Helen E. Pankratz (nee Pucek)

July 25, 1932 – September 1, 2024

Helen Eve Pankratz (nee Pucek) of Lannon, WI, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Sunday September 1, 2024. Helen was born at home on July 25, 1932 in Lisbon, WI to Adam Pucek and Francis Ubar. Helen married the love of her life Richard Pankratz on January 30, 1954. Together they built a life filled with love and joy, raising their daughter Suzanne Asleson. Helen worked at Briggs and Stratton on the motor line for 30 years before retiring. She always lived life to the fullest and enjoyed watching Brewers games, watching/listening to polkas, dancing and spending time with friends and family. Helen is preceded in death by her husband Richard Pankratz, mother, father, 7 sisters and 5 brothers. Helen’s memory will be forever cherished by her daughter (Suzanne Asleson), sister (Emily Rakowski), brother (Andy Pucek), 3 grandchildren (Chad, Kelly, and Ricky), 4 great-grandchildren (Cheyenne, Dakota, Draysias, and Xavia). Survived by nieces, nephews, sister-in-laws, other relatives and friends. As we say goodbye, we take solace in knowing Helen is once again in the loving arms of her husband. She will never be forgotten, as her spirit lives on through the lasting impressions she made on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday September 7, 2024 at 11 AM at St James Catholic Parish, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI. Visitation will be at the Church from 9 AM until the time of the Mass. Burial will follow the Mass at St. James Church Cemetery.

Carol J. Milkie

(September 7, 1942 – July 29, 2024)

Carol Jean Milkie passed away unexpectedly on July 29th, surrounded by her loving family. She was 81 years young.

Born on September 7th, 1942, in Milwaukee, WI to Howard and Marie Felske, Carol was the oldest of two daughters. In her highschool years, Carol met the love of her life, Bernie at a sock-hop during their Junior year and have been sweethearts ever since. Together the two accomplished so much in life, including having 4 amazing kids, traveling the world, marriage encounters, and helping people in need. For 23 years, the two spent their winters in the Rio Grand Valley of Texas enjoying time with friends and doing countless activities.

Carol was not only a wonderful mother, but also a tremendous grandmother. She took the time to support each and every one of her grandchildren in their endeavors. Not only was she there for the activities and sports, but she also loved to travel and vacation with them. Whether it was a trip to the UP for a basketball game, a vacation to the Dells, adventures to Arizona to share in a hike, or a night out to the theater for a play, she loved and encouraged all of them any way she could. Those moments and memories are something her grandchildren will cherish and carry with them forever.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and her loving son, James. She is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of 62 years, Bernie, and their daughters Cathy, Mary Jo (Kevin), Lori (James), and daughter in-law Carmela, sister Joanne, grandchildren Angela (Jay), Natalie, Courtney (Ronald), Mackenzie, Joseph (Caroline), Elisa, Samantha, and Darren, and great grandchildren Sikhona, Brynleigh, and Everett.

Visitation will be held on August 8th from 2:30-4:30pm at St. James Parish, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051. Mass will follow at 4:30pm. A private burial will be held on Friday, August 9th for immediate family only.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.

Mary Jean Bagin

(November 8, 1941 – July 5, 2024)

(nee Prekop), of Hartland, passed peacefully from this life into the loving arms of our Lord, surrounded by her family. Born to Eternal Life on July 5, 2024 at the age of 82 years old. Beloved wife of Richard for 61 years. Loving mother of Richard (Rosann), Michael (Tracy) and Daniel (Jane) Bagin. Devoted grandmother of Ramie (Jacob) Sherman and Alec Bagin; Michael (Emma), Thomas (Lindsay), Stephen (Jenna) Bagin, Sarah (Tyler) Szakacs, Hannah, Moriah, Emmah and Timothy Bagin; John, Natalie and Emily Bagin. Cherished great grandmother to eight great grandchildren. Dear sister of Nancy Bell and Stephen (Karen) Prekop and dear sister-in-law to Donald (Judy) Bagin and Stephen (Jean) Bagin. Further survived and will be missed by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Known for her caring and kind heart, Mary Jean was the adored Matriarch of the Bagin family. She had the brightest personality and could light up any room. She loved Lake Keesus, boating, and filling her home with family and friends. Her strong Catholic faith was demonstrated through her involvement within the St. James community and beyond. She enjoyed her card club and “investment club” adventures to Las Vegas and throughout the Midwest. An avid Disney fan, she took many trips with her husband and family and created memories that will be cherished forever. She was an animal lover, and never met a cat or dog (or goldfish) that she did not want to bring home. She loved her TV programs, ‘I Love Lucy’ and ‘The Andy Griffith Show’, which she shared with her grandchildren. Mary was a dedicated wife and loved her husband immensely. Their marriage is one that will be looked up to for generations to come.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at St. James Catholic Church, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd in Menomonee Falls from 3PM until time to celebrate Mass of Christian Burial at 5PM. Private Entombment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Marguerite “Mitzi” McGovern

