Condolences

George Fredrick Lehrer, Deerbrook… age 89, passed away peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, August 27, 2025, with his devoted wife of 64 years, Barbara Lehrer, by his side. George left this world exactly where he wanted to — in front of his living room window overlooking his favorite view of life: the quiet river where the animals cross and the woods he adored.

James “Jim” Schmitt, Butternut & West Allis… age 86, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025. From an early age, he showed grit and resilience and was known for being “tough as nails.” At just nine years old, he was struck by a car on his way to school, resulting in a coma, internal injuries, and a severely broken leg.

Joanne Englund, St. Paul, MN… age 95, passed away peacefully at home on August 15, 2025, in Saint Paul, Minnesota. A lifelong resident of Saint Paul and Shoreview, Joanne dedicated her life to service, advocacy, and community engagement, leaving an indelible mark on the Twin Cities and beyond. Her professional journey was defined by a deep commitment to public service and social betterment.

Roger Beckstrom, New Richmond…age 94, was surrounded by family as he left this world peacefully in the early hours of April 24, 2025. Roger attended the University of Iowa where he achieved a B.S. in Pharmacy. He served in the US Army from 1953 to 1955, during which time he was a pharmacy technician at Camp Rucker, Ala.

Frederic “Fritz” Schlicher, Iola…age 94, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. As a lifelong educator, Fritz gained his knowledge at multiple institutions, attending UW-Whitewater, University of Iowa, Knox College, Drew University, Portland State University, University of Oregon and Lawrence University. After serving 3 years in the U.S.

John “Jack” Bazile, Tigerton… age 87, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at Care Partners in Clintonville, surrounded by his family.

Harlow Beck “Bud” Osteboe, Wilton … age 89, died on February 25, 2025 following a short illness. After five years as a U.S. Air Force pilot flying B-25s, he returned to Minnesota to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Minnesota while serving in the Minnesota Air National Guard flying KC-97 aircraft. His Guard unit was activated for a year of duty in September 1961 in response to the Second Berlin Crisis.

William “Bill” Horvath, Stevens Point … age 87, died on May 22, 2025, while under the care of hospice and family. He graduated in 1962 from UW-Stevens Point with a B.S. in English and Conservation. He pursued additional education at the University of Michigan and graduated with his M.A. in Natural Resource Management. On August 19, 1961, he married Nancy M. Damrau at Trinity Lutheran Church.

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.