Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home

10/24/2026

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10/24/2026

POYNETTE – Clarence Walter Lampkins, age 83, passed away on the morning of October 11, 2026, in the TLC unit, at UW Hospital, after a wonderful day spent with his family by his side, sharing his stories like he loved to do.

Clarence was born on April 11, 1943, in Bristol, Virginia, to Margaret and Clarence Darnell. He was raised by George Walter Lampkins, whose surname he later took. His early years were spent in Eastern Tennessee, where his family worked as farmers. It was there that Clarence learned the value of hard work and developed the strong work ethic he carried throughout his life.

At the age of 18, Clarence enlisted in the United States Navy. As he liked to tell the story, he had no intention of becoming a Navy man. He had planned to speak with a recruiter from another branch of the service, but when that recruiter was away at lunch, Clarence and a buddy wandered next door to visit with the Navy recruiter and “shoot the breeze.” Apparently, the recruiter was quite the salesman, because before Clarence knew it, he was signing up for the Navy — despite the small detail that he couldn’t swim! It was a story that offered a glimpse of Clarence’s humor, storytelling, and the unexpected turns that sometimes shape a life.

While stationed in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Clarence met Diane Badtke, who had a young son, Steven. On December 6, 1963, Clarence and Diane were married in Sheboygan, beginning a marriage that would span more than six decades. This December, they would have celebrated 63 years together.

In their early years together, Clarence and Diane enjoyed an active social life filled with snowmobiling, bow hunting clubs, camping, boating, playing cards, and simply spending time with many good friends. Some of their fondest memories were made alongside the Campbell’s, the Ramblin’s, the Englemann’s, and the Cooper’s, just to name a few.

Clarence worked in a factory for many years before beginning a new chapter as an over-the-road truck driver in the early 1970s. His work took him onto the highways, traveling all over the country making a living behind the wheel. Over the years, he drove for several companies, including Sanna, Beatrice Cheese, Ruan, and Your Town Transport.

In May 1977, Clarence and Diane moved from Sheboygan to Poynette after his company relocated the truck base to McFarland.

Over the years, Clarence and Diane shared a love of adventure and enjoyed finding new ways to spend time together. They bought an RV and spent a couple of years traveling across the country. Although they enjoyed their travels, they eventually decided that life on the road in an RV wasn’t quite their cup of tea. They soon discovered that cruise ships were a much better fit! In the years that followed, they enjoyed a number of memorable cruises, sharing new experiences, exploring new places, and making special memories together.

Clarence volunteered for many hours with Habitat for Humanity, including many physically demanding days working on deconstruction projects. During those days, he began salvaging all sorts of things, figuring he could “re-use them one day.” That philosophy eventually created the need for two extra-large outbuildings, five Quonset huts, a full basement, a full garage, and multiple piles out in the field! Clarence also collected tractors that he hoped to restore when he retired. Unfortunately, retirement projects never quite came to fruition, as he had accumulated so much from his Habitat days that there was always plenty of stuff waiting to be sorted, stored, or put to use. His knack for seeing potential in things others might discard was just another part of what made Clarence uniquely Clarence.

Clarence was also a member of the Badger Steam and Gas Engine Club, in Baraboo, where he enjoyed helping with the club’s annual show each August. His friend and neighbor, Peter, introduced him to the club, and the annual show soon became one of Clarence’s favorite activities of the year. It was another opportunity to enjoy his interest in engines and machinery, lend a helping hand, and spend time doing something he truly loved.

In the later years of his life, Clarence found a wonderful family of faith at Fellowship Baptist Church, in Lodi, which he had been attending for the last several years. The warmth and fellowship he found within the church community became a meaningful part of his life, giving him a place where he felt he belonged and was cared for.

Although Clarence enjoyed fishing, he didn’t get to go as often as he would have liked. On September 12, his daughter and son-in-law took him on a charter fishing trip in Sheboygan. The water was too choppy for him to stand and fish, but he had a wonderful time visiting with Dean, the captain. Clarence said, “It couldn’t have been a better day,” and Dean later shared that spending the trip talking with Clarence had made it one of his favorite trips of the year. It was a special day filled with conversation, laughter, and memories to cherish.

Clarence’s last trip was on October 3, when he participated in the Badger Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. He asked his daughter to accompany him as his guardian for the day. Clarence was humbled by the experience and deeply moved by the many thoughtful gestures to all the veterans throughout the day. The mail call brought tears to his eyes, and the welcome home celebration was overwhelming. He was truly surprised, grateful, and touched by the honor shown to him and his fellow veterans. It was a special and unforgettable day, one that gave him the opportunity to feel the appreciation of others for his service to his country.

