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Spring Valley News...2012

Spring Valley News

Obituaries

Genevieve Wenum, age 90

      Genevieve Grace Wenum, age 90 of Spring Valley, Wisconsin died Wednesday, December 26, 2012 at the Spring Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center.
    Funeral service will be on Sunday, December 30, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Johns Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. Erin Nelson officiating. Visitation for Genevieve will be on Saturday, December 29, 2012 from 3-5 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley and also on Sunday for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley.
    Genevieve was born July 1, 1922 at Barnum, Minnesota, the daughter of Wm. Jasper and Jennie (Barber) Gilbert. She was baptized and confirmed at the Barnum Methodist Church and graduated from Barnum High School in 1940. Gen continued her education at Minnesota School of Business in Duluth. She also attended Business College in Iowa. While working for the University of Minnesota, she met her future husband, Palmer G. Wenum. They were married June 2, 1945 at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.
They eventually settled in Spring Valley and raised their family of 7 children. Gen worked a variety of jobs. She worked for Northwest Airlines, as a teller at the Bank of Spring Valley, and as secretary for Bob Gavic. She was bookkeeper for the Village of Spring Valley and took care of the tax roll. She was an active member of St. Johns Lutheran Church in Spring Valley and served as secretary. During the time the Eau Galle Dam was being built, she worked for S.J. Groves Construction, the company that built the dam. Gen had many talents. She was an expert bread maker, quilter, avid reader, and did colorization of black and white photos for her husband Palmer. Gen was a pianist and played saxophone. In her younger years she performed at various events. She was also the first Queen of Snows at Barnum
    Preceding her in death were her parents; husband Palmer who died in 1999; sons-in-law Doug Blegen and Jerry Nelson; and siblings: Delmer Gilbert, Thelma Hals, Lewis Gilbert, Mabel Hecker, Lloyd Gilbert, Glen Gilbert, Ruth Dahlberg, and infant twins.
She is survived by her 7 Children: Sons: Theodore (Bev) Wenum, Menomonie, WI; Paul (Mary) Wenum, Bloomington, MN; John (Sherry) Wenum, Milwaukee, WI; James Wenum, Spring Valley, WI; Gordon (Debbie) Wenum, Albert Lea, MN; Daughters: Jean Blegen, Spring Valley, WI; Mary Nelson, Spring Valley, WI; 9 grandchildren: Laura (Matt) Pommier, Corrina (Justin) Holt, Catherine (Jeff) Dix, Andrea Blegen, Angela Wenum, Jessica Wenum, Brian (Missi) Blegen, Mitchell Wenum, and Sarah Wenum; and 3 great grandchildren: Claire Jeanette Pommier, Henry Douglas Pommier, and Genevieve Grace Dix; other relatives and friends.
     Funeral service was on Sunday, December 30, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Johns Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. Erin Nelson officiating. Visitation was on Saturday from 3-5 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home and at church for 1 hour prior to the service on Sunday. Music was provided by organist Mary Nelson. Burial was in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley, Wisconsin.
    Honorary pallbearer was son Theodore Wenum. Pallbearers were sons Paul Wenum, John Wenum, James Wenum and Gordon Wenum, and grandsons Brian Blegen and Mitch Wenum.

Muriel Elizabeth (Betty) Palecek (née Haslam), age 91
    Betty was born August 18, 1921, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Joseph A. and Grace A. (Burbank) Haslam. She graduated in 1938 from Cambridge High and Latin School, Cambridge, MA, and in 1942 from Worcester (Massachusetts) State Teachers College with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree.
    Betty married Marvin A. Palecek in Troy, New York, Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 1942. He had been drafted into the Army in 1941 and he served with the 45th Infantry Division (Thunderbirds) in the European Theater of World War II from 1943 to 1945. He was sent home on rotation in the spring of 1945 because he had earned seven battle stars and the Silver Star. Fortunately, the war in Europe ended before he had to return.
    Both Betty and Marvin were dedicated to learning and teaching. From 1942 to 1945, Betty taught high school in Windsor, Vermont, North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Topaz, Utah. Topaz was an internment center for Japanese-Americans during the war. Betty loved her students, and they loved her in return. She provided them warmth, learning, and dignity in a dark time of their lives. Betty was faculty advisor to the student newspaper and co-sponsor of the yearbook.
    After the war, Marvin and Betty settled in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. (He grew up on a nearby farm.) Marvin worked for the Oshkosh Fire Department, but he was seeking a way to serve the Lord directly. Marvin and Betty moved themselves and their two little girls to Minneapolis so he could attend Northwestern Bible College on the G.I. Bill. He graduated with highest honors in 1953, and earned a Master of Arts Degree at the University of Minnesota the next year. By then they had added two little boys to their growing family.
    Life was very hard at times. Perhaps the hardest thing of all was that their first child, Anne, was born with spina bifida. Anne was severely handicapped, both mentally and physically. Betty had to reluctantly hand her care over in 1953 to the Faribault (MN) State Hospital, where she lived until her death in 1990.
    The family moved to northwestern Wisconsin in 1954, where Betty and Marvin taught high school for 10 years in Spring Valley, Luck, and Chetek. They moved back to Minnesota in 1964 (by then they had six children), where Marvin began a 21-year career at Winona State University. He retired as chairman of the history department.
    Betty was an English instructor at College of St. Theresa from 1965 to 1980. For the last few years as CST struggled, Betty also taught part time at Winona State.
    After the last of their children were born, Betty and Marvin continued their educations. First Betty earned a Master of Science in Education Degree from Macalester College in 1966, then Marvin earned a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota in 1969. The family spent several summers in the Twin Cities during this process, and Marvin also commuted from Winona to Minneapolis one evening per week for two years.
    After Marvin finished his Ph.D., he and Betty began traveling extensively, first with their children, and eventually with just each other. They visited all 50 states, much of Canada, and parts of Europe. They visited many national parks, a few of them again and again.
    Marvin and Betty retired jointly in 1985, and moved to Clermont, Florida, two years later. They lived there until Marvin went home to the Lord in August 2001, two days before Betty’s 80th birthday. Her children then moved her back to Winona, where she lived in Watkins Manor assisted living from January 2002 to February 2009, and then in the Lake Winona Manor nursing home until her death on December 1, 2012.
    Betty was a natural thespian and drama instructor. Not only did she coach high school theater, but after retiring, she led the senior community where she lived in putting on several shows. Even in assisted living in Winona, she put on several shows, including the memorable “Someone Kidnapped the Easter Bunny,” which featured her cat Felix as the bloodhound. She also took it upon herself in 2004 to compile short bios of all the residents at Watkins Manor, because even though they were old and infirm, they were all people with meaningful life stories. Even at Lake Winona Manor, she collaborated with the activities director to put on a few of her “shows.”
Betty loved poetry. You could pick up nearly any poem and start reading it out loud, and she would take it up from you and finish it. Poetry touched her more than it does most others. She recently said, “I would feel the way Coleridge must have felt. I would feel mutuality with him. Trying to find the right words, the right feelings. I could feel him trying to be clever when the poem would reach out and ask to be understood. I have walked by Longfellow’s house. I saw the actual statues and places. I felt an affinity.”
    Betty was an artist, as are several of her grandchildren. She enjoyed cartooning, and had several of her cartoons published in the Orlando and Winona newspapers.
Betty carried the memory of her Marvin with her for all the years that she survived him. Though his ashes were interred far away in Florida, she purchased a memorial brick for him in the Veterans’ Memorial Park in Winona. Betty’s remains will be buried in Winona. They were married for almost 59 years, and are now joined in eternity.
    Preceeded in death by husband, Marvin, and daughter, Anne. Survived by children Lois (Roger) White, Glen (Denise), Lowell (Ann), Lynette, and James (Jennifer), nine grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, sister Edith Jacqueline (Jackie) Haslam, and many other relatives and friends.
    Services 11 a.m. Friday at Calgary Baptist Church, 676 West Sarnia Street, Winona. Visitation 9:30 to 11 at the church.

