Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home in Sparta, Wisconsin, is a full-service funeral home providing burial and cremation services.

In this world, there is simply nothing worse than when a friend, loved one, or family member passes on. It can be hard to know what to do, what steps need to be taken, or how to handle funeral arrangements while grieving a loss. In the Sparta area, Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home can provide helpful and compassionate funeral services and arrangements, guiding families through the process of arrangi

ng a funeral while providing support and care. The Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home is the city’s oldest continuous business to operate at the same location; the company has been providing licensed, professional services for the Sparta community since 1858. The facilities at the Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home include ample parking, a large visitation area and service chapel, ADA restrooms, a kitchenette, and a fellowship hall, which is often used for catered receptions following services. The compassionate, experienced staff can help explain a variety of options, including affordable funerals, cremation costs, and direct funeral services. Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home also offers pre-planning services, working with families to set up funeral arrangements and needs; the company provides pre-payment options to make the arrangements go smoothly and ease the burden on family members. The staff can discuss a full range of services and can explain various options for funeral services, keeping in mind both budgets and the needs of the family. For more information on arranging a funeral in the Sparta area, cremation costs and affordable funerals, reach out to the compassionate, caring professionals at the Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home by calling (608) 269-6666.

Richard “Dick” A. Baudek, 82, of Sparta, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026 at Rolling Hills Rehabilitation Center, S...
09/05/2026

Richard “Dick” A. Baudek, 82, of Sparta, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026 at Rolling Hills Rehabilitation Center, Sparta.

Arrangements will be announced by Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta. Online condolences may be offered at

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home in Sparta, Wisconsin, is a full-service funeral home providing burial and cremation services. Our street-level facility is located in downtown Sparta. We offer ample parking, a large visitation/service chapel, family room, ADA restrooms, kitchenette, and a fellowship h...

Evelyn Marie (Senecaut) Kauffman, age 83, of Sparta, WI, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Mulder He...
09/01/2026

Evelyn Marie (Senecaut) Kauffman, age 83, of Sparta, WI, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Mulder Health Care Facility in West Salem, Wisconsin.

She was born on March 10, 1943 in Des Moines, Iowa. Her Parents Oscar and Helen Pearl (Doughty) Senecaut would raise three children Diane, Gary and Evelyn in Silvis Illinois, Milan Illinois, Anamosa Iowa and in Cedar Rapids Iowa. Cedar Rapids Iowa is where Evelyn would meet her future Husband Daniel Kauffman at COE College. After getting married in Cedar Rapids the two would start a family welcoming son Timothy. After graduation the two would move to Rochester MN, then on to Eau Claire WI where they would welcome sons Brian and Mark, then on to Viroqua WI where they would welcome son Justin.

Evelyn spent her days in a close relationship with Jesus, she was always found giving Jesus the credit for everything, some would call her Rev. Evelyn, saying she took after her Grandfather the Rev. William Doughty who was a Methodist Minister. She was always known as a bubbly, happy and fun person crediting Jesus for how she lived her life and how she treated everyone God put into her life. Evelyn performed in many musicals and plays using her gifts of music The Sound of Music and The Wizard of Oz being her favorites and could always be heard singing her favorite songs throughout her life, and of course wearing her ruby red slippers.

She taught Sunday school to all 4 of her children, son Mark said that he was singing Jesus Loves me and holding her hand as she took her last breath. Mark also stated that not even an hour before she took her last breath he led a prayer with Mark’s wife Diana, brother Brian, Justin, Grandson Brian (BJ) his wife Brooke, Grandson Corey, and Great Granddaughter Emberly. She was a member of many Christian Congregations on her path of life on this side of Heaven where she would be found serving on the Ladies Aid, Singing in the Senior Choir, Sunday School Programs, Bible Study Groups, Annual Christmas Programs, Easter and Christmas for Kids Programs and of course she loved sharing her love for Jesus to whomever she met.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her father Oscar, mother Helen, husband Daniel, and son Timothy. She is survived by sister Diane, Brother Gary, son Brian, son Mark (Diana), son Justin, Daughter In Law Betsy, 8 Grandchildren, 6 Great Grandchildren many nieces, nephews, many friends, and like Evelyn would say everyone that had ever done anything for her because to her they were family. A special thank you from her family to Mulder Health Care Facility for making Evelyn feel like she was at home the last days of her life, she loved every one of you like you were family, and for the love and compassion given.

