Nitardy Funeral Homes

10/28/2026

In loving memory of Wayne Robert Laskowski.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne Robert Laskowski, 65, of Whitewater, WI, who died from a heart attack at his home on Monday, October 12th.

Wayne was born on March 7th, 1961, to Anton and Barbara (nee Rahn) in Elkhorn, WI. He cherished his wife, Elizabeth (nee Woodbury), and his daughter, Amanda, along with his near, and extended family.

Wayne had a deep faith, a passion for gardening, a love of nature, and was skilled at playing both guitar and piano.

He married Elizabeth on May 21st, 1994, at the United Church of Christ-Congregational in Delavan, WI.

Wayne was a hard worker, having held positions at Motorola, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and in various other ventures, great and small.

A memorial service will be scheduled in the near future.

Wayne is preceded in death by his father, Anton. He is survived by his beloved wife Elizabeth, his daughter Amanda, his mother, Barbara, and his siblings: Bryan and wife Betty (Johnson), Sue (Clapp) (and husband Jeff), Janet (Held) (and husband Dave), Scott and wife Shawna (Hjellburg), David and wife Sue (Mitchell), Jim and wife Kelly (Clausen), along with numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and other relatives.

Nitardy Funeral Home of Whitewater is proudly serving the family.

View Wayne R Laskowski's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/23/2026

Jerry James Footit, 84, moved on to his heavenly home on Thursday, October 22, 2026, surrounded by family.

Jerry was born on October 2, 1942 in Oshkosh, WI, the son of Lavern and Gwendolyn (Steede) Footit. Jerry married Sandra Bittner on July 13, 1963.

He was an assembler for General Motors. Jerry had a love for hunting, Harleys, gambling and blackjack in casinos, M&M’s collecting, and old country Westerns.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family.

Jerry is survived by his son Timothy J. Footit of Whitewater, daughters Kimberly L. (Gary) Ramsden of Fort Atkinson, Wendi S. (Henry) Gobel of Cambridge, eight grandchildren; Desirae, Ryan, Kailee, Chelsea, Adam, Dallas, Emily and Benjamin, along with fourteen great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his two sisters Judith Coleman of Janesville and Carol (Ron) Stanaway of Brighton, MI.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Tami C. (Ronald) Schultz, his sister Christina (John) Long, and brother Lavern Footit Jr.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to the Wisconsin Veterans Home at The King (N2665 County Road QQ, King, WI 54946).

Visitation to be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St. Whitewater, WI 53190, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral Service to begin at 11:00 AM, with Certified Celebrant Shelley Bayer officiating. Interment to follow at Richmond Cemetery.

For online condolences, please visit the funeral home website below.

View Jerry J. Footit's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/23/2026

James "Jamie" G. Boehning, 55, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at his home with his loved ones by his side.

He was born on July 25, 1971, to the late James and Linda (nee Stotmeister) in Fort Atkinson, WI. Jamie grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School. On July 6, 1991, he was united in marriage to Stephanie Gosh. Jamie worked as a printer for many different printing shops but worked the majority of his time at Central Printing in Delavan, WI. He liked to go fishing and hunting. He enjoyed coin collecting, grilling and loved watching the Green Bay Packers. Jamie especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Those Jamie leaves behind to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Stephanie Boehning; his son, Scott Boehning; a sister, Mindy (Scott) Walker; two brothers, Scott (Melba) Garlock and Rob (Lisa) Garlock; Molly the family cat; many brothers and sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Kayla Marie Boehning and his father and mother-in-law, Ron and Donna Gosh.

A Memorial Service in remembrance of Jamie will be held on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Ev. Lutheran Church, 301 S. High St. Fort Atkinson.

Nitardy Funeral Home – Whitewater has been entrusted with Jamie's Arrangements

10/20/2026

David James Riddell, 79, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

He was born on August 21, 1947, to the late James Riddell and Barbara Vandre (nee Somerville) and step-father Ralph Vandre in Fort Atkinson. David’s favorite hobby was flying his plane. He also road his Harley and drove fast in his Corvette. He enjoyed all of his “toys” he worked so hard for. David lived in many locations due to his work as General Manager at Container Board and Corrugated Packaging companies. In the last four years David thankfully moved back to WI to be closer to his daughter and family. He loved taking walks around his neighborhood and meeting all of the dogs in the area. He didn’t meet a dog he didn’t want to pet.

David especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be missed by all who knew him.

Those David leaves behind to cherish his memory include his daughter Kelly, grandchildren Emelia, Al and Lucy (Groeler), brothers Rick and Lance (Debbie). Nieces, nephews, and the mother of his children Carol Lein Riddell and close friends.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his two sons Brian David and Lance James, his sister Laurie Riddell and sister-in-law Jackie Riddell.

VISITATION: The family will greet relatives and friends on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Nitardy Funeral Home, 1008 Madison Ave., Fort Atkinson with burial to follow at Union Cemetery in Jefferson with Military Honors. The family asks you to join them at Soups On in Fort Atkinson following the burial. In lieu of flowers the family asks you to make donations to Rainbow Hospice in Johnson Creek.

Casual attire is welcome as we celebrate David's life.

View David J. Riddell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2026

Tawny D. Blum was born on November 29, 1978, to Bruce and Nancy Blum of Whitewater, WI. She passed peacefully on October 7, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Tawny is survived by her parents, Bruce and Nancy Blum, her sisters, Trevett (Tim) Cullers, Tricia Blum, and Tiffany (Rob) Rotondo. Tawny was a cherished aunt to Molly (Greg) Souza, Elise Blum, Dominick and Joe Rotondo, Ryan and Cole Cullers, and Rory and Ruby Souza.

Tawny was a dedicated volunteer and passionate advocate for UW Organ & Tissue Donation, SODA (Student Organization Donation Advocates), Donate Life Wisconsin, Versiti Blood Centers, American Liver Foundation, and PSC Partners 20s & 30s Group.

Tawny wanted us to come together to celebrate her life, her passion for advocacy, and her commitment to choosing joy and laughter. We’ll honor Tawny’s wishes by coming together to celebrate the love and happiness she brought into our lives. As she requested, please come dressed casually and comfortably in any Donate Life attire, or colors.

Please join us as we gather to honor and celebrate Tawny, Saturday, October 24th at 1:00pm.

Service of Celebration

St. John’s Church 104 S. Broad Street, Elkhorn, WI 53121

Following the service, please join us for a luncheon as we gather to share memories of Tawny.

For those unable to join us in person, Tawny’s service will be livestreamed so you can be part of celebrating her life from wherever you are. Please follow this link to join.

In lieu of flowers, Tawny asked that donations be made to either of the following organizations that she held very close to her heart: SODA (Student Organization Donation Advocates) Restoring Hope Transplant House (checks can be mailed) 7457 Terrace Ave., Middleton, WI 53562.

