Condolences

Jelmer “Gus” Swoboda, Green Bay and Longboat Key, FL … age 89, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, March 14, 2025. We will miss him, but we will find solace in a life well lived. His 9-year battle with Parkinson’s disease is finally over. He can now join his wife Penny in heaven.

Marvin Lansing, Knapp and Eau Claire…age 92, died peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by family in his assisted living apartment at Caretta Senior Living in Eau Claire. Marvin was an educator, school administrator, and then became superintendent of schools in the Eau Claire School District. He began his 21-year tenure there in 1967.

Janet Samsel, Hancock… age 90,  a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Hancock on April 1, 2025. When Janet and her husband, Clyde, moved from Racine to Hancock to start Samsel Sawmill & Millwork, Janet became the office manager. She continued to dedicate herself to the family business until only days before her death. Her primary vocation, however, was being an exceptional mom, homemaker, and wife.

John M. Shank Jr., Milwaukee… age 80, passed away on March 25, 2024. Beloved husband and constant companion of Jen Shank for over 58 years. Loving father of Christopher Shank, Peter (Deneen) Shank, and Robin Shank Sanderson. Private services will be held.

Herman Kafura, Green Bay… age 83, passed away on January 12, 2025.  He was born of German immigrant parents who came to the United States in the early 1920s. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison and then continued his education with a M.A. graduate program in Russian Studies.

Truman Everson, rural Ettrick…age 90, died of cancer on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in his home, surrounded by his children. Truman dedicated his career to vocational agriculture instruction and farm training. He was an active member of the community, participating in various organizations and activities. Truman served as president of the Lions Club in Westby and president of the Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church.

Richard Larsen DVM, Appleton…husband, father, grandfather and veterinarian passed away at age 87 on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. He was employed by the Manawa Veterinary Clinic and later at Dairyland Animal Health in Weyauwega, where he treated large and small animals until his retirement in 1993. Dick was a life-long Catholic and his faith was very important to him. He was a member of several churches throughout his life including St.

Lawrence Schiedermayer, Appleton… age 98, died on January 12, 2025 in his own home, sitting at his kitchen table with his favorite clothes on and his shoes on.

George Woelfel, Suring … age 91, passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.  George and his late wife, Joan, built a home on the family farm in New Berlin and retired to their lake home on Anderson Lake in Suring in 2004. He enjoyed spending time by the lake and he was a long-time WWOA member.

Robert “Bob” P. Rusch, Rib Lake…age 82, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024, surrounded by his beloved wife and family, at the Rib Lake Nursing Home. Bob was a founding and life member of WWOA. He filed many of the necessary legal documents to create the organization. He served on the first Board of Directors, serving as secretary.