Bernice Kreisler

Bernice Kreisler Obituary

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Age - 91

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September 10, 2023

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Oregon, WI

MADISON - Bernice Kreisler, age 91, of Madison, passed away on Monday, Sept. 4, 2023, at UW Hospital and Clinics. She was born on Jan. 7, 1932, in Cambridge, Wis. , the daughter, one of seven siblings of Berger and Ella (Netland) Televik. Bernice grew up on an 80-acre farm where she spent many summers planting and harvesting tobacco. Farming cultivated a strong work ethic in Bernice. Bernice graduated from Cambridge High School in 1949. She married Donald Hammen on Dec. 23, 1956, in Madison. She married her second husband, Bill Kreisler, in 1984. Bernice worked as an administrator for the State of Wisconsin until her retirement in 1989. Bernice and her sister, Emma, were best friends and they loved watching their cousin race NASCAR events together. She loved the Green Bay Packers, knitting, crocheting, solving crossword puzzles, gardening, and collecting trolls. Bernice enjoyed playing cards with her card club group and bowling over the years. She enjoyed traveling to Norway with her sisters and niece in 1993 to visit relatives, to Austria, Switzerland, and climbing a mountain in Germany, and other destinations later in life. She also loved ballroom dancing, reading and roses. Bernice is survived by her sons, James Hammen, Michael Hammen, Donald (Adrienne Morgan) Hammen and Doug (Stacey) Hammen and his family; stepson, Michael; grandchildren, Taylor (Joseph) Davis and Morgan (Petra) Hammen; great-grandchildren, JJ Davis, Malia Davis, Elisse Hammen and Madeleine Hammen; sister, Sue Hepp; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Berger and Ella; first husband, Donald Hammen; second husband, Bill Kreisler; brothers, Raynard (Helen) and Kenneth; and sisters, Emma (Bill), Mildred (Clinton), and Mary (Richard); stepsons, Bob and Freddy; and stepdaughters, Mildred, Sandra and Carol. A graveside service will be held at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Rd W, Cottage Grove, at 2:15 p. m. on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. Memorials may be gifted in Bernice's name to the Alzheimer's Association. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson EastFuneral & Cremation Care5203 Monona Drive(608) 221-5420

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Ursula Wang

Ursula Wang

Age - 98

December 5, 2023

MIDDLETON - Ursula Martha Wang (nee Ursula Martha Augusta Klein) died peacefully on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, at the age of 98 at her residence at Attic Angel in Middleton, Wis. She was born to Hedwig and Ernst Klein on July 29, 1925, in a miners' colony, known as Gieschewald in Katowice, Poland. The historic event known as the "Silesian Uprisings" resulted in her family being repatriated to Germany and she, her parents and her younger brother, Werner, moved to Berlin when she was three years old. There she went to primary school and attended an all-girls high school where she was educated in preparation for attending medical school. This plan was derailed by the death of her father and various displacements caused by World War II. After the war she studied English, Russian and French at the University of Berlin. She became certified as an interpreter and worked at several different positions as a secretary/assistant/ interpreter for different international agencies including the U. S. State Department which stationed her at one point in Cyprus intercepting and translating Russian radio communications. In 1954, she immigrated to the United States with her first husband, Karl Heckendorf, whom she had married a year or so before. They divorced within a few years without children. She earned an Associate of Arts degree in 1956 from Lincoln College in Illinois and went on to earn her certification as a medical technologist from the Colorado State University Hospital. Around that time, she met Dr. Charles Wang who was a resident in Pathology at the same hospital. They were married in 1958 in Pueblo, Colo. , and the next year they had a son. The family then moved to Pennsylvania and on to West Virginia in search of an ideal place, and grew by three daughters along the way. They settled in Holland, Mich. , in 1964 with their four young children and after a few years, Ursula helped design and oversee the building of the family home on Lake Macatawa. There Ursula continued to raise the children and enjoyed a Holland, Mich. , lifestyle of water activities and picking blueberries. For many years Ursula was a member of the Rena Boven Guild, a service guild of Holland Hospital. Her hobbies included architecture and real estate improvements. In the mid-1990s, Ursula and Charles retired to Pelican Bay in Naples, Fla. , where they spent many happy days walking in the sunshine on the beach and observing the abundant wildlife in the area. There Ursula continued her interests in energy and nature conservation. She regularly donated to local wildlife and other environmental preservationist charities, and she was an enthusiast for clearing the beach of trash and other discarded beach items on her walks. You could always find a trash bag or two in her jacket pockets for that purpose. Also in her pockets were likely some chocolates that she was known to hand out to friends and strangers alike. Ursula spent her final years in Middleton, Wis. , living near her two youngest children and three of her grandchildren. Many will remember that Ursula was a strong yet very soft and kind person. She was "old school" - simple and frugal in her ways and stoic. For example, she never complained about the gradual health deficits she experienced in her last years. Due to the scarcity and war in her early life, she never took anything for granted and was very grateful for, and contented with, her life as it unfolded. She was generous and a good baker and always willing to lend her ear and give advice. Ursula is much loved by her family here in the U. S. and by her relatives in Germany and her unique character will be fondly remembered and missed. Ursula was preceded in death by her parents, Ernst and Hedwig Klein; brother, Werner Klein; her cousins, including her favorite, Margarete Gerhard; and her dear husband of 52 years, Charles C. Wang. She is survived by her children, David (Lauri) Wang of Sheridan Wyo. , Linda (John) Griffin of Bozeman, Mont. , Irene Wang, and Emily Lewis of Middleton, Wis. ; grandchildren, Julie (Laura) Wang and Christopher Wang, Quinn and Clark Griffin, Nathan Lewis, Charles and Sarah Larsen; nephew, Ulrich (Birke) Klein, niece, Amy Lee, and nephew, Jason Wang. It is Ursula's wish that she have no funeral and that she be cremated with her ashes scattered in the Gulf of Mexico where the remains of her husband Charles are. Friends and family will be notified of the date and time of a memorial service to be held at a future date. Memorials in Ursula's name made be made to Attic Angel (https://atticangel. org/give/ways-to-give) and Agrace HospiceCare (Agrace. org/donate) to whom Ursula and her family are eternally grateful for Ursula's excellent care in the last months of her life. Links to both organizations may be found below. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson WestFuneral & Cremation Care7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761Show more