Clarence is survived by his loving wife of nearly 63 years, Diane, and their children, Steven Badtke, David Lampkins, and Christine (James) Solesbee. He will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Beth (Eric) Crammond, Jessica (Josh Heuer) Shields, and Monica (Josh) Hauge, and his great-grandchildren, Owen Crammond, Emmett Crammond, Grant Crammond, James Greiner, Lucas Greiner, Hawkley Jantzen, Norah Heuer, Nerah Egelston, Ryan Fuller, Raelynn Hauge, Jeremiah Hauge, Joshua Lynch, Landon Hauge, and Laelani Hauge.

He is further survived by his siblings, Charles (Lynne) Lampkins and Mary Ann Ambrose; his sisters-in-law, Joan Achsel and Joan Lorier; and many other relatives, friends, and neighbors whose lives were touched by him. He will also be missed by the feral cats he adopted, loved to visit with, and lovingly pampered each day. Clarence had a special way of caring for those around him, whether family, friends, neighbors, or the four-legged visitors who became part of his daily life.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Darnell, Margaret Lampkins, and George Walter Lampkins; his siblings, George Walter (GW) Lampkins and George Ray (Ray) Lampkins; and members of Diane’s family, including her mother, Marie Lorier; her father, Joseph Lorier; her stepmother, Viola Lorier; her brother, Jack Lorier; and her brother-in-law, Robert Achsel.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the UW Hospital Emergency Room and TLC Department, especially RN Julie, for the kindness and care shown to Clarence. Clarence was also deeply appreciative of the support he received from the many dedicated people throughout the VA who cared for him across its various departments. He always had wonderful things to say about those who helped him, and their compassion and kindness meant so much to him. His family is grateful to everyone who made a difference in his life and helped him feel cared for and supported.

Clarence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. We know he is finally pain free and at peace. His family would love to share stories with you.

Details of a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Poynette, is assisting the family.

10/24/2026

ARLINGTON – Having finished all that the Lord needed her to do on earth, He has called her home. Mary Louise Taylor (age 77) passed away peacefully on October 20, 2026, at home, surrounded by family.

She was born on October 2, 1949, to Clarence and Frances (Vernon) Kocerha, in Simla, Colorado. She graduated from Elbert High School, in 1967, and attended Western State College, in Gunnison, Colorado, to receive a teaching/coaching degree in physical education with a minor in Spanish. While attending Western State, she met and married her cowboy, the love of her life, Charles. They were married on March 19, 1970, and were together for 57 years. For the next several years she traveled across the Western Slope and Eastern Plains of Colorado with him as they followed the cattle herds from summer grazing to winter grazing. She spent her time homemaking for him and their three daughters while cooking for the various ranching crews that Charlie worked for.

They moved to Wyoming where she finally began teaching and coaching. Across her 37-year teaching career, she taught physical education, Spanish, communication arts, student council, yearbook, Spanish club, and special education in places such as Shoshoni, WY; Elbert, Walden, Paonia, and Delta, CO; and Poynette, WI and was loved by all her students. She also coached volleyball, basketball, and track. Charlie and Mary eventually moved to Wisconsin in their later years to be near their grandkids. They also traveled multiple times to the island of Guam to visit grandkids who lived there.

Mary loved to dance and would dance all night if she could find a partner. Her favorites were the waltz and polka. She also taught her girls to dance. But her greatest joys came from watching and cheering on all her grandkids (official or unofficial) whether it was sporting events, cultural arts events, or showing livestock. She was a very familiar figure in the stands. Her arms and her home were always open to whomever was around whether working or playing and was always ready to feed them at any time.

She is survived by her cowboy husband, Charlie and their three daughters: Lynnette (Todd) Taylor; Michelle (Jason) Moyer; and Rebecca Stalbaum. She is further survived by fourteen grandchildren: Jessica (Chase) Richards, Hannah (Matthew) Brooks, Justin Taylor, Hayden Taylor, Gabriella Ching, Grayson Moyer, Adelina Moyer, Madison (Ezekiel) Byers, Melody Moyer, Halla Moyer, Garrett Moyer, Emily Taylor, Abagail Stalbaum, Margret Stalbaum, as well as one great-grandchild, Sailor Ching, and one more expected in November. She is also survived by her sisters, Glenna (Kenneth) Eldringhoff and Janet (Ted) Ellis; brothers, Richard (Judy) Kocerha, and Terry Kocerha; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Frances Kocerha; her in-laws, Nolan and Adelina Taylor; and her brother, Brian.

