Hafemeister Funeral Home Obituaries - Eulogy Assistant (2024)

Obituary Preview: Luanna Fenz, 92, of Lowell, passed away on April 27, 2024, at Clearview in Juneau.

A celebration of Luanna’s life will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church - Salem Lowell campus with Rev. Nicholas Mount officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Inurnment will take place at Lutheran Cemetery at a later date.

Luanna E. Fenz was born November 3, 1931, in the Town of Clyman, the daughter of Fredrick and Emma (Lauersdorf) Schultz. She married Walter Fenz on November 29, 1953, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Watertown.

Luanna was a devoted mother and wife whose life was centered on family and her faith. She enjoyed life on the farm with her husband, Walter, while focusing on raising their daughters and later cherishing time as a grandmother. In her earlier years she was employed at Village Blacksmith, Lindberg’s Hevi Duty and Specialty Cheese. She was active in the community as a lifetime member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary in Hustisford, the VFW Auxiliary in Watertown and volunteered for many years with Turner Hall. She was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Watertown for over 80 years where she enjoyed regularly attending Bible study. She recently became a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church Salem-Lowell.

Luanna enjoyed gardening, watching the birds at her bird feeders, putting together puzzles, traveling and playing cards with her family. She loved animals and always had house finches, a big fish tank and most recently her dog, Buddy. Polka music was often playing on the radio at Luanna’s home, and in her younger years she and Walter enjoyed square dancing. Luanna was an active 4-H club leader while raising her daughters, which has led to her grandchildren and many of her great-grandchildren also being active in 4-H.

Luanna is survived by her daughters, Susan (Robert) Smithson, Christine (Roy) Schmitt and Karen (DuWayne) Grosenick; grandchildren, James Smithson, Walter Smithson, Amanda (Tony) Rennhack, Allan (Kayla) Schmitt, Amy (Jay) Panetti, Teresa (Ralph) Stowell, Crystal (Brandon) Soldner, Kimberley (Kurt) Swanson, Sarah (Lance) Jaeckel, Lisa (James) Schwartz, and Stacy (Daniel Moore) Grosenick; 29 great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Luanna is preceded in death by her husband, parents, her brothers, Martin (Gertie), Fred, and Robert Schultz and her sister, Lorraine Fuchs.

Obituary Preview: Clifford James Schuett, 82, of Watertown passed away peacefully in his sleep at Rainbow Hospice on Sunday, April 21, 2024.

Clifford James Schuett was born May 4th 1941 in Weyauwega, Wisconsin to Harold and Elizabeth (McHugh) Schuett. He was the oldest of 18 children. Cliff attended Watertown High School, MATC and MSOE. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam era. On November 5, 1966 he married Dianne B. Cromey. He was employed at Eaton Corporation for 43 years as a Quality Control Technician. He was a Watertown Police Service Officer for 20 years. Cliff was one of Watertown’s first EMT’s certified on Nov 11, 1973. He was a member of the Izaak Walton League, serving at the WI State level for many years.

He was a member of Ebenezer Moravian Church.

He was an avid softball and volleyball player, having played on many different teams. He loved the outdoors, camping, hunting, fishing. What he really liked was all the fishing trips to Canada with friends. He especially liked hunting with his very good friend and buddy Ray (Lucky) Lasanski.

He is survived by his wife, Dianne and children Suzzanne (Rodger) Dettmann, Bonnie (Alan) Othmer, Charles (Karen Delaney) Schuett & Pamela (Mark) Follon. Grandchildren-Tucker & Mathias Schuett, Bryan, Kyle & Noah Othmer, Sheridan Dettmann & Chas (Darcie) & Seth Dodge. Great-grandchildren-Calli Dodge & Henry Schuett. Further survived by siblings: Glen (Elda), Norbert (Lois), Lucille (Donovan) Stratman, Nancy (Robert) Margelofsky, Virginia Justman, Edward (Linda), Stephen (Eva Quest), Sharon (Robert) Uelmen, Howard (Gloria), Roger (Lori), Martha Achterberg, Helen (Roger) Zubke, James, Carl (Debra) & Doris Hoeft. Further survived by sister-in-law Barbara Schuett, numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives & friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents & in-laws Archie & Alice Cromey, brothers Kenneth & Neal and brother-in-law Richard Justmann.

The family would like to extend a huge thank you to Rainbow Hospice of Johnson Creek for their exceptional care and kindness while caring for him. Memorials, if desired may be designated to Rainbow Hospice in Johnson Creek. We would also like to thank Pastor Katie Van der Linden and the church family for the visits, cards and prayers.

