Obituaries
Vivian L. Hecimovich age 91 of Mason, WI passed away Saturday, Jan 15, 2022 at Memorial Medical Center in Ashland, WI. Vivian was born Oct 25, 1930 in Ashland, the daughter of Frank and Rose B. (Krestik) Leciejewski.
On Feb 28, 1949 she was united in marriage to Bernard L. Hecimovich in Dauby, WI. She was a homemaker and worked beside Bernard on the family dairy farm. She was a long time member of Saint Peter Catholic Church in Dauby. The apples of her eye were her grandchildren, whom she loved very much.
Survivors include her children: William “Bill” of Benoit, WI, Diane (Richard) Smart of Ashland, Judy (Bruce) Griffiths of Ashland, Patti (Kevin) Ekstrom of Ashland and Sally (Kamel) Hallah of Natick, MA; grandchildren: Jerod, Jameson (Christine) & Dustin Hecimovich, Shelly (Thomas) Shields, Kevin & Greg Smart, Jennifer (Jacob) Robinson, Jessica (Shay) Zepczyk, Jeffrey & Scott Ekstrom, Lindsay & Lauren Hallah; eight great- grandchildren and her sister-in-law, Veronica “Ronnie” Leciejewski.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; Bernard on Jan 24, 2016 and siblings, Evelyn, Leo, Ben, Agnes, Julia, Lorraine, Lucille & Bernice.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Vivian will be celebrated at a later date. Interment will take place in Saint Agnes Cemetery, Ashland.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Online condolences for Vivian’s family may be left at MountainFuneralHomes.com.
Susan R. Thibedeau, age 68 of Iron River, WI passed away on Thursday, January 13, 2022 in Iron River. Susan was born on March 28, 1953 in Milwaukee, WI the daughter of Charles W. and Marvina M. (Johnson) Thibedeau. In Milwaukee, Sue enjoyed working as a Medical Assistant in a GI clinic. Sue married Gary Dunbar in June 1974 where they settled in Waterford, WI. In 1986, Sue and her children moved to Iron River, to be closer to her parents where she went into Nursing school. Sue expanded her family in 1990 when she married Merwyn Lovblad and gained two stepchildren, Lance and Kassie.
Susan worked as a Registered Nurse and caregiver for many years. She loved spending summers by the lake, picking rocks along the shore. In her later years, Sue found joy in caring and celebrating birthdays and holidays with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed cooking, baking, canning, berry picking, and gardening.
Susan is survived by her 3 children, Jessica Dunbar, Charles Dunbar, and Derek Dunbar (Joslyn Armagost), all of Iron River, WI; grandchildren, Aubrey, Allie, Violet and Avery Dunbar; sisters, Dolores Stevens of Oconomowoc, WI, and Linda (Ronald) Egelseer of Rubicon, WI; brother, Larry Walsh; previous husband and family Merwyn Lovblad, Lance (Amanda) Lovblad, Kassie Capion, and Zita Flores; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and first husband, Gary Dunbar.
A funeral service for Susan will be held at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Iron River, WI. at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 18, 2022. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until the hour of service and luncheon to follow at the church.
Interment will take place spring 2022 at the Moe Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
George Lazorik, Jr., 93 of Mellen, WI passed away suddenly Sat., Jan 8, 2022 at Memorial Medical Center in Ashland, WI. George was born Sept 8, 1928 in Poroskva, Czechoslovakia the son of George and Anna (Paulech) Lazorik. He immigrated to the United States with his parents at the age of two.