Huge thanks to the folks at Agrace Hospice Care for the love, care, and support they bestowed on Granny these past weeks.

Funeral services will be held at St. Peter's Lutheran, 303 Park St., Arlington, WI at 11:00am on Friday, October 30, 2026, with visitation from 9:30 to time of service, luncheon to follow, the Rev. David Juhl presiding. A committal in Colorado will be held at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the family so that they may donate to Mary’s favorite charities, or to St. Peter's Lutheran, 303 Park St., Arlington, WI.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Poynette, is assisting the family.

10/23/2026

PORTAGE – Roxane Mary “Roxie” Hill, maiden name Barrett, age 71, died on October 19, 2026, in Portage, Wisconsin after a brief illness.

She was born on August 8, 1955, in Portage, Wisconsin, growing up on her family’s farm, in Pardeeville. Roxane graduated from Pardeeville High School and shortly thereafter, was married to Robert Hoel, in June of 1974. During their marriage, they welcomed a daughter, Melissa, in 1975, and a son, Robert, Jr., in 1976. Although their marriage ended, they remained connected through their family and children. Later in life, she married Stanley Hill, with whom she shared many years and memories.

Roxane spent her life carrying with her the stories, memories, and experiences that shaped her. She was someone who could be a social butterfly and be entirely at ease in her own solitude, moving easily between lively conversation and quiet moments of her own. Those who knew her will remember the many stories she loved to share — stories of family, of growing up farming, and her time in 4-H, where she competed in barrel racing and showing horses. Later in life she would work for families training and breaking horses, as it was a passion of hers. She also loved to talk about her hunting and fishing trips, of visiting Canada, and of her time living out West.

Later in life, Roxie found pleasure in working crossword puzzles and watching westerns, she especially loved Sam Elliott and John Wayne. Music was also an important part of her days. She loved listening to country and rock music, often with the windows open in her room, enjoying the sound while watching the birds and feeding the squirrels. These everyday moments formed a picture of a life lived in her own distinct way.

She is survived by her sister, Rhonda Roller, of New Lisbon; her daughter, Melissa (Greg) Riddiough, of Portage; her son, Robert, Jr., of Portage; her grandchildren, Danielle, James, and Josephine; two nieces, Trinity (Travis) Wadel and April Roller; first husband, Robert Hoel, Sr; as well as her second husband and life-long love, Stanley Hill, of Green Lake.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Barrett, of Portage, and Leda Barrett, of New Lisbon.

Roxie will be remembered by the stories she told and how she made her life her own. Her memory will remain with those who knew her.

Special thanks to Moments Hospice and the caregivers of The Rivers for the compassionate care, dignity, and comfort they provided throughout her journey.

The family plans to hold a Celebration of Life for Roxie at a later date. Details will be shared when arrangements are finalized.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Homes, in Portage, is assisting the family.

10/21/2026

PORTAGE – Joseph “Joe” Richards, age 50, of Portage, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026, at University Wisconsin Hospital, in Madison, with the ones closest to him, by his side.

Joe was born on July 27, 1976, to Grace and Charles Richards in Columbus, WI. Joe graduated in 1996 from Rio High School.

Joe liked to spend time with friends, playing video games, watching football — cheering on The Bears, baseball — cheering on The Cubs, and basketball — cheering on The Lakers. Joe always loved working on cars since he was a teenager.

Joe is survived by his sister, Amy (Orla) Kuhns; brothers, Darrin and David; paternal grandfather, Duane Richards; uncle, David; aunt, Teresa (Richards) Decker; cousin, Marcus (Shannon) Wojak; close friends, Mandy (Ryan) McGrath and Justin (Elizabeth) Krueger; along with many other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and friends.

Joe is preceded in death by his mother, Grace; father, Charles; maternal grandparents, Earl and Fumie (Kodo) Sikkila; parental grandmother, Dorothy Richards; aunt, Valda Richards; aunt, Yvette Richards; and his best friend, Rodney Smith.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the The Rustic Saloon, in Montello, 330 County Road B, on November 1, 2026, starting at 1:00 p.m.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage , is assisting the family.

10/21/2026

POYNETTE-- William “Bill” R. See, 82, of Poynette, passed away on Saturday, October 17, after a
brief and courageous battle with cancer.

