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Sandra (Sandy) Litzell, Age 62
Sandra “ Sandy”  Raye Litzell age 62  passed away peacefully with family by her side on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 at Park View Home Woodville, WI. Sandy was born on September 1st, 1961 in Baldwin, Wisconsin  to Hap and Cindy Litzell.

Sandy grew up in the Woodville area with her family. She attended Baldwin-Woodville High School and graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1980. Sandy was a great cook and bartender. She worked at The Purple Door, Wilson Nite Club, Pioneer, Mindy’s Bar, Hersey Cave, and Tom & Jo’s. Sandy was an avid pool player. Clyde and her enjoyed traveling to pow wows together. She collected decorative masks. She loved to play pull tabs. Sandy enjoyed the company of her significant other Clyde.

Sandy is survived by significant other Clyde Heughins (son Cody Heughins); sons Andrew Shultz (Brittany), Greg Shultz (Lindsay), and daughter Amanda Hanson; mother Cindy Litzell; sister Kathy Litzell Lange  and two brothers John Litzell and Eric Litzell; 11 grandchildren: Ivy, Connor, Easton, Korbyn, Brooklyn, Annabel, Tyler, Jordan, Autumn, Madalynn, Hope; and one Great Grandson Diesel. Many nieces, nephews and family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her father, Hap Litzell ('59), sister Lizzy, Grandma Eleanore Dahlberg, Great Granddaughter Fawn. 

The family would like to thank Adoray Home Health & Hospice and Park View Care for the care they provided.

Burial will be held at Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Woodville, WI on Sunday, April 28th, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. Celebration of life will be held at Woodville Garage Bar in Woodville, WI on Sunday, April 28th, 2024 from 12:00 P.M to 4:00P.M. Flowers may be sent to the Woodville Garage Bar, 121 East River Street, Woodville, Wisconsin.

Lillian “Lil” Thompson Riedel, Age 89
Lillian “Lil” Thompson Riedel, age 89, of Hudson passed away on April 18, 2024. Lillian graduated with the SVHS Class of '52.

Preceded in death by parents Harry & Nellie Thompson, sisters Irene Engstrom & Esther Krueger; brothers Randy, Ronnie & Galen Thompson.

Survived by husband Wallace; children Peggy Riedel and Michele (Paul) Riedel; grandchildren Devon Sandhu and Malia Triebold; sisters and brothers Colleen (Gene) Slama, Tom (Judy) Thompson, Carol Brown; sister-in-law Selva Thompson; many nieces, nephews, relatives & friends.

Visitation 4-7 PM Wednesday (4/29) at O’Connell Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St. Hudson and 10-11 AM Thursday at church. Memorial Service 11 AM Thursday at Hudson United Methodist Church, 1401 Laurel Ave. Inturnment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Dorothy Elizabeth Aamodt Olson, Age 94
Dorothy Elizabeth Aamodt Olson passed peacefully into the loving arms of our Lord on April 13, 2024. She almost made it to 95 years of cherished life with family, friends, coworkers and fellow Christians.

Dorothy was born May 8,1929 to Herman and Inga Aamodt of Spring Valley. She was the oldest of four children and her Mom teased her by calling her “Ya..But”. Dorothy grew up on a dairy farm, but preferred baking, sewing and gardening to tending cows. She met the love of her life, Harold Olson, at Spring Valley High School, where they graduated in 1947.

She finally “got off the farm” to go to River Falls State Teachers College, where she had many adventures and earned a two year diploma in Rural Education. She taught one year of Elementary School. Harold wooed this beautiful lady with airplane flyovers, fun dates and love letters until they tied the knot July 22, 1950.

Over the span of 66 years Dorothy & Harold lived in Spring Valley, Rochester, MN, Eau Claire and Clayton WI, raising five children. As the kids grew, Dorothy took on a part time job at Welcome Wagon, gathering ads, coupons and gifts from businesses to welcome new neighbors. She earned Diamond Circle recognition and retired after 20 years. In her later years, she lent her beautiful soprano voice in a Norwegian singing and dance group traveling to nursing homes and other venues. Dorothy loved crafting, gardening, travel, was a skilled seamstress and quilter and a wonderful cook and baker. She adored cookies until the very end. She especially loved games – solitaire, Upwords, cards – and entertaining and having adventures with family and friends. Everyone who knew her thought she was the nicest and kindest person – and she was.

Dorothy was always a church lady and crusader for Christ - teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, studying at “Circle” and serving casseroles and cake at funerals and weddings and gently pushing everyone - especially kids - to find their faith in the Lord. She is back at it now with her heavenly soprano voice and prayers for all of us who need them.

Dorothy is survived by three of her five children, Steve Olson and his wife Debbie, Karen Buelow and her husband Tom, and Dave Olson and his wife Robin, and also daughter-in-law Diane Olson Grothe. She leaves behind (but hopes to meet again) her dear grandchildren Mark Olson, Erica O’Gorman, Rebecca Seeley, Ryan Seeley, Aaron Olson, Tyler Olson, Adrianne Stumpf, Grete Olson, Erik Olson and Seth Olson and their spouses along with eight beloved great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Harold Aamodt and his wife Shirley; sister-in-law Janice Olson, many nieces, nephews and extended family. Although many have passed, she also sadly leaves behind a few really good friends – you know who you are.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Lila Schneider and Marlys Henson and niece Cheryl Schneider. She is now joyfully reunited with her husband Harold – aka “Mr. Wonderful” and two of her beloved children, Julie Seeley and Christopher Olson.

