Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service

Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service Family owned and operated for three generations. We offer a cost guarantee on pre-planned services, and flexible payment options in your time of need.

We are here for you 24/7/365. We offer a cost guarantee on pre-planned services and flexible payment options in your time of need.

08/29/2026

Jennifer "Jenny" Roedig

Jenny Roedig, age 52 years, of Lomira, WI passed away suddenly August 21, 2026, at her home.

Jenny was born on August 15, 1974, in Manitowoc, WI.

Jenny grew up in Manitowoc and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1992. She was a dedicated employee as the general manager of Lomira Inn and Suites where she worked since 2022.

Her passion was her love of all animals, most especially the cats who blessed her life over the years. Jenny was an avid Packers fans on so many different levels.

Those Jenny leaves behind to cherish her memory include her father, David (Mari) Roedig; her mother, Betsy (Rich) Miller; her beloved sister, Teresa (Jason) Robison; her cherished nephews, Jordan and Ethan Robison; her grandmother, Florence Roedig; and her adored cat, Carol Ann. She is further survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Richard Roedig; her grandparents Charles and Loretta Terrizzi; her Aunt Annie Terrizzi; her Uncle “My” Kim Kuhnle.

Cremation has taken place. Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home in Lomira, WI assisted the family.

Jenny’s Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Silver Valley Banquet Hall, 1222 S Alverno Rd, Manitowoc, WI from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

If people are so moved, any donations in Jenny’s name can be made to the Humane Society (lakeshorehumane.org) or Autism Society of the Lakeshore (autismsocietywi.org)

Kenneth Alan SwensonKenneth “Ken” Swenson, 74, of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026.Born on ...
08/28/2026

Kenneth Alan Swenson

Kenneth “Ken” Swenson, 74, of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026.Born on December 27, 1951, to Roy and Adeline Swenson, Ken followed in his father’s footsteps and devoted his life to education. He graduated from Marshall High School in 1970 and earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from the University of Wisconsin–Stout. Ken spent more than 30 years with Milwaukee Public Schools, where he worked in cooperative education, business careers, and sports marketing. He cared deeply about learning and took great pride in helping his students prepare for the lives and careers ahead of them.Ken was an educator both inside and outside the classroom. He always had a fact to share, an opinion to offer, or a story ready for the occasion. Beneath his strong-minded and wonderfully distinctive personality was a man who loved his family deeply. Ken cared greatly for his parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews. He showed that love in his own special ways: clipping an article or picture he thought someone would enjoy, tucking an old photograph or shared memory into the mail, or simply being present when he sensed he was needed.Ken and his wife, Cindy, shared a deep love for their dogs. Over the years, their dogs were never merely pets; they were family, deeply loved and thoroughly cherished. After retiring, Ken and Cindy made their home on a beautiful property in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, where Ken found endless opportunities to enjoy the natural world he treasured. He loved wildlife photography and art, and he was happiest sitting on the deck with Cindy and a beloved dog nearby, watching the deer, raccoons, squirrels, and seemingly countless varieties of birds that visited their land. Family and friends who joined them were often invited to slow down and appreciate whatever might appear in the yard that day.Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Adeline Swenson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy Swenson; his siblings, Jerry (Becky) Swenson, Susan (Richard) Samplaski, Nancy (Lee) Garrett, and Jim (Judy) Swenson; and his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, former students, colleagues, and friends.A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 3:00 to 4:45 p.m. at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service, 1315 West Washington Street, West Bend, Wisconsin 53095. A memorial service will begin at 5:00 p.m. led by Reverend Eric Kirkegaard from Peace UCC in Kewaskum.

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Robert "Bob" W. OstranderRobert W. “Bob” Ostrander, 87, of the town of Trenton, passed away on August 25, 2026, at his h...
08/27/2026

Robert "Bob" W. Ostrander

Robert W. “Bob” Ostrander, 87, of the town of Trenton, passed away on August 25, 2026, at his home.

