Baldwin Funeral Services

Susan "Susie" Adams Young

December 23, 1941 - October 3, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - Susan “Susie” Adams Young, age 84, passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2026, after an extended illness due to Alzheimer’s Disease. Susie was born on December 23, 1941, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to John Quincy Adams and Mary Thomas (Ireland) Adams.

She attended Hartford High School before continuing her education at Western Kentucky University (WKU). In her freshman year at WKU, she met Jack Young, and they married in March of 1961.

In the 1960’s, Susie and Jack lived in Owensboro, Kentucky, Bethesda, Maryland, and Kensington, Maryland. They fell in love with the Driftless Area of Wisconsin during a camping trip to Devils Lake State Park in 1969. Relocating to Baraboo in 1970, they became deeply involved in the community. Susie enrolled in the nursing program at MATC (Madison College) and achieved her degree as an LPN in 1980. After graduation, she worked at St. Clare’s Hospital in Baraboo and later at Reedsburg Physicians Group, where she provided patients with tender care for nearly 30 years until her retirement.

Susie was a deep thinker, history enthusiast, family genealogist, music lover and pianist, and avid reader. She spent many hours at the Baraboo Public Library and instilled in her children a love of reading. Susie enjoyed taking drives through the countryside, hiking at Devil’s Lake, Durward’s Glen, Parfrey’s Glen, and Mirror Lake, as well as kayaking on the Baraboo River. She was a Master Gardener and loved tending her garden, continually adding flowers and trees no matter where she was living.

Susie was a gracious hostess and incredible cook and welcomed many to her dinner table for a meal, or her front porch on Terrytown Road, for a glass of iced tea and a baked goodie.

Susie was preceded in death by both her parents and her husband, Jack. She is survived by her sister, Peggy (Adams) Curtis-Crockett; son, John (Aglae) Young, daughter, Quinn (Tom) Heneghan, son, Jeff (Jeannine) Young, and daughter, Katie Spencer; as well as 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A Memorial celebration will take place on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Driftless Glen Distillery, 300 Water St., in Baraboo. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI. 53913 and written out to the Carnegie-Schadde Memorial Public Library (aka the Baraboo Public Library) or the John B. and Susan A. Young Scholarship.

Daniel J. Turner

December 16, 1959 - September 22, 2026



Baraboo, WI. - With deep love, we announce the passing of Daniel J. Turner, 66, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, September 22. He was a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and many will feel his absence.

He taught his family the value of working hard, striving to do what is right, and caring for and protecting one another. Throughout his many years of physically strenuous work as a builder and sawyer, Daniel enjoyed taking long motorcycle rides through the beautiful countryside, listening to music, playing his guitar, playing a few holes of golf, and shooting targets with close friends and family.

A story from Daniel's youth would either make you laugh or teach you a life lesson, and he wasn't stingy with them. He showed his love by providing a place for folks to spend time, a shoulder to cry on, and an ear to listen if you needed it. Though he was not one to give unwelcome advice, the guidance he did provide was genuine and earnest. He will be remembered for his generosity, deeply loving heart, strong faith, and the way he always left his door open. His family will carry his memory forward through the lessons, stories, and love he gave so generously.

Daniel is survived by his daughters, Mindy Harp (Lee) and Stephanie Loring (Joe); his granddaughter, Ryleigh, and her father, Tony Lutz; and many loving brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Lois and Lynn Turner; and his brothers, Tom Turner and Tim Turner.

Visitation will be held at Walnut Hill Bible Church, 1900 East St., Baraboo, WI, at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Nathan Sundsmo officiating. A brief graveside service will take place in Walnut Hill Cemetery. Lunch and fellowship will begin at the church around noon. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family.

Virginia “Ginger” Shepherd

July 10, 1942 – September 7, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - Virginia “Ginger” Shepherd passed away peacefully on September 7, 2026, after a ten-year battle with Alzheimer’s.



She will be laid to rest at a private service beside her beloved parents, Laura and Lefty, and brother, Wesley, in Ellenton, Florida, on September 14, 2026. A celebration of life is also being planned at Long Grove Community Church, where she raised her children.

