Darlene M. Ellis

Darlene M. Ellis, age 71, of Potosi, WI, passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2011, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home. Her long endurance with Alzheimers has come to rest.

Darlene M. Vesperman was born March 18, 1940, in Lancaster, the daughter of Glen and Margaret (Kelly) Vesperman. She graduated from Platteville High School. Darlene worked for Eastman Cartwright lumber, Grant County social services and twenty-two years as a teacher assistant at the Potosi Grade School. She married Larry L. Ellis in 1961. They both retired in 1992 and traveled to Florida for many years. She loved to walk and dance. Her love for her grandchildren will live on.

She is survived by her husband, Larry, Potosi; son, Jeff (Michelle) Gerow-Ellis, Duluth, MN; daughter, Cheryl (Steve) Van Dyle, Cuba City; three sisters: Goldie Yager, Beetown; Dorothy (Monroe) Haas, Lancaster; Hila Johnson, Sarasota, FL; four granddaughters, Meghan (Jeff) Skemp, Platteville; Kayla (Scott) Furlong and great-granddaughter, Khiley, Galena, IL; Katie Ellis, Springfield, MO; and Chelsea Statton, Cuba City; as well as one step-granddaughter and two step-grandsons.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Margaret Vesperman; two brothers: Maynard Vesperman, Delbert Vesperman, and one sister, Hazel Schmitz.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October, 22, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Friday, October 21, 2011, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home and from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home on Saturday.

Gail G. Ellis

Gail G. (Guse) Ellis, age 69, of Cassville, passed away on Wednesday, January 30, 2013, at Southwest Health Center in Platteville, after a long, brave battle with cancer. Gail was born on February 28, 1943, in West Bend, WI, to the late George and Phyllis (Serwe) Guse. She married Dick Ellis on December 2, 1961, and they lived in the Kewaskum area for many years, where Gail spent her time caring for their three children. Gail also spent several years working part time with her husband at Mermaid Water Services in West Bend. Dick and Gail moved to Cassville ten years ago to enjoy retirement and be near the Mississippi River.

Survivors include her loving husband of fifty-one years, Dick Ellis; a son, Troy (Sharon) Ellis, Kewaskum; daughter, Beci Ellis, Hartford; daughter, Britt (Brian) Schuldes, Appleton; grandchildren: Amanda Ellis, Trent Ellis and Marisa Schuldes.

In addition to her parents, Gail was preceded in death by a son, Trent Ellis.

Private family services were held at Gails request. In lieu of plants and flowers, please consider a donation to the UW Carbone Cancer Center, Madison. Martin Funeral Home in Cassville is assisting the family.

A special thanks to Gails friends and neighbors, Cassville Rescue Squad, Hospice of Southwest Health Center, Platteville, and especially Dr. Toby Campbell of UW Health Carbone Cancer Center.

Jerry J. Ellis

Jerry J. Ellis, age 73, of Patch Grove passed away Tuesday, November 12, 2013, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Jerry was born on July 25, 1940, in Bloomington, WI, the son of Donald & Tossie (Arnett) Ellis. He married Shirley Haberichter on October 24, 1959 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Bagley, WI.

Jerry was a small town man spending his entire life in Patch Grove. He graduated from Patch Grove High School in 1958. Jerry & Shirley raised their family in the home that he built there in 1960. He was a member of Patch Grove Fire Department for 48 years.

Jerry worked as a carpenter for Walz Lumber Company for 47 years. Since his retirement, he has continued to work for family and friends. Jerry was a master woodworker creating numerous precision scale models, clocks, bowls and furniture. Do what you love and youll never work a day in your life.

Jerry is survived by Shirley, his loving wife and dance partner of 54 years; his three children: Stephanie (Mark) Steffensmeier; Mike (Lisa) Ellis; Kim (Pat) Esser, all of Bloomington; nine grandchildren: Dan Steffensmeier, Ashley (Joseph) Krantz, Becky Steffensmeier, Daryl (Nikki) Ellis, Kevin Ellis, Katrina Ellis, Brittany Ellis, Shea Esser, Cordt Esser; two great grandsons: Reece Krantz, Trevor Ellis; one brother: Milton (LaVonne) Ellis, Prairie du Chien; two sisters-in-law: Nadine (Doug) Caya, Sebeka, MN; Dorothy (Jim) Stimart, Bagley; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brother-in- law, Robert Haberichter.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 16, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Bagley with Pastor Nick Barootian officiating. Burial was in Patch Grove Cemetery, Patch Grove. Family and friends called on Friday, November 15, 2013, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Martin Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Bloomington and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Hannah G. Elskamp

Hannah G. Elskamp, age 95, of Potosi, died Sunday, February 19, 2012, at Orchard Manor in Lancaster. Hannah was born on June 13, 1916, a daughter of Henry and Emma (Dressler) Reynolds. She married Mahlon Elskamp on February 15, 1938.