Bill was born on October 3, 1944, to Mike and Kyra (Curtin) See. He grew up on a farm
in Hewitt, Wisconsin, with six siblings. He attended grade school in Hewitt and
graduated from Columbus Catholic High School in Marshfield in 1964.

Bill met the love of his life, Diane Weller, on a blind date in the fall of 1964. They began
dating, but in the spring of 1965, Bill left for Alaska to work on the pipeline and considered
settling there. That July, his mother called to tell him that a letter from Uncle Sam had
arrived. Bill answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Army and completing basic
training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Ord, California. In November 1965, he
received a rare assignment to a U.S. Army base in Schwabach, Germany. He served
there until June 1967 as an intelligence and reconnaissance specialist with the 4th
Armored Cavalry Division, rising to the rank of Sergeant E-5.

While stationed in Germany shortly before Christmas 1966, Bill proposed to Diane from
afar, with his father presenting her the ring in Wisconsin. She said yes. They married on
September 30, 1967, and shared an extraordinary love for more than 59 years, until
Bill’s passing. They settled in Poynette and raised four children: Kevin, Kara, Krista, and
Kraig. Bill and Diane treasured time with family and enjoyed traveling, snowmobiling,
participating in 1840 era rendezvous, riding their Gold Wing motorcycle, and refinishing
furniture. Later, they bought a place in Florida, where they spent part of each winter for
over 17 years, making new friends and reconnecting with old ones.

After leaving the Army, Bill worked for a year at the Badger Army Am******on Plant
before joining Oscar Mayer in 1968. He worked in the mechanical division as a pipefitter
until retiring in 1997, then managed Hooper Corporation’s plumbing shop for three
years. After Hooper, Bill found his true calling as a “jack-of-all-trades” builder and
repairman. He built a woodworking shop where he crafted cabinetry, custom furniture,
and much more. His skill and determination to “just get it done” took him to Canada,
Missouri, Africa, and Florida to build hunting and fishing lodges. No job was too large or
too small, but he found his greatest satisfaction in helping his children with their homes
and assisting people who could not afford or were unable to do the work themselves.

As one of the earliest members of the Poynette Bowhunters, Bill devoted 50 years to
supporting and strengthening the club while promoting his favorite sport: bowhunting.
He helped build several clubhouses and ranges, maintained and improved the grounds,
served multiple terms on the board of directors, and held the office of president. Even
as cancer took its toll, Bill continued volunteering, most recently by spraying weeds in
the orchard. In 1998, the club honored his exceptional and enduring service with its
Lifetime Membership Award.

Bill loved the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and above all, bowhunting. A tireless
worker, he took pride in accomplishing more by noon than most people did in an entire
day. He was a devoted family man who treasured holidays, birthdays, reunions, and
countless spontaneous visits with those he loved. With his natural gift for conversation,
Bill connected easily with others and made friends wherever he went.

Cancer may ultimately have taken Bill from us, but not before he put up one hell of a
fight against that terrible disease. Day after day, like the Golden Gloves boxer he had
been in his youth, he stepped back into the ring for another round. He never wavered in
his faith or in his determination to live on his own terms, no matter how ill he felt. More
than once, the cancer itself must have wondered, “What did I get myself into with this
guy?”

Bill is survived by his wife, Diane; 4 children, Kevin (Christine) See, Kara (Chuck)
Brokish, Krista (Scott) Adams and Kraig (Jenni) See; his brother, Richard See; sisters,
BetteAnn (Gerry) Hauber, Ginny (Bill) Schaufel and Mary Shanks; and 9 grandchildren
Chelsea (Aaron) Ho, Kyle Adams, Katie (Brandon) Brereton, Lauren (Chance) Runde,
Kirsten (Parker) Kampmann, Tanner (Jenna), Skyler, Wyatt, and Payten. He is also
survived by five great-grandchildren, Aubrianna, Norah, Collin, Stella, and Myles
William, who was born just a day after Bill’s passing. He was preceded in death by his
parents Mike and Kyra; brothers, Dan and Tom; sisters-in-law, Alice and Ann; brother-in-
law, Sandy Shanks; and grandchild Cory Adams.

Visitation will be held at Whispering Pines Event Center, 101 Bethel Drive, Poynette,
WI, on Thursday, October 29th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral services will be held
at St. Thomas Catholic Church, 655 S. Main Street, Poynette, on Friday, October 30th, at
3:00 PM, with a visitation at the church from 1:00 PM until the time of the service.
Following the funeral service, Bill will receive military honors at the church. A celebration
of Bill’s life will then follow at the Whispering Pines Event Center until 9:00PM. Burial
will be private and held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center or the
Wisconsin Bowhunters Association.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette (www.pmmfh.com), is assisting the family.