Olive Riederer

Olive Riederer

Age - 89

December 5, 2023

MADISON - Olive Riederer, age 89, died on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023. Olive was the daughter of William and Rose Kleman. She grew up in the Rockwood/Manitowoc area. After working in a lawyer's office in Manitowoc, Olive married Earl Riederer on Sept. 15, 1956. They moved to Madison, Wis. , and raised four sons. Olive enjoyed many years of singing in the choir at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Monona. She worked at Treasure Island, Madison Kipp and eventually was a Teacher's Aide for Title 1 reading program and later worked with students with disabilities in the Madison Public School System. Olive enjoyed cooking for her family and watching her grandchildren grow up. She also enjoyed going on trips with her husband, Earl, sister, Delores Liebergen and niece, Ann Dier. Olive was preceded in death by her husband, Earl; her parents; sister, Delores Liebergen; brother, Donald; in-laws, Joseph and Lillian Riederer; and brothers-in-law, Wayne Wilda and Francis Liebergen. Survivors include her sons, Fred (Jan), Mark (Stephanie), Bill (Michelle) and Jim (Patty); grandchildren, Andrew (girlfriend, Brie), Angela (Andrew) Yamriska, Joseph, Josh, Cierra, Thomas, Lilly, Sam and Nate; and one great-grandson, Neil. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Madeleine Wilda; the Wilda nieces and nephews, Steve, David, Cathy, Mary, Greg, Dan; niece, Ann Dier (daughter of Delores Liebergen); and several great-nieces and nephews. Olive spent her last year at the BeeHive Home in Oregon, Wis. , and the family expresses their appreciation to the staff at BeeHive and Agrace HospiceCare. A Funeral Mass will be held at IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5101 Schofield St. , Monona, at 11:30 a. m. on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023. A visitation will be at the church from 10 a. m. until the time of the Mass on Monday. Olive will be laid to rest next to her husband of 45 years, Earl, at the Roselawn Mausoleum, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona. Lunch will be provided after the service at Immaculate Heart School Lunchroom Marian Hall. To view the Mass please see gundersonfh. com for livestream link. Memorials in Olive's honor can be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church where Earl and Olive were members for 68 years. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson EastFuneral & Cremation Care5203 Monona Drive(608) 221-5420Show more