George was a U.S. Army veteran serving in the Korean War. He served as a forward observer in the 40th infantry division, 980th field artillery battalion, battery unit A. He was awarded the Army occupation medal, the service medal with 1 bronze star, the United Nations service medal and was honorably discharged at the rank of CPL on Feb 1, 1952 and was in the Ready Reserve “active status” until Dec 28, 1956. On Aug 27, 1955 he was united in marriage to Gloria A. Brand in Mellen. He could fix or rebuilt most anything as is evident by his work history; Penokee Veneer Mill in Mellen, E.W. Wiley Co in Minneapolis, MN, AMC in Kenosha, WI, Stilin Brothers Logging, Biller Timber Co, Budvic Timber Co, HyBob Woodlands Division Mellen & Ashland, the Mellen Police Dept and Russo Construction in Mellen. He also owned Lazorik Forest Products in Mellen and the Golden Glow Café in Ashland. He was an EMT for the Mellen Ambulance service, a firefighter on the Mellen Fire Department, and alderman for the City of Mellen and was on the Water & Sewer Commission for the City of Mellen for over 37 years. He was a member of Saint Mary’s Russian Orthodox Church in Cornucopia, WI and the Copper Falls VFW Post 2273. He loved his family and was very passionate about helping them. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an excellent heavy equipment operator, mechanic, welder, designer and fabricator.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Gloria, of Mellen; sons: George A. (Cindy) of Herbster, WI, John G. (Kris) of Iron River, WI, Michael G. (Angie) of Washburn, WI and Thomas G. (Nicki) of Mellen, WI; grandchildren: Natalie (Rob) Kerr, Matthew (Selena Hamilton) Lazorik, Lauren (Dan) Schick, Nathon (Veronica) Lazorik, Anna Lazorik, Michael M. Lazorik, Gracie Sue Lazorik, Meghan Lazorik, Lucas Lazorik & Andrew Lazorik; great-grandchildren: Michael George & Mary Ella Schick; step-grandchildren: Montgomery Jamieson and his sons, Gavin & Montgomery, Jr., Dustin BeBeau and his daughter, Braelynn and Kole (Ceara) Hanson; sister-in-law: Gay Halvorson; brother-in-law: George “Bud” (Donna) Brand and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ann (Edouard) Ouimette and brother, Michael (Louise) Lazorik.
A funeral service for George will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Jan 15, 2022 at Saint Mary’s Russian Orthodox Church in Cornucopia, WI with Father Hermann Klarr officiating.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Church in Cornucopia and continue until the hour of service.
Due to COVID, spring interment will take place in Mellen Union Cemetery, Mellen, WI with Military Honors under the auspices of the Copper Falls VFW Post 2273, followed by a Celebration of Life and a lunch at the Morse Town Hall in Mellen.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Mellen and Ashland, WI. Online condolences for George’s family may be left at MountainFuneralHomes.com.
Carl M. Seeger, 93 of Ashland, WI passed away Wednesday, Dec 15, 2021 at Northern Lights Health Care Center in Washburn, WI. Carl was born Aug 6, 1928 in Ashland the son of Joseph A. and Ann (Roy) Seeger.
He attended Saint Agnes and DePadua High Schools in Ashland, graduating in 1946. On May 9, 1970 he was united in marriage to Marilyn Sullivan in Ashland. He worked in the family grocery store and managed it until 1960. He was employed by the E. Garnich Wholesale Hardware Company as a salesman until it was destroyed by fire in 1975. He then worked for the C.G. Bretting Mfg Company until his retirement in 1992. Carl served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a charter member and retiree of the local National Guard unit. He was very active in the VFW and American Legion, serving as commander of both VFW Post 690 and American Legion Post 90 in Ashland. He was a lifetime member of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Ashland, the Ashland Knights of Columbus and the Ashland Rod and Gun Club. He was involved in volunteer work at the Church, Senior Center and Veterans groups. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and his canine companions, Buddy and Harper.
Survivors include his son, Joseph of Ashland; step-son, James (Jenny) Seeger of Edgewood, Maryland; grandson, Connor Joseph Seeger; granddaughter, Ashley (Brent) Schaffler; great grandson, Landon James Schaffler; brother, Jerry (Marge) Seeger of Duluth, MN; sister, Mary Jane (Dennis) Donahue of Cumberland, Maryland; nieces, nephews and countless friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Marilyn on Mar 19, 1981; daughter, Ann Marie; brother & sister-in-law, Eugene (Suzie) Seeger.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Carl will be celebrated at 12:00 on Saturday, Jan 15, 2022 at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Ashland with Father Jerome D’Souza as Celebrant. Military Honors under the auspices of the United Chequamegon Area Veterans will immediately follow the Mass.
A gathering of family and friends will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Church in Ashland and continue until the hour of service.
Spring interment will take place in Saint Agnes Cemetery, Ashland.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Online condolences for Carl’s family maybe left at MountainFuneralHomes.com.
Cindy Grace Nelmark, 63 of Mellen, (Cozy Valley) passed away unexpectedly Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota. Cindy was born April 29, 1958, in Ironwood, Michigan, the daughter of Peter John Kaseno and H. Barbara (Schlichting).
Andrew “Andy” Punjak, age 93 of Iron River, WI passed away Wednesday, Dec 29, 2021 at Court Manor Health Services in Ashland, WI. Andy was born Oct 28, 1928 in Minneapolis, MN the son of John J. and Anna (Kamenicki) Punjak.
Andy served in the U.S. Marine Corp during WWII, 1945 to 1948 then the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1959. After serving his country, he was employed by the Miller Brewing Company for over 40 years. He was a member of the Iron River VFW and Lions Club as well as a member of Saint Michael Catholic Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and going to dances with his partner, Betty. He was a man of many talents including fabricating anything that needed repairs or needed to be re-created.