10/18/2026

OXFORD – Jerome A. Huber, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, October 16, 2026, at his home; the same home where he was born ‒ on the family farm.

Jerome was born on June 4, 1941, in Oxford, Wisconsin, the son of Harold and Linda (Podoll) Huber. He was married on February 8, 1964, to Eileen Ann Maier, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Portage. He was a lifelong member of St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Briggsville and served on the church council. Jerome was a farmer. He was a professional sheep shearer and participated in many state sheep shearing contests in Wisconsin and Nationally. Jerome placed 10th in 1987 at the National Professional Sheep Shearing Contest, in Denver, Colorado. Jerome won the Reserve Junior Championship in 1960-62, in Indianapolis. He won State Professional in 1975 and 1976 and went on to win many more. He was inducted in the 2016 Adams County Fair Hall of Fame. Jerome founded Huber Sheep Shearing Business in 1956 and had sheared over half a million sheep in his lifetime. He serviced Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Huber Sheep Shearing is now proudly celebrating 3 generations of sheep shearers. Jerome taught his five sons and three grandsons how to shear, and it continued a tradition in the family. Jerome was active with FFA, 4-H, and Mid-State Wool Growers, where he was on the Board of Directors for 20 years. He was a lifetime member of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Association. Jerome was a huge NASCAR fan and loved the Green Bay Packers. He enjoyed polka dancing, throwing horseshoes, sponsoring teams, and spending time with family.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen; his sons, Jerry A. (Colleen) Huber, Jr., Joe (Kristy) Huber, Jim Huber, and Jacob H. (Sonia) Huber; grandchildren, Stephanie (Nate) McNamara, Cassandra (Aaron) Mohr, Jeffrey (Sara) Huber, Joshua (Emma) Huber, Jordan (Heidi) Huber, Hailey Huber, and Gracelynn Hoel; five great-grandchildren; his sister, Veronica Kamrath (the late Dennis); his brother, Dean (Tammy) Huber; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and great friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey; his parents; his in-laws, George and Florentina Maier; and his brother, Bernard “Butch” Huber.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, in Briggsville, with Fr. Savio Yerasani presiding. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Briggsville. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, and from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, at the church.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to St. Clare SSM Health, 2nd floor nursing staff, Baraboo, for their kindness and care; along with Agrace Hospice, and friends and neighbors for their support and care.

Donations may be made to the family for future memorials in his honor.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

10/12/2026

PORTAGE – Robert F. Grubb, Sr., age 86, of Portage, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

He was born on September 21, 1940, in Portage, the son of Francis and Catherine Grubb. A lifelong resident of Portage, Robert, was well-known throughout the community. He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard before dedicating his career to the railroad. In his younger years, he was a fixture on the local baseball diamond.

Robert lived a vibrant life filled with many hobbies and witty conversation. He loved fast cars, motorcycle riding, snowmobile racing, hobby farming, and spent many hours on his train set. Robert enjoyed farming, had many different animals and loved his Highland cows. A talented musician, he loved playing the guitar and even recorded a record in his formative years. In his later years, Robert found immense pleasure in working outside on various projects, spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and relaxing with his constant companion, his cat, Fred.

He is survived by, the love of his life of 45 years (married 37 years), Elva. He is further survived by his children and their families: Angel (Tim) and grandchildren, Elisha (Cal), Samantha (James), Christine, and Tim, Jr.; Cathy and grandchildren, Joshua and Lindsey (Ben); Robert F. Grubb, Jr. (Betty), and grandchildren, Robbie, Stephanie, and Elizabeth; Laura (Bill) and grandchild, Aric (Liz); Jody (Chad) and grandchildren, Devan and Carson; Adelle (Steve) and grandchild, Connor (Stephanie), and 18 great-grandchildren. Robert is also survived by his sister, Elizabeth Blackburn, and his nephew, John Blackburn (Patty).

Memorial Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, in Portage, with Fr. Randy Timmerman presiding. Inurnment will be private. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

The family would like to thank Agrace HospiceCare for their excellent care and support to Robert and his family.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

10/12/2026

PORTAGE – Francisca G. Woodard, age 78, of Portage, was peacefully called home to heaven with family by her side, on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg.