Hannah loved garage sales, quilting, cards, gardening, bingo, and spending time with her family.

Hannah is survived by six children, Marion Mason of Potosi, Neil (Barb) of Chetek, WI, Carl (Judy) of Bountiful, UT, Gary (Kathy) of Potosi, Esther (Tim) Hesse of Lodi, WI, and Keith (Becky) of Potosi; a sister, Martha Ragatz of Potosi; two daughters-in-law, Shirley Elskamp of Topeka, KS and Mary Lou Elskamp of Kieler, WI; 24 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and a great-great grandson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mahlon in 1982; a daughter, Susan Elskamp; two sons, Leo and Mark Elskamp; an infant daughter, Mary Elskamp; her parents; four siblings, Walter Reynolds, Mary Mae Patzner, Florence Flesch, and Clarence Reynolds; a son-in-law, Joel Mason; and a great-grandson, Mason Joel Klein.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson, with Father Richard Leffler celebrating the Mass. Burial will be in St. Thomas Cemetery, Potosi. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, February 24, 2012, at St. Andrews Catholic Church, and one hour prior to the service at church on Saturday. Martin Funeral Home in Potosi is handling arrangements.

In lieu of plants and flowers, a Hannah G. Elskamp Memorial Fund has been established.

Sylvia D. Elwell

Sylvia D. Elwell, age 94, of Lancaster, died on Saturday, December 15, 2012, at the Lancaster Care Center. She was born on December 21, 1917, the daughter of John and Belva (Dodge) Allbee. Sylvia was united in marriage to Frank Elwell in 1945. He preceded her in death in 1950. Sylvia was employed at a beauty salon, owned and operated the Minute Lunch, cooked for the bowling alley, and operated the Rainbow Grill. In 1965, she moved to Madison where she was employed at the Veterans Hospital. She retired after fourteen years of service and moved to Florida. Sylvia later returned to Dubuque, Iowa, and in 2007, moved back to Lancaster. She enjoyed working in her flower garden, spruce trees, fishing, sewing, and collecting porcelain dolls.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Sylvia was preceded in death by her brothers, Ray, John, Thomas and Frank; sisters, Nellie, Viola, and Lillian; and many nieces and nephews.

Survivors include many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces, great-great nephews, great-great-great nieces, great-great-great nephews, and a Godchild, Kassi (Taylor) White.

Funeral services were held on Monday, December 17, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at the Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster with Reverend Pamela Strakeljahn officiating. Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Korey D. Eng

Korey D. Eng, age 41, of Potosi, died on Saturday, August 30, 2008, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster, following a brief battle with cancer. He was born on June 27, 1967, in Richland Center. He graduated from Lancaster High School in 1985. On November 24, 1987, Korey was united in marriage to Christine S. Ready in Holbrook, AZ. He was employed with Wolf Farms. Korey was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting. He loved spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Christine, Potosi; his children: Ashley (fianc Matthew Abing) Eng, Lancaster; Danielle (Adam Foster) Eng, Darlington; Tyler Eng, Lancaster; granddaughter, Adrianna Abing and grandson, Landon Foster; brothers: Calvin Hardy, Roxbury, WI; Kyrie (Heidi) Eng, Pinetop, AZ; sisters: Judith (Philip) Wagner, Lancaster; Jacqueline (Steve) Hess, Glendale, AZ; Amy Jo Maahs, Glen Haven; mother-in-law, Kathy (Rod ) Kalish, LaCrosse; father-in-law, Donald (Janet) Ready, Fennimore; grandmother-in-law, Evelyn Sturmer, Lancaster.