Survivors include his son, Wayne of Canon, New Mexico; step-son, Michael (Nikki) Metz of Hartselle, Alabama; grandson, Zachary Metz; sister, Agnes O’Leary of Mapleton, WI; brother, Robert (Mickie) of Delafield, WI; sister-in-law, Winefred Punjak as well as nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, John, William & George; sisters, Helen Erickson & Mary Goderstad and special friend, Betty.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Andy will be celebrated in the spring at Saint Michael Catholic Church in Iron River with interment in the Church cemetery.
The Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI is assisting Andy’s family with arrangements.
Online condolences for his family may be left at MountainFuneralHomes.com
Rita M. Zwetow, age 69 of Mellen, WI passed away Thursday, December 23, 2021 at the Memorial Medical Center in Ashland, WI. Rita was born on March 31, 1952 in Ironwood, MI the daughter of Roman and Theresa (DeMario) Conhartoski.
Rita married the love of her life, Thomas “T-Bone” Zwetow on March 3, 1973 in Hurley, WI. She was a homemaker who was a mother to everyone who knew her. She was a member of the Legion Memorial Library Organization, Highbridge Homemakers, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Mellen and the Lioness Club.
Rita is survived by her son, Troy (Julie Kodl) Zwetow; daughters, Amy (Dan) Hess, Theresa (Ron) Poppe, Ashley Mitchell; grandchildren, Mackenzie, Ivy, Marshall, Walker, Romi, Lucy, Vanessa, Lillian, Harper and Nathaniel; bonus grandchildren, Adele and Remi; brother-in-law, Albert Rye; daughter in law, Elizabeth Young.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Thomas “T-Bone” Zwetow; sister, Mary Ann Rye; brother, Roman “Muzzy” Conhartoski; son in law, Michael Gagan.
A public gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, December 30th at the Mountain Funeral Home in Ashland, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
A private family service will take place with private family burial to follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Highbridge, WI.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Linda A. Cooper, age 74 of Mellen, WI passed away on Friday, December 24, 2021 at Ashland Health Services Nursing Home in Ashland. Linda was born on September 2, 1947 in Pennsylvania, the daughter of Donald P. Cooper and Jennifer B. (Flack) Cooper
Linda worked at a shoe factory and at a nursing home in her hometown of Chambersburg. She also had gone to school to do hair but had to stop due to her Asthma. Linda also sold Avon and Tupperware but her greatest joy was living with her parents to help them care for her grandmother Ruth and later on cared for her own parents. After that she moved out to AZ where her 2 children were living at the time and had 2 great years out there being near them and her grandchildren later moved back to PA to live with her oldest daughter then a few years with friends. Later on in 2014 came to Wisconsin to be near her oldest daughter again and got to live in a Wigwam for 6 months until finally she got her own apt in Mellen at Crestview Lane; Where she lived until Dec 3.; Then had to move into a nursing home because her daughter Jennifer and her 2 grandchildren Trevor and Krystal couldn’t give her the care she needed. Then 21 days later she passed away. Linda Cooper was a caring person who loved to paint, sew and make things for others. She also loved to write poems as well; She will be missed by many.
Linda is survived by her children, Jennifer Marie (Morris) Ackley, Carrie Lynnette Morris; grandchildren, Jeffrey Linn, Richard Nelson, Trevor Micheal, James Paul, Krystal Lynnette, Elric Michael, Myshella Marie, Lindsey Scott; Foster Grandchildren, Maryssa Ana and Eric Lee; great grandchildren, Jaclyn, Sonya, Alex, Abby, Aiden, Azanzel, Haven, Hope, Axel; foster great grandchildren, Ivvy, Arianna, Nikko, Eric Jr.; brothers, Harry W. Cooper, David S. Cooper, Wesley A. Cooper, Dean P. Cooper; sister Winnifred (Win); 8 nieces and nephews plus great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Donald P. Cooper, Jr.; grandchild, Shyann Rose;
No service will be held at this time.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home of Ashland.
William Thomas Spence, 77, of Ashland WI, passed away on December 24, 2021 in the comfort of his home. Bill was born in Peoria, IL on October 5, 1944.