10/14/2026

Debra (Debbie) Ann Marchiafava, affectionately known to many as the famous “Ms. M,” age 66, of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Aurora Medical Center in Burlington, Wisconsin.
Debbie was born on December 1, 1959, in Janesville, Wisconsin, to the late Joseph “One Arm Joe” and Carol Marchiafava. She graduated from Whitewater High School in 1978.
Debbie and her siblings grew up in Whitewater, Wisconsin. They frequently spent weekends in nearby Janesville with their cousins at the home of Aunt Carmela and Uncle Jerry. Growing up, Debbie and her siblings always looked forward to eating at Gus’s Pizza and going to the movie theater on Friday nights. Sundays were reserved for family, as Debbie and her entire family gathered at Aunt Carmela and Uncle Jerry’s home for dinner, and time spent with their cousins.
Debbie cherished spending time with her family and friends, but the bond she shared with her brother, Paul Marchiafava, was something special. Born just one year apart and sharing the same birthday, Debbie and Paul were practically joined at the hip from the day he was born. Their connection was truly one of a kind. If you knew Debbie, you knew Paul, and if you knew Paul, you knew Debbie. They shared a lifelong closeness that was a special part of who they were.
Debbie had one of the biggest hearts and a genuine passion for helping others. She had many hidden talents and used them to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Her talents included crafting, cooking, tutoring young children in their studies, including translating for Spanish-speaking children. She was also a devoted advocate for victims of domestic abuse.
Debbie worked at various places after high school up until she lost her leg in 1990, where she learned to navigate life using one left & an electric scooter.
Debbie continued her education by taking courses at Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville, Wisconsin, and the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater in Whitewater, Wisconsin.
During the 1990s, Debbie volunteered for several years as a Crisis Line Advocate with People Against Domestic Abuse of Jefferson County, Wisconsin. She provided victims with a compassionate, understanding, and supportive presence during some of the most frightening and difficult moments of their lives.
Debbie, affectionately known as the famous “Ms. M,” worked for the Fort Atkinson School District at Purdy Elementary as a paraprofessional from September 1999 until August 2021. She devoted herself to helping each child grow and reach their full potential.
For more than 10 years in the 90’s Debbie lived in an elderly and handicapped apartment complex, where she became a source of kindness and fellowship for many of her neighbors. Every Thanksgiving and Easter, Debbie prepared a full-course meal and welcomed tenants who might otherwise have had nowhere to go. She opened her home and her heart, making sure others could enjoy a warm meal, companionship, and a sense of belonging.
Debbie also had a tremendous love for animals. She adored her beloved dog, Ebony, and the many cats she cared for throughout her lifetime. Her heart was especially tender toward stray cats, whom she could never turn away. Her compassion for these animals reflected the caring spirit that was such a meaningful part of her life.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Debbie is survived by her sisters, Vickie (Barry Buckelew) and Sherry Stelse; brother Paul Marchiafava; brother-in-law Gary Stelse; and sister-in-law Sue Bakko Marchiafava. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Justin (Jelsey) Buckelew, Megan (Scott) Lyght, Marty (Tim) Eichenberg, and Michaela (Colin) Salzmann; great-nieces and nephews Harley, Laykin, and Heaven Buckelew, Charlie and Isla Eichenberg, and Rory and Callie Lyght; Aunt Carmela Gardner; Cousin Jon Gardner; Dannie & Timmy O’Grady and many great cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Diane Marchiafava; brother Steve Marchiafava; nephew Joey Buckelew; Uncle Jerry Gardner; and cousins Maryk and Matt Gardner, Lucia Mauerman, Lela Gardner, & Dale O’Grady.
A private burial will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Janesville, WI at a later date, where Debbie will be laid to rest beside her mom & dad.
Nitardy Funeral Home — Proudly serving the family.

View Debra "Debbie" A. Marchiafava's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/13/2026

Nancy Carroll Cummings, 95 years old, lifelong resident of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away October 12, 2026 at Archwood Senior Living in Paddock Lake, Wisconsin.

She was born at home in Whitewater, Wisconsin, on April 12, 1931, the daughter born to the late Carrel and Abigail (nee Smith) Bogie. Nancy attended Whitewater grade school and high school. She married Jack Cummings on September 16, 1950. They had two children, daughter Jackie and son Kim. Nancy earned a degree in Education and taught in the Whitewater School System from 1962-1990.

Nancy is survived by her son, Kim and daughter-in-law Carol Cummings, grandsons Craig (Katie) Cummings and Kyle (Michelle) Cummings and great grandsons: Mason, Jackson, Jonathan, Harrison, Nolan, and son-in-law Lester Carr, and other relatives and friends.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband Jack and daughter Jackie., and brother Raymond Bogie.

Memorials can be made to the Jack Cummings Scholarship through the UW-Whitewater Foundation at www.uww.edu.give.

Nitardy Funeral Home has been entrusted with Nancy's care.

10/13/2026

James “Jim” D. Miles, 92, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. Nitardy Funeral Home of Fort Atkinson has been entrusted with Jim's care.

10/12/2026

THOMAS BILSTAD

July 31, 1944 - October 1, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tom Bilstad, who left us unexpectedly at home. Born on July 31, 1944 in Edgerton WI., Tom was the beloved son of Grant and Hazel (Goede). He was a cherished member of his family and community, remembered fondly for his wit, humor and love of life.

Tom’s journey through life was marked by dedication and achievement. A proud graduate of Cambridge High School, Class of 1962, Tom went on to pursue higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His career path led him to the Paper Mill Industry, where he served as an Industrial Relations Manager in Neenah WI at the PH Glatfelter (later, Bergstrom Paper Co.) until his retirement. Even after retirement, Tom continued to contribute to the community by working at Krueger Tru Valu Hardware Store in Neenah.

In 1963, Tom married Darlene Evenson, with whom the union was blessed with two children. He leaves behind his children, Thomas Bilstad Jr. (Bill) and his wife Theresa Winge, and Jennifer (Nifer) Weller and SO Dale Hill. He was Grandfather (Papa B) to Adee Weller who, along with her husband Lance Morsell, was a great source of joy in his life. His family also includes numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Tom’s life was filled with passions that brought him joy and fulfillment. He was an avid golfer and walker whose love for the outdoors was infectious. His trips to Colorado to visit his daughter and granddaughter were among his most cherished memories. Tom had a remarkable green thumb and nurtured a variety of plants from orchids to vegetables. He never missed a Packer game.

