Blog Articles

Jerold “Jerry” Apps, Madison… age 91, peacefully passed away at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg after a short illness on December 23, 2025. Jerry is one of the Midwest’s most revered writers. He devoted his life to the celebration and preservation of Wisconsin’s agricultural and rural heritage, it’s past, present and future. Jerry was born at home on the family farm in Wild Rose, WI – a home with no electricity or indoor plumbing.

James (Jim) Nelson, Woodville… age 93, passed away peacefully at home on December 1, 2025.  Jim was a WWOA life member. Jim proudly served in the United States Navy, and throughout his life he often shared stories of his adventures. After his service in the Navy, he completed his degree at Stout State University. He retired from 3M. Endlessly curious and naturally talented with his hands, Jim could fix just about anything.

Reuben Ellefson, Westby… age 89, passed away on the evening of December 6, 2025, in the company of family at Norseland Nursing Home in Westby, Wisconsin, the city he called home for nearly 60 years. Reuben served as a U.S. Navy firefighter for two years as a young man, which allowed him to travel to places like Greece, Spain, France, and more, after which he married the love of his life, Eileen Claire Boland.

Chuck Pogorelcnik, Milwaukee and Ogema… passed away on October 31, 2025. Chuck was life member in WWOA and active in WWOA and the North Central Chapter. He was named the 2019 Wisconsin Tree Farmer of the Year and later became the Regional Tree Farmer of the Year. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at St. John Evangelist Catholic Church, 8500 W.

Darrel Mathieu, Luck… age 83, passed away at his home from metastatic kidney cancer on June 9, 2024. He settled in Brainerd, Minnesota, where he worked for the state Department of Economic Security as an employment counselor and served in the Army National Guard. He also was a coroner. In Brainerd, he met his wife of 56 years, Janice (Lindholm) and they had two daughters.

Dr. William Faller, Kewaunee… age 84, passed away on March 31, 2024. Born in Chicago, IL on July 25, 1939. On June 19, 1965, in Germany, William married the love of his life, Heidi Schatek, embarking on a journey of partnership and companionship that lasted for nearly six decades. Dr. Faller dedicated his life as a pathologist.

Chuck Hoffman, Mishicot… age 76, died unexpectedly Saturday morning, October 11, 2025 at his residence. Chuck was born in Two Rivers  and he was united in marriage to Karen M. Pleuss at First Reformed United Church of Christ in Manitowoc. Over the years, Chuck held various employment positions. His longest period of employment was working as Buildings & Grounds Supervisor for the Mishicot Public School District until retiring.

Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of DNR Forester Adam Zirbel    MADISON — Gov.

Robert R. Elsner, Jr, Milwaukee…age 98, died on August 23, 2022.  WWOA recently learned of his death. Robert was a WWOA life member. He graduated from University School of Milwaukee and Brown University. He served in WWII in Europe with the 409th Infantry Regiment receiving the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and the POW medal. He was a retired executive of Manpower, Inc.

James “Jim” Kingsbury, Mountain…age 85, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2025, with family by his side after a period of illness. Beyond his work, Jim was deeply connected to the outdoors. As an active member of the Wisconsin Woodland Owners Association, he found joy in learning about caring for woodlands and enthusiastically shared his knowledge with others. He also loved traveling and, most of all, spending time with his family.