Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home Portage | Poynette
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PORTAGE – Andrew “Andy” Vanden Avond, age 74, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at University Hospital in Madison.An...
05/24/2026

PORTAGE – Andrew “Andy” Vanden Avond, age 74, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at University Hospital in Madison.

Andy was born on November 28, 1951, in Shawano, Wisconsin, the son of Richard and Joanne (Mason) Vanden Avond. As a high school athlete, Andy was the WIAA state champion for Whitefish Bay High School in the shotput. He was also a talented speed skater. Andy had a love and appreciation for rocks, nature, and music that stayed with him until the end.

Andy earned a bachelor’s degree in education from UW–Platteville, where he was a co-founder of the UW-Platteville men’s intermural hockey club. He earned a secondary degree in Earth Science that he put into practice as an Earth Science Teacher in Lodi. Taking after his father who was an accredited coach, he coached track and curling with the utmost pride of his teams. Andy had a passion for fishing, he enjoyed sharing his knowledge, while creating stories that will never be forgotten by many friends. Andy’s next career chapter led him into the granite business where he was able to combine his love and knowledge for natural wonders in the stone with his keen eye and extreme attention to detail in producing beautiful, lasting features and relationships.

Andy was an avid rock collector and finder, often discovering museum-quality specimens and delighting in sharing the stories behind them with others. Many of which were donated to the geology museum including 41 trilobites and some other very obscure finds. In his collection he had thousands of rocks, fossils, and crystals, and he could tell you a story about every single one. Where it came from, how and where he found it, along with other impressive facts. He truly shared his knowledge, passion, and collection with anyone who was interested.

He married Patricia Early on September 25, 1987. In 1992, they moved to Fitchburg, where they raised Ryan and Kelsey and formed many dear friendships. Andy was a loving husband, father, and friend, known for his strength and humor. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors, appreciating nature’s beauty.

Later in life, he enjoyed cheering on the Brewers and watching hockey whenever he could. He deeply cherished his children and especially loved taking his grandchildren on Gator rides through the woods “looking for deer”. He spent his last years surrounded by nature and close friends living in the beauty of the Big Slough.

He is survived by his children, Ryan (Sara) and Kelsey; two sisters, Martha (Lew) and Kate; sister in-law, Maureen (Bruce); three grandchildren, Kane, Ruthie, and Ella; his cherished pets, Jordy and Nina, and other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wonderful wife, Patricia; sister, Sylvia; and brothers-in-law, Jack and William.

May he rest in peace.

A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, 430 W. Wisconsin St., Portage. Family invites those who wish to join them at Elks Lodge, 201 W Conant St., Portage, following the visitation.

PORTAGE – Ronald William Wagner, age 74, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at UW Hospital in Madison as a result of a...
05/22/2026

PORTAGE – Ronald William Wagner, age 74, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at UW Hospital in Madison as a result of a head injury.

Ron was born on July 26, 1951, in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, to William and Marjorie (Olson) Wagner. Ron graduated from Portage High School in 1969 and continued his education at Madison Area Technical College. He served his country, enlisting in the U.S. Army on February 19, 1971. After basic training, he joined the 82nd Airborne Division. After completion of his service, he was honorably discharged.
Ron married Kari McMahon on September 6, 1980. Together they raised three sons: Jason, Joshua, and Jacob.

Ron worked in the family business, Wagner Implement (later known as Wagner Lawn and Sport) in Portage until his father’s retirement in 1988, when the business closed. Ron then worked at Wisconsin Power and Light at the Columbia Power Plant and later transferred to the fleet service facility in Poynette, where he was parts manager until retiring from Alliant Energy in 2020.Ron was a man of many talents, interests, and hobbies. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and adventure hikes. He was a man of excitement, enjoying fast motorcycles, snowmobiles, and race cars. In his later years, he joined the local Corvette club and enjoyed road trips with his wife. He liked seeing new places and finding a new spot to grab a good meal.