Bill grew up “out east” in the state of New Jersey, with his parents and baby brother “Scotty”. He graduated from Somerville High-school in 1962. He then attended Delaware Valley College in Doylestown, PA, where he also played college football. He later went on to play semi-pro. He was also a member of the Under Water Recovery Unit, as a Scuba diver, in Raritan, NJ. In Flemington, NJ he served as Staff Sergeant Company C 1st Battalion 102nd Armor and was a tank commander, he also shot handgun for the US Pistol Team, during his time in the Army National Guard. Bill began his working career employed by Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation in New Jersey as a Quality Assurance Supervisor. Years later, Bill moved to Elkhart, IN where he was then employed by Miles Laboratories as a Tech Service Chemist. In 1978, Bill married Carol Ann Fuller and in January of 1979, their daughter Sarah Lynn was born. In November of 1981, their daughter Monica Ann (“Moni”) came along. While his two daughters were young and working full-time, Bill received his Bachelor degree in Bio-Chemistry and Microbiology from Indiana University South Bend in 1987. In 1990, after multiple company buy-outs Bill moved his family to DeForest, WI. Between 2004 and 2005, Bill gained an extension of his family, two son-in-laws, Michael Bigo of Ashland, WI and Keith Kopplin of Shorewood, WI. In 2006, Bill retired from his long successful career, and moved “up north” to Mason, WI. Between 2007 and 2013, Bill became an exceptionally proud Grandpa of four. During his winters he became a “snow-bird” in Tarpon Springs, FL. He was able to shoot trap at the Silver Dollar Shooting Club in Odessa, FL, shooting among gentlemen he followed records for, told stories about and even idolized since around 1966, when he began trap shooting. He forged friendships in some amazing men and great shots during that time, including Fred Wood, Mike Campbell and Bob Catt, which he was forever grateful for. In 2017, Bill was divorced and moved to Ashland, WI where he could be closer to his daughter Monica and her family. He was able to enjoy time with his four grandkids, and kept up with their busy lives filled with school, soccer and hockey. He shot some more trap, and was even able to get out duck hunting with his daughter, Moni, a couple more times, even if they weren’t able to bag any more ducks.
Bill was known by many names; William, Bill, Billy, Shotgun Bill, Dad, Grandpa, and more. Bill may not have finished shooting all of the registered trap he always hoped to, may not have shot more ducks on trips he longed to go on, but he accomplished so many wonderful things in his life and sure left an imprint in the hearts of those around him. Anyone who knew Bill, knew he was a “history buff”, knew better than to talk politics with him, knew how much he loved duck and goose hunting, knew how he always wanted to catch a big Walleye (which finally happened, thanks to his son-in-law Mike and grandson Mason), knew his love for trap shooting, knew he loved spending time with his family and knew what he was truly famous for; telling a great joke or life story and for developing the “crock-a-gator-tweety-bird” fishing lure. He was a lifetime member of the Amateur Trap Association and the National Rifle Association. Bill will forever be loved and greatly missed by many, especially his youngest daughter Monica, who he made the largest impression.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Monica Bigo, son-in-law Michael Bigo and his four grandchildren Mikayla (14), Miley (12), Madison (10) and Mason Bigo (8). He is also survived by his daughter Sarah Kopplin, son-in-law Keith Kopplin, his brother Scott (Carole) Spence, three sisters, Collette Kemp, Lynn Kemp and Laura Kemp White and his cousin John (Roxanne) Semick.
He was preceded in death by his mother Betty Lee Spence, his father and best friend Dean Jack Spence, his biological father William Thomas Kemp Sr. and his beloved cat, Molly.
A celebration of life will occur summer of 2022, a trap shoot in his name. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Ashland Trap Team in his honor.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home of Ashland.
Geraldine E. Fix, age 86 of Ashland, WI passed away Wednesday, Dec 22, 2021 at Memorial Medical Center in Ashland. Geraldine was born Apr 29, 1935 in Ashland the daughter of Clarence A. and Mary J. (Zambori) Meyers.
In Sept 1976 she was united in marriage to Joseph J. Fix, Jr. She was an administrative assistant at the Ashland Area Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Abuse, Inc. for many years.
Survivors include her daughter, Mary Kathryn (Roger) Boissonneault of Feeding Hill, MA; her son, James (Bonnie) Fitzgerald of Green Bay, WI; granddaughters, Amanda Jean Fitzgerald and Amanda Mary (Trent Duda) Boissonneault, As well as her God Daughter, Yvonne Zambori Bretting of Ashland.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joseph on June 5, 1997; son, Michael Fitzgerald and step-son, David Fix; brother, Frank Meyers and sister, Corine Wolanek.
At Geraldine’s request, services will be private.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Online condolences for Geraldine’s family may be left at MountainFuneralHomes.com.
Joyce Ann McKay, 86, of Mellen, was called home on December 20, 2021. Joyce was born on November 11, 1935 in Morse, Wisconsin, the Daughter of Ed and Agnes (Graf) Sorel Sr. She attended Mason Grade School and graduated from Mellen High School in 1953.