Born July 10, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, Ginger grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois. She attended Northern Illinois University, where she became a member of Sigma Kappa, an organization and sisterhood she remained active in throughout her life.

Ginger taught third grade in Arlington Heights before leaving teaching to raise her children in Kildeer, Illinois. Later in life, she worked for Ameritech Phone Company, KinderCare, Von Sydow’s Allied Van Lines, and First Financial Training Services.

She eventually retired to Sun City Huntley, where she enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and many friends. She spent her final nine years receiving loving care at Complete Care in Baraboo, Wisconsin (formerly St. Clare Meadows), where her late son Doug also served as a chaplain.

Ginger’s greatest love was her grandchildren. She proudly carried a bag covered with their photos and loved nothing more than being asked about them so she could share her favorite stories. Retirement became an opportunity to plan her next adventure to see them, and she traveled to Alaska, London, Rome, Spokane, Baraboo, and Disney to spend time with her family.

She loved playing cards and games with the grandchildren and was adventurous enough to get in the pool and join them. She also loved writing her long Christmas letters, filling them with stories about her travels, family, and the time she spent with the people she loved.

She is survived by her daughter, Julie Shepherd Szczepanek; son-in-law, Scott Szczepanek; daughter-in-law, Ruthie Shepherd; ex-husband, Ken Shepherd; and grandchildren, Kyra, McKenzie, Gabe, Luke, Emily, and Max.

Ginger is now reunited with her parents, Howard “Lefty” and Laura Burnett; her sister, Jean McNamee; and her beloved son, Doug.

Shirley Ann Mendez

March 21, 1947 – July 16, 2026

Baraboo, WI. – Shirley Ann Mendez, age 79, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Shirley was born on March 21, 1947, in Langdon, North Dakota, the daughter of Arthur Albert and Helen Fern (Maurer) Zeis. 

On September 24, 1966, she married Martin Mendez Sr. at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Waterford, Wisconsin. He preceded her in death on October 3, 2014.

In her spare time, Shirley enjoyed volunteering at the Neighborly Free Clothing Store at the First United Methodist Church in Baraboo. Volunteering and crafting were extremely important to Shirley. She believed strongly in it. Through volunteering, she developed many amazing friends and supports in the Baraboo community. They were like family to her. She and her friends went on weekly dinner outings, attended regular Saturday night bingo, checked on each other at night for good night wishes, and celebrated birthdays and holidays together. She loved them dearly, and they looked out for each other.

Survivors include a daughter, Mona Mendez of Baraboo; son, Martin (Sharon) Mendez of Lyndon Station; two grandchildren, Meghan and Maxwell Mendez; one brother and two sisters. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Martin Mendez Sr.; and a sister, Darlene.

A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Emanuel Global Methodist Church, 101 14th St., Baraboo, WI, with Rev. Dr. Ronald C. Bupp

 officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Michael Ableman

July 16, 1957 – May 23, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - Michael “Mike” S. Ableman, age 68, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, died unexpectedly on May 23, 2026. He was born to James and Rosemary (Rosenthal) Ableman on July 16, 1957 in Baraboo. Mike attended St. Joseph Grade School, Baraboo High School, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Michigan State University receiving a master’s degree in physics.

Mike was employed by Baraboo Tent and Awning from 1986 until 2025, working in purchasing, shipping and computerized cutting. A lifelong parishioner of St. Joseph Parish, he sang tenor in the Adult Choir and was known for his clever alternative lyrics and quirky puns.

He was an eccentric, witty character with a wide variety of interests which included collecting Fenton and carnival glass, listening to classical music, photography, trains, circus, Parker pens, fine wine and cooking, with in-depth knowledge of each. Mike was a loyal supporter of both high school and community music and drama programs, including Concerts on the Square.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his siblings, David, Mary, Doug, John, Lisa; beloved nephew, Cody; and other relatives and friends.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 304 East St., Baraboo, WI, with Fr. John Blewett officiating. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass. Inurnment will take place in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor Mike’s memory with a contribution to the Baraboo Music Support Group, Baraboo Concerts on the Square, or Al. Ringling Theatre. Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI. is assisting the family with arrangements.

