1

Bio: Beckman, Lucianne (Engagement – Nov 1975)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Beckman, Boardman

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., Wis.) 11 Dec 1975

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Beckman, Lake Mills, Wisconsin are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Lucianne, to Rich Boardman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Boardman, Thorp.

Both Lucianne and Rich are attending the University of Wisconsin, Stout at Menomonie. Lucianne is completing undergraduate work in the Interior Decorating program. Rich is completing his graduate studies in School Psychology.

A spring wedding is being planned.

2

Bio: Heck, Vicki Lynn (Engagement – Nov 1975)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Heck, Kosik

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., Wis.) 11 Dec 1975

Mr. and Mrs. Earl Heck, Route 3, Chippewa Falls, are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Vicki Lynn, to Daniel J. Kosik, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kosik, Route 3, Thorp, Wisconsin.

A May 1976 wedding is being planned.

3

Obit: Kliminski, Anna (1894 – 1975)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Kliminski, Jakowicz, Zawacki, Sypniewski, Ogurek, Pszeniczny, Jarocki, Rippert

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., Wis.) 11 Dec 1975

Kliminski, Anna (15 Aug 1894 – 28 Nov 1975)

Anna Kliminski, 81, died Friday, November 28, 1975 at the Clark County Health and Care Center of a stroke.

Mrs. Kliminski was born August 15, 1894 in Poland. She was married November 5, 1912 in Poland to John Kliminski, who passed away in 1962. They came to the states in December of 1912, residing in St. Louis, Missouri for a while, then coming to the Thorp area, where they farmed in the township of Withee, and in 1940 moved to the city of Thorp.

Surviving are one son, Chester of Last Alamitos, California; one daughter, Mary Jakowicz of Thorp; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, William and Stanley Zawacki of Thorp, and one sister, Elizabeth Sypniewski of Chicago.

Funeral services were held at St. Hedwig’s Chapel on Monday, December 1, 1975 at 10:30 a.m., with Father Bill officiating. Burial was made in New St. Hedwig’s Cemetery. Pallbearers were Justin J. Jakowicz, grandson, Ted Zawacki, Frank Ogurek, Frank Zawacki and Ed Psyzeniczny, nephews, and Ben Jarocki.

Relatives attending the funeral from out-of-town were Mr. and Mrs. John Sypniewski of Chicago, Robert and Donald Sypniewski of Oak Lawn, Illinois, Frank Zawacki, of Rockford, Illinois, Alice Rippert of Sun Prairie, also from Withee and Eau Claire.

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Bio: Hribar, Ronald – Family Home Burns (14 Dec 1975)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Hribar

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., Wis.) 18 Dec 1975

A rural Greenwood family was left homeless after a fire destroyed their home and its contents about 6:30 p.m. Sunday, December 14, 1975.

The two-story home of Ronald Hribar, Route 2, Greenwood, burned to the ground after a fire started sometime between 5 and 6:30 p.m. Cause of the fire is not yet determined, but electrical failure is suspected. The fire was discovered by a neighbor, who called the Greenwood Volunteer Fire Department at 6:30 p.m. They were on the scene for 3 hours.

The family, including two daughters and a son, spent the weekend in Milwaukee, and returned about one hour after the fire started. The only possession saved were clothes they had with them. The house was partially insured.

5

Obit: Graikowski, Josephine (1884 - 1975)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Graikowski, Lesniewski, Arndt, Wiater, Jasinek, Puerner, Przybylski, Grajek

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., Wis.) 18 Dec 1975

Graikowski, Josephine (10 May 1884 - 11 Dec 1975)

Josephine Graikowski, 91, died at the Clark County Rest Home of old age on Thursday, December 11, 1975.

Josephine Lesniewski was born May 10, 1884 in Pennsylvania.  She united in marriage to Michael Graikowski on January 19, 1902

at St. Hedwig's Church, Thorp, Wisconsin.  They farmed in Withee Township until their retirement in 1943.

Surviving are her husband, Michael; two sons, John Graikowski of Thorp and Mike Graikowski of Chicago; two daughters, (Sophie) Mrs. Henry

Arndt, (Evelyn) Mrs. Adam Wiater; 22 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild; two brothers, Michael Lesniewski of Milwaukee, (it didn't say who the other brother was); one sister (Edna) Mrs. Frank Jasinek.  She was preceded in death by one son and one daughter.

