1966-2024 Denise J. Schwarz, age 57 of Park Falls, was tragically taken away from her family on Saturday, April 13, 2024. She was born on Aug. 24, 1966 to the late David and Donna Sotak. She was a bartender in Medford, a DJ and worked in quality control at Abbyland in Curtiss for many years. In 2019, she moved to Tennessee and worked in quality control for Swaggerty Sausage. Denise moved back to Wisconsin in 2022 to be closer to family and better healthcare. Denise loved her grandkids and would do anything for them. They knew her only as their Grandma D. She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed nature, working, crocheting and talking on the phone. Some other things she liked to do were road tripping with Kevin to find the best bloody Mary’s. Her favorite color was purple and flowers were roses and pussy willows. She is survived by her children, Steven Sotak (significant other Michelle) of Merrill, Ashley Sotak of Wausau, Kevin Baughman of Wausau, Mona Baughman (significant other Theodore) of Medford, Randall Baughman (significant other Jolee) of Sheldon, Billie (Wendall) Zeiset of Stanley and Sierra (Zachary) Voldberg of Hawkins; grandchildren, Kami, Easton, Winter, Leah, Lilli, Zavieriella, Ethan, Wyatt, Chase, Tayla, Willow, Jaxon and Sadie; her dog Cooper; and her friend and ex-husband Bruce Schwarz. She is further survived by other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death are her parents, brother, Douglas; maternal grandparents, Norman (Joyce) Wicke; and paternal grandparents, Anthony (Rita) Sotak. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the Jump River Christ Community Church, W14616 State Hwy 73, Sheldon with Pastor Dick Chromy officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service. A meal will be served immediately after. Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com. Paid Obituary 151461

1928-2024 Florence J. Hein, 96, of Medford passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024 at her residence, under the care of Hope Hospice and her family. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Florence was born on Jan. 14, 1928 to Sherman and Beulah (Donaldson) Higgins in the township of Molitor. She attended Medford area schools. She married Calvin R. Hein on Nov. 29, 1947 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rib Lake; he preceded her in death in 1977. She worked at Memorial Hospital as a nurse’s aide and caretaker until her retirement. Florence always had a story to share and was willing to help everyone. She could see the beauty in the simple things and could describe them in great detail. She had a love for gardening, canning, baking, fishing, and berry picking. She loved her kids dearly and having them all together brought her so much joy. Florence is survived by her children, Cynthia (Mitch) Bormann of De Pere, Colleen Hass of Unity, Candace Hein of Venice, Fla., Robert (Mary) Hein of Medford, and Judith Hein-Schunke of Green Bay; 11 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren; brother, Roger Higgins. Florence is further survived by many other family and friends. Florence was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters, Genivive Gengler, Lorraine Gengler, Caroline Butler, and Marie Nelson; brothers, Glen and Richard Higgins; son-in-law, Larry Haas. The family would like to thank Hope Hospice for their tremendous care and support. In lieu of flowers, a tree may be planted in Florence’s name. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family. Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online. Paid Obituary 151737

1947-2024 Daniel Knorn, age 76 of Canon City, Colorado, formerly of Rib Lake, died April 8, 2024. A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m., Friday, July 12, 2024 at Hemer Pickerign Funeral Home in Medford. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Rib Lake. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Daniel was born June 2, 1947 to Anton & Emma Jean (Berg) Knorn. He grew up and went to school in Rib Lake. On Nov. 29, 1975, he married Dianne Dehne. They resided in Rib Lake and Daniel worked at Weather Shield for many years until his retirement. They moved to Colorado in 2018. Daniel enjoyed collecting Native American items, learning about trains, and watching mystery shows. He is survived by his wife, Dianne of Canon City, Colo.; daughters, Shirley Knorn of Medford, Loni Williams of Canon City, Colo.; siblings, Joseph (Jamie) Knorn of Rib Lake, Anthony (Peggy) Knorn of Green Bay, Philomena (Ron) Lechmaier of Milwaukee, Judith (Randy) Mullins of Texas; grandchildren, Maria, Dawn, Alexander, Kandace, Destiny, Lauren (Tanner), Elijah; great-grandchildren, Oliver, Esmerelda, Eleanor and Estella; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Ruth Koenig, Rosezella Rezutek, Deborah Knorn; and a daughter, Diane Knorn. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family. Please visit www. hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online. Paid Obituary 151739