Obituary Preview: Craig "Kelly" Loppnow, a master craftsman and beloved family member, passed away Friday, April 19, 2024. Kelly was born on October 6, 1956, in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, to Wilmer Walter Loppnow and Vonda Lee Goheen Loppnow, and his talents and heart touched many throughout his life.

From his teenage years, Kelly was deeply rooted in the traditions of farming and cattle raising. His love for the land was evident in his meticulous care for his gardens and flowers. A graduate of Watertown High School, Kelly was known for his exceptional skill in woodworking and building. He began his craft early, learning from his father and eventually working across numerous subdivisions, showcasing his fine attention to detail and commitment to quality in every project he undertook. From transforming challenging living spaces into unique, comfortable homes to creating intricate backyard water features, Kelly’s work was not only a profession but a passion.

Beyond his craftsmanship, Kelly was inventive from a young age. Whether repurposing an old washing machine motor into a go-cart or fixing and painting a manure spreader, his creativity knew no bounds. Like his father and grandfather before him, Kelly excelled in understanding and fixing things, skilled in carpentry, electrical, and plumbing, with a knack for mechanics. His problem-solving skills were unmatched. He never stopped learning and growing.

Kelly was a lifelong member of St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church, where he was baptized, confirmed, and united in marriage to Pamela Aylward.

Kelly's devotion to his family was profound. He loved his children dearly, and their distance in later years deeply affected him. His affection was not bounded by distance, however, as he held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, eagerly passing on his knowledge and skills to them. His time with his grandson, Payton, was cherished deeply, enriching his journey into the world of computers. Kelly cherished the moments spent with Stellah, his granddaughter in every way that mattered. Their special bond was highlighted by their hamburger-making sessions, which he always proclaimed to be 'the best ever.' Kelly's life was marked by his love for others, particularly during difficult times. During her illness, Kelly dedicated himself wholeheartedly to caring for his significant other, Kathy Freitag, embodying his belief in strong, enduring love. Despite personal losses, including his significant other Kathy, daughter Roberta Morales, and his sister Claudia within a short span, his spirit remained unbroken, and his capacity for love undiminished. As a friend and neighbor, Kelly was the epitome of dependability. Always ready to lend a hand, he never hesitated to offer assistance whenever called upon. Above all, Kelly was generous to a fault. His willingness to offer the very shirt off his back or his last dime to help someone in need was a testament to his giving nature.

Kelly was known for his wit and humor, a spirited joker who brought laughter from his youth through to his later years, often sharing stories that brought laughter and joy to those around him. In his spare time, Kelly enjoyed watching old westerns, especially Gunsmoke. A natural on the dance floor, he moved with a grace and enthusiasm that brought joy to all who watched him.

Kelly is survived by his children, Michael Loppnow (Bethany) of Cape Coral; special children of Kathy's, Chantel Else of Delafield and Lucas (Amanda) Freitag of Watertown; grandchildren Payton Loppnow and Alexis Morales of Cape Coral; special grandchildren of Kathy's, Cody Else, Noelle Else, and Stellah Freitag. His legacy continues through his siblings, Lila (Jerry) Binder of Pewaukee, Janifer (Warren) Schmidt of Mapleton, Claude (Sharon) Loppnow of Watertown, and Dade Loppnow of Oconomowoc, alongside many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Predeceased by his parents Wilmer and Vonda, daughter Roberta, significant other Kathy Freitag, and sisters Nola (Jim) Klomberg and Claudia (Dennis) Schuhmacher, Kelly's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Obituary Preview: David O. Stendel, 86, of Oconomowoc, passed away on April 15, 2024 at Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital.

David Otto Stendel was born on March 8, 1938 to Arthur and Helena (nee Thoemke) Stendel on the family homestead he currently resided in. He was a graduate of Johnson Creek High School and was drafted and served in the United States Army. On May 22, 1965 he married Beverly Stark at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Lebanon. He farmed on the family farm most of his life and worked for Carnation in Oconomowoc, retiring after 33 years. He then worked for the Concord Township. Dave enjoyed traveling and gardening but most of all loved spending time with his family.

Dave is survived by his wife, Beverly "Bev" Stendel of Oconomowoc; children: Cyril Stendel of East Troy, Sally (Edward) Leis of Watertown, Karen (Patrick) Doyle of Lake Zurich, IL; grandchildren: Jacob (Tiffany) Stendel, Heather Stendel, Nate Leis, Becca Leis, Sean Doyle; sister-in-law, Marilyn Stendel; as well as many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Alfred Stendel, Ralph Stendel, and twin brother Donald Stendel.