Dr. John Edward Cave, Age 73

   Dr. John "Skip" Edward Cave, Jr, 73, died on November 22, 2012 in New Orleans. Born in San Diego, CA on June 21, 1939, he was raised on the family farm near Wilson, WI. He was the first of 7 children born to John "Ed" Cave, Sr and Evelyn Wanbaugh. "Skip" was a nickname given by his father who was in the Navy when he was born.
He graduated from Menomonie High School in WI in 1957 as class president. He attended Stout State College and studied Industrial Education. That is where he learned his trade skills. Between1959 & 60 he worked for 3M as a lab technician in the Reinforced Plastics Division. Then he transferred to 3M Research Facility in St. Paul, MN.
He was the first of his family to graduate from college. He earned a BS in Business in 1966, a MS in Management in 1970 and a PhD in Management in 1975 from the University of Minnesota.
In 1972, he moved with his wife Carol and their two young children Jeff and Shelby to New Orleans where he began his career at Loyola University. He taught Business Policy, Psychology and Management. In 1975, he became Assistant Dean in the College of Business Administration. In 1980, he was promoted to Associate Dean and Director of MBA program. In 1984 he became Dean of the Business School where he served until he resigned in 1989. He had planned to return to teaching and spend more time fishing and hunting until he agreed to visit Ft. Lewis College in Durango, CO. He fell in love with Durango and spent 14 years as the Dean of the Business School. He also served on a number of boards and the co-chaired the Accreditation Committee for the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. He served 32 years in academia.
Skip was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman. He had great respect for God's creation and its beauty. Skip had a natural talent to find, buy, fix, and sell almost anything, including cars, trucks, boats and motors. He loved to "deal" and had a mind for business. He started a number of small businesses of his own and helped others do the same. Two of his favorite businesses were his air conditioning/heating company and his truck business which was known for selling late model Ford trucks and parts. He was a positive, no-nonsense, down to earth person who was quick to laugh. He was always willing to help anyone who was willing to work. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his son, daughter and their spouses, Jeff Cave and Donna of Buckingham, PA, Shelby Hunter and Stephen of Metairie, LA, their mother, Carol Cave and five grandchildren, Jared & Hannah Cave, Alex, Maggie & Zack Hunter, He is also survived by his brother Sam Cave and Diane of St. Paul, MN, his brother Patrick Cave and Joan of Seattle, WA, his sister Mary Jarvis and Richard of Wausau, WI, his twin uncles Dean & Wayne Wanbaugh of Menomonie, WI, his Aunt Mary Widmar and John of Crosby, MN, his Aunt Betty McDonough of Modesto, CA and his sister-in-law Sue Cave of Menomonie.
Relatives and friends are invited to his services on Sunday, December 2, 2012. Visitation will begin at 1:30pm and the Memorial Service at 2:00pm at Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119. A reception will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a memorial fund that benefits Loyola University - College of Business. Office of Annual Fund, Campus Box 909, 7214 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118. . Express condolences at www.schoencanalstreet.com

Tommie Elden Wood, Age 65

   Tommie Elden Wood, age 65, of Elmwood, Wisconsin died peacefully in his home on Thursday, November 15, 2012, surrounded by family and friends.

   Tom was born April 22, 1947 to Vincent and Althea (Erickson) Wood in Red Wing, Minnesota. He was baptized at Woodside Church in rural Baldwin. Tome attended Spring Valley high School and graduated with the Class of 1965.

   In 1967 Tom entered the military and served in the U.S. Army as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and Germany. He was an Airfield Commander in Germany and was honorably discharged as a Warrant Officer. He attended college in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and attended Vo-tech for 2 years. He worked as a tool and die maker and a Class C C.N.C. Machinist all of his life.

   On August 30, 1980 Tom married Ann Marie Koerble.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Vincent E. Wood of Elmwood.