Korey was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ann Eng and a niece, Cindra Ann Wagner.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 4, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at the Lancaster Congregational Church with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating. Burial was in Boice Prairie Cemetery, Potosi Township. Friends called on Wednesday, September 3, 2008, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Lancaster Congregational Church and from 9:30 a.m. until time of services on Thursday. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Korey D. Eng memorial fund has been established. We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to Emmett Terwilliger, Jr. for his guidance, generosity, and mentoring throughout Koreys life.

Jeffrey Engbretson

Jeffrey T. Engbretson, age 56, of Potosi, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2015, at his home. He was born on July 27, 1959, in Seattle, WA, the son of Gerald and Joyce (Krumpos) Engbretson. Jeff spent his childhood in Rockford, IL, Arlington Heights, IL, and Cedar Rapids, IA. He graduated from Linn-Mar High School in Marion, IA. After graduation, Jeff and Barb began farming in the Mt. Vernon, IA, area. In 1980, he was united in marriage to Barb Scott in Cedar Rapids, IA. In 1997, the family moved to Grant County, Wisconsin, where Jeff and Barb farmed raising cattle, hogs and crops. Jeff was an honorable, deliberate, hard working man. He loved his family, he loved his farm, and he loved the life he lived.

Survivors include his loving wife, Barb Engbretson of Potosi; children: Kelsey (Travis) Wagner, Lancaster; Tanner (Ashleigh Grendziak) Engbretson, Madison; his parents, Gerald and Joyce Engbretson, Robins, IA; his siblings: Steve (Edith) Engbretson, Grangeville, ID; Peggy (Jeff) Tipton, Marion, IA; Laurie (Robert) Brickey, Robins, IA; nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Memorial services were held on Monday, September 21, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating. Private family burial will be at a later date. There was no visitation. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Jeffrey T. Engbretson Memorial Fund has been established. Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Lancaster is assisting the family.

E. Leona Engelke

Leona E. Engelke, age 90, of Belmont, died on Friday, October 22, 2010 at Upland Hills Health in Dodgeville. She was born January 7, 1920 in rural Platteville, the daughter of Ernest and Emma (Maahs) DeBuhr. On September 21, 1946, Leona was united in marriage to Leo H. Engelke at Peace Lutheran Church in Belmont. She assisted and enjoyed all aspects of farming up until her last few days. Leona also loved being with her family.

Leona is survived by two children: Ronald Engelke, Belmont and Karen (Jeff) Grefe, New London, MN; three grandchildren: Linda Miller and her daughter, Lynell Elizabeth, Lancaster; Laura (Mark) Repstad and their daughter, Juliet, San Marino, CA and Brian (Jenny) Grefe and their son, Jack, Duluth, MN; her sister, Helen Edebohls, Platteville; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leo on July 9, 2006; three brothers and one sister: Fritz, Clarence, Melvin and Dorothy.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Belmont with Reverend Connie Matye officiating. Burial was held in the Belmont Cemetery. Family and friends were welcome from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 26 at Martin Schwartz Funeral Home in Platteville and on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Maurice A. Enke

Maurice A. Enke, age 82, of Patch Grove, died on Tuesday, July 1, 2008, at the Lancaster Care Center. He was born on June 30, 1926, in Patch Grove, WI, the son of Alvin and Sadie (Wilkenson) Enke. He attended school in Patch Grove. He married Genevieve Deakins and she preceded him in death in January of 1999. Maurice farmed in the Patch Grove area all his life. His farm was a 3-H farm Hereford, Holsteins, and horses. Maurice milked cows until 1989 and raised beef cattle until a few years ago. Horses were a big part of his life. He brought the cows in by riding horseback. He enjoyed teams of horses, rodeo, breaking horses, and often had his horse and buggy in parades. He was a big supporter of the Blakes Prairie parades. Maurice enjoyed his family and especially loved his great-granddaughter, Taylor.

He is survived by his stepson, Gary (Becky) Wilkinson, Belmont; his brother, Charles (Phyllis) Enke, Prairie du Chien; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; his stepdaughter, Tonya Vogel; and his sister-in-law, Irene Enke.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2008 at the Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating. Burial was in Union Nagle Cemetery, Patch Grove Township. Visitation was held from 12:00 noon until the time of services at the funeral home on Thursday.

