Blog Articles

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.

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.

NOW Recruiting an AmeriCorps Member Know someone looking for something to do after graduation? Consider the Wisconsin Woodland Owners Association (WWOA)! We’re searching for our next AmeriCorps member.