Her Celebration of Her Life for Jesus will be on Tuesday, September 8, at St John’s Lutheran Church, Sparta, WI with visitation from 10:00-11:00am followed by a service and lunch. Her Christian burial will be on Wednesday, September 9, at The Greenwood Cemetery in Hayward, WI. In Lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Jesus Cares Program at St Johns. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Terry M. Bjorkman, 66, of Sparta passed away on Monday, August 31st, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. ...
09/01/2026

Terry M. Bjorkman, 66, of Sparta passed away on Monday, August 31st, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 25, 1959 to Wallace and Delores (Pfaff) Bjorkman, in Bangor. He grew up in Bangor and when he was younger showed rabbits, traveling all around with them. He enjoyed sports from a young age playing several before graduating from Bangor High. He was awarded ‘Best Running Back’ and still holds the school record in hurdles.

After graduation, Terry tried his hand at a few jobs when he started to work and found his niche as the owner of Terry’s Water Hole. He enjoyed meeting new people, serving up a smile and making people laugh as he went about his busy days running this business. In the mid 90’s Terry built himself a hideout; Terry’s Hideout, that he owned for almost 30 years, also was once an owner of The Leon Pit Stop and The Sports Page before his last purchase in 2005 when he bought The Zone Sports Bar & Grill. Terry has always enjoyed working with people, especially helping families celebrate special occasions. During his business ownership time, he was an active member of the Chamber and the Monroe Country Tavern League.

One of the ways Terry will be remembered for making an impact on the community is all the ways he volunteered to help so many groups and organizations by hosting fundraisers. He also sponsored little league teams for the local Park & Recreation department, local travel sports organizations as well as sponsoring adult sports teams. From paying for t-shirts, to entry fees and beyond, his generosity helped so many others in our community have the opportunity to enjoy the same sports he loved.

While Terry was always a sure thing for a sports team that needed sponsorship, often that was because one of his children was participating. Nothing made Terry happier than supporting all four of his kids. There is absolutely no way to measure the amount of time he & Crystal spent juggling schedules to watch their children compete in sports & activities they loved. Anyone that knew Terry, knows that his family was the center of his life. He adored his wife Crystal and the life they built together with their children. He enjoyed being a Dad above all else.

In addition to being a proud Dad, he enjoyed gambling and trips to Laughlin and Las Vegas. He loved to play and host poker games. He was an avid Brewer, Twins, Badgers and Vikings fan and made many trips to cheer on the teams he loved. He also organized many ways for others in our community to enjoy sporting events with bus trips.

For those who knew him best; they’ll always remember his favorite one-liners, “see you in the movies”, “right with eversharp” or “that’s life in the big city”. We’ll remember his love for sweet treats and how he always had salt with him. We’ll forever remember his warm smile and how he made our community better by giving of his time & energy. He was a builder of community in the way that he made everyone feel welcome where he was. He was lovingly known as Dad, Big Man, Ter Bear, King Pin & Boss Man and will be deeply missed.

Terry is survived by his wife Crystal; children Tyler (Madasen), Cody (Chesny), Gabrielle and Tanner; sister, Vicky Johnson; in-laws, Robert & Barbara McCoy; brothers-in-law, Lucas, Jacob and Kyle McCoy; along with many very special nephews and nieces, and other relatives; and an immeasurable amount of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Judy and Shelley; and brother, Scott.

A Memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Sparta, with Chaplain Priscilla Hemmersbach officiating. Burial will be at a later date. A Celebration of Life will be at The Zone in Sparta, following the service.

A Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, at the church.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

08/31/2026

Carol Jean McClain was born on May 4, 1938 to Edward and Dorothy Montague in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She had one sister and three brothers.

Carol married Duane McClain on October 20, 1956 and they celebrated 61 years together upon his death in 2017. Carol and Duane had a great life together, raising six wonderful children and caring for more. Together, they spent time running multiple local businesses, sharing a love of God and traveling the world. Carol’s family, children, grand and great-grandchildren gave her such incredible joy. She loved family holidays, especially the annual McClain family Christmas cookie event. She also was an advocate for retail therapy.