Bob was born on August 18, 1939, in West Bend, the son of the late Robert and Rosella (nee Saueressig) Ostrander. Bob graduated from West Bend High School in 1957. He then joined the National Guard and proudly served his country from 1963 until 1969. He worked as a welder for West Bend Equipment and then for Gehl Company where he retired from in 2002. On February 3, 1990, he was united in marriage to Regina James at 5th Avenue Methodist Church in West Bend. Bob was a member of 5th Avenue Methodist Church. He enjoyed talking about all of his deer and feeding the squirrels. He loved sitting in his squeaking rocking chair talking to his family on the phone or when they would visit. He enjoyed talking about growing up on the farm. He was also a part of a Model A car club and would go square dancing.

Those Robert leaves behind to cherish his memory include his two children, William “Bill” Ostrander and Renee (Jason) Denz; his stepson, Victor (Lisa) Nonnweiler; two grandchildren, Kaitlyn Denz and Cody Denz; two step-grandchildren, Scarlet Kitchen and Heather (Gary) Rothstein; two sisters, Jean (Danny Schalles) Welzien and Jane Weyer; a sister-in-law, Valerie James; as well as many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Regina A. Ostrander; his stepdaughter, Irene Kitchen; a sister, Carol (Wayne) Bruggink; his brother-in-law, Jerome James; and his parents-in-law, Frederick and Bernice James.

VISITATION: Bob’s family will greet relatives and friends at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service, 1315 W. Washington Street, in West Bend, on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:45 p.m.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: A service for Bob will be held at the funeral home on Friday at 4:00 p.m. with military honors following the service. Burial will follow at Newark Cemetery.

The Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service have been entrusted with Bob’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

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Roberta "Kay" WagnerRoberta Kay Wagner “Kay” (nee Tromblay), age 85 years, of Barton was called home to be with the Lord...
08/26/2026

Roberta "Kay" Wagner

Roberta Kay Wagner “Kay” (nee Tromblay), age 85 years, of Barton was called home to be with the Lord on August 21, 2026, at Serenity Villa in Slinger surrounded by her loving family.

Kay was born on September 9, 1940, in Milwaukee to Albert and Mary Tromblay (nee Weller). She was united in marriage to David Lee Wagner at Crossroad Presbyterian Church in Mequon.

Kay graduated from Rufus King High School in 1958. She earned her nursing degree and worked at hospitals in West Bend, Hartford, Hales Corners, and Menomonee Falls. Kay enjoyed gardening, cooking, and playing cribbage. She even built the deck around her house. Some of her favorite adventures were travels to many of the U.S. National Parks and Cumberland Falls.

Those Kay leaves behind to cherish her memory include her son, John Wagner; daughter, Jean Wagner; sister, Alverna (the late Don) Schneider; nieces, Jennifer Schneider and Bonnie (Keith) Boudwine; and nephews, Leroy (Sunee) Seefeld and Dan Seefeld (Sue Marzo); great-niece, Amy Boudwine; and great-nephew, Kevin Boudwine. She is further survived by dear friend, Billy (Belinda) Infalt; as well as other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, Kay was preceded in death by her husband, David Wagner; sister-in-law, Ruth (Leroy) Seefeld.

VISITATION: Kay’s family will greet relatives and friends on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service – 1315 W Washington St. – West Bend, WI 53095.

SERVICE: A Funeral Service in remembrance of Kay will take place at 3:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. A private family service and entombment will be at Washington County Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Serenity Villa and Preceptor Hospice for their care and compassion.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Kay’s arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence on the tribute wall, please visit www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Roberta "Kay" Wagner's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Daniel Robert MertzigDaniel “Dano” Robert Mertzig, 80, passed away with his family by his side on Sunday, August 23, 202...
08/26/2026

Daniel Robert Mertzig

Daniel “Dano” Robert Mertzig, 80, passed away with his family by his side on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Dano was born on September 13, 1945 in Port Washington, to the late Milton and Viola (nee Purgundy) Mertzig.

Dano lived life to the fullest, enjoying many moments with friends and family. He had a passion for racing and you could find him every Saturday night in the pits at Plymouth Dirt Track, cheering on friends like Brian (The Tornado) Portchy and Justin Erickson. He enjoyed motorcycles and spent his younger years traveling Wisconsin sight-seeing and riding with friends. Dano was often found outside meticulously tending to his property or growing fruits and vegetables. If you were lucky, you'd catch him singing to his favorite songs over a can of Budweiser.