Obituary Preview: Thomas "Tom" E. Zerjav, 75, of Watertown, passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Watertown Regional Medical Center.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Casey’s on Q in Richwood, Wisconsin.

Thomas "Tom" Elmer Zerjav was born January 22, 1949, in Watertown, the son of John and Hedwig (nee Schumacher) Zerjav. Tom graduated from Watertown High School in 1967. With a passion for craftsmanship, Tom excelled in concrete work and carpentry. He enjoyed repairing cars and riding motorcycles.

Tom is survived by his sons, Braden and Benjamin Zerjav; grandchildren, Allison and Nicholas Zerjav; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Gray; sister, Joanne Olsen; brother, David Zerjav; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jim Zerjav.

Obituary Preview: Laurence Eugene Clark, 82, passed away on Friday April 5, 2024, at Rainbow Community Care, Johnson Creek. He was born on August 31, 1941, the son of Leonard and Marguerite Clark in LaCrosse, Wi. Larry graduated from LaCrosse Central High School excelling in football and track. He enlisted in the Navy, completing Hospital Corp School in Great Lakes, IL and served as a medic in the Pensacola Naval Hospital. He then was attached to the Marine Corps in Camp Pendleton and was reassigned to a Marine Fleet Force in Okinawa and thought, “Where the hell is Okinawa?” His service also brought him to the Philippines, Japan, Borneo, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. After his military service he graduated from UW-LaCrosse and was hired by Gateway Transportation in the Personnel Department and rose to Vice President of Industrial Relations. After Gateway was bought out by Maislin Trucking, he joined Neuendorf Transportation, ANR and several other trucking firms working in Sales and as Transportation Manager. After retiring from the trucking industry, he joined St Coletta in Jefferson, Wi as Transportation Manager. “This was one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my career.”

Larry was an active member of the Rock Lake Improvement Association and the Joint Rock Lake Committee. He was also a proud member of the American Legion and was a Crew Chief of the slider stand. Early on, he enjoyed skiing and boating and later gardening, golfing and playing sheepshead with his friends. He was a real “foodie”; no distance was too far to travel for a worthy food item or restaurant. He also travelled extensively with his wife, Julie, to all 50 states, Europe, Brazil, Panama and the Caribbean.

Larry will be dearly missed by his wife, Julie Clark of Lake Mills; his sons, Patrick (Kim) Clark of Oak Creek, Wayde (Jill) Hughey of Waunakee; daughters, Kristi (Joe) DeMeneghi of Minnetonka, Jill (Michael) Radke of Lake Mills, Ann (Tom) Brezenski of Oconomowoc; grandchildren, Megan (Matt) Larson and Miranda (Josh) Lentz of Racine, Mitchell Clark of Oak Creek, Tatiana and Viviana DeMeneghi of Minnetonka, Kelsey Brezenski of Sacramento CA, Drew Brezenski of Madison, Mckenna, Connor and Ian Hughey of Waunakee; two great-grandchildren, Oliver Lentz and Phoebe Larson of Racine. He is also survived by his brother, Charles (Jeanette) Clark of Punta Gorda, FL and brother-in-law, Frank (Mary) Sacho of Cedarburg. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Judy Welch and granddaughter, Melissa Clark.

Obituary Preview: Rev. Ralph Erwin Scharf was the eldest child of Rev. Prof. Erwin and Irene (Zarling) Scharf, born on May 19, 1942, in Hartford, WI. Through the hands of his earthly father in Slinger, WI, Ralph was reborn by water and the Word of Holy Baptism and received into the family of his heavenly Father. Ralph was confirmed in his Christian faith at Zion Lutheran Church in Rhinelander, WI, in the spring of 1956. Shortly after his confirmation, the Scharf family moved to Watertown, where Ralph's father had accepted a divine call to serve as professor at Northwestern College. Ralph continued his Christian education and training for pastoral ministry at Northwestern Preparatory School, graduating in 1960. He matriculated at Northwestern College on the same Watertown campus. His college years are well summarized by this excerpt from the 1964 commencement issue of Northwestern's student magazine The Black and Red: "Ralph is one of the few from Watertown in the senior class. Being a "P.K." (Professor's Kid) and not living on campus, however, has not kept him from being an active participant in nearly all of Northwestern's extracurricular activities. He has played four years of football as a defensive end and kicker, four years of baseball as a pitcher, and four years of basketball, filling in wherever needed. In addition to his sporting activities, he has also been a member of the Male Chorus all four years, twice having been chosen to go on tour, was elected president of the Mixed Chorus for three of the four years that he has been a member of it, and has spent four years as a member of the Glee Club. This summer Ralph will again work for the Watertown Recreation Department as the head life-guard at the Riverside Park Pool. On his days off he will probably be walking down the fairways on the golf course trying to trim a few more strokes from his score. In fall he will join his classmates at the Seminary in Mequon."