Known for his quick, dry sense of humor, Tom had an uncanny ability to make those around him laugh with his corny jokes. His legacy of laughter and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Tom was predeceased by his siblings: brothers, Rollin and Kenneth, and sister, Shirley Christensen.

His memory will be forever cherished by those he leaves behind, including his ex-wife and dear friend, Darlene Bilstad.

Tom’s memory will continue to inspire laughter and love, reminding us all to cherish the moments we have with one another. A celebration of Tom's life will be held at a later date where family and friends will gather to honor a life well-lived.

10/12/2026

Joyce Bower, 85, of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2026. She was born on August 10, 1941, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, the daughter of Merlyn and Irene (Franckowiak) Edwards. Joyce leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, hard work, family traditions, and memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

Joyce was one of the toughest women you could ever meet. She was strong, independent, hardworking, and never afraid to speak her mind. She was a true no-nonsense woman who lived life on her own terms. After working at Jones Dairy Farm for 18 years, she moved to Florida, where she owned and operated a lawn-care business well into her seventies, a testament to her determination and incredible work ethic.

But beneath that toughness was a woman with a big heart.

Joyce was a woman of strong faith. She was dedicated to the Lord and the churches she attended. She served her church with passion, including altar guild, lawn care and gardening, driving others to church, and going on mission trips with the youth group.

Joyce's greatest love was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who found her greatest joy in spending time with the people she loved. She is survived by her children, Donald Coleman (Amy), Suzanne Biedenharn (Bruce), Joyce Coleman Kloskey (Scott), and Rita Coleman; her grandchildren, Samantha Stedman, Blake Gleiter, Miranda Gleiter, David Coleman (Tiffany), Kelsey Carlton (Bryce), and Makayla Ullery; and her great-grandchildren, Brookelynn and Kaeson Stedman, Ryan and Keagan Nasett, and Lincoln, Eloise, and Reese Carlton; and her siblings, David Edwards, Mary Olson, and Karen Edwards.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Lee Edwards; her brother-in-law, Ron Olson; and her great-grandson, Declan Stedman.

Joyce had a special way of showing her love—she baked it.

Her kitchen was often filled with the smell of something homemade, whether she was baking for a birthday, a holiday, a family gathering, church, or simply because she wanted to do something kind for someone. For years, her family looked forward to receiving boxes of homemade baked goods at Christmas.

Joyce loved passing those traditions down. In her later years, she began teaching her children and grandchildren how to make the recipes they loved most—pumpkin bread, apple pie, moose balls, frosted Christmas cookies, and chocolate cake—ensuring the memories would continue long after she was gone.

She also treasured the simple moments. She loved going out for breakfast with her family, sitting around a table enjoying food, talking and laughing. Frosting cookies, coloring, or puzzles were favorite times with the children. Those ordinary moments, which may have seemed small at the time, will become some of their most precious memories.

Joyce also found happiness in music (especially Elvis), chocolate, her dogs, reading, feeding andwatching the birds, and travel.

Joyce will be remembered for her strength, her sense of humor, her generosity, and her love for her family. The love she gave will live on through the recipes she taught, the traditions she created, the stories they share, and the memories she left with everyone who knew her — passed from one generation to the next.

Although her family is heartbroken by her loss, they find comfort in knowing that Joyce is no longer in pain. After a long and beautifully lived life, she has traded her earthly body for a brand-new heavenly one.

Her family will look for her in the butterflies that flutter by, in the beauty of gardens, the flow of a waterfall, the smell of baking, and the table where stories and laughter are shared.

We will miss you so much, until Heaven calls us home.

A service will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church,302 Merchants Ave., Fort Atkinson. Luncheon will be served following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Episcopal Church (stpetersfort.org), Rainbow Hospice Care Inpatient Center (rainbowcommunitycare.org), or Albert's Dog Lounge(albertsdoglounge.org).