Funeral Service will be at St. John’s Lutheran Church at 1804 Highland Avenue, Eau Claire WI on Sunday May, 5th at 1 p.m. followed by lunch and fellowship. Internment will be on a later date at Gilman Lutheran Church cemetery in Spring Valley WI. Mom always loved supporting church and children programs like Bible Camp. Please make memorials to the charity of your choice or to St. John’s.

Susan Lee Urbanski, Age 66
Susan Lee Urbanski, 66, of Hudson, passed away Saturday March 30, 2024 at Regions Hospital.

On February 15, 1958 she was born to James and Doris (Brathall) Yoder in Baldwin, Wisconsin. She graduated from Spring Valley High School. Susan was a wonderful listener with the greatest advice. She was very faithful and could be found reading her Bible at all times.

She is survived by her sons, Brandon and Lance; and grandchildren, Bev and Marek.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Urbanski; and parents, James and Doris Yoder.

Services to celebrate Susan’s life will be held at a later date.

Please Note: If you remember Susan and can provide her maiden name, SVHS graduation year. and any other details, please let me know so I can add that information to this obituary.

Sidney Anderson, Age 76
Sidney Anderson, age 76, from Spring Valley, Wisconsin, is singing with the angels as of April 13, 2024.

Sidney Cecil Anderson was born to Gordon and Irene Anderson on August 17, 1947.  He was raised in Spring Valley on the Anderson homestead farm above the Eau Galle.  Sid was adventurous and daring from the beginning.  Dubbed Sid the Kid, (which stuck with him his whole life because of his lively and youthful way of retaining childlike play), he was always thinking of things to do for fun, whether it was racing his horse through the meadows, bringing baby skunks in the house or sledding down the driveway right under a car!

He had the responsibility of milking the cows and taking care of the other farm animals even as a young boy.  As a child, he would milk the cows and do the chores, run 5 miles to school, fall asleep during classes, and run home to do the chores before bed.  Apparently, he loved running barefoot and even competed in track with his bare feet.  As far as he knew, he still holds the record for the fastest mile on Spring Valley High School Track.  His love of running continued into adulthood and he started running marathons in his 50’s... for FUN!  He graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1966.

Sid married his high school sweetheart (Ruth Minder) in 1969, right after he got back from his tour in Vietnam as an Army Specialist Four.  Together they had three kids: Tammy Ann (1971), Sidney Daniel (1972), and Joseph Jacob (1974) who were born while he was a lumberjack logger, which he took a lot of pride in and won many competitions.

He started and operated his own drywall and painting business, but he still loved to cut wood and chop down trees, especially the difficult ones!  He cut and hauled all the logs for his own log home and with the help of his kids, he built the log home with his own hands.  He is very proud of that log home with its field stone fireplace.  On top of that, he worked diligently to help his son,  Joe,  build Joe's massive home big enough to fit all his kids, do family events, and he even lived there himself several times.

He married his second wife, Rozeanne Dean.  They loved to travel and do mission work together.

He used his exuberance in life to enjoy hunting, fishing, sports, drama, art, traveling, rodeos and 4H events with his 12 grandkids and those he called grandkids (daughter-in-law, Kathy and Matt's 4 kids).  He loved laughing, playing guitar, and eating marshmallows around the stone fireplace in his log home with them.

He is survived by daughter Tammy (Max) Magnuson; daughter-in-law Kathy (Matt) Hawkins; siblings: Sylvia (Paul) Faber, Sandy Falde, Sharon (Mickey) Mattison, Spencer Anderson, and Susie (Jeff) Bol; 16 grandchildren; plus step grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; plus step great grandchildren; wife Rozeanne; and Aunt Darlene Olson; many other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his sons: Sidney Daniel (1972) and Joseph Jacob (2009); his parents: Gordon and Irene; his brother Gary; his brother-in-law Jim Falde; sister-in-law Charity Preslan; and nephew Kevin Faber.

His sisters are proud to say that he was the best brother a girl could ever have! He was ready and eager to help anyone at any time with anything and he always did a good job at whatever he did.  

Sid the kid will be remembered for his infectious laughter, sparkling blue eyes, hard work, big warm hands, guitar playing and singing and especially his love and devotions to God and his family.  He is loved for all the joy he sprinkled everywhere he went.

A Celebration of Life Party for Sid is Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at Calvary Assembly of God Church, Wilson, Wisconsin.   Supper will be served following the service. 

Come prepared to share stories, laughter and appreciation for all the joy Sid brought to your life. 

We can't wait to celebrate him!

Patricia Severson Falde, Age 92
Patricia Severson Falde, age 92, of Baldwin, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, March 26, at her home in Eau Galle Township. Patricia Mae Falde was born September 30, 1931, in Menomonie, Wisconsin, to Helmer and Mavus (Rasmusson) Severson.  She was baptized on November 8, 1931, at Little Elk Creek Church in rural Menomonie. She went to Sunday School and Luther League at Christ Lutheran in North Menomonie.  She was also confirmed at Christ Lutheran. She was a Girl Scout in Menomonie and also in Spring Valley.

Pat attended kindergarten through seventh grade at North School in Menomonie and eighth through tenth grade at Menomonie High School.  Her parents moved to Spring Valley, Wisconsin after buying Spring Valley Iron Works in 1947.  She attended eleventh and twelfth grades at Spring Valley and graduated with the Class of 1949.