Funeral services were held at St. Hedwig's Chapel on Monday, December 15 at 10:30 a.m., with Father Puerner officiating.  Burial was in Old St. Hedwig's Cemetery.  Pallbearers were: Frank Lesniewski, Frank Jasinek, Florian Przybylski, Celestine Wiater, Grandsons, Brian Jarocki, Great-grandson, and Clemence Grajek, grandsons.

6

Obit: Zak, Betty (1934 – 2023)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Zak, Mueller, Zawislan, Feldbruegge, Kollmansberger

----Source: Bruce Tessmer Obituary Write-Up

In Loving Memory of Elizabeth Helen “Betty” Zak

Betty Zak, born to John and Helen Mueller on October 6, 1934, in Dorchester, Wisconsin, peacefully departed this world on November 23, 2023. She was united in marriage with Victor Zak on August 15, 1953, at the Peace United Church of Christ in Dorchester. Their love story began at an Easter Dance in Stetsonville, and together they embarked on a life journey, farming in rural Dorchester, and nurturing a growing family. Betty and Victor celebrated their union with a honeymoon adventure through the western states and Yellowstone National Park.

Family was the cornerstone of Betty’s life. A devoted wife and mother, she lovingly raised her four children: Vicky, Gregory, Karla, and Bonnie. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought immeasurable joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Betty’s warm and welcoming nature made family gatherings the heart of her existence. Betty’s love for travel was as boundless as her spirit. From camping adventures with family and friends to exploring Europe, Mexico, Hawaii, and various corners of the United States she embraced the beauty of the world.

A 1952 graduate of Dorchester High School, Betty continues her journey in 1953, attending Cosmetology school in Eau Claire. Becoming a talented beautician, her career blossomed across Wausau, Athens, Medford, Colby, and Dorchester before finding its home in Abbotsford, where she established Fireside Beauty Salon in her home. Her dedication to her craft endured until her retirement at the age of 80.

Betty’s zest for life extended beyond her professional pursuits. She reveled in playing cards, enjoyed bowling with friends, baking and was a founding member of the Green Acres Homemakers Club in 1973. Her infectious positivity and cheerful demeanor were a testament to her active involvement in the Peace United Church of Christ in Dorchester, where she served and volunteered.

Betty and her husband, Victor, shared a passion for snowmobiling, and together they were active members of the Midnight Riders Snowmobile Club for many years.

An avid painter, Betty found solace and expression in both oil and watercolors. Her artistic spirit was reflected in the vibrant strokes that mirrored her vibrant personality. Whether tending to the farm in rural Dorchester until 1979 or riding bicycles around Abbotsford with her grandchildren, Betty embraced each chapter of life with enthusiasm.

Betty Zak’s legacy is one of love, joy, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. She will be remembered for her radiant smile, bubbly nature, and the positive impact she made on the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.  May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Betty is survived by her husband: Victor as well as her children: Vicky Kollmansberger, Gregory Zak, Karla (Joe) Feldbruegge and Bonnie (Lenny) Zawislan, 13 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents and a half-brother: Christ Mueller.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at First United Church of Christ in Colby on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Reverend Teri Hanson will officiate. Interment will follow at Dorchester North Memorial Cemetery.

Family and friends are welcome from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at the church.

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Obit: Denk, Beverly Jean (1928 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Denk, Erickson, Haueser, Swiggum, Ruano Kehrberg, Hales

----Source: Crematory of Wisconsin (Altoona, Eau Claire Co., WI) 12/4/2023

Denk, Beverly Jean (11 February 1928 – 1 December 2023)

Beverly Jean Denk (Haueser), 95, passed away peacefully at her apartment home at the Neillsville Community Center Dec. 1, 2023. Beverly was born in Greenwood, Feb. 11, 1928, to George and Alma (Erickson) Haueser. She attended Greenwood schools and was married June 23, 1948, to Bernard Denk. During her lifetime, Bev worked at the Greenwood Co-op, Farmers’ Store, Greenwood Legion Hall, F&M Bank and the Greenwood City Hall.