1945-2024 grandmother to Alexis Prokop (Justin Potter), Celsey Weiss (Noah Weiss), Jacob Kostka (RJ Steck), Cole Carlsen (Rachel Turner), Kylie Kostka (Ashton Hoffman), Cordel Carlsen (Holly Carlsen), Jaxon Kostka, Lilyan Kostka, Mason Kostka, Jamison Kostka, and AnaLyn Kostka. She was also a beloved great-grandmother to Callen Prokop, Aryssa Potter, Ryker Weiss, Maverick Weiss, Zander Potter, Maddux Carlsen, and Maelyn Carlsen. Barbara is also survived by her brother, Stanley Malisheski, and many other loving family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Freda and William Malisheski; brothers, William (Billy) and Vincent; sister, Donna; and grandson, Joshua Prokop. A service to honor Barbara’s life will be held at St. John’s Catholic Church in Sheldon on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. with visitation starting at 9 a.m. Barbara will be remembered for her love of family, her adventurous spirit, and her kind heart. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her especially her husband, Robert of 60 years. Nash-Jackan Funeral Home is assisting the family. Paid Obituary 151621 Barbara Ellen Prokop (née Malisheski), 78, of Sheldon, passed away on April 19, 2024 under the care of Hope Hospice and Palliative Care. She was born on Oct. 12, 1945, in Donald, to the late Freda and William Malisheski and graduated from Gilman High School. Barbara enjoyed staying busy over the years in jobs where she could help others. From working at the Flambeau school to helping her husband farm she was always on the go. She loved traveling, watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren, reading, gardening, watching baseball, and camping. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert; children, William Prokop (Tina Ahlers), Beverley Carlsen (Mark Carlsen), Roberta Prokop Kostka (Jake Kostka), and Brian Prokop. Barbara was a cherished

1971-2024 Travis William Reich, 53, of Sheldon passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Travis was born March 20, 1971 to Bill and Jane Reich of Sheldon. He graduated from Gilman High School and moved to Milwaukee where he worked for some time. He then moved back to the Sheldon area and worked for Tony Lumber and Supply, Inc. for seventeen years. Travis’ greatest gift was the love and pride of his three sons. He was very proud of their work ethic, kindness, and devotion to family and friends. Travis is survived by his three sons, all of Sheldon, Brandon (Jenisa), Jackson (Kendra), and Tristan Reich. He is also survived by his brother, Nick (wife Joey); nephew, Sully; and niece, Lilly; sister, Cody (Larry); nephews, Kroy and Dax; and nieces, Zoey and Miranda. He is also survived by his mother, Jane Reich; aunts, Mary (Dick) Metnik and Cindy Johnson, both of Antigo; cousins, Tim (Kay) Metnik and family of Appleton, and Craig Metnik of Milwaukee; uncles, John (Mona) Wiacek of Sheldon and Clarence Reich of Sioux Falls, S.D.; cousins, Dave Wiacek (Sarah) and children of Sheldon; and Mindy (Brad) Carlsen and families of the Woodruff area. To say he will be missed is an understatement, how we will navigate this is unknown but with the LOVE and SUPPORT of our family and friends and GOD’S help we will go forward. One day at a time. Trav, you are forever with us. We thank any and all who have come to us in this sad, mournful time. All family, dear friends, neighbors, co-workers. Also the ambulance crew, Taylor County Sheriffs deputy, and coroner. Many thanks to pastor Jeremy Allard, Sheldon Church of Christ. Visitation will be on Friday, April 26 at Nash-Jackan funeral home in Ladysmith from 4-7 p.m. Funeral service will be Saturday, April 27 at the Sheldon Church of Christ with a visitation starting at 3 p.m. and the funeral at 4 p.m. with a dinner to follow in the church lunchroom. Paid Obituary 151631

1966-2024 Kimberly J. Neuenfeldt, age 58, of Medford, passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements. Kimberly was born on March 28, 1966, the daughter of Norb and Marcia (Younker) Tomczyk in Sheboygan. She graduated from Medford High School in 1984. On July 13, Kimberly was united in marriage to Galen Neuenfeldt at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Stetsonville. Kimberly worked at Black River Industries and was an in-home healthcare provider. She loved her animals, especially her donkeys. Kimberly also loved four-wheeling, especially with her friends and neighbors, gardening, tending to her flower beds, watching and feeding the birds and sitting around the campfire. Most importantly, she loved and cherished her family and friends. Kimberly is survived by her husband of 39 years, Galen; her daughter and partner, Mallory Neuenfeldt (Shawna Doering) of Green Bay; her mother, Marcia Tomczyk (John Polzin) of Medford; her father-in-law, Larry L. Neuenfeldt of Dorchester; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father; her infant brother, Kenneth and mother-in-law, Arlene Neuenfeldt. Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com Paid Obituary 151651