Joyce and Frank T McKay were united in marriage in Mellen, on June 26, 1954. She was a cook at the Mellen High School for twelve years until retiring in 1996, she also cooked at the Mellen Golf Course, and also worked at the Mellen Drug Store.
Joyce was a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, the WWC, the Auxiliary of Copper Falls VFW Post #2273, the Lioness Club, and the Homemakers. She enjoyed cooking, golf, canasta and Farkel. Some would also say, they never wanted to sit next to her during a good ‘family game’ of cards.
Joyce was preceded in death by her loving husband, Frank McKay Sr. on Jan 18, 1983; her son, Frank McKay Jr.; two granddaughters Amy and Amanda; Her parents, Ed and Agnes Sorel; her sisters, Janice Jusula and Rosie Bay; and her brothers-in-law: Roy Butler, Mark Jellich, John Nanninga, and Bernie Bay
Survivors include her three children, James (Theresa) McKay, of Sparta, Wisconsin; Vickie McKay, of Merrill; and Gregory (Tawny) McKay, of Mellen. Joyce is also survived by 11 Grandchildren: Brian, Michael, Eric, Traci, Lana, Denise, David, Debbie, Kristie, Jake, Caitlyn; and 19 Great Grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Other survivors include her brothers and sisters: Carol Nanninga, of Aurora, Illinois; Ed (Lynnie) Sorel Jr.; of Mellen; Linda Butler of Franklin Park, Illinois; Kathy Jellich, of Anchorage, Alaska; Robert Sorel of Anchorage; and Constance (Michael) Endres, of Anchorage; and special friend, Carol Pearson
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 on Monday, Dec.27, 2021 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Mellen with Father Aloysius Royan Anthony as Celebrant. A gathering of family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Monday at the Church in Mellen and continue until the hour of service.
Spring interment will take place in Morse Cemetery, Morse, Wisconsin
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Stanley M. Sharpe, age 75 of Ashland, WI passed away on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at Memorial Medical Center Hospital in Ashland, WI. Stanley was born on April 22, 1946 in Chicago, IL the son of William and Thelma (Ritchie) Sharpe. No funeral service will be held at this time. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home of Ashland.
Richard D. Kmetz, age 76 of Moquah, WI passed away on Sunday, December 12, 2021 at the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison, WI. Richard was born on June 20, 1945 in Ashland, the son of George and Dorothy (Eglseder) Kmetz. No funeral service will be held at this time. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home of Ashland.
Marvin Gerald Dodge, age 92 of Iron River, WI passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Thursday, November 11, 2021. Marvin was born on November 10, 1929 in Mankato, Minnesota, the son of Harold and Julia (Fitterer) Dodge. Marvin was united in marriage to Maureen E. McGraw on August 1, 1959 in Minneapolis, MN.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1948 to 1949. He also enlisted in the U.S. Air National Guard and served overseas in Germany for the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War from 1951 to 1952.
He attended the University of Notre Dame, graduated from the University of Saint Thomas, received his Master’s degree from the University of Minnesota, and took other postgraduate coursework at the University of Iowa. He taught English literature at Saint Mary’s University in Winona, MN and at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls.
After retirement, he and Maureen enjoyed traveling in the U.S. and Mexico. In retirement, he was extensively involved in the building of their lake home near Ino, WI. He enjoyed reading, writing, camping, hosting grandchildren at the lake home, and singing in community choirs.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Maureen E. Dodge; children, Martin Dodge of Port Wing, WI, Maura (Ronald Gaare) Dodge – Gaare of Maple, WI, Brian Dodge of Maplewood, MN, and Nathan Dodge of Shoreview, MN; special niece, Maureen Keegan; grandchildren, Natalja Harrison, Anthony Dodge, Philip Gaare, Emily Gaare, Jay Gaare, Benjamin Dodge, Lindsey Hoffman, Ashley Engh, Autumn Jayne, Truman Jayne, Nichole Harrison, Christine Munson, and Casey Kazansky Walters; 17 great grandchildren; brother, Gordon (Michele Mary) Dodge; sister, Eloise (Robert) Martin; sisters-in-law, Josie Dodge, Diane Dodge, Katie Dodge Hanson, Lisa Dodge, Cynthia Martz, and Julie Johnson; and numerous other nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by infant son, Martin; his parents; sister, Lilly Tyler; brothers, Lauren, Willard, Jerome, Harold Jr., and Gerald Dodge; sisters-in-law Lois Dodge, Kay Dodge, and Margaret Keegan; brothers-in-law, Gerald Tyler and James Keegan; nieces, Sheila Keegan and Nancy Grondin Worrell; and nephews, Dan Dodge, Mark Dodge, David Price, and Wayne Gerard Dodge.