   Survivors include his wife Ann of Elmwood; 2 children: Lisa Wood of Spring Valley; Eric Wood of Nevada, Missouri; 1 granddaughter Karyn Wood; mother Althea Wood of Elmwood; 3 brothers and 2 sisters: Steven (Dawn) Wood of Elmwood; Dennis (Sandy) Wood of Elmwood; Kurt 'Ed' (Barb) Wood of Savage, Minnesota; Cheryl Wood and Renee Wood both of Somerset, Wisconsin; father-in-law and mother-in-law Donald and Edith Keorble of Campbellsport, Wisconsin; in-laws: Susan (Michael) Marx of West Bend, Wisconsin; Thomas (Beverly) Koerble of Janesville, Wi.; Jean Bleskacek of Elmwood, Wi.; and John Koerble of Campbellsport, Wi.; many cousins, nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

   Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at Gilman Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. D. Peter Friberg officiating. Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Monday at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley and also one hour prior to the service Tuesday at church. Pallbearers are Lisa Wood, Eric Wood, Steven Wood, Dennis Wood, Kurt 'Ed' Wood; Jason Bleskacek; Jon Wood, Jason Wood. Burial will be in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley with full military honors by the Rickerd-Danielson American Legion Post 227 of Spring Valley.

   Keehr Funeral Home in Spring Valley is assisting the family with arrangements. www.keehrfuneralhome.com

Robert Joseph Flynn,  Age 78

   Robert Joseph Flynn, 78 of Hager City, Wisconsin, died November 17, 2012, at his home in Hager City. He was born January 14, 1934 in Hager City to Raymond and Rochelle (Laughnan) Flynn. He grew up in the Hager City area. He attended his schooling at Red Wing High School and graduated in 1952. He worked on the railroad for a while before entering into the service in 1956. In 1958, he was honorably discharged and began working for Conwed. In 1960, he married Marlis Donnelly in Spring Valley, Wisconsin at Sacred Heart Church. The couple made their home in Hager City. He worked at 3M for 25 years and retired when he was 63 years of age. In his spare time he enjoyed golfing, working part time at Menards and most of all he loved spending time with his family.

   Robert is survived by his wife, Marlis, children, Kathy (Billy Carter) Flynn, Jeff (Susie) Flynn, Mark (Patty) Flynn, Jim (Patti) Flynn, Maureen (Eric) Young, and Missy (Tom) Morrison; daughter– in–law, Amy (Jayson) Burrow; grandchildren, Allison Flynn, Chandler Flynn, Tyler Morrison, Nicholas Morrison, Nathan Flynn, Matthew Flynn, Isaac Flynn, Marcus Flynn, Vincent Young, and Jade Young; one brother, Leon (Kathy) Flynn; two sisters, Dorothy (Quint) Ekstrom, and Shirley (Roy) Whipple; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother and father; son, Anthony Flynn; and brother, Wayne Flynn.

   Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Ellsworth, Wisconsin with Father Irudayanathan Thainase officiating. Burial will be at the St. Francis Church Cemetery. Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 19, 2012 at Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel in Red Wing and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Joseph S. Sopko, Age 57
    Joseph S. Sopko, 57, of Nassau, New York, passed away Saturday November 3, 2012 at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, New York. Born in Troy, NY, to the late Joseph Sopko and Helen Abrams Sopko he was an archeologist and human being extraordinaire. Joe loved to read, hike, and share his knowledge of archeology and history.
    Mr. Sopko is survived by his mother Helen Sopko, loving wife, Teresa Traynor Sopko (Class of '65) of Nassau, son, Erich (Heather) Tompkins of Camano Island WA, daughter Karla Traynor Smith (Jim) of Sunnyvale CA; brothers, Stephen and Mark, sister, JoAnn; and granddaughter, Samara. He is also survived by one niece and four nephews.
    Funeral service Tuesday November 6, 2012 at 10:00am at the Thomas P. Mooney Funeral Home, 11 Elm St. Nassau. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the funeral home Monday night from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers donations in Joe’s name may be made to the Salvation Army 20 South Ferry Street Albany, NY 12202, Capital City Rescue Mission 259 South Pearl St. Albany NY 12202 or to the Food Pantry of the Capital District, 32 Essex Street Albany, NY 12206.

Robert Lynum, age 80
   Robert "Bob" Lynum, age 80, of River Falls, died Wednesday, Oct. 31, at WelLHaven. He was born the son of Elmer and Bertha (Anderson) Lynum on Oct. 22, 1932. He attended the Wildwood Rural School and graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1950. In 1952, he married Darlene Dumond and the couple moved to River Falls in 1958. Bob worked for Smead for 40+ years.

   In retirement, Bob and Darlene traveled to Norway, Germany, Alaska, and many other places. They always loved camping, trips to Lake Superior, Friday night fish frys, and dancing. He was a longtime member of Ezekiel Lutheran Church. He was a Packer fan and enjoyed watching the annual Iditarod Race. Bob was proud of his Norwegian heritage, which included his affection for his Norwegian Elk Hounds.

   He will be missed by his wife, Darlene; children, Christal Lynum, Julie Lynum, Robin (Darrell) Dunn, Duane (Mary) Lynum, Thomas (Sandra) Lynum, Amy (Michael) Benson; grandchildren, Melissa (Jonn) Lynum, Heather (Jamie) Russell, Allison Lynum, Emily (Drew) Pierson, Daniel Lynum, Brian (Rachel) Dunn, Michael Lynum, Mia Benson, Alexander Benson; great-grandchildren, Edmond Pierson, Marley Lynum, Haven Russell, Myla Pierson, Quinn Russell; siblings, Palmer (Carol) Lynum, Wanda (Bud) Holle, Gail (Ruth) Lynum, Larry (Sharon) Lynum, Steve (Peggy) Lynum; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

   Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Bertha; sisters, Bernice, Delores, Loretta; brothers, John and Wayne.

   A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at Ezekiel Lutheran Church in River Falls. Visitation will also be Saturday from 9:30-11 a.m. at the church. Interment is in Greenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or to the Alzheimer's Association.

   Arrangements were with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services of River Falls.