David Gruber

March 7, 1941 – May 28, 2026

David (Dave) Lee Gruber, 85 years young, passed peacefully on May 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born to Mary (Wergin) and Anthony Gruber on March 7, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother James. He is survived by his wife, Betty; children Laurie (Frank), Jon (Andrea), and Stefanie (Kevin), and grandchildren Celestial, Avian, Brice, Liam, and Lillian; and his siblings Paul (Barb), Anthony Jr. (Julie), and Mary (Dave).

Dave and his four siblings (Paul, Jim, John, and Mary) spent most of their childhood in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Devil’s Lake held a special place in his heart, and he often spoke of it with deep reverence. Grounded by the natural world, Dave was also a man of profound Catholic faith who lived his beliefs with quiet devotion.

Dave served in the Navy as an air controlman, both stateside and for two years in Spain. After serving his country, he continued his education at UW–Stevens Point, where he discovered a passion for environmentalism. While training as a soil conservationist, Dave met his wife, lifelong friend, Betty (Mink) Gruber.

Together, they lived in several Wisconsin cities before making their home in the beautiful community of Kewaunee for 40 years. There, they raised their three children, Laurie, Jon, and Stefanie, and built a strong circle of friends. Their camping group, in particular, brought them many joyful memories and lively conversations. Dave treasured time with his five grandchildren (Celestial, Avian, Brice, Liam, and Lillian) and loved sharing with them his knowledge of and deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Dave leaves a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and steadfast love. Though he was a man of few words, his gentle presence and loving spirit were felt deeply by all who knew him.

A one-hour gathering for family and friends to share memories of Dave will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 11:00 am to noon at Holy Rosary Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 noon with Fr. George Daniel officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with full military rites. In place of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in David’s name.

The family shares its gratitude to Bellin Memorial Hospital and Unity Hospice. Special thanks to his caregivers, Dr. Laurin B., Shannon, and Staff.

David Lee Teska

December 30, 1958 – May 26, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - David Lee Teska, age 67, of Baraboo, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. He was born on December 30, 1958, in La Crosse, WI, the son of Floyd and Ruth (Lucas) Teska.

David was a 1977 graduate of Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau High School in Galesville, WI, and a 1981 graduate of Western Wisconsin Technical College. He was employed as a manager at various restaurants in the area, which included Pizza Hut and Log Cabin.

David was an avid walker for many years and became an inspiration for others in the benefits of walking. He had a love and interest in country and pop music, watching movies, and researching family genealogy. He will be truly missed by his family and friends.

David is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Teska (significant other, Eric Porter) of Madison, WI, and Claire Teska (significant other, Dylan Cochran) of Tulsa, OK; siblings, twin brother and best friend, Douglas (Susan) Teska of Baraboo, WI, Richard Teska of Whitehall, WI, James Teska of Texas, Donald (Janel) Teska of Galesville, WI, and Daniel (Donna) Teska of La Crosse, WI; very special nieces and nephews, Julia Seybert and Patrick Seybert of Tomah, WI, Caitlin (Kyle) Opatik, Lindsey (Michael) Tebrinke of Nashville, TN; and other nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Bockenhauer, and sisters-in-law, Susan Teska and Patricia Teska.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, with Fr. Luke Syse officiating. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

John F. Melvin

July 14, 1938 – May 14, 2026 

John F. Melvin, age 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 14, 2026. 

He was born on July 14, 1938, in Monroe, WI, to Clarence and Ruth (Rohrbeck) Melvin. He graduated from Baraboo High School in 1956, lettering in both football and basketball. 

After high school, John enlisted in the United States Army, where he rose to the rank of Sergeant and earned a Certificate of Achievement in the Missile Battalion. His service included assignments in both Pennsylvania and New Mexico. 

John then went on to work at Midway Airport in Chicago before he and two friends decided to spontaneously move to California. Here, he attended Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa. 

Before returning to Wisconsin, John moved to Storm Lake, IA, working at Citizens First National Bank. John was involved in both the Jaycees and the Elks Club over the years and enjoyed time with friends. 