Arthur Erickson

Arthur C. "Art" Erickson, age 94 of North Andover, passed away Sunday, June 5, 2016 at his residence. He was born November 22, 1921 in Besmer, Michigan the son of August and Helbie (Turpinen) Erickson. Art graduated from Ironwood High School, Ironwood Michigan. He enlisted in the United States Army during WW II, stationed overseas in London. He was a member of the Office of Strategic Services during his tour of duty. Art was united into marriage to Maxine F. Cumerford in 1947. He was employed with Dairyland Power Cooperative. Art was a radio technician responsible for maintenance and repair for the carrier system and line vehicles throughout the tri-state area. He enjoyed music and playing the guitar.

Surviving is his children Martin (Sharon), Curtis (Lois) Erickson and Evelyn Priem, many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Maxine and a son in law Stuart Priem.

Graveside services with military honors provided by the Mumm Welsch American Legion Post #352 and VFW Post #7080 of Cassville, were held on Friday, June 10, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at Gockel Cemetery, rural Glen Haven. Martin Funeral Home in Cassville is serving the family.

Irene M. Erickson

Irene M. Erickson, age 84 of Lancaster, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at Orchard Manor in Lancaster, WI following a brief illness. Irene was born on January 6, 1925, the oldest of seven children born to Leo and Margaret (Flesch) Duve. She married Robert J. Bob Erickson on August 6, 1949, and together, they raised five children. He preceded her in death on December 26, 1986. Irene worked as a waitress in many local restaurants, and she worked in the Purity Bakery. She retired in 1980. Irenes favorite pastimes were Bingo, playing cards, fishing, embroidery, and making crafts from plastic canvas. She enjoyed cooking, and very seldom followed a recipe. Irene enjoyed spending time with her family, and visiting on the telephone.

Irene is survived by five children: Gary (Lana) Erickson, Lancaster; Tom (Marita) Erickson, Tacoma, WA; Connie (Steve) Reinsbach and Pat (Graydon) Hall all of Lancaster; and Julie (Kevin) Atkinson, Cuba City; ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins. She is also survived by her three sisters: Mary Luella Place, Lancaster; Evelyn (Philip)Peterson, Lindsberg, KS; Jane Duve, Grand Blanc, MI; and two brothers: Ivan (Jean Ann) Duve, Shelby, MT; and Eugene Red (Marilyn) Duve, Independence, MO.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother Clement Duve and a great-grandson, Kyle Miller.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 10, 2009, at 11:30 a.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster. Burial was in St. Clement Cemetery, Lancaster. Friends called on Saturday, January 10, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Bernard Ernzen

Bernard J. Ernzen, age 85 passed away Thursday, April 30, 2015 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque. He was born April 15, 1930 in Tennyson, Wisconsin the son of Nicholas and Mary (Schmitz) Ernzen. Bernie graduated from Tennyson High School. He enlisted in the United States Air Force, during the Korean Conflict where he was stationed stateside in Washington State and later in Germany. He was united into marriage to Margaret A. Dehner on February 6, 1954 in Dubuque. Bernie was employed for many years at Dubuque Packing Company, and a member of American Legion Post #6. He liked to tinker with his collection of model cars, and loved his family and keeping up with their activities.

Surviving is his loving wife of sixty one years, Margaret, their children; David, Debbie (Steve) Downs, Donna (Lloyd) Merrell, Dennis, Don (Deb), Dorothy and Dean Ernzen, five Grandchildren, seven Great Grandchildren, a sister Maleta (Carol) Brokish, and two brothers, Alfred and Nick (Nancy) Ernzen

In addition to his parents, Bernie was preceded in death by his siblings; Alfonse (Shirley) Ernzen, Rosie (Bob) Wegmuller and Anna (John) Brokish, and a sister in law Mary Ernzen.

Funeral services were held on Monday, May 4, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson with Fr. Richard Leffler officiating. Burial with military honors was in the church cemetery. Family and friends called on Monday, May 4, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. Martin Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Potosi is assisting the family.

Alma D. Esser

Alma D. Esser, age 85, of Lancaster, died on Sunday, January 3, 2010, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster. She was born on March 19, 1924, in Bloomington, the daughter of Emil and Catherine (Crubel) Meyer. On May 4, 1943, Alma was united in marriage to John P. Esser at St. Marys Catholic Church in Bloomington. Together they farmed in Grant County for almost thirty years. Alma volunteered at Orchard Manor Nursing Home and at Grant Regional Health Center. She enjoyed embroidery, sewing, baking, and playing cards, especially euchre. Alma also liked to listen to polka music and Daniel ODonnell. She was a loving mother and grandmother and took great pride in spending time with her daughter, LouAnn.