Shirley Timm Langer, age 83

   Shirley Jean (Timm) Langer, age 83 of Spring Valley, Wisconsin died Tuesday, October 23, 2012. at the Spring Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center. Shirley was born August 27, 1929, the daughter of August ‘Joe’ and Thelma (Beck) Timm in Cady Township, St. Croix County, Wisconsin. She was baptized and confirmed and a lifelong member of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Spring Valley. Shirley attended Plainview School and Spring Valley High School, graduating in 1947.
    On July 3, 1948 Shirley married Leo ‘Whitey’ Langer at the St. John’s-Hatchville Parsonage. They have lived in Spring Valley ever since. At age 17, prior to graduation, Shirley began working at the Bank of Spring Valley. She took some bank classes and learned on the job, and worked for the bank for 50 years. She loved to travel and took many trips with her children and her good friends Ben and Millie Esanbock and Calvin and Joyce Brooke.
    Preceding her in death were her parents and brother Richard Timm ('55). She is survived by her husband Leo ‘Whitey’ Langer of Spring Valley; one daughter and one son: Cheryl (Robert Olsen) Langer of Ajo, Arizona; and Steve (Kaye) Langer of Middleton, Wisconsin; 1 granddaughter Hilary Langer of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; 2 brothers: Gerald (Mary) Timm of Stillwater, Minnesota.; and Ken Timm Baldwin, Wisconsin; many other relatives and friends.
    Funeral service was on Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. Martin Wegner officiating. Organist was Kathie Brown. Visitation was Friday, October 26, 2012 from 5-8 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Burial was in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Spring Valley. Pallbearers were Eric Timm, Tom Borchardt, Jim Ylinen, Peg Vorlicek, Jeff Esanbock, and Chris Langer.

Hugh Harlan Hampton, age 79

   Hugh Harlan Hampton, age 79 of Spring Valley, Wisconsin died Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at his home in Cady Township, St. Croix County, Wisconsin.

   Hugh was born July 11, 1933, the son of Jayhu and Agnes (McMenanim) Hampton in Cady Township. Hugh grew up in Cady Township, attended Cady School and Spring Valley High School, until age 16 at which time he began putting up firewood. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was a member of the Woodville American Legion Post 301. He was proud of his service, stood behind his military colleagues, and served as Sergeant at Arms of the Legion for many years.

   After his honorable discharge, he returned to Cady Township where he hauled canned milk for Cady Cheese & Summit Cheese Factory, logged in the woods, and then farmed for the rest of his life. On April 4, 1964, Hugh married Mary Hanson at St. John's Lutheran Church in Spring Valley. He has been an active member of St. John's along with his family. A good family life and being together at family meals was the most important part of Hugh's life.

   Hugh enjoyed horse pulling, horse races, doing farm work with his horses, and parades. His love of horses often led him to the Amish, whether it was just to visit or to make a horse deal. He enjoyed dancing, playing cards, and enjoyed a good laugh. He was recognized for his 36 years of service on the Cady Town Board.

   Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers John, Bernard, and Roger; sister Joan Brunkhorst; sister-in-law Myrtle Hampton; brothers-in-law Gerald 'Louie' Brunkhorst, Everett Meyers, Howard Hanson, Ski Rebischke; and nieces Donna Hampton and Jeri Brunkhorst.

   He is survived by his wife Mary; 5 daughters: LaVonne Hampton of Baldwin; Shelly (Don) Ninneman of Wilson; Paul Hampton of Spring Valley; Pam (Bob) Hanson of Spring Valley; and Carla (Joey) Johnson of Boyceville; 7 grandchildren: Casey (Kyle) Sutliff, Cody Ninneman, Donna Hampton, Colten and Hannah Johnson; Chris (Brenda) Ninneman, Holly (Clark) Jillson; 9 great grandchildren: Borden Sutliff, Sam, Jake, Jordan, and Lilly Ninneman, Ellie, Seth, Nora, and Clarkie Jillson; 4 sisters: Emily Hampton, Shirley Hampton, and Carol Meyers all of Spring Valley and Diane (Bill) Smith of Wilson; in-laws: Fran Hampton and Jeanne of Menomonie; Rita Hampton of Spring Valley; Dale (Winnie) Grape of Texas; Ruth Rebischke of Spring Valley; Bill (Barb) Hanson of Baldwin; and Betty (Irv) Pax of Menomonie; many other relatives and friends.

   Visitation was on Friday, October 19, 2012 from 5-8 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley. Funeral service was on Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. Erin Nelson officiating. Burial was in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley with military honors provided by the Woodville American Legion Post 301. The casket spray is also to honor all you who have served & are serving. We have 2 great-nieces & 5 great-nephews currently serving. The patriot quilt was made by hospice to honor Hugh & service man family- thank you.

   Pallbearers were Kathryn Binkowski, John Lamb, Kari Samuel, Ken Greiber, Kory Kerr, and Jerry Halls. Honorary bearers were Gordon Anderson and Adolph Johnson.

   Keehr Funeral Home (www.keehrfuneralhome.com) in Spring Valley is assisting the family with arrangements.

Rosemary 'Rosie' Olson - Age 80

  Rosemary 'Rosie' P. Olson, age 80, cherished wife, mother and grandmother passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, September 26, 2012. She was born on August 26, 1932, the daughter of Edwin and Emma Nelson, and was raised in Ellsworth, WI. Rosie was united in marriage to Richard (Ole) Olson on April 16, 1955. Early in their marriage they relocated to Avoca, WI, where together they raised six children. Rosie was employed with the Riverdale School District until her retirement. She was a proud and active member of her community and church, particpating in community theater productions and civic committees, and as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, St. Joseph's Altar Society, and through her involvement with the Riverdale Food Pantry. Throughout her life, Rosie enjoyed bowling with the girls, traveling with her husband, especially their annual trips to Las Vegas with close friends. She treasured time spent with family and others she loved.

   Rosie is survived by her husband Richard 'Ole', her children: Debbie (Jim) Patch of El Paso, TX, David (Terry) Olson of Dodgeville, WI, Tom (Lori) Olson of Stoughton, WI, Lori (Mike) Pink of Highland, WI, Teri (Russell Zingg) Olson of Cobb, WI, Steve (Lisa) Olson of Verona, WI; fourteen grandchildren: Michael (Katie) and Nick Patch, Matty Olson, Michelle Barlow, Ryan and Rebeca Olson, Heather (Frank) Rose, Michael, Josh and Emma Pink, Dylan Imhoff and Jessica Wardell, and Matthew and Christopher Olson; five great grandchildren: Kiah Nachtigal, Brooklyn and Sara Patch, and Ava and Brynn Rose.