After graduation from Northwestern College in 1964, Ralph continued his training at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. Having spent his vicar year at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Winona, MN, Ralph graduated in May of 1968 and was assigned to start a mission church in Davenport, IA. Before heading to the Quad Cities, Ralph was joined in Christian marriage to Annette (Nettie) L. Boldt at Jerusalem Lutheran Church in Morton Grove, IL by their fathers - Rev. Prof. Erwin Scharf and Rev. George Boldt. Beastly hot, humid weather and stomach bug notwithstanding, in a double wedding with Nettie's sister, Rachel (Lynn) Schroeder, Ralph and Nettie were wed and off to their honeymoon and then Iowa, in short order. Ralph occasionally said, "Don't say 'yes' to one blessing from God without being ready to say 'yes' to another." The Lord saw fit to bless their marriage with fourteen children. In other words, gladly saying "yes," and receiving a heritage from the LORD (Psalm 127:3).

Ralph's pastoral ministry spanned nearly half a century during which he served three different congregations: Gethsemane Lutheran, Davenport, IA (1968-1974), Good Shepherd's Lutheran, West Allis, WI (1974-2009), and Living Water Lutheran, Hot Springs Village, AR (2009-2018). He also served the Wisconsin Synod at large as a Milwaukee area circuit pastor, a member of the synod's Board of Trustees, and as chairman of the governing board of Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. His life was dedicated to sharing the good news of sins forgiven and heaven won in Christ alone - preaching, teaching, counseling, and equipping God's people not just for life on earth, but ultimately to stand beside their Savior forever, an existence that we can only see but through a mirror dimly (1 Corinthians 13:12), but one Ralph now fully knows.

Some of the happiest times of Ralph's earthly life were spent with his bride, Nettie, and their children, 56 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Most notable were the summer weeks the family spent (often) in Cabin 1 at 7-Mile Pinecrest Resort in Eagle River, WI. Whether boating, swimming, visiting, or craft beer tasting, time at the cabin with his family was most precious. But his greatest pleasure was to be able to proclaim Christ to his family and to have no greater joy than to know that his children are walking in the truth (3 John 4).

At home on the morning of April 3, 2024, Ralph fell asleep in Jesus. The family grieves, yet not as those without hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13), because Christ is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, and our hope in Christ is not for this life alone, but for eternity (1 Corinthians 15:20). Ralph is survived by his bride, Nettie, and thirteen children: Rebecca (Rev. John) Koelpin, Katherine (Rev. Larry) Schlomer, Deborah (Hans) Dumke, Rev. Jonathan (Janette) Scharf, Angela Scharf, Rev. Prof. David (Beth) Scharf, Cynthia (Rev. Andrew) Johnston, Rev. Nathanael (Hannah) Scharf, Benjamin (Maria) Scharf, Juliana (Benjamin) Gentz, Rev. Matthew (Rachel) Scharf, Charissa (Rev. Ross) Chartrand, and Annette (Christopher) Mundstock. He is also survived by two sisters: Charlotte (Paul) Wiley and Madeline (Thomas) Horton. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents: Erwin and Irene (nee Zarling) Scharf, a daughter: Erika Scharf, a grandson: Nathanael Schlomer, and a sister: Helen (Henry) Meyer.

Cemented to Christ Jesus in Holy Baptism, Ralph's whole life was bound up with the One who promised, "Because I live, you too, shall live," (John 14:19) the One he now sees face to face in glory everlasting. With joyful hope in the resurrection, we give thanks that Ralph's labors in the Lord were not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58), and only by God's undeserved love does he now hear heaven's welcome, "Well done, good and faithful servant...Come and share your Master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:23).

Obituary Preview: Marion L. Otto, 97, of Watertown, passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Park Ridge.

Marion Lorraine Weihert was born April 26, 1926, in the town of Portland, WI, the daughter of George and Zelma (Lafler) Weihert. She graduated from Reeseville High School in 1946 and attended Marion College. Marion met Harry Otto while bowling and the two fell in love. They were married on July 10, 1948, at First Reformed Church in Watertown. Marion worked at Village Blacksmith for many years, and later at Berres Brothers. Marion loved the great outdoors. She enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping. She loved going up north to their place in Hazelhurst. Marion loved bowling and traveled across the country to compete.