Ron was passionate about participating in competitive social recreation. He competed for many years in horseshoe and softball leagues. As a member of the Montello Rod and Gun Club, he competed in pistol and rifle leagues. Ron had many golf partners and was actively seeking more.

A true legend on the sheets, Ron curled continuously at the Portage Curling Club for 52 consecutive years, starting in 1974, proving that his love for the game never grew cold. He took pride in setting an example of sportsmanship and passing those values on to future generations, especially his three sons and grandchildren. He was more than a curler. He was a teammate, storyteller, and a friend to all at the club. He was often the first to volunteer for help and one of the last to leave after a night of curling and broomstacking. He very much enjoyed bonspieling at multiple clubs throughout Wisconsin. In 2026 he was honored at the 72nd Milwaukee Men’s Invitational Bonspiel with the Susan Van Till Memorial Award for his continued bonspiel support and sportsmanship.

Ron was a man of service and commitment to others. He served as District Director with the Jaycees. He had been a Boy Scout leader with Troop 70, committing himself to the Order of the Arrow and serving on Round Table representing the Four Lakes District. At the time of his passing, he was an active member of the American Legion Post 47 Honor Guard, where he found profound meaning in conducting ceremonial duties and honoring fellow veterans. Ron also had the privilege of participating in the Badger Honor Flight as a result of his service.

Above all else, Ron was a committed family man and loyal friend. He was devoted to his wife, Kari, for 45 years and cherished his time with the family they built together. He was committed to going to every game, appointment, recital or show that he could fit into his busy schedule, often arriving early to stake out the best spot. He made sure his children and grandchildren were taught important life and safety skills that were passed down to him. As a friend, he was always ready with his chainsaw or his tool box in your time of need. Consistently placing others above himself. He saw the best in people and always took the time to give a compliment or make someone laugh. Ron was a friend to many and a stranger to no one.

Ron is survived by his wife, Kari; his three sons, Jason (Jodi) Brandsma and children, McKenzie and Riley; Joshua (Minta) Brandsma and their children, Colton (Brianna), Kaylin, Asher, and Alana; and Jacob (Corinne Malone) Wagner and their children, William and Emery. He is also survived by his siblings, Vickie (Jeff) Rzepiejewski, Richard Wagner, and David (Janice) Wagner; his brother-in-law, Ron Paske; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends, including his lifelong companion, Bill Barth. He is further survived by an expected great-grandson due in June. Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barb Paske; his niece, Rebecca Rzepiejewski; and his in-laws, Roy and Wilma McMahon.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with his grandson, Colton Brandsma, officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Portage American Legion Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, as well as from 11:00 a.m. until the 1:00 p.m. service on Friday, May 29th.

The family would like to thank the Dekorra and Poynette EMS teams for their amazing response, the heroic MedFlight crew for their swift transport, and the caring teams at UW Madison Emergency and ICU.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage (www.pmmfh.com), is assisting the family.

NEW ULM, MN -- Marjorie Ruth (Zoch) Winch, formerly of Madison, WI, went to be with the Lord on Monday May 18, 2026, aft...
05/19/2026

NEW ULM, MN -- Marjorie Ruth (Zoch) Winch, formerly of Madison, WI, went to be with the Lord on Monday May 18, 2026, after a 10 year battle with Alzheimer's disease. She was born on Dec. 12, 1935, in Chicago, IL. Marj grew up in Elmhurst, IL and graduated from York Community High School in 1953. She attended Northern Illinois University - DeKalb IL, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Art Education. Marj also completed coursework for a Masters degree in Art from the University of Wisconsin Madison. She was active in InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and enjoyed the opportunity to meet and fellowship with international students. Marj worked as an Art teacher for Middle and High School students prior to meeting her husband, Brad. Marj taught with Child Evangelism Fellowship for many years and also worked as a Commercial Artist for the University of Wisconsin Press. She partnered with her husband, Brad as the artist in their home-based business, Marj-Originals Art and Calligraphy for 20 years. Marj led the Monona Oaks Community Church women’s bible study for many years (formerly Faith Baptist Church).