A service for Marvin will be held at a later date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Douglas “Doug” Meredith, 83, of Mellen, WI, passed away on Tuesday, November 16, at Memorial Medical Center in Ashland following a yearlong battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was born June 22, 1938, the son of Vernon Fraiser Meredith and Winnifred (Traxel) Meredith.
Doug was a 1956 graduate of Mellen High School. In school, he loved industrial arts class and played basketball as a guard. He often joked about his tendency to skip classes until the principal re did the school schedule so that shop class was at the end of the day, forcing him to stay all day long. During his high school years, he worked alongside his father, Vernon Meredith, in the family business, Mellen Mercantile. Doug spoke often of that experience and how it would later shape him as a businessman.
Upon graduation, Doug briefly attended business school in Minneapolis, returning every weekend to help his dad with the store. But school was not his thing, and he eventually enlisted in the US Army and served his country until his father’s health deteriorated and he was called home. Doug served from 1956- 1958 and was stationed in Chicago.
Upon returning from service, he began dating “Pat” Geshel. Their first date came about as a dare from one of Doug’s friends. But as unlikely as the two may have seemed, they fell in love and were married in Iron Belt, WI, and September 1, 1962.
The newlyweds moved to Chicago and later to Menomonee Falls, WI where they started their family of four children. Doug had ambitions of having his own business, so in 1974 he moved the family to Sturgeon Bay, WI, where he took over Jolin’s Drugs, which became Bay Pharmacy. The business grew into a second store on the west side of town and later a third location in a new shopping mall. Though Doug had no formal business training, he excelled as a retailer. His life journey and talent caught the attention of the editors of Inc. Magazine, and in 1997 he was featured in a multi-page story of an entrepreneur who triumphed over the growing rise of ‘Big Box’ facilities like Wal- Mart.
Doug and Pat eventually retired from the pharmacy business in 1998. They moved to property originally owned and built by Pat’s family on Lake Galilee, east of Mellen, where Doug lived until his passing.
Doug was an active member in the United Church of Christ in Mellen, serving on several boards and singing in the Peace Community Choir. Doug loved to go fishing in Canada with his son, sons-in-law, grandsons and family friend, John Jones. He was a superbly gifted woodworker and made countless beautiful pieces for family and friends, including heirloom cradles for his grandchildren. He was also a master with the barbecue grill. Doug had a great sense of humor and fun; he was exceptionally kind and self-effacing. He could talk effortlessly with anyone, but he was always interested in other people. Doug was instantly likable, and his joyful nature made him a great husband, friend, and father. Doug loved food, people, family, his wife, and his home.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sharon “Pat” Meredith, and four children: Kelly Meredith (Jim Babler) of Butternut WI, Kate Meredith (Chris Danou) of Williams Bay WI, John (Theresa Kay) Meredith of Forestville, WI, and Jill (Todd) Maus, of Suamico WI, and seven grandchildren: Mikayla, Grant and Madeline Maus; Orion and Rowan Danou, and Zachary and Cole Meredith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Winifred Meredith, and his sister Marjorie Woller.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI are assisting the family.
Doug’s family thanks the staff at Memorial Medical Center for the amazing compassion and care shown to him in his final days.
Earl A. Colver, age 69 of Mellen, WI passed away Wednesday, Nov 10, 2021 at Memorial Medical Center in Ashland, WI. Earl was born Sept 16, 1952 in Great Falls, MT, the son of Earl M and Marcella (Daniels) Colver.
He attended the UW Superior and entered the US Navy serving from 1972 to 1974, during the Vietnam War, as a Coreman. On Nov 29, 2014 he was united in marriage to Barbara J. Lindquist in Washburn, WI. He worked for the State of Kansas as a correctional officer for over 22 years, retiring in 2007. He was a member of the United Chequamegon Area Veterans who enjoyed motorcycle riding, fishing and hunting.
Survivors include his wife, Barbara; mother, Marcella; sons, Nick (Devri) and Dennis; step-children, Brenda (Chris) Lee, Gary (Mary Beth) Koebler, Laura Anderson, Andy Agamaite, Marty Agamaite and Kim Agamaite; grandchildren, Natalie & Jayden Colver, Lizzy & Robert Lee, Mykayla & Lucas Anderson, Kaleb, Nate & Tegan Deske; brothers, Glen (Melinda) Colver & Patrick Colver; brothers-in-law, Gerald & Greg Lindquist; sisters-in-law, Cindy (Gary) Hussong & Tammy (Gabe) Benabides; special friend, Jason Miller.