Beverly is survived by her three sons, Dennis (Connie) Denk, Steven (Patti) Denk and Russell (Linda) Denk; her two daughters, Debra Swiggum and Marla (Edward) Ruano; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Beverly was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Bernard Denk; sisters, Audrey (Wilbur) Kehrberg and Joyce (Merle) Hales; brother Garth (Jean) Haueser; granddaughter Lauren Swiggum; and grandson Mitchell Denk.

Beverly was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and a friend to so many. She enjoyed walking, reading, playing cards, garage sales, attending church services and sharing laughs over cocktails with friends and family. Beverly lived her life unselfishly, always looking for things she could do for the church and others.

A small funeral service will be held for family only, followed by a celebration of life for all family and friends at a later date. Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona, is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be shared to www.cremationsociety-wi.com. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Beverly Joan Denk, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

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Obit: Durst, Suzanne M. (1950 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Durst, Eisberner, Schutz, Rast, Quicker, Boushon, Michaud

----Source: Gesche Funeral Home (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 12/5/2023

Durst, Suzanne M. (20 June 1950 – 2 December 2023)

Suzanne M. Durst, 73, formerly of Neillsville, died on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the Augusta Health and Rehab in Augusta.

Suzanne Marie Durst was born on June 20, 1950, to Ivan and Gertrude (Eisberner) Durst in Black River Falls. She graduated from Fairchild High School in 1968 and waitressed for Horswill's Café for many years. She also took tickets at the Theatre in Neillsville and worked in Dr. Gungor's office. She eventually went to work for Memorial Medical Center in Neillsville in the food service department cooking and baking. She retired in 2010 due to health reasons. Suzanne was united in marriage to Charles Schutz, they later divorced. Suzanne loved bowling, playing darts, shopping and taught herself to play the organ. Her nieces and nephews loved listening to her play.

She is survived by her daughter, Melissa Rast of Medford, siblings; Kenneth (Melinda) Durst of Neillsville, Evelyn Quicker of Granton, Carol (Steve) Boushon of Granton, Allen Durst of Neillsville and Charles (Pam) Durst of Neillsville and many nieces and nephews.

Suzanne is preceded in death by her parents, a brother-in-law, Butch Quicker and sister-in-law, Anne Durst.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville. The Very Rev. Greg Michaud will be the celebrant. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at St. Mary's Catholic Church Tuesday morning. Burial will take place at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Fairchild, WI.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.  The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Suzanne's family with funeral arrangements.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Suzanne Durst, please visit our flower store.

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Obit: Herington, Diane L (1949 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Herington, Mueller, Wolk, Johnson, Flink, Golbach, Woik

----Source: Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home (Owen, Clark Co., WI) 12/4/2023

Herington, Diane L. (17 September 1949 - 2 December 2023)

Diane L. Herington, age 74, of Owen, passed away peacefully at home in the arms of her loving husband, Larry, on December 2, 2023.

Diane was born on September 17, 1949, the daughter of Ralph and Elsie (Mueller) Woik in Marshfield. She attended Beehive Country School and graduated from Owen-Withee High School where she met the love of her life. On January 25, 1969, Diane was united in marriage to Larry Herington in Colby. Following marriage, Diane was a housewife and kept books alongside Larry at Tri-County Equipment. After several years, she became an assistant at Thorp Dental and later worked as a Realtor for Woodland Realty.

Diane was active in her church and within the community, including the Lions Club, Legion, and the Owen-Withee Elementary School. She enjoyed playing golf and gardening, viewing and partaking in the theater, and was an avid reader. The “Wordle Queen” was always up for a game of Skip-Bo or a trip to the mall. She loved attending her grandchildren’s functions, whether it was watching them play on the field/court or perform on the stage. Diane also loved traveling the world, walking on the beach, collecting shells and cherishing the sunsets. She thoroughly enjoyed her socializing with family and friends, especially “Wine-not-Wednesday”. Most importantly, Diane loved her family and was proud of her daughters. You were sure to be greeted by her with a friendly smile and warm hug. Her seasonally decorated home was always open to family and friends.