Marion is survived by her sister, Sally Westphal; brother-in-law, Jim Peschel; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Marion is preceded in death by her husband; parents; and siblings, Bessie (Charles) Wolfgram, Judy Peschel, and Mae Weihert.

Obituary Preview: Prudence N. Mandel, 89, of Watertown, passed away on Monday, March 25th, 2024.

Prudence Nancy Mandel was born on March 31, 1934 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of Michele and Carmela (nee Russo) Marino. She graduated from Lincoln High School. She met Duane R. Mandel when she was a secretary at Cutler Hammer in Milwaukee and they were united in marriage on July 25th, 1959. They moved to Watertown in 1963. Prudence was a homemaker and kept a spotless home and was a loving mother and grandmother. She was well known for her cooking and baking skills and was very generous with them. You never left hungry after a visit with her.

Prudence is survived by her children Tammy Ann (Doug) Kester and Mark Leo (Lynn) Mandel; grandchildren Michael, Matthew (Natalia), Mason, Ryan (Alexis), Ellie (R.J.), and Jennifer; brother John Marino, sister-in-law Vivian Marino, and cousins Patsy Nelson and John (Mary) Famularo, as well as nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brothers Salvatore and Joseph, sisters-in-law Leona, and Karen, and cousin-in-law Leroy Nelson.

Obituary Preview: In the vibrant heart of Cincinnati, under winter's gentle sky,

On the fifteenth of January, a baby's first cry. Rebecca Korrin Bielinski, known to most as Becca,

A soul of pure warmth, a true life reflector. She danced through the years with grace and with poise,

With music and art, she shared her own voice. At Jefferson High, she shone bright and true,

A student, a friend, in skies of deep blue. Becca's voice was a whisper that could calm any sea,

In her minor roles, she set countless hearts free. The world was her stage, though the spotlight was mild,

Each word she'd record, pure and beguiled. Her joys were quite simple, yet profoundly deep,

In the kitchen, a dance, as she seasoned and seeped. With a tune in her heart and a brush in her hand,

She painted her life, bold and unplanned. Shopping was more than a mere spree for attire,

It was seeking the treasures that sparked her inner fire. Each find, a gem in her life's mosaic,

A blend of the vibrant, the classic, the chic. Wisconsin's calm lakes held her final days' peace,

Where nature's own whispers never cease. March twenty-fourth, twenty-four, the curtains gently closed,

Becca, embraced by serenity, in tranquility she reposed. Sarah, her mother, with pride and with tears,

Remembers her Becca, through the joyous years. Extended family, a tapestry wide,

Fondly recall her with love, undenied. Natural causes, a tender night's sleep,

Took her from the earthly bonds we so deeply keep. Yet in each note, each color, each savory meal,

Becca's essence remains, her spirit we feel. A tapestry of memories, in hearts she resides,

A symphony of moments, as time onwards glides. Rebecca Korrin Bielinski, a name that sings,

A soul taking flight, now on celestial wings. So here's to Becca, with her heart so vast,

Her memory, her joy, forever will last. For though the stars claim her in their gentle embrace,

Her life's melody lingers, in this temporal space.

Obituary Preview: Meredith A. Zoller, 89, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully at her home on March 23, 2024 with her family by her side.

Meredith was born October 30, 1934, in Wiota, WI, daughter of Elmer and Charlotte (Mason) Thorson. On January 23, 1955, Meredith married Ludwig Zoller in Woodford, WI. Meredith and Lud moved to the Lebanon area in 1956 where they raised their family. The two worked side-by-side as cheesemakers for 40 years. Meredith also worked at Lindberg/SPX for 11 years. She enjoyed family gatherings, summer camp-outs in her backyard, and watching the birds gather at her feeders.

Meredith is survived by her children, Terry (Patty) Zoller, Cindy (Dave) Schueler, Mike (Rosy) Zoller, Lori (Dale) Kuehl, Janet (Tom) Buska; 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mary Thorson and Kay Thorson; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1997; son, Timmy; daughter, Susie; brothers, Jack Thorson and Gene Thorson; brothers-in-law, Gene Zoller and Floyd Trumpy; sister-in-law, Elaine Trumpy.

Obituary Preview: Nathan Paul Carlson, 46, of Milwaukee, passed away on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024 at his home.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 11:00 a.m. at Hafemeister Funeral Home in Watertown with Pastor Dean Noonan of Faith Baptist Church in Oak Creek officiating. Burial will follow at Ebenezer Moravian Cemetery in Watertown. Family and friends may gather at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.