(August 20, 1936 – June 22, 2024)

Entered into Eternal Life on Saturday, June 22, 2024, age 87. Survived by her two children Robert (Patricia) Van Willigen and Kurt (Bernadette) van Willigen, 4 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, sister Joanne (late Billy) Newberg . Further survived by other relatives and friends.

Visitation to be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at St. James Catholic Church, W220 N6588 Town Line Road, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. Mass of Christian Burial to follow. Private burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ronald McDonald House are appreciated.

Patricia M. Liner

( June 26, 1937 – June 2, 2024 )

Patricia M. Liner, age 86 of Mountain (formerly of Brookfield), passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024 with family by her side. Pat was born on June 26, 1937 to the late Tony and Martha (Neuman) Heinze. She graduated from Girls’ Trade and Technical High School in Milwaukee and attended nursing school to become an LPN. On January 9, 1960, Pat married Thomas Liner at St. Sebastian’s Catholic Church in Milwaukee. The couple lived in the Milwaukee and Brookfield area for most of their lives. Pat worked for Fairview North High School as a cook and at Menomonee Falls Hospital and Sage Nursing Home as a nurse. Pat and Tom enjoyed traveling together in their motor home and were able to see most of the United States. In November 2021, the couple moved to Mountain. Pat enjoyed fishing and music.

Pat is survived by her 2 sons, Kevin (Mary) and John (Mary Beth); grandson, Seth Liner; great-grandsons, Coleman and Liam; sisters, Beverly Butzlaff and Joanne Heinze; brother-in-law, Gerry Maier; sister-in-law, Dorothy Heinze. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom; daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Richard Pilsnik; sister-in-law, Judy Maier; brothers, Don Heinze and Chris Heinze.

Funeral Services will be held at St. James on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am followed by Mass at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Pat’s honor to St. James Catholic Church in Menomonee Falls.

Patricia R. “Patti” Plude

August 16, 1936 – May 26, 2024

Of Sussex, went home to heaven on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at the age of 87 years. Patti was born on August 16,1936, a daughter of Donald and Alice (nee Lorang) Cole. She graduated from Oconto Falls H.S., class of ’54. Patti met the love of her life, Lester Plude at a dance hall in Oconto, Wisconsin. The two were married on June 25, 1955. Together they were inseparable and spent 69 adventurous years together raising their family. Patti was a dedicated Sussex community member. With a cheerful demeanor she watched out for everyone and was always there to lend a helping hand. Patti held various seats and volunteered for many organizations over the years. She was a longtime devoted member of St. James Catholic Church in Sussex. Pattie loved traveling with Lester. Together, they traveled all over the United States via tour bus. She cherished her family and the time spent together. Sentimental at heart, Patti kept every note, card, or other item sent to her. The Matriarch of her family, the memory of Patti will forever live on in the hearts of those she loved.

Patti will be dearly missed by her husband, Lester; children, Pamela (Daniel) Connerton, Diane Rivard and Marc Plude; grandchildren, James (Rachel) Yesko, Jaclyn Yesko, Katherine (Benjamin) Riggs Connerton, and Carole (Matthew) Sherwood; great-grandchildren, Haleigh, Donovan, Lilyana, Madelyn and Theo; siblings, Tim Cole, Danny (Theresa) Cole, Christine (Earle) Gray, and Ellen Cole; and sister-in-law, Linda Cole. She is further survived by other relatives and friends. Patti is preceded in death by her grandson, Michael Yesko; parents; and brothers, Terry (Jane) Cole and Michael Cole.

The first visitation for Patti will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 3PM until the time of the vigil prayers at 6PM at the Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home in Sussex. A second visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, from 10AM until 10:45AM with the Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM at St. James Catholic Church, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI. Burial will immediately follow the Mass at St. James Rose Hill Cemetery in Sussex.

In lieu of flowers memorials to the family are appreciated.