She was a mom, grandma and great grandmother to so many kids. She loved attending everything from dance recitals to hockey, basketball and football games. She was known for her selflessness and willingness to help others. Carol was a Boy Scout and Girl Scout leader and she taught Sunday School at Trinity for many years. She volunteered with Duane at the Ecumenical Food Pantry. She also helped at Rolling Hills and then with Duane again at The Morrow Home’s Meals in Motion.

Carol died on Friday, August 7,2026, surrounded by family. She was 88 years old. She was preceded
in death by her parents, her sister Pat and her husband Duane.

She is survived by her six children, Tim (Karen), Sandy (Steve), Mindy (Oliver), Angie (Pat), Michael (Terah), and Jennifer (Jorge); grandchildren, Tegan (Chris), Nyssa (Brian), Devin (Becky), Hector
and Cordelia Tierno, Jaidyn, Evan and Jasper McClain; great grandchildren, Grace and Ethan Wise, Reese and Hayden McClain; brothers, Michael (Diane), Dick (Jackie) and Jerry, along with their and sister Pat’s children: in laws, Bill and Sherry McClain; her church family at St. John’s Episcopal and true friend Terry Feckett.

Carol’s life’s celebration will be held on September 5, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., at Lanham Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with a 3:30 p.m. prayer service with Reverend Kathleen Charles officiating. The family owes a debt of thanks to Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home, Gretchen Abbott, Kris Hanson, Mayo Clinic Hospital in Sparta, Dr. Robert Ring, Nurse Jodie Doebbert and social worker Kindra Leis.

She will be remembered for her love of family, her sense of order, her kindness, her generosity and her sense of humor. She will be missed. Mom and Grandma, we love you.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sue Carol R***r, 85, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Country Terrace Assisted Living...
08/28/2026

Sue Carol R***r, 85, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Country Terrace Assisted Living in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, following a lengthy battle with dementia.

Sue was born on March 13, 1941, at her family home in Mackinaw City, Michigan, to Charles E. Wallace and Elsie M. (Ingalls) Wallace. After spending her youth in Mackinaw City, she lived most of her life in Cheboygan, Michigan, before spending her final years closer to family in Sparta, Wisconsin.

Following a fulfilling 30-year career caring for others in a nursing home, Sue enjoyed a quiet retirement lifestyle alongside her husband and family. She never shied away from mischief, often leading the way with a playful grin. She loved playing cards and board games, and with each victory gave a joyful chuckle.

Sue gave her heart completely to those around her. She found immense happiness in helping others, gardening, decorating her home, and spending time with close friends and family. She could be found outdoors working in her flower beds and feeding the birds, always with her dog for companionship. Heaven is surely in for a treat, but her family and friends will deeply miss her pranks, warmth, and unforgettable smile.

Sue is survived by her children, Jennings Couture of Slidell, LA,
Scott Couture of Mason, MI, and Michelle (Shawn) Stendel of Sparta, WI; her sister, Shirley Hull of Levering, MI; her brother, Nelson (Rose) LaPointe of Mackinaw City, MI; as well as eight grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 45 years, Joseph R***r; her sons, Barry Couture and Timothy Couture; her sisters, Juanita Bonter, Linda Charboneau, and Norma Rice; and her brothers-in-law, James Rice, James Hull, and Calvin "Bobo" Charboneau.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Church of the Straits, 307 N. Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are preferred and may be directed to the Cheboygan County Humane Society (1536 Hackleburg Rd, Cheboygan, MI 49721)
https://www.cheboyganhumanesociety.org/support-us.
Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

John “Johnny” Murray, 80, of rural Black River Falls, passed away August 24, 2026 at the residence of Curt and Mary Wood...
08/26/2026

John “Johnny” Murray, 80, of rural Black River Falls, passed away August 24, 2026 at the residence of Curt and Mary Woods, Melrose, Wisconsin. He courageously fought pancreatic cancer under the care of Lakeland Home Health, Moments Hospice, and close family members.

John was born March 21, 1946, at Krohn Clinic and Hospital in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. He was the third son and the fourth of eight children born to William and Olivia (Paulson) Murray. John was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. He attended Pleasant Valley Elementary School in the Township of Irving and graduated from Melrose High School in 1964, Melrose, Wisconsin.