A while after graduating from high school, she went to work at the Farm Government Office in Ellsworth, Wisconsin.  On June 17, 1950, Pat was united in marriage to Verlyn Falde at Christ Lutheran Church in Menomonie.  They bought a farm in Eau Galle Township, Baldwin, Wisconsin.  She and Verlyn raised pigs, chickens and cows.  The two were kept very busy farming.

On October 5, 1952, their first daughter, Cindy, was born.  Their only son, Dennis, was born on October 8, 1955.  Daughter Laurie arrived on May 25, 1960, followed by Vicki who was born on September 10, 1966.  The children all learned to help with the farming.

After marriage, Pat joined the Gilman Lutheran Church of rural Spring Valley where Verlyn had always been a member.  She taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School.  She belonged to the women’s groups of the church and served as an officer.  She was a member of several church committees.  When Gilman had their own church choir, she sang alto in it.  

She and Verlyn bought a cottage on Lake Magnor of Clayton, Wisconsin in 1973 where she enjoyed fishing.  Gardening was a hobby which provided many berries and veggies for the freezer and on the canned goods shelves in the basement.  Pat liked to cook and bake.  Cinnamon bread was usually requested for family parties.  She had to take over cooking meals for their family of 4 at the age of 6 so her mom could go to work.

Pat was a blood donor 36 times.  She served as Room Mother when her children were in grade school and was a project leader for child care in 4-H.  She and Verlyn had many travels including AZ, FL, ID, MT, NY, TN, TX and Canada. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; son Dennis; grandchildren Amy Joy Falde and Christian David Nagel; brother Darrel Severson; in-laws: Nancy Severson; Violet (Earl) Lansing; Gordon (Jean) Falde; Harlan (Hollyce) Falde; and Gerald ‘Bud’ Falde.

Survivors include her husband Verlyn ‘Sonny’ Falde; children: Cindy (Jake) McGee, Laurie (Don) Bornmann, and Vicki (Tom) Nagel; daughter-in-law Jill Falde; 7 grandchildren; Lisa (Don) Traun, Becky (James) Adams, Katie (Joe) DesLauriers, Holly (Paul) Larson, Sean, Sydney, and Sara Nagel; 9 great grandchildren: Nathan Traun, Addison Adams, Jaquiline Stoner; Colten, Logan and Isaiah DesLauriers; Nathen, Ruby and Carter Larson; in-laws: Lois Severson and Laurel Falde; many other relatives and friends.

Funeral service for Pat Falde will be on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Gilman Lutheran Church, Spring Valley. Visitation will be Sunday, April 7, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley and one hour prior to the service at church on Monday. Burial will be in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley, Wisconsin.

Larry Bune, Age 87
Larry Bune, age 87, of Spring Valley, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at his home in Gilman Township with his family around him.

Larry was born April 29, 1936 to George and Hazel (Foss) Bune in Gilman Township.  He was baptized and confirmed and a lifelong member of Gilman Lutheran Church, Spring Valley, Wisconsin.

Larry attended Spring Valley Schools and graduated with the Class of 1955. He participated in sports and pitched for the baseball team.  After high school he attended the University of River Falls.  He was inducted into the Army in October 1958, served for two years as an MP, and completed his time in the Reserves in 1964.

On May 6, 1961, Larry married Sandra Miley ('56). They were married at the Wilson Lutheran Church, Wilson, Wisconsin and went on to have four children, Jay, Brian, Trent and Brent.

Larry was a loyal and hard worker.  Over the years, he worked for Sweeney Construction, Whirlpool, and retired as a Correctional Officer at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Oak Park Heights, Minnesota. 

He loved his family and followed his boys and grandchildren through all of their school and sporting events. Larry was a big sports fan and enjoyed supporting the Badgers, Brewers and especially the Packers.  He and his boys were together often for Packer games.  Go Pack Go! Most important to him was his family and enjoying life.  His huge smile, humor and teasing will be remembered by his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Hazel; wife Sandy; infant son Trent; brothers: Forrest; Wilhelm ‘Bill” and wife Beverly; Howard and wife Helen; Allen and wife Odell; sister Doris and husband Garland Alton.

He is survived by his sons: Jay (Cyndie); Brian (Merilee); and Brent (Becky); 11 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Funeral service for Larry will be on Monday, April 1, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Gilman Lutheran Church, Spring Valley. Visitation will be from  noon until 2 p.m. at church prior to the service. Burial will be in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley, Wisconsin. Pallbearers are Larry’s grandsons: Jacob, Shane, Dustin, Andrew, Dylan, Brock, and Boomer.

Richard (Dick) Jorgenson, Age 86
Richard (Dick) Jorgenson, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 surrounded by his family

Dick was born on October 26, 1937, in Wilson Township, St. Croix County, Wisconsin to Peter and Freida Jorgenson. He spent his childhood in Spring Valley, WI where he worked on the family form and graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1956. During this time, he also worked at Cady Cheese Factory and the Grainery. In April, 1957, he married Shirley Schaar and in 1958 they moved to Coolidge, AZ. He worked various jobs when he first came to Arizona which included the Blakely Stations, delivering pop for Emery Snyuder and laying block for Wade Betcher until he met Jewel and Joel England and became the Foreman at England Ranches in 1963 and remained there for 10 years. He joined the Pinal County Sherriff's Posse in 1964 and in 1973 he moved his family to Coolidge and worked for Central Machinery for the next 41 years.

After retirement he enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching the Arizona Diamondbacks and Phoenix Suns and family gatherings on his porch. But his most recent passion was helping the DAV Chapter 36 sell raffle tickets for their fund raisers. He sold so many tickets he was made an "Honorary Member".