   She is further survived by three sisters: Marie, Lorena, and Ellen; three brothers: John, Bill and Jim; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Rosie was preceded in death by her parents Edwin and Emma; a granddaughter: Sabrina Olson; two sisters: Delvina and Liz; and three brothers: Leonard, Art and Edwin.

   A funeral mass was held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Avoca and burial in the church cemetery. Visitation was held at the GODAGER PRATT FUNERAL HOME, 412 North Iowa Street in Muscoda on Friday, September 28, 2012 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. The rosary was prayed at 7:00 PM. The Godager Pratt Funeral Home served the Olson family.

   Rosie was the most loving wife, mother and grandma and will be forever in our hearts. Go in peace Rosie--your faith is our gift and we love you.

James Lilburn Rutherford, age 74

   James L. Rutherford of Hudson, WI passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday, September 23rd, 2012. He was born on December 24, 1937 to Harry and Ailie (Christopher) Rutherford in Cokato, MN.
    Jim grew up in Spring Valley, WI, and graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1955. He attended University of Wisconsin-River Falls for two years. He married Dayna Richardson on May 17, 1957 in Durand, WI.

   He is survived by his wife, Dayna; children Rhonda (Dan Brown) Jaworski of River Falls, Patti (John Evans) Dilts of River Falls, Jeff (Karen) Rutherford of Trego, WI; grandchildren Dani (Dean Wyss) Dilts, Angie Sailer, Randi (Joey) Walen; great-grandchildren Eli Sailer, Ayla Sailer and Preston Walen; siblings Bob (Ellie) Rutherford, H. Lee (Gail) Rutherford, Thom (Julie) Rutherford, Mark (Carolyn) Rutherford and Mary Martin; many nieces and nephews.

   He is preceded in death by his son, Richie, and his parents Harry and Ailie.

   Cashman-Hill Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family.

   A memorial service for Jim will be held on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 2:00pm at the Cashman-Hill Funeral Home in River Falls, WI. Visitation will be from 4 - 8pm on Friday, September 28 at the funeral home, and one hour prior to the service.

Willard "Jack" Traynor, Age 93

Willard "Jack" Traynor, 93, lifelong resident of Spring Valley, WI. passed away on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at his home with his family at his side.

   He was born on Oct. 1, 1918, the son of James and Nellie (Donnelly) Traynor in Gilman Township. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in El Paso and presently a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Spring Valley.

   He graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1935. Two years later, he graduated from River Falls College in 1937 and took his first teaching job at the Foley School, located west of Grange Hall. In 1949, he took his second teaching job at the Beldenville School, teaching first through eighth grades.

   On August 7, 1951, he married Doris Krause at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elmwood.

   In 1954, he left the farm and went to work for Northrup King Seed Company in Minneapolis for nine years, but still kept close touch with the farm.

   In 1966, he received his masters' degree in elementary education from UW-River Falls and taught in the Ellsworth School System as principal and teacher for 23 years. He was a person who could retain so much information and share so many memories of his life and all the hard work his generation had to endure.

   Preceding his death were his parents, James and Nellie, two sisters Lamoine Traynor and Rochelle Lansing, and one brother, Donald Traynor.

   Survivors include: wife, Doris Traynor of Spring Valley, sister Bonnie O'Meara of Menomonie, son Steve (Mary) Traynor of Spring Valley, daughter Carol (Jerry) Bressler of Menomonie, five grandchildren: Nadine (Craig) Haas, Jamie (Ryan) Faber, Christina (Kevin) Kienlen, Chris and Sarah Traynor; five great-grandchildren, and other relatives and many friends.

   The visitation was Thursday, Sept. 13, from 5-8 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Spring Valley. Funeral service was on Friday, Sept. 14, at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church with Father Louis and Brother Michael Mandernach officiating. Organist was Ellen Rominski. Special music was provided by vocalist Lance Wendlandt and the Sacred Heart Choir. Burial was in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Spring Valley.

   Pall bearers were Christopher Traynor, Craig Haas, Ryan Faber, Kevin Kienlen, Tom Krause, and Dave Timmons.

Joan Alice Vrchota-Stein, age 62

   Joan Alice Vrchota-Stein of Owasso, OK, died on Friday, June 3, 2011, in Tulsa at the age of 62.
    Joan was born Feb. 7, 1949, 55 minutes before her twin brother John, at Tebewitha Hospital, Sisseton, S.D., to Albert and Emma (Bahr) Vrchota. They shared a unique and special lifelong bond.
    Joan had worked as an administrative assistant with her last job being in the IT Department as a software specialist.
    She enjoyed life and loved especially high school baseball and football. Joan enjoyed clowning and entertaining children She was passionate about her card playing and always yearned to beat her brother and sister.
    When she was 20, Joan earned enough money to spend three months travelling in Europe.
Joan married David O. Stein on July 13, 1991 in Kansas City, Mo.
    While living in Kansas City, she petitioned and organized for a neighborhood playground. This state of the art playground was completed shortly after they moved to Owasso in 1995.
    Joan was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Owasso where she was an active member of the United Methodist Women and served on numerous committees. She had also been the recipient of the “Difference Maker” award. Joan was also a facilitator of the Crohns and Colitis Support group and had initiated the Neighborhood Watch Program in their Owasso community.
    She and David also enjoyed travelling with the Good Sam’s RV Club, and they traveled to Nova Scotia, Canada and Norway to visit Dave’s relatives. They had also taken cruises to both the Caribbean and Alaska.
    Joan was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Joyce Lentsch.
    Those that survive Joan include her husband, David O. Stein; daughter, Kristin Epp, of Owasso; siblings, Jane Quinn and husband, Jim, of Sturgis, S.D., and John, of Britton, S.D.; three step-children, Brenda Rees and husband, John, of Cedar Falls, Iowa, John Stein and Jim Stein, both of Raytown, MO; two step-grandchildren, four step great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
    Memorial services begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at First United Methodist Church, with Pastor Chris Tiger officiating.
    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to the First United Methodist’s Building Fund at 13800 E. 106th Street, N., Owasso, OK 74055.
    Arrangements and services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso.

