Lake Geneva Regional News

Mary T. Edison, 84, of Lake Geneva passed away on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at home. Mary was born on April 6, 1938, to the late Daniel and Katherine (Mullarkey) Lee in Chicago, Illinois. Mary attended Delavan High School and graduated from St. Sebastian High School in Chicago in 1956. Mary loved Lake Geneva. She called it the sacred and healing waters. She loved nature, animals, and loved to take walks through the Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy and Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods, Illinois. Mary is survived by her daughter Kathleen (Brian) McNamara of McHenry, Illinois, grandchildren Brian (Shannan) McNamara and Katherine McNamara, and great grandchildren Daniel, Timothy, and...

Betty S. Lorenzi, 95, passed away with her family by her side on March 2, 2023, at her son's home in North Carolina. Betty was born on May 23, 1927, to the late Garvin and Matilda (Jennings) Shields in Brooklyn, New York. After narrowly missing the Olympics in swimming as a young adult, Betty decided to take up synchronized swimming. While working as a synchronized swimmer in the Dominican Republic, she met her late husband, Henri Lorenzi, and was united into marriage in 1956. From there, the two began to grow their family and continued to travel, living and working in luxury hotels all over the world with their daughter, Betsy, and two sons, Charles and Garvin. Eventually, Betty and her...

Melita F. Grunow, 85, of Fontana, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on February 25t, 2023. Melita was born on May 30, 1937, to William and Louise (Trost) Frankrurth in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Melita graduated from Tosa East High School in 1955 with a desire to pursue a career in education. Melita continued her studies at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. During her time, she joined the Delta Gamma sorority and supported various athletic programs, which continued throughout her life as a passionate member of the Badger family. On March 22nd, 1958, Melita was united in marriage to the late William C. Grunow Junior. Melita was the heartbeat of...

Mary Ann Rambow, 76, of the Lake Geneva area passed away on February 8th, 2023, at Williams Bay Health Services in William Bay, Wisconsin. Born Mary Ann Dade to the late Richard and Phyllis (Jones) Dade on November 11th, 1946, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Three children survive Mary: Kim Jirousek, Theresa Rambow and Lisa Rambow. Two brothers: Dan (Barbara) Dade and David (Mary Ellen) Dade along with one sister; Carol Dade, along with eight grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren all survive Mary. Mary is preceded in death by her husband, William Rambow on March 2nd, 2008, and her brother Kenneth Dade. Services for Mary will be held on Monday February 20th, 2023, at 4:00 in the main chapel...

Kenneth L. Dade, 78, of the Pell Lake area passed away unexpectedly on February 5th, 2023, at Mercy-Walworth Hospital. Ken was born on February 22nd, 1944, to the late Richard and Phyllis (Jones) Dade in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Ken served in the United States Army from April of 1965 till March of 1967. Soon after Ken got done with his time in the services he was united into marriage on June 1st, 1968, to Patricia Kinney in Lyons, Wisconsin. Ken was a sports guy, with one of his favorite teams being the Green Bay Packers. When there wasn't a game on you could find Ken shooting a game of pool or hanging out with his family. Ken is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia. One son:...

Jean L. Zitzler, 93 of Fontana, Wisconsin passed away with her family by her side on January 22, 2023 at Golden Years in Walworth, Wisconsin. Jean is survived by her 3 children Diane (Chuck) Palma of Fontana, William (Julie) Zitzler of Mukwonago, Wisconsin and Ed (Ellen) Zitzler of Walworth, Wisconsin.Eight grandchildren, Kristin (Ryan) Janke, Matthew Palma, Nicole (Nick ) Frautschy, Danielle Zitzler, Michael Zitzler, John Zitzler, Sarah Zitzler and Grace Zitzler. Step granddaughters, Nicole (Bryan) Barndt, Mandy (Mital) Patel and Becki (Ryan) Klenz, along with 8 great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert and grandchild Brian Zitzler. "She loved Jesus and Jesus...

Our beloved mother, (Helen) Jo Ashton (aka "Jo Mama") serenely left the earth on Jan. 18th, 2023, with her daughters by her side. A myriad of family and friends had visited in the months prior to her passing, unaware that they were saying goodbye. Born April 10th, 1927, to Thomas John and Marguerite Helen (nee Hazen) Liston in Escanaba, MI., residing in Land 'O Lakes as a child and attending Eagle River High School, graduating in 1945. As Jo grew up, her love of music inspired her to learn piano by drawing a keyboard on cardboard and practicing on it. Eventually, an encouraging teacher gave permission to use the school piano after hours. This motivation to learn developed a lifelong...

