Lois M. Means

Lois Mae Means left this world peacefully on September 25, 2025, in La Crosse, Wisconsin. She was born on August 19, 1938, in Columbus, Wisconsin, the daughter of Lawrence and Alice (Huebner) Strahota. Lois graced our lives for 87 wonderful years, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Lois was united in marriage to the love of her life, Duane Means, on October 19, 1958, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Reeseville. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising their family with warmth and devotion. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into nurturing them.

Lois’s professional journey was marked by dedication and hard work. She served as a lead operator in electrical manufacturing before transitioning to a hospitality manager role at a resort, where her warmth and attention to detail left a lasting impression on guests and colleagues alike. Beyond her career, Lois was a woman of many passions. She had a green thumb and found joy in planting flowers and tending to her garden, where she cultivated beauty and tranquility. Her love for animals, especially her dogs, reflected her nurturing spirit and compassion.

In her retirement, Lois and Duane moved to the Tripoli area, where they made their home until Duane’s passing in 2012. In seeking to be closer to her family, Lois later relocated to Necedah, where she continued to share her love and wisdom with those around her. Lois was an active member of her community, always finding ways to connect with others and spread joy.

Lois is survived by her children, Rachel Means, Randal Means, and Victoria Means; 14 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; sisters, Cheryl (Robert) Stelter and Joan Beal; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Cynthia Dampier; sister, Karen Polowski; and two great grandchildren.

The visitation for Lois will be at the Reeseville Community Center on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. The funeral service will follow at the community center on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Douglas Bergelin officiating. Burial will be at Reeseville Cemetery.