Dick was preceded in death by his wife, parents and brother (Lee). He is survived by his Son Tom (Debbie) Jorgenson, Daughter Pam (Mike) Wood, grandchildren James (Kristina) Jorgenson, Candice (Craig) Smith, Josh (Jennifer) Wood, Brandon Wood, Nick (Heather) Wood, 11 Great Grandchildren, 17 Great Great Grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and two sisters (Georgia Mae and Darlene).

A private burial for family will be held Saturday, April 20, at 9 a.m. at Valley Memorial Park Cemetery in Coolidge. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held Saturday, April 20, at 11;30 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. at the Coolidge Artisan Center (enter from Northern Street).

Gene Hannack, Age 69
Gene Elmer Hannack, age 69, of Winter, Wisconsin, died Wednesday February 28, 2024, from injuries received in an automobile accident. Gene, a devoted husband, father, grandpa, uncle, brother, and friend, went to be with the Lord and reunited with Bobbie on February 28th, 2024.

Gene was born to Elmer and Mable Hannack on May 12, 1954. He grew up on a farm with his 4 siblings in Hatchville (Spring Lake Township). Gene attended Spring Valley High School and met Bobbie Richardson in 1971, when her family moved to town. Gene graduated in the class of 1972 and married his high school sweetheart (Bobbie) on November 3rd, 1973. He and Bobbie took over the family farm and raised 3 children (Amber, Jeremy, Jarrad). Gene and family continued farming until the early 1990’s before starting his career as a Heavy Equipment Operator. In the early 2000’s Gene and Bobbie moved to Winter, Wi. Gene continued working for the Operating Engineers Local 139 where he traveled working on the pipeline in various states throughout the USA, before retiring in 2019.

Gene’s love of farming and operating equipment never stopped, from making new roads and trails on the hunting property, to growing pumpkins or trees in his kitchen, it was evident in all he did. Gene had a gift to gab and could talk to anyone, he never knew a stranger. Gene loved socializing whether it be with family, friends, neighbors, or a person he met for the first time. He enjoyed helping others, especially if the project involved equipment or outdoors. But Gene’s greatest love was his family and friends, and if you knew him, you are in one of those categories. He was so proud of his children and grandchildren and loved spending time with them.

Gene is survived by his children Amber Kaeder, Jeremy (Nicole) Hannack, Jarrad (Laura) Hannack; his grandchildren Brianna, Justin, Trevor, Kimberly- Ann, Parker, Skyler, Lilly, Caleb and Andreya; his siblings Delores (Lawrence) Hulback, Joyce (Butch) Wendtlandt, Judy (Ron) Hoyt, and Gloria (Greg) Anderson. In laws Debbie Mauro, Ed (Terri) Richardson; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife of over 48 yrs. Bobbie Hannack; parents Elmer and Mabel Hannack; SIL Chrissy Johnson as well as other family and friends.

Visitation will be Friday, March 8, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be May 11th, 2024, in Winter, WI. Location and time will be determined at a later date.

Harold Duane Fosmo, Jr., Age 79
Harold Duane Fosmo, Jr., son of Harold Fosmo and Virgenia (Danielson) Fosmo, was born December 22, 1944. Harold passed away on March 4, 2024 after a prolonged illness. He attended all eight grades in the one-room school in Martell. He graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1963, and then attended Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis, MN, graduating in June 1965.
He married his one love Connie Larson ('64) on August 26, 1965 at Rush River Lutheran Church. To this union, two daughters were born, Victoria and Corinna.
Harold traveled many paths over the years and learned many skills. If he could read a book about something, he could learn how to fix, build, or run it. His first interest was auto mechanics. He specialized in air-conditioning and wiring, and corvettes.

In 1966, knowing he would be drafted, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served 13 months in Vietnam as a radio operator, forward air controller, landing helicopters, assisting medics, climbing up and down mountains and through the jungles. He was on the last company to get through to Khe Sanh and was stuck there during the siege. His remaining enlistment was spent at Camp Pendleton in CA. He attained the rank of Sergeant.
Harold returned to school to become a certified police officer. His favorite job was being a police officer at UW-Stout in Menomonie. A severe injury in 1990 ended that pursuit.
He then took up woodworking and made cedar strip canoes, snowshoes, pendulum clocks, jewelry boxes, and other objects.

Harold was a charter member of the Eau Galle-Rush River Sportsman’s Club, Hancock Lodge in Ellsworth, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Forty and Eight. He enjoyed fishing, listening to 60s music, reading detective novels, watching television, and enjoying wildlife. He was very proud of his daughters and loved being a grandpa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Virgenia; his in-laws, Erwin and Lois Larson; sister-in-law, Mary Nelson. Harold is survived by his wife, Connie; daughters, Victoria (Truman Johnson) Fosmo and Corinna Fosmo; grandsons, Brady and Torrey Johnson; sister-in-law, Letty Larson; and other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 2 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services 805 E Division Street River Falls, WI. Visitation will also be on Thursday from 1-2 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Rush River Lutheran Cemetery.Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
Click here to watch Harold’s service live on Thursday at 2 pm

Bert Lansing, Age 82
Bert Lansing, age 82, of Spring Valley, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Monday, March 4, 2024 at United Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota. Born in River Falls, Wisconsin in August,1941, he grew up in Waverly, the son of Orvie and Annabelle (Roatch) Lansing, and the adventurous and warm-spirited brother of six siblings. 