Survivors include her seven children: Jerry (JoAnne) Esser, Fort Wayne, IN; Delores (Richard) Wagner, Potosi; Leland (Nancy) Esser, Glen Haven; Leonard (Dr. Judy Lambert) Esser, Oshkosh; Diane (Tom) Wagner, McFarland; LouAnn Esser, Lancaster; and Allen (Tami) Esser, Monroe; 16 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; her siblings: Lorraine (Jerry) Roling, Dubuque, IA; Rosie (John) Errthum, Lancaster; Alvina (Cyril) Mumm, Cassville; Arlene (Wayne) Junk, Cassville; and Pat (Bernard) Mumm, Cassville; her sister-in-law, Marge Herbers, Bloomington; a brother-in-law, Don Burke, Platteville; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to her parents, Alma was preceded in death by her husband, a sister in infancy, a brother, Walter (Joyce) Meyer and a granddaughter, Cathy Hermes.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 7, 2010, at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster at 10:00 a.m. with Father William Seipp officiating. Burial was in St. Marys Settlement Cemetery, Cassville. Family and Friends called on Wednesday, January 6, 2010, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster and from 9:00 a.m. until time of services on Thursday at the church. Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.

Charles F. Esser

Charles F. Esser, age 80, of Cassville, died on Tuesday, August 23, 2011, at the Lancaster Care Center. He was born on July 28, 1931, in Cassville, the son of Nick and Rose (Brinkman) Esser. Charles graduated from Cassville High School in 1950. He then entered the United States Army where he served his country during the Korean War. Charles drove truck for FS following his honorable discharge. In 1961, he began farming on the family farm and later purchased the farm with his brother. Charles was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Holy Name Society, and the American Legion Post No. 352 of Cassville.

Survivors include his brother and sisters: Florence Ley, Dolores (Larry) Houghton, Gerry (Ambrose) Mumm, Donald (Barb) Esser, and Darlene (Mike) Schauff, all of Cassville; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by a sister, Bernice Vogt.

Funeral services were held on Monday, August 29, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville with Father John Meinholz officiating. Burial with military honors was held in St. Charles Cemetery. Family and friends called on Sunday, August 28, 2011, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Cassville, where a 3:45 p.m. scripture service was held. Friends also called on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Gladys E. Esser

Gladys E. Esser, age 82, of Lancaster, passed away on Friday, September 26, 2014, at her home in Lancaster. She was born on June 21, 1932, in Beetown, the daughter of Henry and Wealthy (Retallick) Robinson. Gladys graduated from Lancaster High School in 1950. Following graduation, she was employed at a department store in Dubuque. On November 23, 1950, Gladys was united in marriage to Frederick Dean Esser in Bloomington. After their marriage, the couple raised a family. Gladys operated various taverns and restaurants and managed her husbands trucking business until her retirement in 1975. She enjoyed spending time with her family, vintage cars, reading, watching television, and going to garage sales and thrift stores. Gladys adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her children: Joseph (Angie) Esser; David Esser; Cheryl Cheri Klaas, all of Lancaster; ten grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; two sisters: Lila (Neal) Shaben, Van Wert, OH; Verna (Thomas) Muller, Aurora, IL; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to her parents, Gladys was preceded in death by her husband, Dean, and eight brothers and sisters.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, October 1, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Lancaster with Reverend Barbara Cook officiating. Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Tuesday, September 30, 2014, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Lancaster and on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services.

The family would like to thank Homeward Bound, Carol Wentz, and Clarisa Kehoe for the special care they gave Gladys all these years.

Kathleen A. Esser

Kathleen A. Esser, age 75, of Glen Haven, died on Friday, April 24, 2009, at the Lancaster Care Center, Lancaster. She was born on March 19, 1934, in Grant County, the daughter of Joe and Clara (Hoffman) Esser. Kathleen graduated from Bloomington High School. She was employed with Ed Walz Lumber and later was employed with Peoples State Bank in Glen Haven for over fifty-two years. Kathleen also worked for the Township for fifty years. She was a member of St. Marys Catholic Church in Glen Haven. She enjoyed her pet cats, fancy work and her trips to the casinos.

