Family also would like to thank Pastor Birr, and the Campbellsport Alliance Church for their love and support.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 “And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.
15 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died.16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves. 17 Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 18 So encourage each other with these words.

COLIN GASSNER
The family of Colin Gassner of Mayville, Wisconsin, is saddened to announce his earthly release to his eternal home on December 10, 2024, at the age of 48.

A private family service was held. A celebration of Colin’s life will be held on Saturday, January 25th, 2024 from 2-4 p.m. at the Mayville Golf Club.

Colin Joshua Gassner, beloved son of Gene and Nanette (Geschke) Gassner, brother of Kyle (Sarah) Gassner and uncle to Nolan, was born November 30, 1976, and was proud to grow up in Mayville. He graduated from St. John’s Lutheran School, Mayville High School (MHS), and University of Wisconsin-Platteville (UWP). Colin was a gifted athlete, blessed to compete at the highest levels. The Mayville community best remembers him as quarterback of the 1994 state champion football team, as well as an integral part of basketball, baseball, and golf teams. He is a member of the MHS and UWP Athletic Halls of Fame. While Colin’s athletic skills helped with team success, he elevated those around him with his calm, confident leadership.

The events of 9-11 stymied a career in business finance, so he decided to caddy at Whistling Straights. Colin enjoyed working with wonderful people from all walks of life. His easy manner and expertise in his craft led to many friendships. A career highlight was working as a professional caddy for the 2017 US Open at Erin Hills. As his health declined, caddying was impossible, and he worked as he was able in the Mayville area. Friends and family remember Colin’s sense of playful humor, his ready laugh, and his solid presence.

Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support during his journey. Special thanks to the staff at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac and Pastor Mark Cutler. While it seems Colin has lost the battle to his earthly disease, he has won an eternal home with his victorious Risen Savior.

Memorials in loving memory of Colin can be directed to St. John Ev. Lutheran Church in Mayville c/o the Koepsell Funeral Home, 301 N. Walnut St. Mayville, WI 53050.