After graduating from Spring Valley High School in 1959 and working and living in Minnesota, Bert married Sharon Klatt, the love of his life and wife of nearly 60 years, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Menomonie, Wisconsin. After first living in Morris, Illinois where Bert worked at Caterpillar, Inc., Bert and Sharon settled happily in Spring Valley where they raised their children Jodi and Bret. Bert was named for his Great Uncle who once received a ticket for exceeding the speed limit on his unicycle on the main street of Waverly. Bert showed that same energetic momentum in his love of life, his love and support for his wife, children and grandchildren, and his enthusiastic coaching of youth basketball with Arby Linder for many years in Spring Valley.

  Bert’s true occupational calling was for the great outdoors and the highways and byways of farming communities. He thrived in the construction work of Century Fence that took him across Wisconsin and around the country, and he especially loved the two summers when he was joined on the crew by his daughter Jodi. Following his retirement from Century Fence, Bert worked for Son-Bow Farms Inc. on a variety of agricultural endeavors.

  Bert loved being around family and friends, and was a devoted father, especially proud of his children who would credit their dad for his careful teachings of hard work and disciplined attention. Bert was always in the audience, attending his children’s and grandchildren’s functions and cheering them on. In addition to his dedication to his family, Bert was dedicated to his country, having served in the Army National Guard for six years and as a long-time member of Rickerd-Danielson American Legion Post 227 in Spring Valley.

  He was devoted to his faith and his church, was baptized and confirmed in the Rock Elm United Methodist Church, and became an active member of St. Matthew’s Church where he served as church President for many years, worked as a member of St. Michael's Cemetery Board, and filled in as a lay pastor when needed. For those occasions, Bert drew on his experience as an avid reader, and his love of poetry and country music. Bert enjoyed playing cards and working Sudoku puzzles; and together Bert and Sharon enjoyed cooking and baking, making homemade buns, canning and making holiday gifts for friends and family. Above all, Bert had one of the most caring, kind, humble, and generous spirits with a boundless sense of humor. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.

  Bert is survived by his deeply loved and loving wife, Sharon; daughter Jodi (Erin) Madden of Fall Creek; son Bret Lansing of Spring Valley; grandchildren: Kate (Will) Clark, Eleva; Emily (Mason) Kinsella, Fall Creek; Cameron and Cody Madden, Fall Creek; sisters: Reta Sanford, Peggy (Fred) Koehler, Harriet (Allan Klein) Lansing, Jane (Jo Haberman) Lansing; brother-in-law; Eugene (Debby) Klatt; sister-in-law: Joyce (Dan) Hellendrung; sister-in-law Sandra Klatt; sister-in-law Judy Klatt, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends and neighbors. 

  He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law Arnold and Margaret Klatt; infant son Bert Joseph Jr; brother Douglas (fiancé Dixie Brown) Lansing; sister Mary Ann and brother-in-law Wes Bol; brother-in-law Robert Sanford; brother-in-law David Klatt; brother-in-law Wayne Klatt; brother-in-law Gary and sister-in-law Ardy Klatt; and sister-in-law, Shirley Huey; nephews: Jeffrey Koehler, Alexander Klein, Terry “Watson” Bol and Randy Sanford.

  Visitation will be Friday March 22, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley. Memorial service is Saturday March 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. with visitation one hour prior at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 3006 Hwy 29, Spring Valley, 54767. There will be military honors after the service and a meal will follow. Honorary bearers are Bert’s grandchildren and their spouses. A private burial will be held at a later date. 

Charles (Chuck) Gjovig, Age 83
Charles (Chuck or Chaz) Gjovig, 83, died peacefully on Sunday, February 25, 2024 surrounded by family and friends.

Chuck was born January 28, 1941 and grew up in Spring Valley, Wisconsin. His parents were Anna (Larson) and Reuben Gjovig, along with step-father Victor Blaisdell.

After graduating from high school in 1958, Chuck followed his passion for autos as he worked as a mechanic in Spring Valley, then worked at Friendly Chevrolet before working as a service advisor for 25 years at Hoehn Motors in Carlsbad, California.

While in high school Chuck met the love of his life, Marilyn Freiberg. They married and had two children, Teresa and Mark. Following a trip to southern California, they returned home, packed up the family and moved there. They lived in California for 32 years, enjoying the desert with their ATV’s, going to the beach and hosting friends and family from the mid-west trying to escape the cold! Following retirement, Chuck and Marilyn moved back to “God’s Country” to be near their family.

Throughout his life, Chuck enjoyed working on motors of any kind, riding dirt bikes, ATV’s, and traveling, camping and golfing.

The family is extremely grateful to the wonderful staff at Lindstrom Senior Living, as they became an extended family to Chuck and to Ecumen Hospice Team for their wonderful care.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Anna, Reuben and step-father, Victor Blaisdell; his sisters, Helen Cockerham and Betty Johnson; daughter, Teresa (Teri) Meyer and grandson, Mitchell Gjovig.

Charles is survived by his wife, Marilyn of 63 years; son, Mark (Maria); son-in-law, Tim (Vicki) Meyer; grandchildren, Chandra (Blake) Prososki, Chelsea and Chance Meyer, Matthew (Matti) and Morgan Gjovig; great grandchildren, Aspen, Remi and Sawyer Prososki and Mari Gjovig.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 28 at Sunnyside Free Lutheran Church, 22745 Typo Creek Road NE, Linwood, MN 55079. Visitation at 10 a.m. and Funeral service at 11 a.m. A light lunch will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Acres for Life (acresforlife.org) the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice is preferred.