In a heartwarming chapter of his life, Dano married Lynn Turner on April 15, 1989. Although Lynn passed in December 2005, their love story remains a cherished memory for all who knew them.

Dano dedicated 33 years of his life to West Bend Public Works, where he worked tirelessly in streets and sanitation. But it wasn't all work for Dano; he found joy in the great outdoors—hunting, fishing, and watching wildlife right in his own backyard.

Those left to cherish Dano’s memory include his children, TinaMarie (Christopher) Olig, Guy (Angela) Mertzig, Danielle Mertzig, Lance (Abi) Mertzig, Christopher (Kayla) Mertzig, and Robert (Chelsea) Mertzig; chosen family Rob (Jackie) Abel; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brother, Milton Mertzig, Jr.; sister, Kathleen Schroeder; lots of nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents and wife, Lynn, Dano is preceded in death by sister, Geraldine Paape.

Special thanks to Dr. Olafsson for years of care and Compassus Hospice.

VISITATION: Dano’s family will greet relatives and friends on Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service (1315 W. Washington Street, West Bend, WI 53095).

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Following visitation a memorial service for Dano will be held at 2:00 p.m., at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service. Burial will take place following the service.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Dano’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Daniel Robert Mertzig's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Jeffrey "Jeff" A. MayJeff May passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 21 at the age of 59. He was immediately welcome...
08/25/2026

Jeffrey "Jeff" A. May

Jeff May passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 21 at the age of 59. He was immediately welcomed into heaven.

Jeff was born on October 27, 1966 to John and Joan May. On June 19, 1998 he was united in marriage to Rebecca May (Schuster)

Jeff was a man of strong faith who lived a life of integrity. Jeff was the President of Mared Mechanical and a pillar of the Mared Family. Jeff was loved and admired as a kind and fair boss. He was a natural leader who was respected and trusted throughout the Milwaukee business community. He was a man of service who loved mentoring and teaching the next generation of leaders. Jeff was a man you could count on, a friend to all, and a guy who could solve any problem.

Jeff was a 7-time Ironman who was working on his 8th. His perseverance and work ethic were unmatched. He showed us that anything was possible if you put your head down and did the work. Jeff was a mentor and a role model to triathletes and was a beloved coach of the Spartan Running Club for many years.

Jeff’s greatest accomplishment and source of pride were his three children: Alex, Elizabeth, and Tyler. He loved them fiercely and devoted his life to teaching them life’s most important lessons. Jeff supported and developed each child’s unique strengths and interests. He taught them to collect experiences not things, to live their best lives, and to do the next right thing. He was an amazing father who always made sure his children knew how much they were loved. Although we wish we could have had more time with him, he raised three strong, kindhearted, amazing children and his legacy will continue on through them.

Those Jeff leaves behind to cherish his memory include his beloved wife Becky, sons Alex and Tyler May, daughter Elizabeth May, mother, Joan May, and sisters, Jodi (Jeff) Hannis, and Jeanne (Maury) Ackerman. He is survived by countless other relatives and friends.

Jeff is proceeded in death by his father John May and his brother John May Jr.

A private ceremony will be held for his family on Friday, August 28th followed by a public celebration of life for all family and friends from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28 at Myrhum & Patten Funeral & Cremation Services in West Bend, WI.

The Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Jeff’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Jeffrey "Jeff" A. May's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Margaret Ann McFaddenMugs McFadden, 81, was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 20, 2026.Margaret Ann “M...
08/24/2026

Margaret Ann McFadden

Mugs McFadden, 81, was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 20, 2026.

Margaret Ann “Mugs” (nee Meents) McFadden was born on September 2, 1944, in Colorado Springs, CO, to the late Barnhard and Dorothy (nee Deakin) Meents. After her graduation from Wasson High School in 1962, she attended Grinnell College in Grinnell, IA. She returned home and met an Air Force photographer. Mugs was united in marriage to Patrick McFadden on July 11, 1964. They moved to Wisconsin, settling first in Milwaukee, and then Kewaskum.

Mugs worked for the United States Postal Service as a rural mail carrier, then ran her own children’s bookstore, Serendipity Books, in West Bend, WI. She also returned to college, graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a degree in English in 1994.