Shirley Ann Jensen, Age 76

   Shirley Ann Jensen, age 76, of Lakeville was born on February 14, 1936, in Elmwood, WI, and passed away unexpectedy on September 6, 2012, after suffering a stroke.      

   She was preceded in death by brother Bill Baier and sisters Margie Weyer and Lorraine McCardle.

   Shirley is survived by her husband Norbert; children: Bradley, David, Kristy (John) Bertsch and Peggy (Jim) Spadafore; seven grandchildren: Katie, Bryan, Kaylin, Marty, Cari, Jack, Celia; sisters: Judy (Bob) Giardino and Marylou Droster; and brother, Jim (Joanne) Baier.      

   Memorial Mass 11AM Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at All Saints Catholic Church, 19795 Holyoke Ave. Lakeville, MN. Gathering of family and friends one hour prior to Mass at church. Interment, All Saints Cemetery.

Leroy Gene Lewiston, Age 78

   Leroy Gene Lewiston, 78, died peacefully at Azura Memory Care on August 20, 2012, in Eau Claire, WI, after an arduous battle with Alzheimer's disease.
    Leroy was born on March 18, 1934, in Spring Valley, WI to Arthur and Violet (Isaacson) Lewiston. After the big flood in 1942, his family moved to Eau Claire where Leroy grew up, graduating from Eau Claire High School in 1953. Leroy proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957, and the U.S. Army Reserve from 1954 to 1994, retiring with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. Leroy lived in Sparta, WI, from 1974 until 1995, while he worked at Ft. McCoy in training and development. Leroy was a voracious reader and an avid student of history. He had passionate interests in many things, including our family's genealogy, the military, travel, the theatre, music, the Packers, and volunteering.
    Leroy married Dorothy Marten in Modena, WI, on June 30, 1962. They enjoyed 37 years of marriage and raised three daughters before Dorothy passed away on August 24, 1999. Leroy was blessed to find love again, marrying Doris Driscoll on March 23, 2002. They enjoyed ten years of marriage with many travels, including two trips around the world.
    Leroy is survived by his wife, Doris; daughters, Mary Lewiston (Ed Lee) of Lakeside, AZ, Kate (Jeff) Mantzke of Sycamore, IL, and Lara Lewiston (Larry Loeffler) of Eden Prairie, MN; grandsons, Douglas and Clayton Lee of Lakeside, AZ; granddaughters, Jesse and Hallie Mantzke of Sycamore, IL; all of his sisters- and brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
    Leroy was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dorothy; infant brother, Wayne Lewiston; sisters, Bobette Sumter, Ilene Luer, and Laura Dokkestul.
    A funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 25, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Eau Claire with Rev. Herbert Prahl officiating. Lunch will immediately follow the service, and burial with military rights will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Eau Claire, at 2:45 p.m.
    Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, August 24, at Fuller-Speckien-Hulke Funeral Home, 3209 Rudolph Road, and an hour before services at the church on Saturday.
Friends may offer condolences online at www.fullerspeckienhulke.com.
    The family requests that memorials be directed to St. Mark Lutheran Church (3307 State Street, Eau Claire, WI 54701), or the Alzheimer's Association (Greater Wisconsin Chapter, 2900 Curry Lane, Suite A, Green Bay, WI 54311); or Mayo Home Health and Hospice (P.O. Box 2060, Eau Claire, WI 54702-2060).

Larry Anderson, Age 72

   Larry Anderson, age 72, NWA Retiree of Cottage Grove, died suddenly on Tuesday morning June 12, 2012 at Woodwinds Hospital in Woodbury.

   Larry Ronald Anderson was born October 26, 1939 in Braham, Minnesota the son of Otto & Agnes (Danielson) Anderson. In 1948 his family moved to Minneapolis. Larry graduated from South High School in 1958.

   In 1961 he was united in marriage with Marlys Hanson ('58) at Rush River Lutheran Church in River Falls. Larry was a Twins, Vikings and Gopher Sportsfan. He played hockey, and enjoyed bowling, yardwork, camping and traveling.

   He is the beloved husband of Marlys for 51 years; loving father of Lori (Dan) O'Donovan, Julie (Michael) Rist, Tracy (Brian) Klinga; papa of Megan, Molly, Brian, Cassie, Janie, Maria, Greta; brother of Harold (Carolyn) of Fort Myers, FL; Alden (Karon) of Arizona City, AZ; Phyllis DeRoche of Irvine, CA.

   Larry was preceded in death by parents Otto & Agnes, sisters Jean Guthrie, Eileen Martin; brother Earl.

   Visitation 10 a.m. -12 p.m. Friday at church. Funeral service 12 Noon Friday at Newport Lutheran Church, 900 15th St., Newport. Interment Martell Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley, WI. Memorials preferred.

Merlin Holerud, age 76

Merlin D. "Red" Holerud, age 76, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 25, 2012. He was born on February 2, 1936 on the home farm in rural Spring Valley, the son of Herman and Jennie (Formoe) Holerud.

   Merlin served in the U.S. Air Force. He worked for 40 years at the State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation. He was active in the Lodi Curling Club, a charter member of the Yellow Thunder Snowmobile Club, and an avid outdoorsman who loved spending time with his family and friends. On May 5, 1962 he was united in marriage to Rose Helgeson at St. John's Lutheran Church in Spring Valley.

   Merlin is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Rose; two children, Todd (Lisa) Holerud and Shellie (Alan) Roberds; four grandchildren, Nik, Ben, Sydnie and Dylan; several other adopted grandchildren; four sisters, Harriette Sorenson ('47), Judith Jensen, Lucille Gedatus ('53) and Helen Lorentson ('56); and several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Raymond, James and Glenn.

   Visitation will be held at FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH, 206 Pleasant Street in Lodi, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00p.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2012. Funeral services will be held at ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, Highway 29 in Spring Valley, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 31, 2012. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the service. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to St. John's Cemetery Association or to the charity of the donor's choice.

   Arrangements by Hamre Gunderson Funeral & Cremation Care, Lodi, Wisconsin (608-592-3201 www.gundersonfh.com). Local arrangements are by Keehr Funeral Home (www.keehrfuneralhome.com), Spring Valley.