Roger Howard Halverson, 83
Roger Howard Halverson, 83, went peacefully to his heavenly home on November 5, 2023, after a long and valiant battle with Dementia/Alzheimer's. His devotion to his loving family and his firm belief in his Savior gave him strength and peace in his final days. 

Roger was born to Howard and Hazel Halverson, in Pierce County, WI on September 19, 1940. Roger grew up on the family dairy farm with his younger twin sisters, Lu and Linda. He enjoyed playing football at Spring Valley High School where he graduated in 1958. After high school, he enlisted in the US Army hoping to be stationed in Germany and eventually getting to visit Norway, the land of his ancestors. After training in CO and AL, as an aircraft mechanic, he was stationed at Ft. Sill, OK. Roger soon met his future bride, Gwen Baskett and decided a life in Oklahoma with her was the dream he never knew he wanted. They were married in Oklahoma City at Hudson Avenue Baptist Church on September 30, 1961.

Roger was a Network Administrator and Instructor for Western Electric, AT&T and Lucent Technologies. During a successful 34 year career he traveled the US and Hong Kong as an Instructor. In the early days of his career while working full time, Roger attended OSU-OKC ext and received his Associates Degree. During his career, the family lived in Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas and North Carolina before retiring back to Oklahoma. Roger was a detailed problem solver, an all-around handy man and helper to all. While Rogers’s career took him on many travels, his favorite travels were with his wife Gwen. Together they enjoyed 20 cruises with many family and friends. They also enjoyed trips to London, Germany, Japan and Disneyworld with their grandsons. Roger enjoyed reading, military history, Sudoku, going to the gym, a handful of ginger snap cookies and studying the Bible. His greatest joy in life besides his wife, Gwen, were his sons, daughter in law and his grandchildren. He cherished spending time with them and sharing their accomplishments with others in his yearly Christmas letter.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Hazel Halverson, his sister and brother-in-law Linda and Jim Taylor and his nephew Jason Johnson.

Roger is survived by his wife of 62 years,Gwen Halverson; his sons Robert Halverson of Dallas, TX, Eric Halverson (Linda) of Mansfield, TX; grandsons Zane Halverson (Mallory) of Conway, AR, Austin Halverson (Rachel) of Brooklyn, NY, Travis Halverson of Auburn, AL; great-granddaughter Grace Halverson of Conway, AR; his sister Lu Johnson (Bob) of Baldwin, WI and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and brothers and sisters by marriage. 

The family will be receiving guests at an open visitation on Thursday, November 9, from 4-7:30pm at Bill Merritt Funeral Service in Bethany. A memorial service will be held at Quail Springs Baptist Church in Oklahoma City on Friday, November 10 at 10:30am with Wade Crews officiating. Interment will follow at Gotebo Cemetery in Gotebo, OK at 3:30pm. 

The family would like to thank the care team at Southern Plaza Memory Care and Tendercare Hospice for their daily care and compassion of Roger in his final months and days. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Quail Springs Baptist Church Food Pantry or the Alzheimer's Association in memory of Roger.

Go to www.billmerrittfuneralservice.com: Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at  for the Halverson family.The memorial service will be Live streamed by Quail Springs Baptist Church.

Robert (Bob) Colburn, Age 84
Robert (Bob) Colburn, age 84, of River Falls passed away peacefully on Friday, February 16, 2024.  Bob was born in Hersey, WI on June 9, 1939, the son of Everett and Bernice Colburn.  He graduated from high school in 1958 and married his high school sweetheart Dana Wilhelm ('58).  The couple moved to River Falls and Bob began working for Standard Oil as a Jobber/Owner.  Bob built the BP gas station in River Falls and owned several businesses throughout the years, including another gas station and liquor store in Prescott.  For the past 34 years, he partnered with Dwayne and Gerda Benedict in the BenCo building on Main Street in River Falls. 

Bob enjoyed showing Quarter Horses and Cars.  His beloved 1982 Camaro was worked on, restored and painted with his 2 sons and his son-in-law.  In retirement, Bob liked to stay busy. He spent time fishing, maintaining his Koi pond and sitting on the deck at his cabin and enjoying the sun.  He was a perfectionist with his yard and his routine mowing the grass.  Bob was a Packer and Badger fan and loved spending time with his grandchildren and grand dogs. 

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dana Colburn; children, Troy (Shana) Colburn, Karn Huston, Shawn (Laura Wolfe) Colburn, Darcie (Brian) Leonard; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister, Doris Timm; sister-in-law, Susan (Alner) Avestruz; brothers-in-law, Dick (Vi) Wilhelm, George Holland; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Bernice Colburn; in-laws, Ray and Millie Wilhelm; an infant granddaughter; sisters-in-law, Marlene Holland, Julie (Mike) Kettner; brothers-in-law, Don Wilhelm and Dick Timm.  

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 12:00 noon at Ezekiel Lutheran Church (202 S 2nd Street) River Falls.  Visitation will also be held on Tuesday from 10:00 am- 12:00 noon at the church.  Military honors will be performed by the American Legion Post #121 of River Falls following the service at the church.  Private family interment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in River Falls.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Olive Ellen Esanbock Mulhollam, Age 93
Olive Ellen Esanbock Mulhollam joined her Lord and Savior in Heaven on Monday, February 12, 2024. Olive lived her life to the fullest even into her advanced years. Our Mom loved her children and spent many a summer on Madeline Island or at Troy beach as she loved being close to the beautiful sounds and peace of the water. She loved to laugh, be silly, travel, teach and play the piano/organ at church.