She is survived by her four children, Glenn (Ann) Winch of New Ulm, MN, Cheryl (Susannah Pedigo) Winch of Lyons, CO, Jana (Carl Damcke) Winch of Middleton, WI and Cynthia Young of Lima, OH; and six grandchildren, Rachael (Bryan) Timperley, Alyssa (James) Feltes, Aaron Winch, Emily Young, Ayli Damcke, Siri Damcke; sister-in-law, Joan Overson, and a niece and nephews. Marj was preceded in death by her husband Bradley, parents, Peter and Ruth (Olsen) Zoch, sister Dorothy Schmuldt, brothers George and Gerard Zoch, and a niece.

Celebration of Life to be held on Wednesday, May 27th at 1:00pm, with burial to follow immediately on the grounds of Roselawn Memorial Park, located at 401 Femrite Dr., Monona, WI 53716, with Pastor Dr. Richard Concklin officiating.

Memorials may be designated to Prairie Senior Cottages of New Ulm, MN or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Madison, WI Chapter.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage (www.pmmfh.com), is assisting the family.

PORTAGE – Kathleen A. Schmidt, age 78, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026.Kathleen was born on August 16, 19...
05/18/2026

PORTAGE – Kathleen A. Schmidt, age 78, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Kathleen was born on August 16, 1947, in Wisconsin, daughter of Everett William and Pearl Ann (Goethke) Licht.

Kathleen worked for many years at Stokley Canning Company as a sorter. Kathleen was a Christian with great love of the Lord. She loved horses, enjoyed word searches, crossword puzzles, Bible study, as well as watching TV.

Kathleen is survived by her three daughters; Sally Froseth, Susan, and Sarah (Carlos) Arellano, two sons; Jerry (Vicki) Martin Jr, Tom (Angela) McDougal, brother; Keith (Marry) Licht, grandchildren; Arthur Holte, James Arellano, Zachary Arellano, Vanessa Martin, James Martin as well as many other close relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gerald McDougal, brothers; Paul and Lloyd, sisters; Donna and Dorothy.

Inurnment will be private, at a later date.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

PARDEEVILLE – Daniel Joseph McChesney, age 42, of Pardeeville, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 9, 2026.Daniel ...
05/15/2026

PARDEEVILLE – Daniel Joseph McChesney, age 42, of Pardeeville, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

Daniel Joseph McChesney was born to Carol (Shuckhart) McChesney and James McChesney on November 8, 1983, at St. Clare Hospital in Baraboo, WI.

Daniel was the youngest of four and was the well-loved baby brother of the family. As a child he had a big personality, contagious smile and an unforgettable chuckle. He was a constant presence and role model for his nieces and nephews.

Daniel was a man of depth. He was quick-witted, intelligent, funny, honest, loyal, selfless, faithful, loving, and one-of-a kind! His deep faith in God helped him live out his calling to serve and mentor many children, youth, and adults in his personal and professional life. Daniel was an avid outdoorsman, and would spend time with his friend, Andrew, fishing and hunting. Finding a good deal on auction sites, antique stores, or Market Place were some of his favorite past times along with playing cribbage.

Daniel married his high school sweetheart Sara (Smalley) McChesney on September 27, 2008. Sara was not only the love of Daniel’s life, but his greatest companion, and best friend. Throughout their 26 years together they moved through every season of life with unwavering support and with God in the center of it. They were each other's biggest cheerleaders.

His proudest accomplishment was being a “Daddy” to his baby girl, Nora. They loved wrestling, laying on the grass and looking at the clouds. He loved doing her hair, reading books, and taught her how to give good hugs that he called “big squeezes.” He loved her with a fierce softness that only a father could have for his daughter.

Daniel shared an incredibly special and one-of-a-kind bond with his mom, Carol. The love between them was immeasurable, rooted in deep understanding, and a lot of banter and laughter. He took every opportunity to remind her that he was the baby boy and she loved to hear it. He loved his Mom so much.