Andrew Lang

December 4, 1963 – May 23, 2024

Andrew “Andy” Lang of Sussex passed away unexpectedly at home at the age of 60 on the morning of Thursday, May 23rd, 2024. He was born on December 4th,1963, the son of the late Donald and Marion (nee Hausmann) Lang. On May 28th, 1988, he was united in marriage to Jane Schacht at Holy Angels Catholic Church in West Bend.

Andy was a graduate of the Class of 1982 from West Bend West High School. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and later obtained his Master’s in Business Administration. Andy spent his entire career at GE. He worked in Aerospace for his first five years before spending 33 years with Healthcare.

Andy enjoyed his many hobbies which included spending time outdoors at his cabin, deer hunting, and riding motorcycles. Andy loved every holiday and was passionate about his famous Christmas cards, intricate Christmas cookie designs, and homemade Halloween costumes for his kids. Every year since Jane’s 22nd birthday, Andy would bake and decorate a cake for her with clever phrases. During summers, he was often doing anything possible to flip his kids off the tubes behind the boat. He was especially handy, and any time that a friend or family member would need a hand, Andy would be the first to drop what he was doing to help.

Above all else, he cherished his family and always put them first. He and Jane raised four children and he would proudly tell everyone that he had two sets of twins. He loved his family, enjoyed coaching them across several sports, and teaching them lifelong skills.

Andy had a wonderful sense of humor and never failed to put a smile on others faces. He will be greatly missed by his family. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Jane; four children: Alex, Katie, Maddie, and Max; brothers and sisters: Joe Lang, John Lang, Dan (Donna) Lang, Pat (Rick) Peacock, and Sue Lang. He is further survived by his mother-in law Dolores Schacht; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Terry (Cindy) Schacht, Rita Schacht, Doug (Michelle) Schacht; and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Marion Lang, brother Tim Lang, sisters-in-law Linda Lang and Amy Schacht, and father-in-law Richard “Dick” Schacht.

A gathering for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, May 29th from 10:00am until 12:00pm at St. James Catholic Church in Menomonee Falls followed with a memorial Mass of Christian Burial at the Church at 12:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to Waukesha County Parks Tribute Gifts.

The Schmidt Funeral Home of West Bend is seving the family. Messages for the family may be left in an online guestbook at www.schmidtfuneralhome.com.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Marion Lang, brother Tim Lang, sisters-in-law Linda Lang and Amy Schacht, and father-in-law Richard “Dick” Schacht.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to Waukesha County Parks Tribute Gifts.

The Schmidt Funeral Home of West Bend is seving the family. Messages for the family may be left in an online guestbook at www.schmidtfuneralhome.com.

Cynthia Jean Jaskolski

October 28, 1942 – May 19, 2024

Cynthia Jean Jaskolski, age 82, of Milwaukee Wisconsin, was called to eternal life on May 19th, 2024, due to cardiac complications. Family members believe Cindy simply died from a broken heart after being separated from the love of her life, Stanley, who left this world just five months earlier in December, 2023.

Cynthia was born in Milwaukee on October 28, 1941 to Andrew and Helen Wanat. She graduated from Messmer High School and Saint Anthony Nursing School in Rockford, Illinois in 1962. On June 1, 1963 Cynthia married the love of her life, Stanley V. Jaskolski at St. Mary of Czestochowa Church in Milwaukee.

She worked as a nurse at St Mary’s Hospital in Milwaukee for several years until she made the decision to be a stay at home mom for her four children.

Cindy loved antiques, visiting the Amish Country, summer trips with her family in their RV, popsicles, perogies, and spending time with her grandchildren. Cindy’s photo of her granddaughters even won a first place ribbon at the Wisconsin State Fair.

Cindy’s love of antiques was front and center as she opened the iconic Grandma’s Trunk store in Fish Creek, Wisconsin in 1986. She spent summers in Door County running the business with her kids. Later in life, she became heavily involved in the Pewaukee Historical Society.

She also had a love for revitalizing heirlooms. Cindy and Stan spent a decade restoring their 100-year-old Pewaukee home, known as Edgewood. A former bed and breakfast hotel from the turn of the century, Cindy decorated the home as only she could, holding parties and celebrating birthdays around their 28-seat grand dining table.

Cindy was also known for her deep Catholic faith and values. She was a member of St. James Catholic Church for over 40 years, highlighted by funding the restoration of the the original chapel, for which she was extremely proud.