Olive Ellen was born to Roy and Ruby Alton Esanbock on January 21, 1931 in Gilman Township, Spring Valley WI. She was baptized and confirmed in the Congregational faith. Olive attended the Spring Valley Public Schools, graduating from high school in 1949 as the valedictorian of her senior class. Olive was united in marriage to Eugene Mulhollam at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Spring Valley on June 9, 1951. To this union were born seven children. The couple moved to River Falls in the early 50’s. Olive went on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin River Falls with a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Education.

Olive was in the Music Ministry at the Congregational church, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Spring Valley and St. Bridget Catholic Church in River Falls. She also accompanied the Concert Choir at UWRF. Olive loved playing piano and taught lessons in her home for many years, even to some of her children. She conducted a monthly sing along for her fellow residents at Wellhaven. Olive taught elementary school in Glenwood City, River Falls and the last 20 years of her teaching career at Prairie View in Ellsworth.

Olive loved to play cards whether it was Euchre, Bridge or Up and Down the River. Many of the kids and grandkids had the pleasure of joining in on the fun.

Travel was a large part of Olive’s life. Places she’s been are many including: Germany, Kenya, Australia, Mexico, Canada, St. Thomas and numerous US states including the momentous trips to South Dakota and Canada with all 7 kids piled in the station wagon, as well as to her beloved Madeline Island.

Preceded in death by her husband, Eugene; parents, Roy and Ruby Esanbock; half-brother, Bob Esanbock; stepmother, Myrtle Esanbock; father and mother-in-law, Vernon and Leila Mulhollam; stepmother-in-law, Evelyn Mulhollam; daughter-in-law, Diane Mulhollam; brothers- in- law, Bill and Neil Mulhollam; and sisters-in-law, Joyce and Teresa as well as nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Olive Ellen is survived by her children, Cathy (Greg) Johnson, Mary (Dave) Boles, Tom (Brenda) Mulhollam, Mike (Jody) Mulhollam, Pat (Jack) Meyer, Peg (Todd) Foley, and Paula (Boyd) Johnson. Her 16 awesome grandkids; and 24 very cool great-grand kids; sister-in-law, Janet Struez; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The Lord blessed her greatly with a full life. Olive Ellen will be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and their children as well as her many great friends. She will surely find some great card partners in Heaven.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Olive Ellen Mulhollam will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, with visitation at 11:00 and Mass at 12:00 at St. Bridget Catholic Church, (211 East Division Street in River Falls, WI). Interment will be in Saint Bridget Catholic Cemetery in River Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Turning Point, the Halfway House, or Treasures of the Heart in River Falls. Go to the Bakkken Young Funeral Home Website to find a link to view the funeral Mass which will be streamed. 

Gloria Arneson Weghorn, Age 91
Gloria C. (Arneson) Weghorn of Spring Valley, Wisconsin, at the age of 91, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior on February 11, 2024, at Christian Community Homes - Pine Ridge, Hudson, WI. 

She was born September 2, 1932 in Spring Valley to Clifford and Esther (Gunderson) Arneson.  Gloria attended Spring Valley High School and graduated salutatorian of her class ('51).  She was an avid reader and typically had 5 or 6 books going at the same time.  She enjoyed an assortment of novels, biographies and Christian literature.  Her favorite book was the Bible and favorite verse was Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”  

Gloria was an only child and always wished she had siblings.  She helped her father Clifford W. Arneson in his grocery store business the Arneson Grocery.  Gloria dearly loved Jack H. Weghorn her high school sweetheart and received daily letters from Jack when he was in the army.  They married on September 21, 1952.  God was in the center of their relationship and they sought His will in their lives.  Gloria loved the Lord, her family and all those she came in contact with. The Lord laid upon her heart to teach the Word of God and she taught a small group of ladies in their home in Spring Valley.  She enjoyed playing piano and sharing her talent with the nursing home residents over the years.

Gloria leaves behind her children, Lynn (Bill) Durfee of Lakewood, CO, Mary (Scott) Walburg of Cambridge, MN, Barry Weghorn of Red Wing, MN, six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by several other relatives and friends.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jack, son Blake, granddaughter Ashley and brother-in-law Ralph Gavic.

The family would like to thank the staff at Christian Community Homes - Pine Ridge and Lakeview Hospice for their compassion and kindness given to their mom while she was under their care.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 11 a.m. at  Emmaus Church, Spring Valley, WI.  Visitation is from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at church prior to the service on Wednesday. Interment in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials preferred to: Seniors Staying Put, S312 McKay Ave., Spring Valley, WI 54767

Harold Wilk, Age 87
Harold Wilk, age 87, of Menomonie, Wisconsin, died Saturday, February 10, 2024, with his family at his side, at the Plum City Care Center, Plum City, Wisconsin.

Harold was born August 8, 1936, to Frank and Celia (Colburn) Wilk Sr. in Gilman Township, Pierce County, Wisconsin where he grew up on their farm raising pigs, beef cattle and milked dairy cows.  He attended Olivet Country School and Spring Valley High School where he graduated with the Class of 1955.  After high school he worked for the Railroad for about 5 years.  He also attended Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis and studied to be an electrician.  He later worked for N.S.P. and for Hart Ski in St. Paul, Minnesota.