Once in Madison, WI, he began working in sales at Skipper Buds before his career led him to Bachman Pools and Spas, where he spent many happy years. 

John met his significant other, Annette Pendleton, in the mid-1980s. The two enjoyed going out to eat, taking day trips, and cheering on the Badgers, Packers, and his stepson Mike at his sporting events. John shared his love of sports with family and friends, including an annual golf outing with his brothers and deer hunting at the family farm in Baraboo.

John is survived by his stepson, Michael (Andrea) Pendleton; his grandsons, Owen and Ethan; his sister, Joyce Klappstein; his sister-in-law, Sue (Dennis) Melvin; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

John was preceded in death by his long-time companion, Annette Pendleton; his parents; his brothers, Richard, Robert, Eugene, and Dennis Melvin; his sisters-in-law, Marvel, Virginia, and Patricia Melvin; and his sister’s companion, Howard Thompson. 

A visitation will be held at Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. Graveside services will immediately follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Baraboo, WI. Family and friends are invited to join for a luncheon following the services. 

A special thank you to Agrace Hospice for their comfort care, especially to his nurse, Steffanie.

Esther Lange

September 7, 1926 - May 10, 2026

Baraboo, WI. – Esther Lange died peacefully on May 10, 2026 at the age of 99, after living with congestive heart failure. Esther was born in Burlington, WI, on September 7, 1926, and was the seventh child of Ida (Hinda) and Isaac Lipton.

Esther graduated from Burlington High School in 1944 and continued her education at the University of Wisconsin, where she received a BS degree in Spanish. During her senior year, she met her first husband, Kenneth Kassner. They married in 1948 and had two children, Philip (who died in 2024) and Enid.

In 1969, Esther earned a Master’s Degree in Library Science and became the middle school librarian in Mount Horeb. She established a central library including both books and audio-visual materials.

After parting ways with her first husband, Esther met the love of her life, Kenneth Lange, the naturalist at Devil’s Lake State Park in 1977. They married in 1979 and made their home in Baraboo. They were true soul mates, sharing their love of nature, travel, and reading.

Esther became the middle school librarian in Reedsburg, where she pioneered the use of computer technology. She enjoyed giving book talks and telling stories to encourage a love of reading. She also worked closely with teachers to assist with classroom projects. She retired in 1988.

In her later years, Esther enjoyed water color painting and focused on researching family history and genealogy. Esther developed extended family trees and created a document sharing the family immigration story up to present to share with relatives.

In 2024, after 47 years of marriage, Esther’s husband, Ken, passed away, having lived for several years with Parkinson’s disease.

Esther is survived by her daughter, Enid Kassner; grandchildren, Heather Kassner Straatsma and Avi Rose; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, and her son, Esther was preceded in death by her siblings, baby, Benjamin, Paul, Ethel, Samuel, Frances, and Ruth.

Memorial services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at Oak Park Place, 800 Waldo St., Baraboo, Wisconsin, in the Big Top Room with Lisa Hartman and Mike Mossman officiating. In lieu of flowers, Esther suggested donations to the Sauk County Historical Society. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements

Betty Ast

July 13, 1944 – May 2, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - Betty J. (Whitford) Ast , Age 81, of Baraboo, WI, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026. She was born on July 13, 1944 in Edgerton, WI, to Millie (Gulbrandsen) Skallerud and Roy Clyde Whitford. Her father passed away shortly before her birth.

Betty graduated from Janesville Senior High School in Janesville, WI. in 1962. Shortly after graduation, she married David L. Ast, Sr. They moved to Baraboo in 1969 and raised their family there.

Betty was a believer in Jesus Christ and lived out her faith. She was a founding member of Living Hope Church in Baraboo. She served as the Church Secretary for many years. Betty also founded the Women of Hope ministry outreach that connected single mothers and women in need to community resources and clothing.

Betty loved to work on creative projects throughout her life. She especially enjoyed card making and sharing them with those she loved. 