Francisca was born on May 7, 1948, in McAllen, Texas, the daughter of Niceforo and Juanita (Hernandez) Garcia. Francis attended Edinburg High School in TX, graduating in 1967. She, her mother and aunt traveled to Wisconsin to be summer seasonal workers at Del Monte Canning Factory in Arlington, WI. She met her soon-to-be husband, Frankie J. Woodard, working there. Francis and Frankie were married November 30, 1968, in McAllen, TX. They were married 47 years, until Frankie’s passing on September 24, 2016.

Francis remained a seasonal employee for Del Monte for many years. She also worked at other various jobs including Wisconsin Cheeseman, Cascade Mountain and the canning factory in Poynette. Her most significant legacy is taking care of her husband and children. They enjoyed socialization when going out to eat, watching Packer games and bowling. She had many hobbies she enjoyed such as, just being outdoors, taking care of her flowering plants, shopping for cards and gifts for relatives and friends. She liked to dance, tell stories, and knew a lot about family history. She loved animals and took many pictures. She would enlarge pictures to give away, sometimes framed. Francis never met a stranger.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda M. (Matt) Gorsuch; her son, Christopher M. Woodard; her sister, Carlota G. Rodriguez; her grandson, Ryan M. (Leah) Gorsuch; her great-grandsons, Riley and Flynn Gorsuch; her nieces, Patti Rodriguez and Heather Johnson-Rodriguez; her nephews, Rey Rodriguez, Jr., and Jaime (Stephanie) Rodriguez; her brother-in-law, Ronald (Diane) Woodard; her sisters-in-law, Helen Puckett, Bettie Conrad, Donna White and Judy Lantis; her nephews, Ronald Woodard, Jr., Daniel (Teeia) Woodard, David (Amanda) Woodard, Steven Woodard, and Daniel Babcock; many other nieces and nephews; one great-nephew; other dear relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Juan Garcia; her husband, Frankie J. Woodard; four sisters-in-law, Francis Markwardt, Sharon Woznierka, Gerrie Blunkell, and Myrtle Woodard; and her nephew, Carlos Rodriguez.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon. on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Portage United Methodist Church, with the Rev. KwangYu Lee officiating. Burial will follow in Silver Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Portage United Methodist Church.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

10/11/2026

POYNETTE – Ellen L. Maier, age, 80, was called home to heaven on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the University Hospital in Madison.

Ellen was born on November 15, 1945, in Poynette, Wisconsin, the daughter of Keith and Marion (Karow) Tomlinson. She graduated from Poynette High School in 1963. She was married to Vernon Maier on March 8, 1991, and they were married for 35 years. She worked at various businesses in the community including WIBU Radio Station, Poynette Hardware, and Townmart. She loved to travel and enjoyed her many trips to the Black Hills and Eagle River, Wisconsin.

The most special place in her heart was her family farm where she grew up. It was a place filled with memories of her childhood, her family, and the life she cherished. The farm was a reminder of the love, traditions, and moments that shaped who she was. Walks through the woods, bird watching, gardening, spending time with her family, and hosting holiday meals were the things she enjoyed the most.

After the heartbreaking loss of her beloved daughter, Beth Kutz, Ellen and her husband, Vern, opened their hearts and home to their two grandchildren, Jennifer (Doherty) and Jacob Kutz, raising them with unconditional love, strength, and devotion. She embraced the role of both grandmother and mother, ensuring they were surrounded by the love and care they needed. Her selflessness and unwavering love for her family will forever be remembered.

Her life was a beautiful reminder that home is more than a place, family is life's greatest treasure, and love leaves a lasting imprint that time can never erase. She will be missed beyond words and cherished forever.

She is survived by her husband, Vern; three children, David Falk, Greg Falk, and Shawn (Tina) Millard; ten grandchildren, Jennifer (Scott) Doherty, Jacob (Hallie) Kutz, Branden (Brittany) Falk, Kyle (Katie) Falk, Emma (Matt) Brue, Dylan (Markie) Falk, and Sidney, Stella, Hank, and Howard Millard; fifteen great-grandchildren; her brother, Kenton (Toni) Tomlinson; her ex-husband, Thomas Falk; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Elizabeth (Beth) Kutz; her daughter-in-law, Ellen Falk; her niece, Grace Tomlinson; her brothers, Mark Tomlinson and Marvin Tomlinson; her sister-in-law, Diane Tomlinson; her father- and mother-in-law, Peter and Margaret Maier; her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Linus and Ruth Ann Maier, Dianne and Gene Haug, David Lemke, and Paul Maier.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Community United Methodist Church, in Poynette, with Pastor Michele Hopp officiating. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday at the church.

A full obituary will follow in the next few days.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette, (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.