Nitardy Funeral Home of Fort Atkinson is proudly serving the family.

https://websites.tukios.com/organizations/8494/obituaries/joyce-bower/preview

10/06/2026

James Edward Masterson, Jr., known to all who loved him as “Geege,” died on October 4, 2026 peacefully at home in Wisconsin with his family by his side. He was born on June 21,1941, in Evanston, Illinois. Loving husband to Elaine (Dumich) Masterson. Proud father of Maggie (Priscilla), Jim (Beth), Amy and Katie Masterson. Sweet and silly grandfather to Emelia, Aidan and Phineas Gleber and Vera, Bella, Maeve, Seamus and Mickey Masterson.

Geege was intelligent with a razor sharp wit and lightning fast sense of humor. A normally quiet and thoughtful man, he could change the energy in the room in the blink of an eye. With a well-timed pun, amusing story, or hilarious anecdote, he brought joyous laughter to otherwise awkward or stressful situations. Anyone caught in his wake was not safe from fits of giggles or bubbling hysterics. He had a gift. He also had a terrific singing voice, and he sang like he joked, getting the crowd to sing along, catching everyone up in his music.

A born storyteller, Geege graduated from Georgetown University with aspirations to become an English teacher but decided to join the family business, Hackney’s Restaurants, instead. He was the owner and general manager of the Wheeling location for over 40 years. Even there, his natural ability to teach shone through. He might help you with your poetry homework while you were waiting on tables. He was loyal and kind, a good listener, a fierce friend and a snazzy dancer. He saw the human in everyone he met and he knew how to enjoy his time with them.

Services will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Glenview, IL on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Visitation is from 9.30 a.m. with Mass following at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at https://alzfdn.org/donate/ would be gratefully appreciated.

Nitardy Funeral Home – Whitewater has been entrusted with James’ care.

10/06/2026

Karen Ann Swader (nee Solchenberger), 79, of Whitewater passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Karen was born on April 29, 1947, to the late Lyle and Carol (nee Bennett) Solchenberger in Beloit, WI. She graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1965 and then attended Spencerian Business College. On March 23, 1968, Karen was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Monte Smith. They eventually settled in Fort Atkinson and raised two sons.

Karen was preceded in death by Monte in 1998; however, she was able to find love again and married Stephen Swader on September 21, 2013, with whom she shared many good years and fond memories.

Those fortunate enough to know Karen will have no shortage of memories demonstrating her unconditional kindness, love, and indomitable spirit… from Halloween parties at Sunset Lodge to quiet evenings on Little Tomahawk Lake, from decades spent biking to The Highground every summer to camping and kayaking around Lake Kegonsa, and dogs. Karen just loved dogs.

Those Karen leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Stephen Swader; Sons, Timothy (Kathleen) and Andrew (Nicole); her 5 beloved grandchildren, Declan, Logan (Julie), Montana, Kathleen, and Owen; Sister, Connie Bennett-Edwards (Rob Thomas); as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and countless friends. Karen also leaves behind her extended family from the Jefferson County Courthouse, as well as the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409.

The family would like to specifically thank the staff at Hearthstone Memory Care and Rainbow Hospice Care for the grace and kindness shown to Karen and her family these past months.

Anyone who knew Karen knew how much she loved and treasured her family, but a close second was her love of the Green Bay Packers. Stephen requests that anyone who is able wear something representing the Green Bay Packers as a way to honor and remember Karen.

Visitation will be at the Nitardy Funeral Home, Whitewater, WI from 11:00 AM - 12:45 PM with a VFW Auxiliary Ceremony at 12:45 and Memorial Service at 1:00 PM. The family requests in lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to Fairhaven Senior Services or VVA Chapter 409.
Nitardy Funeral Home - Whitewater has been entrusted with Karen's care.

10/04/2026

Derek Thomas Floerke, 42, of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, passed away on September 28, 2026.

Derek was born on August 25, 1984, to Norman and Debra Floerke. He attended St. Paul's Lutheran School and went on to graduate from Fort Atkinson High School in 2003. He continued his education at UW–Stout and UW–Platteville. During his college years, Derek enjoyed playing baseball for the Utica A's in the Home Talent League. In 2008, he answered the call to service and enlisted in the military.

From a young age, Derek shared a special connection with his grandfather, James Wolfgram. Their time spent together in the outdoors—hunting and sharing quiet moments of understanding—instilled in Derek a love for his country and a sense of pride that had guided him throughout his life. He dedicated much of his adult life to the Wisconsin National Guard and ultimately achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class.

As a full-time member of the National Guard, Derek served two tours in the Middle East with the 147th Aviation Battalion. His military service was an important part of who he was and something he was tremendously proud of. He was a dedicated soldier and a great friend to those with whom he served.