1940-2024 Herbert R. Messman, 83, of Medford, passed away Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the Colonial Center in Colby while under the care of St. Croix Hospice. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, April 26, 2024 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Medford with Rev. David Spaude officiating. The service will be livestreamed on the church YouTube channel at ILS54451, then click “live” (or use link youtube.com/@ILS54451?si=ktHENFqFZdkaSQDf and then click “live”). At the family’s request, please attend the funeral in casual attire, as that is what Herbert would want. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery II, Medford. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m., Friday at the church. A meal and fellowship will follow the burial. Herbert was born June 13, 1940 at home in the town of Medford to Robert and Marion (Howard) Messman. Herbert received his diploma in 1956 from Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School. On Dec. 26, 1959, he married Evelyn Walworth at the Immanuel Lutheran Church Parsonage in Medford. They resided in Medford where Herbert worked first at the scrapyard in Medford, then worked as a security guard for the Medford Millwork Factory before purchasing land in the town of Medford where he and Evelyn farmed. While farming, and raising five children, he also managed the Jentzsch Mink Ranch for many years until health issues prevented him from continuing any longer. Herbert did not let any health issues slow him down. He maintained a huge vegetable garden, selling his products at the local farmer’s market. He also made many bird houses and bird feeders; enjoyed pan fishing; and for his whole life loved dancing. Despite any challenges, Herbert found great stability in Christ. He spent much of his time enjoying the woods, waters and wildlife of the Chequamegon National Forest. Nature is where he found inner peace and connected to God. Whether walking a trail or blazing a new path, he appreciated the beauty of God’s creation. Herbert had two tattoos on his left arm, one was his name “Herbie” in all caps, the other was two circles with an anchor inside. Herbert’s “spiritual anchor” was Jesus and his faith was what grounded him and allowed him to cope with life’s rough waters. Hebrews 6:19 lets us know that our hope is sure and steadfast as a well placed, secure and unbending anchor. Our anchor is not located in the deepest sea, but in the Highest Heaven. And even though Herbert was a man of few words, he led his family in faith by his living example. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Evelyn of Medford; five children, Robert (Kathy) Messman, James (Lori) Messman, all of Medford; Mark (Philicity) Messman of Burtrum, Minn.; Pam (Mitchell) Voelker of Marshfield, Kim (Brandt) Gaugler of Beach, N.D.; siblings, Ardith Hendrickson of Marshfield, Galen (Lois) Messman of Medford; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Howard (Evelyn) Messman; and brother-in-law, Donald Hendrickson. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family. Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice. com to share condolences online. Paid Obituary 151694

1941-2024 Donald E. Northup, age 83, born on Jan. 25, 1941 has passed away peacefully in his sleep at home. Donald was born in Knapp, to Ralph Northup and Bernice (Mertes) Northup. Don was married to Donna (Schade) Northup on Jan. 27, 1962. Don graduated from Neillsville High School. He then entered the Army in 1959 and served for three years. Upon returning from the service Don met and married Donna. Don worked as a machinist at American Motors for six years and at Wisconsin Motors for 22 years. He also worked for Hypro for a while. Upon retirement Don and Donna moved to Lublin. Don was an avid fisherman, going fishing in Canada, Florida, North Dakota and Lake Erie. Don also enjoyed hunting on his land. Don is survived by his special companion of 14 years Wanda Mallo and his children, Deb Northup, Dan (Lori) Northup, and Dennis (Kasey) Northup; his grandchildren are, Cassandra (Ryan) Smith, Jon Northup, Joshua Northup, Michaela Northup, Katie (Jeremy) Pierce, Nick (Steph) Northup and Samantha (Jon) Aegater; his eight great-grandchildren; his four brothers, Dale (Diane) Northup, Late Charles (Bernice) Northup, Robert (late Nancy) Northup and Jim (Kathy) Northup; as well as many nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; both parents; and his brother, Charles. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 26, 2024 at New Hope Presbyterian Church-Hannibal with Pastor Beverly Thompson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Lunch will be served after the service. After the lunch, the family will proceed to the Neillsville cemetery for the burial of Don and Donna with full military rites for Don. Plombon Funeral Service assisted the family with arrangements. The family would like to thank St Croix Hospice including Andrew, for all the care and compassion they showed our father during this time. Paid Obituary 151622