Betty is survived by her children, Kim Hilario, David Ast, Jr. and Robert (Vicki) Ast; her grandchildren, Amber (Brad) King, Heather Ast, Devon Ast, Vanessa (Scott) Snesrud, Brandon Ast, Olivia Hilario, Piper Ast and Cheska Ast; as well as nine great-grandchildren, Dimitri, Nikolai, Geneva, Stella, Allison, Evelyn, Sawyer, Aurora and Annika; and a brother, Roy Whitford. She was preceded in death by her husband, David in 1982, and her parents.

A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026 with a visitation from 2:00 p.m. until time of service at 4:00 p.m. at Living Hope Church, S3963 Cty Rd. BD in Baraboo, WI, with Pastor Dave Bauman officiating. A potluck luncheon will follow the service. Private burial will take place at a later date. Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Todd William Henderson

August 30, 1965 – March 25, 2026 

Baraboo, WI. – Todd William Henderson, age 60, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Harmony House Assisted Living in Richland Center, Wisconsin. 

Todd was born on August 30, 1965, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, the son of Richard and Mary (Laeseke) Henderson. Todd worked at VARC Inc. of Reedsburg as an assembler. 

He is survived by his mother, Mary, and several siblings. No formal services will take place at this time. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family.

Ernest “Ernie” Hanger

February 21, 1950 - March 27, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - Ernest “Ernie” Hanger, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, March 27, 2026 surrounded by his family at the age of 76.

Ernie was born on February 21, 1950, the only child of Reuben and June Hanger. A lifelong resident of Baraboo, he moved to the family farm in March of 1953, where he would spend the rest of his life. Farming was not just his livelihood, but his way of life. He worked alongside his parents in his early years, and later with his sons.

Over the years, Ernie’s farming operations varied. He was a dairy farmer and raised beef cattle, and at different times also worked with pigs, sheep, and chickens. In addition to farming, Ernie worked as a tool salesman for Snap-on and later, Matco Tools, balancing both roles.

Ernie had a unique sense of humor, often joking that FFA stood for “Father Farms Alone,” especially after his three sons left home to join the Marines. He was incredibly proud of the men they became, but nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren, who were his greatest pride.

Ernie is survived by his three sons; Josh, Joe, and Jason (Jessica); and his five grandchildren; Cedar, John, Justin, Tianda, and Jacob.

A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, with Pastor Don Glanzer officiating. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. A luncheon will follow at the Baraboo Arts Center, 323 Water St., in Baraboo, at 12:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to join in sharing stories and celebrating Ernie’s life.

Ruben Torres Cavazos

February 21, 1945 – February 18, 2026

Baraboo, WI – Ruben Torres Cavazos, age 80, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, WI.

He served our country in the U.S. Army for 16 years, including service in Korea and Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry Division. His specialties included Helicopter Repairman and Aircraft Mechanic. His honors included the Bronze Star Medal, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, as well as other service medals and badges.

Ruben was a jack of all trades. He held endorsements to drive all types of semi-trucks and drove an oil tanker for an Army contractor in Iraq. He also performed industrial heating installation and maintenance at factories. In retirement, he remained humble, working as a groundskeeper, delivering pizza, and washing dishes. He showed respect and gratitude even in the smallest interactions.

Ruben loved fishing, working on cars, and building and fixing things. He enjoyed joking around, spending time with his dogs—especially Gertie and Max—being outdoors, and watching Westerns. Most of all, he treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Gretchen; his children, Ruben Jr. (Elena) Cavazos, Robert (Elsa) Cavazos, Joe (Bev) Cavazos, Jordan Cavazos, Becky (Forrest) Cavazos Smith, Daniel (Dawn) Cavazos, and Hannah (fiancé Travis) Cavazos; his grandchildren, Michael and Anthony; Brandon; Jake; Ruben and Sienna; Nolan; Abby and Freydis, and Izaiah; his brother, Robert (Maria) Cavazos of Lubbock, TX; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosa Torres Cavazos; his father, Jose Cavazos; his sister, Helen Salgado; his brother, Noe Cavazos; and his beloved grandson, Corbin Cavazos.