Derek continued his commitment to veterans and his community through his involvement with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1879, where he served as VFW Commander from 2013 to 2015. He was proud to support fellow veterans and to remain connected to the military community that meant so much to him.

Throughout his military career, Derek received numerous awards and commendations recognizing his service, dedication, and accomplishments including: Army Commendation Medal-4, Army Achievement Medal-3, Army Good Conduct Medal-3, National Defence Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal W/2 Campaign Stars, Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal W/Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal W/M Device & 10 Year Bronze Hourglass, NCO Professional Development Ribbon-3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, WING Service Ribbon, WING Write Medal-8, Senior Aviation Badge, Meritorious Unit Commendation.

Derek possessed an easy charisma that made everyone feel like family from the moment they met him. Beyond his military service, Derek was an avid outdoorsman, a fan of classic westerns, and a proud Wisconsin sports enthusiast who faithfully wore his green and gold. Derek was happiest surrounded by the people he cared about, leaving behind a legacy of rich memories and stories that will be told for years to come.

Derek was also a devoted dog dad to his two beloved fur children, Max and Jack, who brought him companionship and love.

Though Derek quietly carried the heavy burdens of PTSD and addiction, those struggles could never overshadow the man he truly was: a beloved son, brother, uncle, veteran, and loyal friend whose strength, love, and heart touched everyone who knew him.

Derek is survived by his parents, Norman and Debra (Wolfgram) Floerke; twin sister, Emily (Andy) Harris; triplet brothers, Ethan Floerke, Tyler (Samantha) Floerke, and Dane (Brittany) Floerke; niece Reegan Harris; nephew Declan Harris.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, James and Mary (Kreklow) Wolfgram, and his paternal grandparents, Norman Sr. and Gladys (Dickhut) Floerke.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at St. Paul's Ev. Lutheran Church, 301 S. High St., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM. Funeral Service to begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at North Oakland Cemetery, W7603 Perry Rd, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538, with military honors taking place.

For online condolences, please visit the funeral home website below:

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/nitardy-funeral-homes/fort-atkinson-wisconsin/derek-floerke/september-2026

09/26/2026

Earlier this morning some of our staff and their families enjoyed participating in the 10th Annual Emmy's Rustic Run. Among their favorites were the pancakes, face painting, of course, a variety of trails!

A special shout-out to our Apprentice Funeral Director Olivia, who ran exceptionally well in the starting 5K event!

Emmy's Rustic Run is an event held to raise awareness and support, along with fundraising for ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), which is a rare genetic disease that affects Emmy and all children. All proceeds are donated to Project A-T, which helps fund research for life-changing therapy and finding a cure for ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T).

For more information on Emmy's Rustic Run, please visit:

https://share.google/AH9UeahciEN7IeCl6

09/24/2026

Rosella (Labus) Schnagl, 100 years old, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, at Oakwood Village – University Woods, Madison. Rosella was born on July 13, 1926, to Julia and Carl Labus in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Her parents farmed in Lower Dutch Creek, rural Bangor, Wisconsin.

She graduated from Bangor High School in 1944 and from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1949. She taught Spanish and German at Madison East High School up to when she moved to Minneapolis in 1955. In Minneapolis, she worked at Prudential Life Insurance until after she married.

Rosella married Ted Schnagl on November 26, 1955. While in Minneapolis, Ted worked in the Energy Industry and together they had two children. In the early 1970s, they purchased a motel and moved from Minneapolis to Merrill, Wisconsin. About ten years later, they moved to Fort Atkinson, where they purchased a laundromat in the area and were semi-retired. Rosella lived in Fort Atkinson for 30 years then moved to Attic Angel in Madison, and Oakwood Village within the last year.

She had many hobbies and interests. She loved to travel and visited many countries. She was a member of AAUW, Trinity Lutheran Church, and volunteered at the Hoard Museum and Meals on Wheels. She appreciated music and was a member of a choir up until she moved to Madison. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Rosella is survived by a daughter, Pamela Schnagl, grandson, Daniel Abel, a chosen granddaughter, Safire Anne, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ted, her son, Steven Schnagl, her brother, Irvin, her sister, Ellenmae, and many cousins.

A private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the School District of Fort Atkinson.

Nitardy Funeral Home of Fort Atkinson is proudly serving the family.