He was preceded in death by his father, Earl; brother, Joel; step-son, Donald; former wife, Jeanette Taylor-Colver; father-in-law, Wesley Lindquist; mother-in-law, Barbara Lindquist.
A Memorial Service for Earl will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov 20, 2021 at the Mountain Funeral Home in Mellen with Reverend Nancy Hanson officiating. Military honors under the auspices of the United Chequamegon Area Veterans will immediately follow the service.
A gathering of family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home in Mellen and continue until the hour of service.
Interment will be private.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Mellen and Ashland, WI.
Online condolences fro Earl’s family may be left at MountainFuneralHomes.com.
Florence M. Osness, age 69 of Ashland, WI passed away Sunday, Oct 31, 2021 at Saint Luke’s Medical Center in Duluth, MN. Florence was born July 29, 1952 in Park Falls, WI the daughter of Guy D. and Marion P. (Wells) Lamphear.
Florence was united in marriage to Albert DiMarco and later to Lance Osness. She worked for the Ashland County Human Services Department for over 30 years. She was the church secretary and treasurer for the First Assembly of God Church in Ashland for many years.
Survivors include her children, Laurie (Kevin) Decker of Harrison, WI and Anthony DiMarco of Duluth, MN; grandchildren, Kayla (Taylor), Jacob (Shannon) and Izabella; sisters, Marie (Mick) Hogan of Hoyt Lakes, MN and Debbie (Eric) Ostergaard of Virginia, MN; brother, Louis Lamphear and her canine companion, Lucy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters, Linda Taddy and Patsy Kinnear.
A funeral service for Florence will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, Nov 4, 2021 at the First Assembly of God Church in Ashland with Pastor Robert Formella officiating.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday at the Church in Ashland and continue until the hour of service.
Interment will take place in Mount Hope Cemetery, Ashland.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Florence M. Osness please visit our Tribute Store.
Linda Nan FishSeptember 20, 1946 – October 30, 2021
Linda Nan Fish, 75, of Ashland, Wisconsin passed away on October 30, 2021, at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Duluth, with her family and pastor at her side.
She was born on September 20, 1946, in Ida Grove, Iowa, the daughter of Dwayne and Irma (Van Boening) Pender. She attended both grade school and high school in Galva Iowa. She went to Westmar College earning a major in home economics in 1967.
On New Year’s Eve, 1963, she went on her first date with Russ Fish, who became the love of her life. They married in Galva, Iowa on June 14, 1968. For the next 53 years, she devoted her life to family and home. Russ’ career involved many home changes and brought their family to Ashland In 1983.
Linda had many hobbies and talents and passed her skills on to her daughters, including gardening, cooking, baking, sewing, canning, and sometimes things like fixing the toaster.
In the early 90’s she became devoted to the work of the Wisconsin Hospital Partners, where she served as a volunteer and leader. She ultimately was a local president, District Chair, and even served as State President during her Partners work. She was also an active and devoted member of her church throughout her life.
Linda is survived by her husband, Russ Fish; daughters Anna Paitl (Scot Stibbe) and Marissa Fish (Troy Nelson); grandson Moya Korpela; sisters Barb Pender, Diane Blom, and Karen Anklam; nieces, nephews, and other extended family and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dwayne and Irma Pender; Russ’ parents Bob and Marie Fish; her brother Jerry Pender; her brothers-in-law Jim Blom and Dale Anklam; and a son-in-law Jerry Paitl.
Services will be held Saturday, November 6 at the United Presbyterian-Congregational Church in Ashland. The visitation will be at 10:00 with a service at 11:00. Internment will take place at a later date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Aaron Thomas Mika, age 29, of Marengo, WI, passed away on October 23, 2021 near Marengo. His sister, Aleah, was with him.
Aaron was born in Ashland, Wisconsin to Robert and Sally Mika on March 13, 1992. As a young boy, Aaron was an avid investigator of all his world had to offer. He truly enjoyed discovering how things worked and what he could create by putting things together. Aaron was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and participated in scouting, 4H and FFA. He showed cattle and raised a Grand Champion steer. Besides working on the family farm he had several jobs as a teenager, including dressing as Smokey Bear at the Great Lakes Visitor Center. He attended and graduated from Ashland High School. During his college years, he worked for Foth on the Lakeshore Restoration project in Ashland. Aaron graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth with a degree in Civil Engineering. He spent several years at engineering firm TKDA and became a licensed professional engineer. He also pursued commercial and flight instructor certification. Since 2020 he has worked as a flight instructor and float plane pilot in California and Alaska. Aaron enjoyed flying, building things, riding his motorcycle, and going on adventures. He was kind, generous, thoughtful, and lots of fun in his relationships with his family and friends.