A memorial service will be held at New Life Community Advent Christian Church, 1919 Elizabeth Street, Baraboo, WI 53913, with Reverend Jesse Stevens officiating. The service will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, followed by military honors by the VFW Greenwood Memorial Post #987 and a luncheon at the church. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family.

La Verne Margaret Braun

July 14, 1924 – February 5, 2026

Baraboo, WI. – La Verne Margaret Braun, age 101, passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Meadow Ridge Assisted Living.

La Verne was born at home on July 14, 1924, in North Freedom, Wisconsin, the daughter of Julius and Minnie (Herritz) Hellpap. She attended the North Freedom School System and, after the passing of her father, moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to live with her sister, Dorothy.

While living in Milwaukee, La Verne worked various jobs, which included selling greeting cards at F. W. Woolworth Company, working for an airplane assembly manufacturing company, and at Pabst Brewing Company.

In 1943, La Verne moved to Baraboo, where she met Leon Braun. They were united in marriage on March 12, 1945, and from this union, they were blessed with two children: Dennis and Debra.

La Verne is survived by her daughter, Debra (significant other Michael D. Cody); three grandchildren, Daniel Braun, Christopher (Mary) Braun, and Tyler (Renee’) Potter; four great-grandchildren, Shane, Emily, Zach, and Mira; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Leon, La Verne was preceded in death by one son, Dennis; three brothers, Donald, Reginald, and infant Rex Hellpap; and three sisters, Evangeline Meyers, Lucille Hellpap, and Dorothy Owen.

Private family memorial services will take place at a later date. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

Joan Rosa Burson

January 16, 1938 – February 4, 2026 

Baraboo, WI. - Joan Rosa Burson, born January 16, 1938, quietly passed away on February 4th, 2026, just shortly after her 88th birthday. 

Joan’s soul was surrounded by family on her journey. Her devoted faith was also a comfort to her throughout her life and especially during her last days on earth. 

Preceded in joining the Lord, father and mother, Walter and Rosa Voiles, and her beloved husband, Edwin R. Burson. 

Joan is survived and truly missed by son, Todd (Deb) Burson; daughters, Stephanie (John) Burson, Vicki (Ted) Burson; grandchildren, John Eccles IV, DaCota Eccles, Dalton Eccles; and great-grandchildren, Jace Eccles and John Eccles V; brother, Duane (Anita) Voiles; and several loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a private funeral service on February 11th, 2026, under the direction of Baldwin Funeral Services and St. John’s Lutheran Church, Pastor Kuske. Her final resting place will be in Walnut Hill Cemetery. She will be missed dearly by family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Baraboo. She was a devoted member of her church for many years. Her life was guided by her love for God and the Church. Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, is assisting the family.

Nancy Jean Cone

September 24, 1930 – January 29, 2026

West Baraboo, WI. – Nancy Jean Cone, age 95, of West Baraboo, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

Nancy was born on September 24, 1930, the only child of Ada Aileen (Barnhart) and Roy Howard Ailes. She grew up in Carthage, Illinois, until her father died in 1941. Nancy’s mother then moved the family to Baraboo to be near Ada’s sister, Cleo Kart.

That is when Nancy met lifelong friends, Frannie Wilson and Mugs Jantz, in elementary school. They spent many years getting together and playing dominoes at each other’s homes. All three of them had reached the age of 95. Frannie passed just recently, and Mugs just celebrated her 96th birthday.

On September 19, 1947, Nancy was united in marriage to Fred E. Cone at the Church of God in West Baraboo. From this union, they raised three children: a son, Jerry, and two daughters, Barb and Gloria. Nancy also became a loved and valued member of Fred’s family of eight siblings.

Nancy’s working career was varied. She worked at Wickus’s Grocery in downtown Baraboo and at Oscar Mayer in Madison for over 11 years, and retired from Eagle Signal Timer Products in Baraboo. But retirement didn’t stop her; she worked several summers at a gift shop in the Wisconsin Dells and then finished out her career as a bus lady and greeter at Pizza Ranch.