John devoted his entire life to the family farm and raising Holstein cattle. He took particular pride in owning 40 acres of the original property owned by his ancestors, and in 2008, was awarded a Century Farm Certificate from the La Crosse Diocese Rural Life Committee.

John’s greatest attribute was being a good listener, something we could all aspire to. He was not distracted by modern technology, but rather, was always “in the moment” of conversation and the company of whomever he was with. He was content with a simple life and cherished visits/calls from his extended family and many friends. John enjoyed nature, whether it be farm animals/crops, birds, flower/vegetable gardening, or growing apples.

Survivors include four sisters: Margaret Meacham, Arlyce (Rodney) Everson, Mary (Curtis) Woods, and Jan (Jerry) Schmidt, as well as sisters-in-law, Bonnie and Debbie Murray. Also surviving him are several beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and his dog, Finn. John was predeceased by his parents, three brothers: Bernard (2014), Clair (2020), and Louis (2025), and a brother-in-law, W. Mark Meacham (2020).

Mass of Christian Burial for John Murray will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026 at Guardian Angels Parish – St. Kevin’s Catholic Church, Melrose, WI. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of service. Father Arivu Marippan will officiate. A family rosary will be recited at 8:30 a.m. Following burial at the Melrose Cemetery, lunch will be served at the church hall.

The family wishes to thank all who showed compassion toward John throughout his journey.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Donna M. Leis was born on August 14th, 1947 to William and Arlene (Bjerkos) Holte. She was born in her family car somewh...
08/26/2026

Donna M. Leis was born on August 14th, 1947 to William and Arlene (Bjerkos) Holte. She was born in her family car somewhere between C**n Valley and Viroqua while crossing a railroad track.
Donna spent her early years helping on her family’s To***co farm and attending The One Room Erickson Schoolhouse. She graduated from Westby High School in 1965 before attending what was known as WWTI to obtain a degree in Data Processing.

On July 1st, 1967 Donna was joined in marriage to the love of her life, Steven Eugene Leis.

She worked as a Data Processor for Tristate Breeders of Westby and later at Fort McCoy until her retirement.

Donna enjoyed traveling the world with her husband and the pair were well known for being gifted Waltz and Polka dancers. She was also a very talented Rosemaling artist and mentor for over 50 years. She made many friends through this and was popular at local craft shows.

Donna passed away on August 24th, 2026 at Emplify by Gundersen, in La Crosse, with her husband, Steven by her side.

Donna is survived by her husband of 59 years, Steven Leis; her son, Todd (Juniper) Leis; grandchildren, Dominic (Kodie) Leis, Angelina Leis, Emma Northam, Ethan Northam, and Everett Northam; great-grandchildren, Emery Leis, Sienna, Weston, Liam, Finleigh, Millie, and Ethan; her sister, Sue (Terry) Kammel; sister-in-law, Laurie Holte; along with many other nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, William and Arlene Holt; sisters, Shirley (Alan) Engh, and Nancy (Steve) Nofsinger; and brother, David Holte.

A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at St Pat's Catholic Church, Sparta, with Father Ethan Hokamp officiating.

Family and friends are invited for a visitation from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday September 26, 2026 at St. Pat's Catholic Church, Sparta. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Joseph “Joe” Gerard Dolan, age 72 of Sparta passed away unexpectedly of a cardiac event on Monday, August 24, 2026. Joe ...
08/25/2026

Joseph “Joe” Gerard Dolan, age 72 of Sparta passed away unexpectedly of a cardiac event on Monday, August 24, 2026. Joe was born on June 19,1954 to Leo and Miriam (Wunnicke) Dolan in Madison, Wisconsin. He grew up in Clyde, Wisconsin on his parents’ farm where he worked alongside his dad from the age of 12 until the farm was sold in 1986.

Joe met the love of his life, Renee (Marklein) when she was 16 years old. Five years later they married on August 26th, 1978. As a proud father, he enjoyed supporting his four sons’ scouting, academic, and sporting events. His sons met four great women who brought more joy to his expanding family. When he became a grandfather, it was the highlight of his life. Joe’s light shined brighter the larger his family grew and he embraced grandfather-hood with the same pride as fatherhood.

He and Renee enjoyed retirement to the fullest. They enjoyed motorcycling on backroads, snowshoeing, hiking, traveling to new places and watching the birds wherever they were.