Kathleen is survived by her sister, Bernice Cathman, Prairie du Chien and her niece, Kay (Richard) Tesar, Prairie du Chien; and four great nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother who died in infancy.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 27, 2009, at St. Marys Catholic Church in Glen Haven at 11:00 a.m. with Father Bart Timmerman officiating. Burial was in Gockel Cemetery, Glen Haven. Friends called on Sunday, April 26, 2009, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services on Monday at the church. Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington assisted the family.

Laura Esser

Laura L. Esser, age 46, of Cassville, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2015, at her parent's home surrounded by her loving family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on May 13, 1969, in New Jersey, the daughter of Kenneth and Judith (Buschbom) Stappert, Jr. Laura graduated from Cassville High School in 1987. She furthered her education at Southwest Technical College in Fennimore and Upper Iowa University in Peosta, IA. On August 11, 2001, she was united in marriage to Dane M. Esser at Peace Lutheran Church in Platteville. Laura was employed at DTE Energy in Cassville as their fuel coordinator. She was also employed at Cassville High School as the track and cross country coach. Laura was a member of the Cassville Sports Boosters Club and served as treasurer for the Cassville Lioness Club. She enjoyed horseback riding, boating on the Mississippi River and mushroom hunting. Laura loved keeping up with her sons, Dallas and Colin, and all of their activities.

Survivors include her husband, Dane; two sons: Dallas and Colin; her parents, Ken and Judy; brothers: Todd (Tonya) and Travis (fianc Amanda Wake-Skaar); mother and father-in-law, Ronny (Charlene) Esser; a sister-in-law, Rhonda (Rob) Timmerman; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends were invited to a Celebration of Laura's Life being held Saturday, July 25, 2015, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at J&J's Sandbar in Cassville. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Laura L. Esser Memorial Fund has been established. Martin Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cassville is assisting the family.

Lester Esser

Lester W. "Les" Esser, age 86, of Cassville, passed away Thursday, April 14, 2016, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster. He was born on January 23, 1930, in the town of Glen Haven, the son of Leo and Esther (Klinkhammer) Esser. He graduated from Bloomington High School in 1947. On August 15, 1951, Lester was united in marriage to Lea Mae Shaben at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville. He entered the United States Army in 1951 and served his country during the Korean War until his honorable discharge in 1956. After his military service, Lester worked as a mechanic at Wilkomm's Garage in Cassville. He also drove school bus for the Cassville School District. Lester was also employed at Dairyland Power Company for 29 years, retiring in 1993. He and his wife, Lea Mae, "Ahmmie," also owned their own business, Esser's Bar, for seven years. Les enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Milwaukee Brewers. He also enjoyed bowling and singing karaoke, especially, "Elvira." Les was a very talented woodworker and mechanic. He was loved and will be missed very much.

Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Lea Mae Esser; their three children: Bruce (Nikki) Esser, Waunakee; Brenda (Roger) Schnering, Cassville; Barbara (Mark) Ledbury, Marshall; six grandchildren: Brandon Ledbury, Waterloo, WI; Heather Ledbury, Knoxville, TN; Tyler Ledbury, Marshall; Steven (Emily Fitzsimons) Schnering, Mount Horeb; Stacey (Andrew) Depies, Madison; Scott (Katie) Schnering, Dubuque, IA; one great-grandchild, Avery Schnering; a sister, JoAnn (Garrett) Delury, Prairie du Chien; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, April 19, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cassville with Father John Meinholz officiating. Burial with military honors was in St. Charles Cemetery, Cassville. Family and friends called on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Lester W. Esser Memorial Fund has been established.

Roger D. Esser

Roger D. Esser, age 72, of Bagley, died Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at Prairie Maison in Prairie du Chien after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 21, 1935 in Wyalusing Township, WI, the son of Harry and Fern (Clark) Esser. Roger graduated from Bagley High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He farmed all of his life in the Brodtville area. Roger loved a good game of euchre, playing pool, and chopping wood.

He is survived by his daughter, Lori (Randy) OBrien, Boscobel; six grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; his sister, Lavonne (Milton) Ellis, Prairie du Chien; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington with Pastor Mary Ann Floerke officiating. Burial was in Brodtville Cemetery, Wyalusing Township. Visitation was held Saturday, January 19, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.

Carol Everett

Carol R. Everett, age 66, of Bagley, died on Sunday, May 27, 2012, at her home. At the request of the family, there will be no services. Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family.

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