Nancy was always on the road, where she enjoyed visiting friends and relatives in Madison, Iowa, and Illinois. She was always volunteering to drive friends and relatives to doctor appointments or just to have lunch together. As an only child, Nancy had an abundance of family and friends in her life.

She is survived by her son, Gerald (Joyce) Cone; her daughters, Barbara (Royce) Copus and Gloria Cone; nine grandchildren, Tina Waddell, Gary (Joleen) Engeseth, John Cone, Mike (Lisa) Cone, Keri (Johan) Engeseth, Nicki Cone, Stephanie (Tate) Morse, Jennifer Cone and Greg Pikel; 11 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Nancy is further survived by a sister-in-law, Sue Cone; many nieces, nephews, and special friends, MaryAnn Lee, Nancie Luce and Judy Berry.

In addition to her parents and husband, Fred, Nancy was preceded in death by seven brothers and sisters-in-law.

A visitation will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Private interment will be held at a later date.

The family would like to sincerely thank Dr. James Mathers and the staff at SSM Health at Home Hospice for the exceptional care given to Nancy during her illness. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

Marian (Jensen) Gasner

April 8, 1946 – January 21, 2026

Baraboo, WI. – Marian (Jensen) Gasner passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. She was born on April 8, 1946, to Clarence and Thalia Jensen.

Marian was employed at Alliant Energy/Wisconsin Power and Light for 45 years.

She is survived by one daughter, Pamela (Dan) Harrison of Columbia, TN; two brothers, Gordon Jensen and John (Alice) Jensen; three sisters, Dorothy Ziemke, Linda (Mike) Kuwitzky, and Sue (Louie) Comte; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to her parents, Marian was preceded in death by one brother, Neil Jensen, and one sister, Hazel Mulryan.

In honor of Marian’s wishes, no services will be held. Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

Marilyn Jane Parkinson

March 12, 1926 - January 6, 2026

Baraboo, WI. - Marilyn Jane Parkinson, age 99, of Baraboo, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, January 6, 2026, following a long illness.

She was born on March 12, 1926, on the family farm, east of Donnellson, Illinois, to Joel W. and Esther (Young) Laws. Marilyn attended the Walnut Grove one-room schoolhouse, a short distance over the field from their farm. She graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1944 and continued her education at Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, receiving a B.S. degree in secretarial science. She completed her degree in just three years so she could marry Robert L. Parkinson. They were united in marriage on August 30, 1947, at the Donnellson Presbyterian Church.

The family lived in Cambridge, Illinois, for twelve years (1953-1965). In 1965, she moved to Baraboo, Wisconsin, with her husband and three children, where Bob was hired as the chief historian at Circus World Museum. There, Marilyn served for several years as secretary for the director of Circus World Museum and later volunteered often at the museum and at the Al Ringling Theatre. She was also periodically an officer of Circus World Museum, Inc., the bookkeeper for a local businessman in Baraboo, and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Baraboo.

Marilyn Parkinson was a woman of unusual determination and independence. She embodied the expression, "Where there's a will, there's a way." She was a faithful wife as well as a loving mother and grandmother. Devoted to her family, she was very intentional about her generosity and how she expressed her love in meaningful and tailor-made ways to those around her.

In addition to her parents and husband, Marilyn was preceded in death by a daughter, Jo Lyn (Parkinson) Henning; sisters, Sarah (Eugene) Gray of Green Valley, Arizona, and Jo Ann (John) Noland of Decatur, Illinois.

Marilyn is survived by two sons, Greg (Nancy) Parkinson of Baraboo, Wisconsin, and Joel (Darla) Parkinson of Alliance, Ohio; nine grandchildren, Julie Parkinson, Emily (Ryan) Smith, Aaron (Sherry) Henning, Scott (Cortlynn) Parkinson, John (Sally) Parkinson, Ryan Henning, Becky (Jonathon) Cosgrove, Robert and Michael Parkinson; and 15 great-grandchildren.

Marilyn Jane Parkinson will be buried next to her husband, parents, and daughter in Donnellson Cemetery, Donnellson, Illinois. A private graveside service will be held for her family at a later date. Baldwin Funeral Services, 520 East St., Baraboo, WI, is assisting the family.