On August 22, 1959, Harold married Darlene (Sis) Moldenhauer ('58) at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church at Spring Valley.  They farmed together in Spring Lake Township for about 10 years.  They moved to Menomonie in 1984 and retired there.

Harold was a farmer at heart, and was living proof that “you can take the farmer out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the farmer” – as he spent many years helping Tammy and Allan on their farm.  He enjoyed going to auctions, fishing and snowmobiling, “old  time’ music and dancing.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers Frank Jr. and his wife Colleen, and Gerald and his wife Bonnie; in-laws Gary Moldenhauer, Ron Moldenhauer, Tom Moldenhauer, and Neal Hunter.

He is survived by his wife Darlene ‘Sis’ Wilk of Menomonie; children Tamera (Al) Faber Daniel Wilk, Kari Hendrickson, and Kathi (Tryg) Thompson; 7 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren;  sister Betty Hunter; other relatives and friends.

Funeral service for Harold will be on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Spring Valley, Wisconsin. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at church prior to the service. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Spring Valley, Wisconsin.

Marilyn Eitland Jacobson, Age 90
Marilyn Eitland Jacobson, age 90, of Wilson, Wisconsin, died Monday, February 5, 2024, at her home in Eau Galle Township.

Marilyn was born August 14, 1933, to Eli and Hilda (Swenson) Eitland in Cady Township, St. Croix County, Wisconsin.  She was baptized, confirmed, and married at Wilson Lutheran Church, Wilson, Wisconsin and has been a long time member of Christ the King Lutheran Church at Wilson.

Marilyn attended Spring Valley Schools and graduated with the Class of 1951.  Over the years she had worked a variety of jobs.  She was a secretary at Friday Canning in New Richmond, worked at Rex’s V-Store in Spring Valley and sold World Book Encyclopedias for a short time.

On May 23, 1954 she married James Jacobson at Wilson Lutheran Church.  They were blessed with three sons: Mark, Dale and Scott.  After marriage, Jim and Marilyn lived and farmed the Jacobson family farm in Eau Galle Township.  They worked together on the farm for many years.

Marilyn enjoyed visiting with friends and family, flower gardening,  decorating cakes for friends and family.  She loved animals & especially her cats that gave her much enjoyment and company.  She was active in the church and church activities.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband Jim; son Scott; daughter-in-law Kathy Jacobson; brothers Robert Eitland and Maynard Eitland and his wife Avis; and brother-in-law John Randall.

Survivors include her sons: Mark Jacobson; Dale (Ronda) Jacobson; sister Ann Randall; grandchildren: Mandy, Daniel, and Joshua Jacobson; Nick Anderson; Casey and Christina Davis; and Amber and Andrew Jacobson; great grandchildren: Mikayla (Cameron) Zak; Mason Sullivan, Oliver Cook, Sawyer Malean, Adrian, Addison and Levi Gregg, and River Schillinger; many other relatives and friends.

Funeral service for Marilyn will be on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Wilson, Wisconsin. Visitation will be on Saturday, from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at Christ the King prior to the service.Burial will be in Wilson Lutheran Cemetery, Wilson, Wisconsin.

Arland Aamodt, Age 91
Arland Christian Aamodt, age 91, of Spring Valley, Wisconsin, died on Friday, January 19, 2024, at his home in Spring Valley.

Arland was born September 5, 1932, to Lyle and Juliet (Marker) Aamodt in Spring Valley. He attended Gilman Mines school for 8 years and later graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1950. In the fall of 1950, Arland enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed in Texas, Wyoming, and spent three years in Germany. He was discharged in the fall of 1954. He met his future wife, Marlene (Wanbaugh) and they were married July 28, 1956. They lived and raised their three children in Gilman Township outside of Spring Valley.

Arland worked as a mechanic and was a semi driver for Dotseth Trucking and for Mid-America Dairymen. After retirement, Arland could be seen around town mowing lawns, shoveling sidewalks and the rooftop of the old Geiger building. He was also a handyman and quick to say yes to whoever needed something done.

Arland was an active member of the Gilman Lutheran Church where he served on the Church Council and spent many years as a Deacon. He was active in the Eau Galle Rush River Sportsman's Club. He was a proud veteran and a member of the Rickerd-Danielson American Legion Post 227 of Spring Valley.

Survivors include his wife Marlene; children: Brad (Cindy) Aamodt, Terry Aamodt, Teresa (Tom) Bornbach; grandchildren: Allisson (Nate) Kral, Amanda Fondow, Kylie (Cole) Jensen, Rian (Jeremy) Rahm; step-grandchildren: Danielle (Jason) Smith, Grant Bornbach; great-grandchildren: Connor, Hailey and Dylan Kral, Jonpaul and Evangeline Fondow, RJ and Danica Quinn, Taylor Jensen, Paxton, Devyn and Taelyn Rahm; step-great-grandchildren: Addison and Aiden Smith; along with other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Lyle and Juliet Aamodt; his siblings: Luverne Aamodt and Lucille Aamodt; his father-in-law and mother-in-law: Fred and Ruth Wanbaugh.

Visitation will be on Friday the 26th from 9 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at church prior to the service. A memorial service will be on Friday, January 26. 2024, at 11 a.m. at Gilman Lutheran Church, Spring Valley. Military honors will be performed by Rickerd-Danielson American Legion Post 227. Burial will be in Northern Wisconsin Memorial Veterans Cemetery at Spooner, Wisconsin at a later date.

The family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for all their help, and the wonderful care they gave Arland over the last few weeks.