Mary Koss

Mary Koss

Age - 71

December 3, 2023

STOUGHTON - Mary Kay Koss, age 71, left this life and was called home to God on Nov. 30, 2023. She was surrounded by many loved ones. Mary Kay was born in Madison on May 14, 1952, to Harry and Hazel (Friedl) Imhoff. She graduated in 1970 from East High School, and went on to graduate from MATC with a degree in office management. She worked as a senior administrative clerk at Madison Metropolitan school district. On Dec. 31, 1981, she married the love of her life, Klaus Koss, and moved to the beloved farm in Stoughton. They spent over 43 loving and beautiful years together. Although she endured many hardships in this lifetime, Mary remained strong in her faith. She overcame Polio as a child, diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic at the age of 11, conquered breast cancer, then diagnosed with Scleroderma which contributed to many other health ailments. Mary always put others before herself, despite her condition. Mary spent many hours volunteering for SSM Hospice and was heavily involved within St. Bernard Catholic Church. Many people describe Mary as the most selfless, loving, compassionate, and endearing person. She was an inspiration to everyone blessed enough to know her. Mary Kay was the easiest person to love, and sacrificed so much to put her love for others first. Those who knew Mary witnessed her devout love for the Lord, life, family, and friends. Mary loved raising her children, time spent with family, lunch dates with friends, riding horses, playing tennis, a good cup of coffee, cooking and baking for her family, book club, and Sunday Mass. She was an animal lover and is now reunited with all her beloved pets from the farm. In later years, despite her limited mobility, she never passed up the opportunity to enjoy nature on a UTV ride, boating on the Mary Kay pontoon, and supervising Klaus building on the farm. Mary arrived at the gates of heaven to join Harry and Hazel (Friedl) Imhoff; daughter, Jennifer Youngs; and son, Nicholas Koss. Mary is survived by her husband, Klaus Koss, and their children, Adam (Gabby) Koss, Sheila Boodry, Chris (Cat) Cirillo-Koss, Sheri (Frank) Schneeberg; sisters, Patricia (Marvin) Bakken and Marilyn (Rodger) Gonzagowski; brother, Thomas (Busaba) Imhoff; grandchildren, Samantha Boodry, Alexandra Boodry, Tyler Boodry, Christopher Johnson, and RJ Preez; along with many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services and Mass will be on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, at 12 noon at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 5101 Schofield St. , Monona. Visitation will be held from 10 a. m. until the start of Mass. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson OregonFuneral & Cremation Care1150 Park St. (608) 835-3515Show more

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An Nguyen

Age - 38

December 2, 2023

An Thanh Nguyen, renowned for his infectious laughter, embarked on his final adventure on Nov. 28, 2023. Tragically, An left us too soon after a brief yet brave battle with leukemia, which culminated in a sudden brain hemorrhage. Born in Vietnam on Sept. 26, 1985, An's early life was marked by academic brilliance and a gentle, kind spirit. He met his high school sweetheart, Trish Hoang, at Le Hong Phong High School. After graduating in 2003, An moved to Boston to attend the University of Massachusetts, where he majored in Mathematics - not just because he loved numbers, but because, as he often joked, "they were the only ones that always made sense. " An and Trish, proving that true love knows no distance, officially began their journey together in 2005, despite the miles between Massachusetts and Illinois. In 2006, armed with a heart full of dreams and a suitcase packed with his favorite math books, An moved to Illinois to be closer to Trish. They married in 2007, solidifying a bond as deep as it was delightful. An's educational journey continued at Franklin University's online program, majoring in Financial Management and graduating Summa Cum Laude. His passion for learning culminated in his graduation with honors from an MBA program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2019. An's career at the Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) was more than a job; it was a calling. He spent over a decade at WWBIC, leaving an indelible mark on his colleagues and earning their respect and love. An assisted hundreds of clients with access to capital and mentored his coworkers in his unique "An's way. " He was especially proud of being honored as one of the "40 under 40" most successful and civic-minded young professionals in the Greater Madison area in 2020, a testament to his professional and personal contributions to the community. The reunion with his mother in the U. S. in 2013 added another layer of joy to An's life. Their relationship was special, akin to that of close friends rather than just mother and son. To Trish, An was the forever best husband and friend, often showing more enthusiasm and passion for her research than she did. A devoted father, An adored his beautiful daughter, Helen, whom he affectionately called his "little boss. " His joy in fatherhood was evident in every moment they shared. An dreamed of showing her all 50 states by her 18th birthday - 21 down, 29 to go. An's friendships were a testament to his loyalty and kindness, always ready with a helping hand. His skill in pitching ideas was evident in his success at convincing friends to try new foods and drinks. An's interests were diverse; he was an avid reader, keen on investments, and enjoyed audiobooks during his travels. With his family, he loved hiking, paddleboarding, biking, and playing the piano. An was a passionate fan of the French soccer team and had a zest for exploring new technologies. His enthusiasm for sampling different kinds of beers, wines, and cultured foods was infectious. In a poignant twist of fate, An passed away on the same date as his idol Charlie Munger. His farewell ceremony coincides with the birthday of Mike Hetzel, who was like a father to him. An was preceded in death by his father, Chuong Nguyen. He is survived by his mother, Van Ly; wife, Trish Hoang; daughter, Helen Nguyen; uncles: Hiep Nguyen, Truong Ly; aunts: Lien Nguyen, Tuyet Nguyen, Bieu Nguyen, Dieu Nguyen, Xuan Ly, Tam Ly, Nga Ly, Thuy Ly; cousin who was like his brother: Luan Nguyen; and many close cousins and friends who will miss him dearly. An's legacy is a blend of infectious laughter, unending kindness, and a firm belief in the goodness of humanity. He leaves behind a brighter, more joyful world, and memories that will continue to bring smiles to all who knew him. An's spirit, and undoubtedly his jokes, will live on forever in our hearts and memories. Here's to you, An - for every laugh, every lesson, and every moment of love. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten. A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, Wis. , from 9 a. m. until 2 p. m. on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. A time of sharing will take place at the funeral home from 2 p. m. until 3 p. m. Please bring your stories to share! A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson FitchburgFuneral & Cremation Care2950 Chapel Valley Road(608) 442-5002 Show more