Daniel loved spending time with family and friends and helping out in any way that he could. Daniel reconnected with one of the youth who he mentored, Kristopher Rinde, and Kris became like a son, an intricate part of his life and family.

Daniel was also an active member of the City of Refuge Church as one of the youth leaders, where he enjoyed sharing his life experiences so that it would help others and lead them to Jesus.
He loved every minute of being the grill master at the church’s special events. He loved to serve.

Daniel completed his high school equivalency diploma in 2003, and went on to earn a certificate in Cabinetry and Millwork at Madison College. He loved making things with his hands.

Daniel was employed at the School District of Lodi as an Educational Assistant at the Lodi Middle School. In the mornings, he was a crossing guard and enjoyed the opportunity to connect with students every morning with a smile and a witty joke.

Daniel is preceded in death by James McChesney (father), Norman and Eunice McChesney (paternal grandparents), Roy and Mary Shuckhart (maternal grandparents).

Daniel is survived by Sara (Smalley) McChesney (wife), Nora McChesney (daughter), Sherry Schultz (sister), Theresa Yanke (sister), Rebecca McChesney (sister), Tammy McChesney (step-sister), and Brenda (McChesney) Smith (step-sister) and Carol (Shuckhart) McChesney (mother), many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and many friends.

Memorials may be given to the family at the Daniel McChesney Memorial Fund at Summit Credit Union 110 Henry Dr, Portage, WI 53901.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at City of Refuge Church 111 E. Haertel St Portage WI 53901 at 10:00 a.m. A light lunch will follow the service. A graveside service and burial will occur at 2pm at Underhill Cemetery in the corner of County D and 10th Road, Packwaukee, WI.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at City of Refuge Church 111 E. Haertel St. Portage from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Friday, May 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. until the start of the service.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage (www.pmmfh.com), is assisting the family.

CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP – Jane Louise Rietmann, age 76, of Caledonia Township, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at hom...
05/12/2026

CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP – Jane Louise Rietmann, age 76, of Caledonia Township, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family after a lengthy illness with several health issues and multiple myeloma.

She was born on May 17, 1949, in Cuba City, Wisconsin to Lester and Mildred (Pitzen) Reuter. Jane was the sixteenth of seventeen children. She attended Potosi High School in Potosi, Wisconsin, graduating in 1967. Jane was a member of Durward’s Glen and St. Mary’s parishes in Merrimac Wisconsin.

She loved living in the Caledonia hills and playing horseshoes with her dearest neighbors and friends. Jane worked at the Farm Service Agency in Baraboo, Wisconsin for over twenty-eight years. Jane was a meticulous and dedicated worker. She always enjoyed interacting with the local farmers. On March 1, 1969, Jane was united in marriage to Randall Rietmann at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville, Wisconsin. They shared 57 wonderful years together and raised four children. Jane was a loving wife and mother who faced her final months with remarkable strength and courage. She was the ultimate survivor. Jane cherished her time with her family and friends. She especially loved all her grandchildren. She enjoyed playing cards and was often the family Euchre Tournament champion. Jane was a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan. She was even one of ten finalists for the Green Bay Packers Fan Hall of Fame during the 2020-2021 Packers season. Jane said “It was an honor to be nominated by my son Tim. The Packers are and always will be my team.” Always, remember Jane’s rule “Never talk negatively about her beloved Green Bay Packers.” Otherwise, you might be watching the game in the other room or kicked out of the house. Many family memories were shared around the kitchen table eating chili and rooting on the Packers. Jane was always a gracious host. She loved the holidays and many family traditions revolved around them such as carving pumpkins and Easter egg hunts. Jane was a practical joker. She would always think up some elaborate prank for April Fool’s Day. Jane was up for anything. She enjoyed taking the grandkids on adventures and to the fair every year.