Diane is survived by her loving husband of almost 55 years, Larry; three daughters: Kari (Mike) Johnson of Fall Creek, Tina Herington of Janesville and Lara (Luke) Johnson of Fall Creek; her seven grandchildren: Brett (Makayla) Johnson, Kendra Johnson, Justine Flink, Logan Flink, Breanne Johnson, Madisen Johnson and Larissa Johnson; three great-grandchildren: Jordie Johnson, Myles Johnson and James Golbach-Flink; her brother Duane (Betsy) Woik of Portland, OR; her sister-in-law, Kris Woik of Colby and her daughters, Elise Woik of Abbotsford and Hannah Woik of Milwaukee; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Denis Woik.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at the Owen-Withee High School Gym with Rev. Phil Beukema officiating. Family and friends are welcome from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 9 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Withee and from 12:00 p.m. until time of service Sunday at the school. A live stream will be available for those unable to attend on the Maurina Schilling Funeral Home Facebook page or after the service anytime on Facebook or the website.

The family would like to thank the first responders, Owen-Withee and Spirit ambulance services, and staff at Marshfield Medical Center. We appreciate your efforts and compassion during our time of need.

In lieu of flowers and plants, Memorials will be determined at a later date. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Diane, please visit our floral store.

10

Obit: Lindvig, Gustav Raymond “Gus” (1949 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Lindvig, Miller, Hoolihan, Runge, Sova, Rogers, Anderson, Franch Haas, Clish, Bogdonovich, Reinart, Stalsberg, Fromme, Neprud, Schroeder, Simpson, Stussey, Michaud

----Source: Gesche Funeral Home (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 12/4/2023

Lindvig, Gustav Raymond “Gus” (4 October 1949 – 2 December 2023)

Gustav Lindvig, age 74, of Neillsville, passed away Saturday, December 2, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Gustav Raymond Lindvig was born on October 4, 1949, in Webster, the son of Raymond and Rosemary (Miller) Lindvig. He graduated from Viroqua High School in Viroqua, in 1968 and then moved to Appleton, where he worked for the H.C. Prange Co. It was there that he met Connie Hoolihan. They were united in marriage on October 19, 1968, in Appleton. Gus then began working for Kools Bros. in Appleton, as a welder, manufacturing farm equipment. He worked at Kools for several years before going to M-I Drilling Fluids in Appleton, where he eventually worked in their maintenance department. Gus and Connie moved to Neillsville in 2001. He worked at Nelson Global Products in Black River Falls, before retiring in 2022.

Gus enjoyed being in the woods, deer hunting, collecting Morel mushrooms, cutting wood to keep Connie warm, watching his Packers, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gus had a silly side and loved to make his grandchildren and great grandchildren laugh, there was never a doubt about how much he loved and enjoyed every minute with them. In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing and bowling. He was an incredible bowler earning numerous trophies and his "300" games.

He is survived by his wife, Connie, three children, Tina Runge of Newberg, OR, Heidi (Kent) Sova of Neenah, and Gustav (Sara) Lindvig of Neillsville, seven grandchildren, Lydia Runge, Jack Runge, Hailey Rogers, Ashli Lindvig, Grady Allen, Lilli Lindvig and Alli Lindvig, seven great grandchildren, Cecilia, Violet, William, Mallory, Charlie, Carsyn and Henry, his mother, Rosemary Anderson of Marshfield; 13 siblings, Helen French, Julie (Richard) Haas, Jackie Clish, Jody (Randy) Bogdonovich, Jill (Lee) Reinart, John (Linda) Stalsberg, Mona (Glen) Fromme, Phillip Neprud, Douglas (Patricia) Schroeder, Vicki Simpson, Ray Lindvig, Gregory Lindvig, Cheryl Stussey, Pat Lindvig, Leland Lindvig, and his fur babies Tia and Toto.

He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Lindvig, stepfather John Stalsberg, brothers Kevin Lindvig and Stephen Lindvig.

A Memorial Service for Gus will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 9, 2023, at the Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville. Fr. Greg Michaud will officiate. Gus's family will greet friends and relatives from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Saturday at the Gesche Funeral Home.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.  The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Gus's family with funeral arrangements.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Gustav "Gus" Lindvig, please visit our flower store.