1930-2024 Joyce E. Vahl, age 94, of Abbotsford, passed away Monday, April 22, 2024 at the Colonial Health and Rehabilitation Center in Colby. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements. Joyce was born on Jan. 26, 1930, the daughter of Virgil and Edna Hanna in Linn, Kansas. She was united in marriage to Raymond Vahl on April 16, 1949 in Topeka, Kan. Joyce worked at a car dealership and a bank in Illinois. She loved gardening, crocheting and traveling. Joyce is survived by her three children, Wayne Vahl of Stratford, Gary Vahl of Ind., and Joy (Neil) Blume of Dorchester; 11 grandchildren; 28 greatgrandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her six siblings, Virgie, Linda, Jackie, Birdie, Jerry and Johnny; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, nine siblings, and two daughters-in-law, Sandy and Patti. Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com. Paid Obituary 151671

1953-2024 Myron F. Brooks, 71, of Jump River, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 21st, 2024. Myron was one of the lucky ones who passed away doing what he loved - farming and helping his neighbors. Myron was born on February 18, 1953 at Victory Memorial Hospital in Stanley to dairy farmers Frederick and Marie (Lein) Brooks. He grew up on his family’s farm in Jump River and it is there that he learned the values of family, hard work, and the importance of caring for neighbors and the land. Farming was in his blood and hard work was his DNA. On Sept. 11, 1971, Myron married Gloria Trawicki at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Gilman. The couple settled on the family farm and it is there that they raised their five beautiful daughters, teaching them the joy of hard work, the importance of taking care of family, sharing his love for the land, the precise technique of inserting a joke into any conversation, and caring for those animals (and people) that needed the touch of a hand calloused by hard work that only a loving farmer father could offer. Myron worked no matter how injured or sick he was, never complaining. His work ethic, like his love for his family, never wavered. He was proud of his girls and considered them his finest accomplishment. He taught his girls to work and to hunt. He enjoyed spending hunting season with his daughters in the woods. As much as Myron enjoyed raising his family on the farm, nothing made him happier than seeing his grandchildren visit him on the farm. Myron was always ready to take an overtired child for a 4-wheeler ride out to the back pastures to see the heifers. If a nap was needed Myron would pull up in the gator. It worked every time and no grandchild was immune from his caring ways. As the grandchildren got older, he enjoyed supporting them in their activities. His devotion to his grandchildren was epic and there was never a school event or program that he missed. He enjoyed watching them sing, play football, show steers, play basketball, barrel race, run cross country, and everything else that they tried. His support was unwavering. His grandchildren were loved beyond measure and he made sure that they knew that each one was loved and special in their own ways. Myron is survived by nine extraordinary grandchildren, Jayce, Kennedy, Charlotte, Bergan, Grant, Bristol, Sailor, Maxwell, and Brooks. Myron is further survived by his wife of 52 years, Gloria; his mother, Marie Brooks; his daughters, Paulette Brooks of Hudson; Janelle (Ryan) Buesser of Eau Claire; Jilleen Brooks of Jump River; Lindsay Brooks of Holcombe; and Sydney (Josh) Kowalczyk of Eau Claire; his sister, Susan (Michael) Tkachuk of Elk Mound. He was preceded in death by his father, Frederick. Although Myron’s family was his everything, Myron saw the bigger picture and was also devoted to his community and neighbors. Myron served as the Town Chairman of the Jump River Township and worked tirelessly writing multiple grants to improve the community. He was also a founder of the Jump River Fire Department. He dedicated many hours to working on the Jump River Electric board as Chairman of the JREC board and was also on the Taylor County Forestry Committee. Myron was a Charter member of the Jump River Lions Club. He was also a founder of the Jump River 4th of July celebration. He enjoyed turning his work tractor into a pulling tractor and pulled for many years at the 4th of July celebration. Myron and Alton Seeger built the original eliminator which was used for many years in the Jump River 4th of July Celebration Tractor Pull. He passed his knowledge of tractors onto his daughters and even his daughter pulled tractor on occasion. His legacy of community will not be forgotten, but will be missed tremendously. Myron would want everyone reading this to step up in their community and “go do something for someone”. He was truly a man who loved his community and wanted what was best for all. A funeral service will take place at Noon on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Hannibal with Pastor Beverly Thompson officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Nebo Cemetery, Jump River. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of service Saturday at the church. Plombon Funeral Service is assisting the family. Paid Obituary 151710