Cindy’s unwavering love for Stan and commitment to her family were always front and center. The Jaskolski kids fondly remember waking up to the smell of coffee in the air as mom and dad enjoyed their 5am beverages each morning. These morning “dates” lasted for over 60 years.

Cindy leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength and an overabundance of love that will be missed by all who knew her. As St. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 13:13, “So now faith, hope and love endure without yield.”

Cynthia was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Stanley Vincent Jaskolski. She is survived by her children, John Jaskolski (Diane), Mike Jaskolski (Jeanne), Amy Brady (Tim) and Jill Wieland (Steve), and her many grandchildren, and great grandchildren. All were so lucky to have experienced what a beautiful person she was.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Old Chapel at St James Catholic Church (W220N6588 Town Line Rd, Menomonee Falls, WI) on June 1st, 2024 at 11 am. Visitation will be held from 10 am until time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate gifts to Tunnels to Towers Foundation (t2t.org).

Lee J. Berner

January 10, 1944 – May 17, 2024

Lee J. Berner, age 80, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2024. He was born on January 10, 1944 to the late Russell and Cleo (nee Maloney) Berner.

Lee was employed for over 40 years at Strattec, which reflects his incredibly strong work ethic that he instilled in his children. His favorite hobbies included cooking (especially after retirement) and taking daily walks. He enjoyed many road trips with his beloved wife and soulmate, Sue. They explored much of the United States together.

Lee’s radio went everywhere with him, so he didn’t miss a moment of a Brewer or Packer game! He also liked to listen to classic radio shows. When it came to watching television, his favorites were 70’s shows and old westerns. Lee faithfully attended extracurricular events for his children and grandchildren, who meant the world to him.
Above all, Lee turned to his Catholic faith for comfort and strength. He sought solace in his religion and was sure to say prayers for his family every single day.

He is survived by his children, Tim, Dan, Kelley Panten, and Kirk (Jaspreet Mann); grandchildren, Julia (Tom Endries) Panten, Adam Panten, and George Berner; other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his cherished wife of 58 years, Sue (nee Mather); and brother Raymond.

The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 24 at Phillip Funeral Home (1420 W Paradise Drive, West Bend) at 6:00 PM. The Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday, May 24 from 4:00 PM until 5:45 PM.

Ruth E. Gardner

November 17, 1933 – May 4, 2024

(nee Hauser) Born to Eternal Life on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at the age of 90. Beloved wife of the late Richard. Loving mother of Cathy (the late Phil) Ferderbar, Karen (Bob) Jaeger and Kris (Mark) Klenz. Cherished grandma of Nick (Larissa) Wenszell, Matthew (Helen Cold) Ferderbar and Elizabeth (David) Ferderbar. Great-grandma of Colton, Paige, Brennen, Sylvia, Ivan and Luke. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her beloved infant son Michael Allen Phillip, brother Ken Hauser and sister-in-law Arlene Hauser.

Ruth enjoyed traveling with her family. She was an avid gardener and dog lover.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 14 from 9AM until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM at St. James Catholic Church; W220 N6588 Town Line Rd., Menomonee Falls. In lieu of flowers, please bring food donations on Tuesday for the Menomonee Falls or St. Boniface Food Pantry. Private burial will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Menomonee Falls.

Joseph G. Burki

April 16, 1926 – April 25, 2024

At age 98 years, Joseph George Burki went home to his lord on April 25, 2024, reuniting with his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary Ann C. (nee Bertrand) who passed away in 2001.

Joseph was preceded by his son James (Judith) and survived by his seven children Joanne (Jeff) Axt, William (Colleen), Karen (Robert) Wenta, Charles (Mary, friend), Jon, Kurt (Kelley), Jennifer (Bernie) Esselman. Joeseph is survived by 21 grandchildren, Deanna (Eric) Mussell, Lisa Burki, Wendy (Lance) Trzebiatowski, Joseph Axt, Julia (Luke) Carrao, Jessica Axt, Jessica (Adam) Altis, Sara (Ben) Jennings, Michael Kontz, Matthew Wenta (deceased), Jacqueline Wenta, Dominic Pintarro, Sara Weinhold, Jordan (Lacey) Reynolds, Joseph (Kendall) Burki, Megan (Chris) Kelty, Samantha (Brandon) Franz, Rebecca Esselman, Casey Esselman, Elli (Ryan) Esselman, and Madeline Esselman. Joseph is survived by 30 great grandchildren, Andrew and Claire Mussell; Thomas, Michael, Robert and Anna Booker; Jocelyn and Evan Trzebiatowski; Sophie and Emma Altis; Carson Buckhouse; Claira, Emry and Milo Jennings; Johnny (Natalia), Vincent (deceased), Elisabeth Weinhold and Elena Cobian; Alton, Rose and Autumn Reynolds; Louie, Ellis and baby #3 (on the way) Kelty; Joseph Burki; Gideon, Silas, Elora and Florence Franz; Burkleigh Rodriguez. Joseph is also survived by 2 great great grandchildren, Hero and baby #2 (on the way) Weinhold.