Bernard "Bernie" J. Williams, 76, of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin passed away at his home on January 16th, 2023. Born Bernard John Williams Jr. to the late Bernard Sr. and Rose (Kaiser) Williams in Racine, Wisconsin on April 3, 1946. Bernard, or Bernie as he is affectionately known, graduated from St. Catherine's High School in 1964. Bernie later earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Carthage College. On August 9th, 1969 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Racine, Wisconsin, Bernie was united into marriage to the former Linda Lequia. Bernie worked for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company where he retired from at the young age of 51. Bernie also worked as an accountant for many, many local...

John "Jack" Edl, 80, of Middleton, Wis., and Naples, Fla., passed away on Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, at University of Wisconsin Hospital. Always a good friend, Jack gave his heart to his university, his work, his dogs, his beloved Margo, and everyone drawn to his extraordinary talent and kindness. A native of Lake Geneva, Jack was a proud 1965 graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Madison. President of Delta Tau Delta as a student, he served throughout his life on the Athletic Board, the Alumni Association, the UW Foundation, and the Bascom Hill Society. Jack concluded his distinguished career as President and Vice Chairman of Elkay Manufacturing Company, famous for sinks and water...

Dorothy (Dotty) Swatek (nee Hanny), age 82, of Lake Geneva, WIpassed away to eternal life on Friday, January 13, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family following a courageous battle with lymphoma. Dotty was born in Elkhorn, WI on November 22, 1940, to the late James and Doris (Keenan) Hanny.She was raised in Lake Geneva with her younger sister Carol and brother Jim by her parents and uncle Elijah "Lefty" Hanny.She overcame her shyness by growing up in the restaurant business and waiting tables at Hanny's Restaurant.She loved summers in Lake Geneva waterskiing, dancing at the Riviera, and driving her Triumph Spitfire with the top down. Dotty received an associate degree from Stephens...

Darlene Marie (nee Joslin) Heidenreich, age 89, passed away on January 5, 2023 in Williams Bay, WI. She is resting safely in the Lord's arms, free of pain, and surrounded by her beloved kitties. Darlene was born on March 29,1933 in Laona WI, the daughter of Orville and Lavilla (nee Fellion) Joslin and lived most of her life in Racine, WI. She was united in marriage to Richard Heidenreich on September 11, 1954 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Racine. She graduated from Horlick High School in 1951, where she received the Sanders Award as the Outstanding Senior. Darlene received a bachelor's degree in education from Dominican College and taught at Sacred Heart School and for the Racine...

Lois Dickinson Whiting, 90, of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin died Saturday, December 24, 2022 in Lake Geneva. Lois was born November 20, 1932 to Albert Boyd Dickinson and Byrnice Latimer Dickinson. She grew up along with her four sisters, on Walcowis Farm in Lake Geneva, and sometimes at Bar DX Ranch in Livingston, MT. Thus began a lifelong love of nature, gardens and the outdoor life. Lois attended school in Lake Geneva, WI. She graduated from high school at Milwaukee Downer Seminary in Milwaukee, WI in 1950. She went on to study at the University of Colorado, Boulder and graduated in 1954, where she was affiliated with the Delta Gamma Fraternity. She used her degree in textiles and home...

Michael A. Woods died at home on December 23, 2022. He was born in DeKalb, Illinois to Howard and Joyce Woods. He married Ruth Woods on April 16, 1977. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, his two brothers, Dave Woods (Jan), Don Woods (Mary), and his three children, Lynn Kancian, Jean Pagliaro (Matt) and Bob Woods (Laura), and his nine grandchildren, all who brought him great joy. He is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Joyce Woods. In his younger years Mike was a proud member of the Pell Lake Volunteer Fire Department before having to resign due a back injury. He would frequently with pride recall his work and experience with the department. Michael was an avid autosports...

Virginia "Ginny" Watson passed away peacefullyathome on December 17th, 2022, after a long battle with Lupusand heart disease.Ginny is survived by her husband Rich, son Rich (Dawn) Watson, granddaughter Cassi Watson, sister Sandy (Dick) Wilkes, and her brother Richard (Gus) (Jennifer) Wohl.She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Victoria (Vicki) Hyndman, and father-in-law Norwin Watson. Ginny was born July 23rd, 1948, in Fredericksburg, VA to Richard "Dick" and Dora "Duffer" Rossmiller-Wohl. She grew up in Lake Geneva, graduating from Badger High School in 1966. Ginny and Rich were married on June 24, 1967.After Rich's Army service, in 1972 they settled in Genoa City to raise...