Thomas Welch

Thomas Welch

Age - 80

December 2, 2023

EVANSVILLE - Thomas Raymond "Tom" Welch passed away on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023. He was born on May 9, 1943, to John and Helen (Leve) Welch. He grew up in Madison and attended West High. Tom joined the U. S. Navy in September 1962 and served on the USS Taconic and the USS Mount McKinley. He left the service in April 1967. Tom married Carol Paulus on Sept. 9, 1972. They welcomed their son, Ryan, in October 1979. Prior to his retirement in 2001, he worked at Webcrafters as a pressman. Tom was a life-time member of American Legion Post 534 in McFarland, Wis. , a life-time member of VFW Post 7591 in Madison, Wis. , and a life-time member of the Military Order of the Cootie Pup Tent 41 in Madison, Wis. He was also a member of the Madison Veterans Firing Squad through the V. A. for several years and was honored to provide Military Honors for area veterans. Tom leaves behind his wife, Carol; his son, Ryan (April) Welch, Sun Prairie, Wis; step-daughter, Axa (BJ) Jones, Gettysburg, Pa. ; grandchildren, Jennifer Welch, Keegan Welch, Nathan Jones and Jaden Jones; and many nieces, nephews and cousins, especially Bill Leve. Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bill (Pat) Welch; his father and mother-in-law, Gene and Marilyn Paulus; and his sister-in-law, Karen Bowers. A funeral service with Military Honors will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 10 a. m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, followed by a luncheon at VFW Post 7591, 301 Cottage Grove Road, Madison. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a. m. until the time of the service on Tuesday. Military Honors will be provided by the Madison Veterans Firing Squad. Private burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery, Oregon. Many thanks to the doctors, nurses, and technicians at the William S. Middleton VA Hospital and their Hospice Unit and to the nurses and aides of St. Croix Hospice for the care and compassion in taking care of Tom and his family during this illness. Donations in Tom's memory may be made to the Dane County Humane Society. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson EastFuneral & Cremation Care5203 Monona Drive(608) 221-5420Show more