Bob Langer says: "Ray graduated from SVHS in 1935 and I bring it up because up until about 10-15 years ago he was a regular attendee to the All Class reunions. Ray was the oldest son of John Zeilinger, Sr. family and was a brother to John Zeilinger, Jr out of Baldwin. I believe their family farm was located in the BB & hwy 29 area. I do know that he graduated with and was born on the same day, Feb 22, as Adeline Brooke Langer who is still living and owns the Langer Rush River Bar on hwy 72 & BB."

Dean Blegen says: "Raymond’s younger brother was Johnny Jr., who hauled milk for my dad around 1951. The truck he drove was called the “400” (Black ’47 Chevy) as he was always on time and made good time. Melvin Hojem named it that because every morning Johnny would go by Melvin’s place on “29” at exactly 7:15 A.M. on his way to Lawton to begin my Dad’s second milk route over in that area.

Raymond J. Zeilinger, age 94

   Raymond J. Zeilinger, age 94, beloved Husband, Father, Grandpa Age 94+. Formerly of Roseville. Was welcomed into heaven on February 18, 2012. Survived by loving wife, Eileen; children, David (Becky), Karen (Rob), LuAnn, Bruce (Theresa) and Renee (Art) Cooke; grandchildren, Adam, Ryan, Hannah, Aaron and Ella.

   Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Friday, February 24 at The Church OF St. Odilia, 3495 N. Victoria St., Shoreview. Interment Sunset Memorial Park. Visitation at the church only from 9:30-10:30 a.. Friday.

   Ray served in the Army Airforce during 1942 as a member of the Bombardment Squadron in Normandy. He worked at Honeywell as an electronic technician for 30 years and was King of the Senior Winter Carnival in 1986. He was a devoted family man of strong Catholic faith.

   The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the loving and attentive staff at Waverly Gardens. Masses preferred in lieu of memorials. MUELLER-BIES 651-487-2550

NOTE-Mike's connection to SVHS: Laurel Ninneman Falde writes - "Mike and a friend, Donnie Mountain worked at Crystal Cave in '55 & '56. They had no transportation and hitched to and from work. Quite a pair! I'm sure lots of "cavers" would remember him if you mentioned it on the site."

Michael S. "Mike" Dunn, age 70

   Michael S. "Mike" Dunn, age 70, of Ellsworth, died Monday, Feb. 20, at the Ellsworth Care Center after a brief, but brave battle with cancer.

   Mike was born on April 10, 1941, to Stuart and Gert (Gense) Dunn in Ellsworth, Wis., and never sat still for the next seventy years. During summer vacations through high school in the 1950's Mike traveled the country hitchhiking. Upon high school graduation, he joined the U.S. Army as a Military Policeman and was stationed in various places throughout the U.S., until he was finally stationed at Ft. Sheridan, Ill. It is there where he met a local young lady, named Karyn, who would become his wife and best friend for the next 50+ years. After Mike was discharged from the Army he earned a position with the Highland Park, Ill. (a suburb of Chicago) police department as a patrolman and later worked as a junior executive with an electronics manufacturing firm in Chicago.

   Mike and Karyn were married on Sept. 15, 1962 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Highland Park, Ill. and they were blessed with two boys, Michael Stuart of Hudson, Wis. and Matthew Michael of Farmington, Minn.

   Mike came back to Ellsworth with his young family in the early 1970's and for the next forty years he and Karyn owned and operated several small businesses - The Hitching Post Tavern, M&M Sales - New and Used Appliances and Repair, a U-Haul dealership, and Dunn Realty in Ellsworth to name a few. In between, Mike also ran for Pierce County Sheriff in the mid 1970's and in the 1980's he managed a manufacturing plant in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, for the same Chicago manufacturing firm he worked for earlier. Karyn and Matthew accompanied Mike to Haiti for part of his tenure there.

   Mike is survived by his wife, Karyn Dunn, of Ellsworth; his son Michael Dunn (Sandy) and granddaughter Julia, Hudson, Wis.; his son Matthew (Cashmere), Farmington, Minn.; four sisters and one brother: Pat Purfeerst, Hudson, Peggy Dunn, Ellsworth, Danny Dunn, Ellsworth, Peach Dunn, Ellsworth, and Kellie (Steve) Steiner, Ellsworth. Being the eldest of Gert and Stu's ten children, he is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

   Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Stuart and Gert Dunn; brothers, Tom and John; sisters, Polly Dunn-Baker and Penny Rohl; brother-in-law, Richard Rohl, Sr.; and nephew, Terry Baker, Jr.

   We will all miss this kind and gentle man who was always there when anyone needed him for anything whether it was a laugh, a hug, a funny story, a few bucks, a ride, a smile, or an ear. We love you Mike - Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Friend.

   Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24, at St. Francis Catholic Church, Ellsworth. Fr. Roy Witucki will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23 and for 1 hour prior to the Mass on Friday.

Go to www.hillfuneralservice.com to extend an online condolence to the family.

Hill Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Ellsworth, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Helen C. Brown, Age 83
    Helen C. Linder Brown, age 83, passed away February 09, 2012 - Beloved Mother, Grandma, and Great-Grandma. Helen, of Mahtomedi, was born and raised in Spring Valley, WI. She was preceded in death by parents; sister Audrey; and husband, Joseph, of 31 years. She is survived by sisters Harriet and Gretchen; brother Jim; children: Judy (Del) Kling, Wayne (Donna), Margie (Dave) Rodahl, Wanda, Dean (Brenda), Karen, and Melinda; eighteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and many other family and friends.

   Funeral Service Thursday, February 16, 11 AM at SANDBERG FUNERAL HOME, 2593 E. 7th Ave., North St. Paul. Visitation Wednesday 4-8 PM and one hour prior to service.