Mugs had an incredible musical talent that she loved to share with everyone. Many local children will remember having Mrs. McFadden teach them to play the piano. She also volunteered to accompany high school students attending Solo Ensemble contests. In her later years, she would play piano at Cedar Lake Campus, so the residents could sing the hymns they loved.

Her volunteering extended to other parts of the community. Her most recent endeavor was as a part of the Kewaskum Public Library Foundation. She and her good friend, Connie Zemlicka, raised funds to help the library grow and become the venue now on Fond du Lac Avenue. She was also a member of the committee for the Monarch Library System, a group that championed the current system, allowing all the libraries in four counties to share materials with all their patrons.

Mugs was a member of Peace United Church of Christ in Kewaskum, WI, for many years. She was the church organist, accompanied or sang with the choirs, and arranged special music for many kinds of services. For many years, Mugs wrote and directed the Children’s Christmas Program. After training to be a minister, you might have found her preaching at Peace Church or other UCC churches in the area, directing and participating in special programs, presenting the children’s sermon, and teaching confirmation class. Mugs and Pat enjoyed visiting with members unable to attend church.

When Mugs took time to relax, you would probably find her reading a book, playing piano, kayaking or boating with her family, or spending time with her grandchildren. She also loved attending sporting events featuring her grandchildren. Mugs was an avid runner and enjoyed participating in the KEYS run, placing first in her age group for several years in a row.

Those left to cherish Mugs’s memory include her husband, Pat; her children, Paul (Tracine) McFadden, Shannon (Shawn) Brock, and Patrick (Deb) McFadden; eight grandchildren, Kira and Verity McFadden, Aleksandr, Dominik and Sebastien Brock, and Paddy, Harrison and Izabelle McFadden; as well as many other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, Mugs was preceded in death by her sister, Mariel Muir.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at Peace United Church of Christ (343 First Street, Kewaskum, WI 53040), with Reverend Eric Kirkegaard officiating.

Instead of flowers, donations to the Kewaskum Public Library Foundation or Peace UCC are appreciated.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service has been entrusted with Mugs’s arrangements. Additional information and the guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

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Janice C. ThillHad she made it to her 90th birthday, Janice Catherine Thill might have celebrated by visiting the Bonlen...
08/20/2026

Janice C. Thill

Had she made it to her 90th birthday, Janice Catherine Thill might have celebrated by visiting the Bonlender dairy farm. The milking parlor and all those cows fascinated her. Or had it been possible to go to an auction, she would have been there, standing near the front, opening the bidding if the auctioneers were taking too long in their description of the item for sale. Just as likely, Janice might have puttered in her yard, pulling weeds, moving some of her rummage sale treasures into a better position, filling bird feeders, taking in the country air. Janice was, above all things, an independent country woman who knew exactly what she enjoyed doing, and she made time to do those things.

Janice was born Oct. 2, 1936, to Bernetta (Reindl) and Jacob Bruessel. She joined two siblings, Doris and Jake, Jr., and was later followed by two more sisters, Lavilla and Carol. She was a proud graduate of Kewaskum High School where she excelled in all the typing and shorthand classes, and likely would have competed in sports, had girls’ sports been available then. Janice graduated in 1954 and went immediately to work for one of the vice presidents at Regal Ware. The story goes that on one of her lunchtime walks with a co-worker, she encountered a handsome young guy pumping gas at Honeck’s. She was so taken by this young man, that she stopped for gas three consecutive days when he was working the gas pumps. He took the hint and asked her out. Their first date was a Sunday afternoon fishing excursion on Long Lake. Janice and Allen Thill were married a few years later, on Oct. 11, 1958.

Janice and Allen spent the following years living in the country. They gardened, helped their parents, and raised their daughters. Up-North vacations often included some fishing. Janice was only 52 years old when Allen passed away on Nov. 23, 1988.

Proud to be a lifelong Kewaskum area resident until her move to Serenity Villa Campbellsport in 2022, Janice knew the backroads of Washington County and where to find any and every rummage sale and auction. She faithfully clipped the auction ads from the Action Advertiser and used them to plan her weekends, often hitting several auctions and rummage sales in one day. Her Saturday excursions often ended with evening Mass in whatever town she happened to be in—she knew the Mass schedules of all the small towns in the area.