Jane is survived by her husband, Randall Rietmann and four children Jodie (John) Schweitzer, Todd (Kara) Rietmann, Jackie Rietmann, and Timothy (Kate) Rietmann. Her five grandchildren Mackenzie (Zach Moen) Rietmann, Nathan Schweitzer, Trinity (Calvin Mavin) Rietmann, Alexander Rietmann and Justin Rietmann; two great grandchildren Milo Lessai Mavin and Rue Jane Mavin; brothers and sisters Mercille Floerke, Clifford (Pat) Reuter, Lawrence Reuter, Jarda Timmerman, Rita Noble, Karen Dailey, Greg (Cyndi) Reuter, Marjorie (Tom) Sutton; brothers and sisters-in law Zita Reuter, Landa Reuter, Kay Maass, JoAnn (John) McLean, Judy Nichols, Thomas Rietmann, Robert (Andrea) Rietmann, Larry (Shelley) Rietmann, Rick (April) Rietmann, Jill (Philip) Koch, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Jane was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers Myron (Pat) Reuter, Leonard Reuter, Vincent Reuter, Norbert (Mary) Reuter, Richard Reuter, Jerome Reuter, and Douglas Reuter; one sister Ida Mae (Clarence) Fure; brothers and sisters in law Ernie Floerke, Ambrose Timmerman, Washy Dailey, Rita (Bill) Zamzow, Leon Maass and Ed Nichols.

Burial will be private. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Caledonia Town Hall, N5479 Beich Road, Portage, WI, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Please wear your green and gold Packer’s attire in memory of Jane.

The family would like to thank Father Pedro Escribano, oncologist Dr. Lepeak, Dr. Haroldson, CNA Tiki Adler and all the other doctors and nurses who took care of Jane over the years.

Jane, we know you would say “It’s hard to be humble.” But God took one of the great ones. We know you will be smiling down on all of us and always cheering on the Green Bay Packers.

Remember those we have loved continue to live on through us.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

PORTAGE – John A. Baldwin, 75, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital.A gath...
05/11/2026

PORTAGE – John A. Baldwin, 75, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at the Portage VFW Hall, on Sunday, June 28, 2026. A full obituary with times will appear at a later date.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

PORTAGE – Rita Ann Preuss, age 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at UW Hospital surrounded by her lov...
05/08/2026

PORTAGE – Rita Ann Preuss, age 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at UW Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Rita was born in Baraboo to Thaddeus J. and Dorthy (Parks) Pearson on April 10, 1938. Rita graduated from Prairie Du Sac High School in the class of 1956. She married Gerald B. Kjorlie on May 25, 1957. They had 4 children from their marriage, Pam (Dick) Onstad of Plover, Bill Kjorlie of Lodi, Paula Larrabee of Friendship, and Brian (Jennifer) Kjorlie of Portage. She is survived by her children and grandchildren, Leslie (Jeremy) Schmidt, Derek Onstad, Ryan (Andrea) Onstad, Athena Lockwood, Amanda Kjorlie, Aleisha Kjorlie, Gary (Shannon) Larrabee, Michael Larrabee, Missy (Ryland) Larrabee, and Abigail Kjorlie. Also survived by great grandchildren, Paige, Cooper, Lexie, Rhodes, Jamison, Zymirah, and Yemaya. Rita is survived by her sister, Ida Gannon; and her brother, George (Faye) Pearson; and many step grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Gerald Kjorlie and Norvin Preuss; sister, Lyla (Willis) Schultz; brother-in-law, Terry Gannon; grandson, Kyle Kjorlie; son-in-law, Tom Larrabee; and daughter-in-law, Laurie.

Rita enjoyed gardening, crocheting, fishing, winters in Florida, and spending time with family. In her working years, she worked in the restaurant industry as a waitress and hostess.

Private family services will be held. A Celebration of Rita’s Life will take place at a later date.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

LODI – Audrey Jewell (née Fleishauer), 90, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, after a long life marked by strength,...
05/05/2026

LODI – Audrey Jewell (née Fleishauer), 90, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, after a long life marked by strength, compassion, and a spirited nature.