Ray Riordan Jr

Ray Riordan Jr

Age - 80

December 2, 2023

MADISON - Ray J. Riordan Jr. passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, surrounded by family. He was born on Sept. 25, 1943, in Yukon, Okla. He grew up in Madison, Wis. , where he enjoyed playing football and baseball and acted in school musicals. Called "Joe" in his younger years, he was known to host the best parties in the neighborhood, even as party-goers adhered to his mother's strict rules of the house. He often invited his friends over to play cards and ascended to grandmaster level bridge player. Ray earned his undergraduate degree from Marquette University and went on to earn his law degree from UW- Madison. Ray served as assistant district attorney and assistant corporation counsel for Green Lake County from 1968-1969. From 1969 - 1979, he was a partner at the Riordan and Sorenson Law Offices in Ripon, Wis. Ray was born into the telecom industry. His grandparents were majority owners of the Pulaski Merchants and Farmers Telephone Company in Pulaski, Wis. , (today, Nsight) starting in 1923. He used his passion for the industry to fight for a fair playing field for all local, independent telephone companies in the state of Wisconsin. Ray served as executive vice president of the Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association from 1979 - 2002. As part of his life's work, he was counted as a friend, advocate and political ally for small telcos and was relentless in fighting for the little guys. He was involved in the family telecommunications business as a board member for Nsight. Ray served as executive director for the Eastern Rural Telecom Association from 2004-2008. He was president of the National Association of State Telecommunications and secretary-treasurer of the WSTA Foundation and participated in many Wisconsin legislative committees on telecommunications. Other professional activities include past president of the Wisconsin Society of Association Executives, Director for Community Banks Incorporation - Bank of Middleton and president of the Ripon Chamber of Commerce. Family was always important to Ray, and he maintained a friendly relationship with his ex-wife, Phyllis. Their 30-year marriage included three amazing children, Ray J. III (RJ), Maria, and Phyllis Ray. Ray continued to be a loving and supportive father to his children as they grew up and started their own families. Ray married the love of his life, Ellen Riordan, on July 21, 2013, in Madison, Wis. One of his most cherished roles was as Granddad to his 13 grandchildren. He and Ellie enjoyed many wonderful years together watching the grandchildren grow and fulfilling many travel adventures to Ireland, China, Russia, Africa and many riverboat cruises. Ray and Ellie spent time at their homes in North Carolina and Wisconsin, spending time with family. In addition, Ray enjoyed playing bridge, boating and discussing politics. He is survived by his wife, Ellen; children, Ray J. (Andrea) Riordan III, Maria, Phyllis (Eric) Gaukel; step-children, Eric (Deirdre), Rob (Amy) and Andrew; grandchildren, Ray J. Riordan IV, Madylyn, Michael, Samantha, Carlen, Avery, Samantha and Palmer; and his two brothers, Robert H. and Patrick Riordan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Eileen Riordan; sister, Micki Harper; and ex-wife, Phyllis Riordan. Please join the family in celebrating his life at IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5101 Schofield St. , Monona, on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a. m. until 11 a. m. with Mass to follow. Family invites you to join for a luncheon at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Alzheimer's Association. "May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand. " - Irish BlessingOnline condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson EastFuneral & Cremation Care5203 Monona Drive(608) 221-5420Show more

Tony Salisbury

Tony Salisbury

Age - 79

December 1, 2023

MADISON- Tony Lafayette Salisbury died on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023. He was born on July 25, 1944, in McAlester, Okla. , the son of Arthur and Virginia Salisbury. He was united in marriage to Margaret Elaine (Hibbs) Salisbury on June 3, 1967. Tony received his B. A. from Texas Christian University and Master of Divinity from Brite Divinity School. He was ordained into the Christian Ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) on June 7, 1970, at the First Christian Church in Irving, Texas. Tony served congregations as Associate Pastor in Houston and as Senior Minister in Beeville, Denison, and Garland. He also served as Central Area Minister in the Southwest Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) with offices in Abilene, Texas. Tony cofounded several community services, including Helping Hands, Good Samaritan and Bread for the World. He had a particular love for church summer camp programs and led several camps for youth. Tony formed a non-profit internet community, Cross of St. Andrew Community. He retired after 40 years of ministry on Aug. 1, 2010. In retirement, he served as spiritual mentor and ministry facilitator. Tony wrote several pieces of literature-Praying the Jesus Story, Salisbury Legacy, meditations used by several congregations, and a book in print "Gifting: Reflections. " He achieved Life rank in Boy Scouts of America, the Chevalier Degree in the Order of DeMolay, and was the President of Kiwanis in Denison, Texas. Tony also served his community by volunteering with the American Red Cross in transportation services and blood drives, shut-in ministry, and he commissioned the Stephens Ministers. Tony is survived by his beloved of wife of 56 years, Margaret; sons, Eric Christopher (Emma Salisbury) Salisbury and Peter Jeremy (Erin Findley) Salisbury; grandchildren, Leif Harris Salisbury and Rory Salisbury Harris, and Christopher Findley-Carroll; and great-grandchildren, Pax Asher, Nova Faye, and Oryn Kai Findley-Carroll. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Arthur Salisbury. A service will be held at GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5701 Raymond Road, Madison, at 10:30 a. m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (<https://gslcwi. com/giving/>). Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson WestFuneral & Cremation Care7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761Show more