Regal Ware figured again in Janice’s life, when she returned in the early ‘70s and became secretary to the vice president of the Direct Sales Division. She retired in the mid-90s after 25 years and embarked on a busy retirement.

Janice is survived by two daughters, Barbara and Jean (Pat) Lowney and one granddaughter, Emily Lowney; and her sisters, Carol (Dennis) Weiss and Lavilla Lache. She was preceded in death by her husband, Allen; parents Bernetta (Reindl) and Jacob Bruessel; parents-in-law Mildred (Sabish) and Clarence Thill; sister Doris Bonlender, brother Jake; brothers-in-law Robert Bonlender, Peter Lache and Anthony Schlaefer; and sisters-in-law Marjorie Schlaefer and Audrey Siers. Janice is further survived by her beloved Reindl cousins and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Aug. 28, 2026, at noon at Holy Trinity Catholic Church (305 Main St., Kewaskum, Wis.) with Rev. Patrick Magnor officiating. The family will greet relatives and friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the start of Mass. A lunch will follow Mass. Interment will be at Holy Trinity Cemetery after the lunch.

Memorials in Janice’s name can be made to Holy Trinity School or the charity of your choice.

The family is forever grateful for the loving and faithful care Janice received from her friend and caregiver, Cheryl Steffes, as well as the tender and devoted care she received at Serenity Villa Campbellsport.

Myrhum – Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Janice's arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

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James "Jim" L. BradfordIn Loving Memory of James BradfordJames Leroy Bradford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, bro...
08/18/2026

James "Jim" L. Bradford

In Loving Memory of James Bradford

James Leroy Bradford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, was called home Monday, August 17, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s.

Jim was born September 10, 1939, on a farm north of Sumner, Iowa, and graduated from Sumner High School in 1957.

Jim married his first wife, Phyllis Van Eaton, and together they welcomed four children: Catherine (Curt) Timmerman, Timothy (Gail) Bradford, Jenny (Jeff) Myers, and Bill (Lisa) Bradford. He developed many long-lasting friendships in Sumner, many of which continued throughout his life.

Jim’s strong work ethic began at a very young age on the family farm raising cattle. Working side by side with his dad, he later ventured into real estate and insurance, where he ultimately made a career of it. Over the years, Jim worked for Milwaukee Insurance before retiring from West Bend Insurance, where he served as the Iowa Sales Manager. The relationships Jim built throughout his career carried through until his passing. Jim’s professional life reflected the same qualities that defined him personally—dedication, determination, and genuine love for the people around him.

In 1993, Jim found his forever love, Jeanine Vraney Allen Bradford, and they married in 2002. Jim was blessed with four bonus children: Peggy (Mike) Kiefer, Tracy (Tim) Theisen, Michael Allen, and Scott (Airrah) Allen.

Together, they enjoyed life to the fullest, spending their years traveling, creating life-long memories, and cherishing time with family, whether in Iowa, Minnesota, Florida, or Wisconsin. Jim’s days often included an old western on TV, a home-cooked meal prepared by Jeanie, followed by a game of cribbage and a viewing of Jeopardy, Law & Order, or Blue Bloods. They rarely missed a new episode. Jim and Jeanie also spent many days cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Wisconsin Badgers, while Sundays were reserved for watching golf and the Green Bay Packers.

After retirement, Jim and Jeanine shared many wonderful years together, spending their summers in West Bend and winters in Sanibel/Ft. Myers, Florida, until recently moving back to Fox Point, Wisconsin, to be closer to family.

An avid golfer, he was a longtime member of The Dunes in Sanibel, Florida. Golf was more than a pastime for him; it was a source of friendship, laughter, competition, and countless good memories. Even after retiring from playing the game itself, Jim never missed a tournament on TV and knew all the stats on each current player.