Kenneth "Mike" Koehler, age 64

   Kenneth "Mike" Koehler, age 64, of Wheeler, WI, died Sunday, February 19, 2012 at his home under Hospice care with his family by his side.
    He was born August 7, 1947, to Fred and Ruth Mary (McHattie) Koehler in St. Paul, MN.
    Mike married Penny Rae Goodell on April 2nd, 1977. Mike worked for the Village Of Wheeler for over 23 years, working in maintenance, as a snow plow operator, and in the sewer and water dept; basically, any job that needed to be done for the village.
    Mike loved going to his cabin near Birchwood where he enjoyed the outdoors and fishing. He took several fishing vacations to Canada and loved to go pontooning. Mike was an avid Packer fan and enjoyed spending Sunday afternoons watching the game. Mike was a "people person" and enjoyed going on "road trips" with his friends. He was happiest when he could spend time with his grandkids. Wherever Mike went, he had a picture of his granddaughter Gabby with his devoted dog Molly. He loved animals, having fun.
    He is survived by his wife, Penny of Wheeler; 3 children: Jennifer (Craig) Schwerin of Green Bay, Chad Koehler of Menomonie and Brooke (Steve Miller) Koehler of Wheeler; 4 grandchildren: Brandon, Kelsey and Zachary Schwerin and Gabrielle Prochnow; 3 brothers: Fred (Peggy), David (Maryellen) and Jim; 2 sisters: Dorothy Van Schoonhoven and Bonnie (Roger) DeLong; his devoted dog, Molly; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
    He was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 brothers, Donnie and Bill.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 24, 2012 at Grace United Methodist Church, Wheeler, WI, with Pastor Tim Mathaei officiating. Burial will take place at 2:30 p.m. Friday at Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI with military honors accorded.
    Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 4-7 p.m. at Olson Funeral Home, Menomonie, WI and at the church one hour prior to the service on Friday.
Olson Funeral Home of Menomonie is serving the family

Joelle Marie Spence Andreas, age 45

   Joelle Marie Spence Andreas, age 45, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota died unexpectedly at her home on the morning of Tuesday, February 14, 2012.
    Joelle was born December 7, 1966 in Menomonie, Wisconsin, the daughter of Terry and Julie (Wilhelm) Spence. She grew up in Spring Valley and attended Spring Valley Schools, graduating with the Class of 1985. She continued her education attending a number of colleges including Gustavus, UW-River Falls, the University of Minnesota, and eventually received her Bachelor’s Degree from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul.
    On September 9, 1995, Joelle married Serrin Nelson Andreas in St. Paul. They were blessed with 2 children: Logan Cameron Spence Andreas and Jacob Raymond Spence Andreas.
    One of Joelle’s passions was the stage. She was active in the Spring Valley Stage-hands and was a sound designer for various community theatres throughout the Twin Cities area. She was an accomplished pianist and flautist. She was a Water Safety Instructor and Life Guard and taught swimming lessons. Joelle was also an avid reader and enjoyed camping with her family. Most of all she was a loving wife and devoted mother.
    Preceding her in death were her grandparents Ray and Millie Wilhelm; uncle Don Wilhelm; great grandmother Eunice Spence; grandfather Vern Spence; great aunt Margaret Bahr; and cousin Alyssa Spence.
    Survivors include her husband Serrin Nelson Spence Andreas of Eden Prairie; her children Logan and Jacob; her father Terry Spence of Brooklyn Park, MN.; her mother Julie (Michael) Kettner of Lindstrom, MN.; sister Kelly (Matthew) Schreiber of Spring Valley; brother Aaron (Amanda Hartman) Spence of Eagan; nieces and nephews: Kaitlyn and Brenna Schreiber; and Alma and Jonah Spence; grandmother Eunice Luebker of Plum City; many aunts, uncles, cousins; other relatives and friends.
   Visitation from noon until 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 19, 2012, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spring Valley. Funeral service was at 3 p.m. following visitation at the church with Rev. Erin Nelson officiating. Mary Nelson was organist. Pallbearers were Serrin Andreas, Aaron Spence, and Matthew Schreiber.

Lauraine A. Eakins, 96
    Lauraine Eakins, 96, was born January 16, 1916, in Spring Valley, WI and died January 18, 2012, at the Care Center in Spring Valley, WI.

   Lauraine was preceded in death by: her parents; husbands Christian and Rex; and both of her children: Terrence and Carol. She is survived by two grandchildren: Valerie (Tom) Schmidt of Hudson, WI, and Justin (Sally) Wulf of Minnetrista, MN; three great-grandchildren: Annika and Ingid Wulf and Andrew Schmidt; daughter-in-law Marsha Natvig of Mankato; son-in-law John Mattison of Hudson, and many other relatives and friends.

   Lauraine served as the Librarian for Spring Valley High School for many years.

Visitation was at 2:00 p.m.and service at 3:00 p.m. at the Congregational Church, Spring Valley, WI on Sunday, January 22, 2012. Clergy: Rev. Jeff Holton and organist Gloria Weghorn. Interment was at the Spring Lake Cemetery, Spring Valley, WI.

Patrice K. Cardinal, age 86

   Patrice K. Cardinal, 86, of Whitewater, died on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, at the Fairhaven Retirement Community in Whitewater.

   Patrice was born on Aug. 20, 1925, the daughter of Jim and Myrtle (Emerson) Kelley. She attended public school in Chippewa Falls, graduating in 1942. After graduation, Patrice enrolled in the nursing program at Fairview Hospital in Minneapolis, MN, graduating in 1946.

   On June 9, 1946, she married her former classmate, Gene Cardinal.

   As a member of First English Lutheran Church in Whitewater for the past 45 years, she was involved in many church activities. She taught Sunday school, confirmation classes, served on the Church Council, sang in the choir for 35 years, and worked at the Thrift Shoppe for 40 years. She served as the Aid Association for Lutherans branch president for 10 years, was president of the Janesville Conference of Lutheran Churches, vice president of the Southern Wisconsin District of Lutheran Churches, and served on the State Board of Lutheran Human Relations.

   Patrice is survived by her husband of 65 years, Gene; her son, Kyle of Stoughton; her grandchildren, Jason, Nathan, Thor and Sara; her great-grandchildren, Karmen and Ashlyn; and many nieces and nephews, all living in Chippewa Falls.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; and son, Kim.

   Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 9, at the First English Lutheran Church in Whitewater, with the Rev. Steve R. Hanson officiating. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater. Friends may call on Monday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

   The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Sunday school program of First English Lutheran Church.

   The Olsen Funeral Home in Whitewater is assisting the family with arrangements.

Spring Valley News