Joseph was born April 16, 1926, in Milwaukee, WI to Edmund A. Burki and Anna (nee Schilter) who emigrated from Switzerland to the U.S. in 1907. He grew up in Milwaukee and graduated from Mesmer High School. Joseph joined the Army Air Corps February 9, 1944. He was stationed at McClellan Airforce Base in CA as an Auto Equip Opr. He re-enlisted October 18, 1945, and served in the Philippines/Asiatic-Pacific Theater in photo reconnaissance and as an electrician. He was in occupied Japan and mustered out on December 30, 1946.

Joseph became an electrician and worked with his brother Eddie and father Edmund who started Burki Electric Co, which has been in business for over 80 years. He and his brother took over the business after their fathers passing. He worked for many years before retiring in November 2003 and passed the business on to his sons William and Kurt.

Joseph married his childhood sweetheart Mary Ann C. Betrand on January 26, 1946, in Salt Lake City, UT while in the army, thinking he could take her to Europe with him when he shipped out. However, the military had other plans and sent his unit to the Philippines instead, so Mary Ann returned home to await his return. They lived in Milwaukee until 1959 when they built their dream home in Menomonee Falls, where Joe lived until 2021. They raised eight children in their 3-bedroom ranch, five boys and three girls, the first arriving in 1947 and the last in 1968.

Joseph enjoyed many activities like fishing and hunting with friends and bowling and square dancing with Mary Ann. Even though raising eight children kept him busy, he found time for the St. Vincent DePaul Society, volunteering at St. James Church as a board member and acolyte, and as a very active member of The Knights of Columbus for 32 years. Joseph became a 4th Degree Knight on March 27, 2004, and an Honorary Life member in 2020. As a Knight he held many different officer positions but preferred to stay away from the top ones. His true nature was to be a volunteer and there wasn’t any better. He worked the brat fry, pancake breakfasts, tootsie roll drives and Lions Days. He was a true servant to council 10970, which is not a rank or title.

Joseph’s love of the outdoors led him, MaryAnn and their eight children on many camping adventures. They found that camping with this brood was a fun and economical way to vacation. Their many camping adventures also included the Bertrand family. They traveled to many different destinations and handed down a love of camping to their children and grandchildren.

Joseph was a loving and compassionate man dedicated to his family, church, and friends. He will be truly missed but never forgotten, his legacy will live on.

Visitation from 9:30AM until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM on Monday, May 13, 2024, at St. James Catholic Church, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd, Menomonee Falls, luncheon to follow at church. Burial will take place 2:00 at Sunnyside cemetery with full military honors.

Viola Marie “Vi” Ament

August 20, 1929 – April 6, 2024

Born on August 20, 1929, to the late Joseph and Marie Panzer (nee Brys). Adopted daughter of the late Joseph Linzmaier.

Vi found Eternal life on April6, 2024.

Beloved wife of the late Robert William Ament. Loving mother of the late Bobby and Mark Ament. Cherished grandmother of Tiffany (Jesse) Ament-Mack, Jessica (Aseem) Ament, Kyle (Aleah) Ament and Travis (Tony) Ament. Great-grandmother of Meghan Mack and Wesley Swearingen. Dear mother-in-law of Darlene (the late Bobby’s wife) and Cheryl Ament (the late Mark’s wife). Further survived by many special nieces, nephews, other relatives, and especially good friends. Preceded in death by her brother, Lloyd (Jean) Panzer and sister Evelyn (Robert) Weber.

Vi retired from JCPenney’s after 25 years and enjoyed sharing her employee discount with family and friends. She made visits with her grandchildren special by making their favorite foods and playing their favorite games. Her love for dogs was evident. She enjoyed puppy sitting and when neighbors, family and friends would bring their dogs for a visit. She always had a doggie treat in her pantry. She was an avid card player and had a standing card club date with her wonderful friends. Christmas Eve was always made special with her savory hot beef and cheesy potatoes. She will be loved and missed by all that knew her.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home – W250 N6505 Hwy 164 Sussex, WI, from 4:30pm until time of Funeral Service at 6pm.