Joan Mickelson

Joan Mickelson

Age - 66

November 30, 2023

STOUGHTON - JoAn Mickelson, a remarkable soul who touched the hearts of many, passed away on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at the age of 66. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. JoAn had a passion for all things green and beautiful. She could make any garden bloom with life and color. Gardening, plants, and flowers were more than just hobbies; they were a reflection of her nurturing spirit and her ability to make the world around her a more beautiful place. But if there was one thing JoAn treasured above all else, it was spending time with her grandkids. She had a way of making each moment with them feel like a cherished memory. Her love for them knew no bounds, and her patience and caring nature made her an extraordinary grandmother. Animals held a special place in JoAn's heart, especially her beloved dog, Stella, who was spoiled with love and treats. She also adored her granddogs, Cooper and Lucy, and treated them like part of the family. JoAn's love for animals was a testament to her compassionate nature. JoAn was known for her incredible patience, strong faith, and her compassionate heart. Her deep faith provided her with strength and resilience throughout her life's journey. What stood out most about JoAn was her unwavering care and concern for others. She had a heart as big as the sky and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her love and compassion knew no bounds, and she made the world a better place through her kindness. JoAn Mickelson's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She was more than a caring and loving soul; she was an amazing grandmother, a faithful friend, and a source of inspiration to all who crossed her path. She is survived by her daughter, Sheri (Rick) Reichardt; mom, Karen Wendt; grandchildren, Austin, Delaney, Evan, and Brynn; sister, Cindy (Tom) Nawrocki; nieces and nephew, Jenifer, Rachel, Lauren and Mike; as well as many relatives and friends from throughout the years. A gathering to celebrate JoAn's life will take place at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave. , Middleton, on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 10 a. m. until 12 noon. A short prayer service will conclude the gathering at 11:45 a. m. As we remember JoAn, let us carry forward the love, patience, and compassion she exemplified in her life. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness and love will continue to shine brightly in our lives. Rest in peace, dear JoAn, knowing you are loved beyond measure. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson WestFuneral & Cremation Care7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761Show more

Patricia Kok

Patricia Kok

Age - 76

November 30, 2023

MADISON - Patricia H. "Pat" Kok (nee LaFond) (formerly Koenig) passed away peacefully at home on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, in Madison, Wis. , at the age of 76. Pat was born to parents, Marian (Breivogel) LaFond and Gary LaFond on Sept. 9, 1947. Her birth mother passed away that day, and Pat was raised by her grandmother and parents, Marie and Gary LaFond. She shared many fond memories of her childhood living with her grandmother near Lake Michigan, where she cultivated a lifelong love for smoked fish. She grew up in Two Rivers, Wis. , and graduated from Washington High School in 1965. She attended Cosmetology School in Green Bay and was a hairdresser for many years in both Two Rivers and Madison. She went on to work for UW Health at 1 South Park Street in Madison for 30 years, where she made many lasting friendships prior to her retirement. She was blessed to be married to two wonderful husbands, Roger Koenig (1969-2000) and Robert "Bob" Kok (2019-2023). Pat and Roger were beloved parents to their son, Jason. Pat enjoyed watching the Badgers and Packers, relaxing in the screen porch (which she referred to as her studio), coloring, and solving countless crossword puzzles. She was a fierce Scrabble player and somehow always seemed to win when she played the penny machines or entered pools for various sporting events. She loved to read and attend summer art and craft fairs, festivals, and live music. She especially enjoyed time spent tending to her large flowerpots, enjoying a campfire with Bob in the evenings, and having "play days" with her grandson, Roger. Pat is survived by her husband, Bob Kok; son and daughter-in-law, Jason and Sara Koenig; grandson, Roger Koenig; Bob's children, Dan, Jim (Christine), Jeff (Carol), and Matt Kok; Bob's grandchildren, Spencer, Seth, Molly, Mikey, Adam, Sam, Anna, and Tanner; Bob's great-grandchildren, Henry and Henry; sisters and brother, Kathy and Al Rogne, Suzanne LaFond, Rita Schilder, Andre and Kris LaFond, and Mary and Tom Stueck; Bob's sister and brother, Betty (Dave) and Don (Shelly); several nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Roger; and her parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a. m. until time of the service on Sunday. Memorial donations may be gifted in Pat's name to Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson EastFuneral & Cremation Care5203 Monona Drive(608) 221-5420 Show more

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