Catherine Marie Natzke (Bolla) passed away peacefully on Monday, December 12th in her Lake Geneva home with her three daughters and family members at her side. Catherine was born September 16, 1927, in Chicago, IL to Anthony (James) and Ida Bolla. She was their first child with two beloved brothers James and Louie (Audrey) Bolla. Catherine's love was Lake Geneva and her journey began when she was 9 months old. Her grandparents and parents took a free train ride to the Lake Geneva area, stopping at Lake Como. Her grandparents and father immigrated from Italy and Lake Como reminded them of the "old country". Her grandparents and then her parents purchased a summer home and this began the...

Gale(Davis) Loudenbeckdied December 4th, 2022, at Lakeland Hospital in Elkhorn, WI. Galewas born on June 26, 1941,to Foster & Fedalma (Baker) Davis. She grew up in Walworth,WI andgraduated fromBig FootHigh School in 1959. Gale and high school classmate Ron Loudenbeck were married on December 14, 1961, at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Walworth. In addition to raising two fine sons, and helping on the family dairy farm, Gale was a long-time and valued employee at Waukesha Cherry-Burrell in Delavan, WI. Anyone who knew Galeknowsshe was astrong, wise,kindand givingperson. As a child Gale loved going to the Davis family cabin up north on Bills Lake. She also had many fond memories...

Joyce L Woods passed away peacefully at home surrounded her family and caregivers on October 29, 2022. Joyce was born in Iron Mountain, Michigan on March 6, 1930 to the late Adolph and Lillian (Peterson) Mangles. Joyce graduated from Iron River High School in Michigan's Upper Peninsula in the year 1948. Joyce is survived by three children: Dave (Janet) Woods, Don (Mary) Woods, and Mike (Ruth) Woods. Nine grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and 14 nieces and nephews and one sister Carol Atanasoff of Iron Mountain, Michigan. Joyce worked at the Wisconsin Southern Gas Company for 26 years. She and Woody retired at the same time and pursued a life long spirit of travel. They were fortunate...

Donald Walter Bank, age 86 of Townsend, passed away on Wednesday, October 26, 2022. Don was born to Albert and Emma Bank on July 18, 1936 in Genoa City, WI. As a young man, he left small town Wisconsin to serve in the Army from 1959 to 1963. He served in the Color Guard and was stationed in Europe. Upon returning he met and married his first wife Lynn on June 9, 1962 at St. John's Church in Slades Corners, WI. They were married for over 40 years until her death in 2005. They had one daughter, Colleen. He established himself in the Genoa City area originally working for Honey Bear Farm before eventually starting his own business as a house painter. He built a reputation as a hard worker and...

Marta L. Chilson, 72, of the Lake Geneva area passed away on Tuesday October 18th, 2022, at Pine Brook Pointe in Burlington, Wisconsin. Marta was born on May 11th, 1950, in Genoa City, Wisconsin to the late Roy and Elise (Bruhn) Meyer.Marta graduated from Badger High School in Lake Geneva in 1969.In October of 1989 Marta was united into marriage to Pete Chilson in North Adams, Massachusetts. Marta loved to do crafts; her heart was always into her sewing.She was an avid bowler and made all the bowling shirts for her team.Marta loved her cabin up north and any free time she had she could be found up at the cabin. Marta is survived by her husband of 33 years, Pete.One brother: Ray Meyer and...

Laura Lorraine Osmundsen, 61, of Lake Geneva passed away at her home on October 15, 2022. Laura is survived by four siblings: David (Debbie Norman) Osmundsen, Mark (Maribeth) Osmundsen, Sara (Craig) Wahlstedt, and Mary (David Hofman) Osmundsen, her Aunt Sandra and many beloved nieces and nephews. Laura is preceded in death by her parents, William David and Margaret Jane Osmundsen. Laura was an avid Packers fan and loved spending time with family, especially her nephew Clay Wahlstedt and April the Chihuahua. Laura worked as a respiratory therapist at Waukesha Memorial Hospital and was most proud of her work in the neonatal intensive care unit. After moving to Lake Geneva she worked...

Robert I. Brainerd, 95, of the Crystal Lake area passed away at his home on Friday October 14th, 2022. Born Robert Irwin Brainerd to the late Nehemiah and Grace (Irwin) Brainerd on October 3rd, 1927, in Lodi, Wisconsin.Robert was one of two children that Irwin and Grace had.Robert graduated from Lodi High in 1945 and then went on to UW Madison.On April 4thin 1959 Robert was united into marriage to the late Patricia Birch.Patricia proceeded Robert in death on March 20th, 2008. Robert had worked for United Airlines from 1954 till the time of his retirement in 1989.Robert served on the Germantown Township Board of Trustees in Juneau County.Robert Loved to travel and spend time with his...