Joe Dolan lived a life of generosity and was a steady loving presence to all that knew him. In addition to his wife and best friend of 48 years, Renée, Joe is survived by his sons, Mark (Keely), Greg (Amy Lin), Paul (Jessica Shively), and Jeff (Caitlyn); Joe’s siblings, Alice Dolan and Charlie Dolan (Valerie Curley); grandsons, Ayden Olson and Lochs Dolan; and granddaughters, Niko and Dezi Dolan.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father; siblings, Edward, Elaine and Pam; and nephew Peter.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, September 3, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, with Father Berns officiating. A Celebration of Life to follow at Country Reflections 12770 WI 27, Sparta WI from 12-4 PM

A visitation will be held from 5 p.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta; and from 10 a.m.- 11 a.m., Thursday, at the church.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite food pantry.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ralph W. Rostkowski, 79, of Rockland, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026 at his home.  He was born on June 17, 1947 ...
08/24/2026

Ralph W. Rostkowski, 79, of Rockland, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026 at his home. He was born on June 17, 1947 in Chicago, IL to Harry and Dorothy (Zdankowski) Rostkowski.

Ralph served in the US Army from 1969 until 1976 and was stationed in Okinawa and Thailand.

Ralph met Stepheny Walters and they married on October 18, 1985. They made their home in Rockland, WI.

Ralph worked as a heavy equipment operator for Stella Jones, Bangor for 30+ years until retirement.

Ralph enjoyed country music, lawn mowing, family and friend get togethers, vacations to Vegas, resort stays yearly in the Dells, and frequent visits to the casinos. Ralph was a simple guy and enjoyed his time at home watching TV and playing on the computer (slot games).

Ralph is survived by his sister, Angeline Ream; step-sister, Debbie Cain; sisters-in-law, Sheryl Brooks, Stacy Green, and Nancy Peterson; nieces, Melissa Walters, Marsha Bertram, Nicole Green (Sean Clayton), Lindsay Mashak, Mandy (Troy) Berry, and Monica Walters (Michael Yager); and nephews, James and Jeremy (Lisa) Reed.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Steph Rostkowski; brothers-in-law, Steven Walters and Steven Green; mother and father-in-law; and special niece, Michelle Reed

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Reverend Logan Evans officiating. Full military honors, provided by VFW Post 2112 and American Legion Post 100, both of Sparta, will be held immediately following the service at the funeral home.

Family and friends are invited for visitation from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Barbara Ann Campbell, 63, of Sparta passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026; leaving behind a world made brighter by her ...
08/24/2026

Barbara Ann Campbell, 63, of Sparta passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026; leaving behind a world made brighter by her imagination, creativity, and unique way of seeing life.

Barb was born on April 20, 1963, to Eldon and Donna (Lewis)
Burkhardt, in La Crosse. In 1992, she married Kevin Campbell. Together, they moved to Sparta, where they raised their boys and built a life filled with family, memories, and love.

Barb had a creative spirit, a curious mind, and a deep appreciation for beauty in all it’s forms. She spent many years painting fiberglass statues, while working at FastCorp. She had a natural artistic talent and loved bringing her imagination to life through drawing and painting.

For Barb, creativity was more than something she did- it was a way of seeing the world. She found joy in creating and leaving small pieces of herself wherever she went. Her imagination was limitless, yet she always remained true to her authentic self. She found inspiration in people she loved, her faith, dogs, music, and the simple beauty she found around her.

Barb will be remembered for her loving heart, sense of humor, creative spirit, and one-of-a-kind way of looking at life. She brought her own special light into the lives of those around her.
Although she is deeply missed, the pieces of herself she left behind- in her artwork, her memories, her stories, and in the hearts of those who loved her- will remain.

Barb is survived by her son, Ben (Kalista) Burkhardt; step-son, Kevin (Teresa) Campbell Jr.; parents, Eldon and Donna Burkhardt; grandsons, Brenon Burkhardt and Landon Burkhardt; step-grandsons, Jaydon Haag and Kevin Campbell III; and step-granddaughter, Lydia Campbell.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kevin Campbell; sister, Jeanene Burkhardt; and brother, Wayne Burkhardt.

Services will be announced at a later date. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Address

Sparta, WI

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation:

Shortcuts

Share