Aaron is preceded in death by grandparents Frank and Sophie Mika, and Brice Bender.
Aaron is survived by his grandmother Laurette Bender of Traverse City, MI; parents Robert and Sally Mika of Marengo, WI; siblings: Jeff (Marty) Mika of Hayward, WI; Marie Hipsher of Janesville, WI; Tyrone (Emily) Stone of West Haven, UT; Victor (Amanda Krueger) Stone of Stevens Point, WI; Paul (Chelsea) Mika of Marengo, WI; Richard (Dayani) Mika of Mosinee, WI; Rosalie (Joel Moschler) Mika of Duluth, MN; and 14 nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. before a service at 11:00 on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Ashland, WI. A private family burial service will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery. Arrangements are made by Mountain Funeral Home.
The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to first responders, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and Mountain Funeral Home.
Aleah Laurette Miller, 21 of Marengo, WI, passed away on October 23, 2021 near Marengo. Her brother, Aaron, was with her.
Aleah was born in Ashland, Wisconsin to Robert and Sally Mika on March 20, 2000.
As a young girl Aleah was interested in many things. She accomplished many projects in 4H and in the youth programs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She loved participating in service projects. Aleah loved working with cattle and raised an Ashland County Grand Champion steer. Aleah especially enjoyed being a band and jazz band member. She graduated from Ashland High School. She joined the National Guard, graduating from basic training in October 2018 at Fort Jackson, SC. She was assigned to the Hayward Unit following advanced training. Aleah attended UW-Eau Claire for one semester before completing an eighteen month Church mission to Ogden, Utah. Following her mission she attended school and worked in Rexburg, ID returning home in May of this year. She recently worked at Carlson Rental while attending North Wood Technical College in Ashland in the pre nursing program. Aleah especially enjoyed swimming, snowboarding, and hanging out with family, friends, and her beloved animals.
Aleah was married to the love of her life, Kenneth James Miller, on October 8, 2021.
Aleah is preceded in death by grandparents Frank and Sophie Mika, and Brice Bender.
Aleah is survived by her spouse Kenneth Miller of Marengo, WI; her grandmother Laurette Bender of Traverse City, MI; parents Robert and Sally Mika of Marengo, WI; siblings: Jeff (Marty) Mika of Hayward, WI; Marie Hipsher of Janesville, WI; Tyrone (Emily) Stone of West Haven, UT; Victor (Amanda Krueger) Stone of Stevens Point, WI; Paul (Chelsea) Mika of Marengo, WI; Richard (Dayani) Mika of Mosinee, WI; Rosalie (Joel Moschler) Mika of Duluth, MN; and 14 nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. before a service at 11:00 on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Ashland, WI. A private family burial service will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery. Arrangements are made by Mountain Funeral Home.
The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to first responders, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and Mountain Funeral Home.
Orville “Swede” C. Swanson, age 93 of Ashland, WI passed away Monday, Oct 25, 2021 at Court Manor Health Services in Ashland. Orville was born June 4, 1928 in Sacred Heart, MN the son of Carl and Elna C. (Stam) Swanson.
He and his parents then moved to Mellen, WI. After high school he earned his degree in auto mechanics from Hanson Auto School in Fargo, ND. Shortly thereafter he was drafted into the Army and served as a corporal in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. Upon his return home, to Mellen, he was employed as an auto mechanic at Minten Motors. In 1953 he was united in marriage to Etta Chozek and they had two sons, James and Randy. Moving to Ashland, he worked at the C. Reiss Coal Co and then Great Lakes Gas, retiring in 1990. Orville’s passion was musky and bass fishing, from Mellen to Fifield, WI on the beautiful lakes and flowages. After the passing of his wife, Etta in 1979, in 1984 he remarried Patricia Cuffle.
Orville is survived by his sons, James (Sandi) of Casper, WY and Randy (Dawn) of Ashland; wife, Patricia of Ashland; grandchildren, Jamie (Christa) Swanson of Casper, WY, Samantha (Jason) Swanson of Texas, Daren (Victoria) of Cameron, WI, Eric (Katie) of Ashland and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Etta and grandson, Jeremy.
A special thank you to his neighbors, for conversation and helping hands.
There will be a private family burial in the Mount Hope Cemetery, Highbridge, at a later date.
The Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI is assisting the family.
Online condolences for Orville’s family may be left at MountainFuneralHomes.com.