Vi will be laid to rest next to her late husband, Robert, at Resurrection Cemetery in Mequon in a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Vi’s name to the Washington County Humane Society are greatly appreciated.

The family would like to thank Grace Common’s Blue Grotto Memory Care Facility for their compassionate care and Amedisys Hospice for end-of-life care.

Ruth Truttschel

Mar 28, 1926 – Mar 29, 2024

Ruth Truttschel, age 98, formerly of Sussex and Menomonee Falls, WI, passed away Friday March 29, 2024. Ruth was born March 28, 1926, in Sheboygan Falls to the late Willard and Ludwina (Dick) Sonnenburg. She attended Sheboygan schools and was a graduate of North High School. Ruth was united in marriage to the late William J. Truttschel on June 21, 1948, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church.

Ruth graduated from The University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She was a member of Sussex Hamilton’s school board and served as school board president. Her campaign slogan was “When you’re in the booth, vote for Ruth!” While living in retirement at The Villages, FL, she was proud of achieving 4 holes in one on the golf course.
Survivors include her children: Robert (Garilyn) Truttschel of Oconomowoc, William Jr. (Darla) Truttschel of Hartland, Michael (Kathryn) Truttschel of Sussex, Thomas (Denise) Truttschel of Colgate, Nancy (Dan) Hoffman of Madiera Beach, FL, Peter (Sharon) Truttschel of Menomonee Falls, Mary Ziemer of Milwaukee, and a brother Donald Sonnenburg of Georgia, 9 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, husband William, grandson Timothy, son-in-law Larry Ziemer, brothers Robert (Barbara) Sonnenburg and William (Gladys) Sonnenburg, sisters Mary (Norman) Fletcher and Doris (John) Beach, and a sister-in-law Betty Mae Sonnenburg.

Family and friends may gather at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 818 Huron Ave. Sheboygan on Tuesday April 9, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Calvary Cemetery, Sheboygan

Diane Cowan

August 6, 1935 – March 9, 2024

With family by her side, Diane Delores Cowan (née Domack) passed away the evening of March 8, 2024. Born August 6, 1935, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, to Benjamin and Susan (née Jastromski) Domack, Diane was one of the youngest of their five children. She was preceded in death by three older siblings: Eugene Domack, Edith Wurcer, and Ben Domack, Jr., She is survived by her youngest sibling, Cindy Devereaux.

After graduating from Milwaukee’s Pius XI High School, she worked briefly in banking. At a 1954 Catholic Youth Organization dance, she met Robert J. Cowan. They married on January 7, 1956. During their 68-year marriage, Bob jokingly says that, on important decisions, Diane got two votes and he got one. Bob likes to think that meant Diane always won, but we know she deferred to him on many occasions.

Diane’s life changed dramatically with the birth of their first child in October of 1956 and six more in the years following. A special part of her heart was set aside for each of her children: Kimberly (William) Hand, Timothy (Noriko) Cowan, Michael (Jayne) Cowan, Mary (Joe) Beier, John Cowan, Amy (Steve) Braun, and Keith (Jennifer) Cowan.

We’re confident her 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren knew how much she loved them; she was diligent in remembering their birthdays and holidays with hand-made cards. Their phone calls and visits were very important to her.

While Diane’s primary focus had to be her husband and children, she didn’t let those roles completely define her. Her innate artistic and creative talents expressed themselves throughout her long and highly productive, spirit-filled life. We’ll all remember her in our own ways: loving and patient wife, tender-hearted mother and mother-in-law, attentive grand- and great-grandmother, dear sister and sister-in-law, kind friend and neighbor, dedicated volunteer, life-long learner, avid gardener, wonderful cook, loyal employee, St. James parishioner who took great solace in her spiritual journey, part-time Mrs. Claus, enthusiastic traveler, and proud Kashubian Pole.

Diane struggled mightily with many health issues in her later years, but always kept family foremost in her prayers. Throughout her numerous hospital stays and while in hospice care—to the very end—she remained courageous, strong-willed, and calm.

A memorial mass to celebrate Diane’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 19th, at 11:30AM at St. James Catholic Church in Menomonee Falls. Visitation will be held from 10AM until the time of the Mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, we suggest donations to St. Vincent de Paul Society, Friends of Boerner Botanical Gardens, or the Menomonee Falls Historical Society.