She was known for her Christian faith, as well as her passion for traveling, shopping, playing cards, and, most of all, her family-time. She had a direct way about her – full of s***k and sass and she rarely left anyone guessing what she was thinking and that laugh that everyone remembers.

Audrey dedicated 40 years to teaching. She began her career in a rural one-room classroom, where she taught for three years, and went on to spend the rest of her career at the Lodi Elementary School. She held high standards in her classroom encouraging her students to reach their full potential. In 1999, she was recognized as Teacher of the Year.

Audrey is survived by her daughter and son-in-law; her four grandsons and their spouses; three stepdaughters and their spouses; and nine great-grandchildren, who were a source of pride and joy. She is also survived by her sister; her brother and sister-in-law; a niece; nephews; and many dear friends, including extended family members.

A celebration of life will begin on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Lodi United Methodist Church. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A fellowship and celebration will follow beginning around noon. Those who prefer not to attend the service are invited to join the family during visitation or for the fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Audrey’s name to the School District of Lodi (to support those in need) or to Reach Out Lodi.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

NESHKORO – Darcy Rance Kuhn, age 67, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St Mary’s Hospital, in Madison.Darcy was...
04/29/2026

NESHKORO – Darcy Rance Kuhn, age 67, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St Mary’s Hospital, in Madison.

Darcy was born on February 5, 1959, in Portage, Wisconsin, the son of Kenneth and Jessie Grace Kuhn (Mulhern). Darcy married Debra Jean (Geiger) on June 6, 1998, in Milton, Wisconsin.

Darcy loved fishing and hunting, anything with wildlife. He was like Dr. Doolittle, animals were calm and he knew how to speak to them. Darcy had so many stories about hunting with his dad when he was younger. Darcy was a very patient and understanding man. He was devoted, very loving, and very sentimental. He had his beliefs and stood by them. Darcy was an inspiration to many. He always helped the underdog. Darcy talked about Deb, Dee, Sharon, Kenny, and Terry all the time.

Survived by his wife, Debra; two sisters, Sharon Gee and Debra (William) Becker; sisters-in-law, Loha Kuhn and Connie (Gary) Westphal; brothers-in-law, Ronald Geiger and Richard (Sue) Geiger; niece, Samantha; special nephew, Matthew; as well as many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Darcy is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Grace Kuhn; brothers, Terry Kuhn and Kenneth Kuhn; sister, Denise Master; brother-in-law, Gary Gee; and in-laws, Richard (Beth Hustad) Geiger.

Services will be held at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with Father Sanctus Ibe officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

PORTAGE ‒ On April 23,2026, Clare McWilliams Halstead, surrounded by family, was carried from this world into the next, ...
04/24/2026

PORTAGE ‒ On April 23,2026, Clare McWilliams Halstead, surrounded by family, was carried from this world into the next, by a choir of angels, relatives, and friends.

She was born on June 1,1990, in Reno, Nevada. She moved with her family to Portage, Wisconsin, where she grew up. From a young age, she loved theatre and drama and spent many summers practicing her craft at the Zona Gale Theatre. A graduate of Portage High School, she went on to UW- Green Bay and graduated with a degree in Theatre and Drama.

Clare is survived by her partner, Tyler Tool; parents, Margaret McWilliams and Robert Halstead; her dear brother, Robert McWilliams Halstead, and his wife, Amanda Manesis; many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her beloved dog, Peaches.

Clare loved theatre, technology, and her many stuffed animals. She pursued acting and movies throughout her life. She was fortunate to have special relationships and touched many people through her joy, humor, and kindness.

She was preceded in death by her uncles, Jimmy, Buzzy, Mike, and Joe; her grandparents, John and Roselyn McWilliams and Evelyn and Robert Halstead; and 364 friends.

The family wishes to thank Agrace Hospice for their kindness in her care during her final days.

A private ceremony will be held.

Clare wishes to all: “Make your life spectacular! I know I did.” She will be loved and celebrated forever.

Until we are together again.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.

Address

430 Wisconsin Street
Portage, WI
53901

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