Above all, his family was his greatest joy. He leaves behind a large and loving family, including his children and bonus children; grandchildren Erin (Greg) Adamson, Lindsy (Nick) Trotter, Adam (Bre) Bradford, Abby (fiancé MV Dushyanthram) Bradford, Brian (Sarah) Bradford, Karissa (Cole) Rogers, Elle Myers, Mariah Myers, Caleb Myers, Elijah Myers, Hope Grace Myers, Madison (fiancé Tanner Lee) Bradford, Megan (Alex) Doorenbos, Carson Bradford, Emma (Tony) Nitz, Elise (Luke) Miller, Sam (fiancé Juliette Verley) Weber, Victoria Theisen, and Olivia Theisen; and 14 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sisters Diane (Randy) Teague, Vickie (Mark) Rhea, and Sue (John) Leahy, and his brother-in-law, Mike Miller.

He was preceded in death by his brother Bill, who died in infancy, and sisters Ellen Moore and Lynda Miller.

His life was marked by hard work, a love for family, lifelong friendships, and an ability to find joy in every season of life. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his legacy will continue to live through us. We love you and know that you are at peace.

Services will be held on Monday, August 24, at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in West Bend. Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m., with Mass at 10:30 a.m. A celebration of life will follow at Myhrum-Patten Funeral Service. Dress comfortably in your favorite golf or summer attire.

View James "Jim" L. Bradford's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Mary Beth BerchildMary Beth Berchild, 65, of Jackson, WI, died on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Froedtert West Bend ...
08/18/2026

Mary Beth Berchild

Mary Beth Berchild, 65, of Jackson, WI, died on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Froedtert West Bend Hospital, after a 14-year struggle with Myotonic Dystrophy. Mary Beth was born in Appleton, WI, on September 12, 1960, to James and Phyllis (Marek) Sylvester. In 1964, the Sylvester family moved to Wauwatosa, WI, where Mary Beth spent the remainder of her childhood, graduating from Wauwatosa East High School in 1978. After high school, Mary Beth moved to Cedar Rapids, IA, where she attended Kirkwood Community College. In Iowa, she lived with her sister, Patti, brother-in-law Nick, and their young daughter, Jessica, who affectionately referred to Mary Beth as “Aunt MayMay”.

Mary Beth met the love of her life, Daniel Berchild, while he was boarding in a house down the block from her family home in Wauwatosa. They were married at Milwaukee’s Mitchell Park Domes on September 4, 1982. In 1989, they welcomed a son, Matthew, who died from cancer April 2, 2026. The Berchild family lived in Wauwatosa, Germantown and Jackson.

Mary Beth had recently been residing at Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation in West Bend, WI, where she was beloved by staff and residents alike. Our gratitude to the Cedar Community for the care they provide is immense. The family also thanks the wonderful staff at Froedtert West Bend Hospital for the care, dedication and compassion they demonstrated during Mary Beth’s final days.

Mary Beth was known for her bright smile, easy laughter, gentle manner and kindness towards others, as well as for being a loving wife and mother to Dan and Matthew. She quickly drew the lasting nickname of “Angel”, which was proudly emblazoned on many of her shirts. Mary Beth also had a life-long love of dancing, musicals, gymnastics and figure skating. She often recalled the many hours of ballet practice she attended in her youth.

Through the years, Mary Beth primarily stayed home to raise Matthew, but she also did bookkeeping for several companies, worked for the Menomonee Falls School District, worked in the shoe department at Kohl’s Department Store, and volunteered at the Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital. When disabilities made it difficult to leave her home, she enjoyed talking on the phone with her siblings and looked forward every week to “spa day” with big sister, Patti.

Mary Beth was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents and son Matthew.

She is survived by her husband, Dan, sister Patricia (Nicholas) Spencer, brother Mark (Tammy) Sylvester, sister Christine (Charlie Terry) Sylvester, and brother Michael (Kathy Meyer) Sylvester. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins, and their children.

A private gathering will be held to honor Mary Beth’s memory at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Services, 1315 West Washington Street, West Bend, WI 53095, 262-334-2776. Mary Beth will later be laid to rest next to Matthew at Washington County Memorial Park, West Bend, WI.

Those who wish to honor Mary Beth’s memory are encouraged to donate to Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation, 663 Thirteenth Street, Suite 100, Oakland, CA 94612 (myotonic.org/donate).

Mary Beth will be missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Mary Beth's arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence on the tribute wall, please visit www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Mary Beth Berchild's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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