Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation

11/19/2025

Michael “Mike” Gary Steinhoff, 75, of Sparta, passed away Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Morrow Home in Sparta. He was born on February 3, 1950 (the middle child of 15) to Bernard and Catherine (Steidl) Steinhoff in Sparta WI.

He grew up in Sparta and graduated from Sparta High School in 1968. During his high school years, he worked at Starkey’s A&W. After graduation, Mike joined the Army and was stationed in Vietnam. After his military discharge, he worked at Spartek until he retired in March
2019.

Although Mike never had children of his own, he loved spending time with his nieces and nephews. He especially enjoyed playing games and teaching them things. He wouldn’t hold babies until they were old enough to eat a cookie, and they were quickly handed back to their parents if they needed a diaper change. Michael was also an avid Packer, Brewer and Badger fan.

Mike is survived by his siblings, John (Vicki), Linda, Jerry, Jeff (Jeanne) and Barb (Leo) Ward; brothers-in-law, Jerry Erickson and Gene Kaijala; sisters-in-law, Laurie, Diane and Norma; special family friends, John (Char) Roehrl; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Carol, Nan, Donna, Bob, Tom, Pat, Danny, Pete and Dennis; and sisters-in-law, Mary Ann and Lynn.

The family would like to express thanks for the care given to Mike by the doctors, nurses and staff at Emplify Health, and also the nurses, CNAs and staff at the Morrow Home.

A Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Lanham- Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation with Chaplain Priscilla Hemmersbach officiating. Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, following the service. A luncheon will be provided after the burial, at the funeral home.

A Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Friday, at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

11/19/2025

Dennis R. Johnson, 77, of Sparta passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones, on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. He was born in Sparta, on December 16, 1947 to Spencer and Margaret (Brown) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed at Cataract United Methodist Church.

For grammar school, he went to Daneville; the same one-room country school that his father and grandfather attended. He graduated from Sparta High School in 1966.

Dennis worked for Northern Engraving for 12 years, in the offices in Sparta, West Salem, and Holmen. He also drove semi for 2 ½ years, mostly in the Midwest and East Coast. He worked for the City of Sparta for 24 years. Then, Carlisle (Sparta Brush) for 10 years. He also worked seasonally, for 15 years, at Habelman’s Cranberry Marsh during harvest.

Dennis married Irene (Anna) Van Kirk in 1966, and they had one child, Wendy. They later divorced, but remained good friends. He later married Kim Smith. Together, they raised his stepdaughter, Tina, and 3 sons, Damien, Alex, and Levi. They later divorced.

Dennis was involved in sports, playing football and wrestling in high school. He even made it to the state wrestling tournament in 1966. He played baseball for 14 years, and softball for 31 years. He also enjoyed golf and bowling. In addition to playing sports, he was a coach for youth wrestling, baseball, and soccer. He also served as a Cub Scout leader for a few years.

Dennis loved to dance, and spent many, many Saturday nights at the Cataract Moonlight Pavilion. He also enjoyed hunting (bow and gun) and fishing (winter and summer). He took many fishing trips to Northern Wisconsin and Canada.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bruce Johnson; and sister, Annette Rickert.

He is survived by his daughter, Wendy (Candis) Johnson; sons, Damien (Raiven), Alex, and Levi (Alissa) Johnson; step-daughter, Tina Allen; brother, Roger Johnson; and grandchildren, Kelsey (Mike) Kroner, Elizabeth, Karalei, Melodie, Maelory, Myles, Trevin, Eden, Maddox, and Esther; and best friend, Sheila Volden.

A Memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Reverend Randy Williamson officiating. The family would like to invite everyone to The Amber Inn, Sparta, immediately following the service.

A Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Monday, at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

11/17/2025

Jess Crocker, 47, of Tomah, WI passed away at his home November 13, 2025 after a nearly 3 year long, courageous battle with cancer. Jess was born to Richard and Karol (Kirchner) Crocker in La Crosse, WI on February 2, 1978.

He grew up on French Island and attended Logan High School. He later worked at Ashley furniture, Ace Distribution, and ended his career at Walmart Distribution in Tomah.

Jess welcomed his son Dylan Crocker (28) in January of 1997 with Jessica Frappier. Jess and Jessica were married for 20 years and later divorced.

In 2017 Jess met the love of his life, Allyssa Amundson. Together, they moved to Tomah, WI where they later welcomed three more children; Cash (6) and twins Maci & Jameson (2). Jess delighted in being a father and always prioritized them. Even during his battle with cancer, you could find Jess still playing with the children, taking them to the park, bowling, and going to school events.

Jess had a passion for life. He was always laughing; the life of the party. He loved watching the Brewers and Packers especially with his brother, Chad and father, Richard prior to their passing. He also enjoyed being on his boat, sports and muscle cars, playing pool and darts, cracking a cold beer and hanging out with friends and family. He especially enjoyed long road trips with no destination with his love, Allyssa at his side.

Jess is survived by his mother, Karol Crocker; girlfriend, Allyssa Amundson; children, Dylan, Cash, Maci & Jameson; nephew, Austin; nieces, Racelynn and Savannah; and one special grandson, Thaisen.
Jess is preceded in death by his father, Richard Crocker and his brother Chad Crocker.

Special thank you to the infusion staff at Tomah Health and Gundersen Blood and Cancer Center in Tomah. Jess didn’t love all the appointments, but he loved to joke with the staff, and make the day a little lighter. We appreciate all the special care you provided to him during his most vulnerable moments.

Special thank you to his coworkers at Walmart distribution center. You have all made an impact in our lives. You saw Jess at his highest and lowest points; and embraced all of it. You have provided him with encouragement and guidance that most employers don’t. You have supported him through his battle. We will forever be grateful.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

11/16/2025

Randy L. Stelter, 67, of Sparta, died Saturday, November 15, 2025.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home in Sparta, Wisconsin, is a full-service funeral home providing burial and cremation services. Our street-level facility is located in downtown Sparta. We offer ample parking, a large visitation/service chapel, family room, ADA restrooms, kitchenette, and a fellowship h...

11/16/2025

Come out this week and support the Zor Shriners Feztival of Trees in Sparta. Really creative trees on display. My daughter, Myra, her friend, Gianna, and my wife, Amy put a lot of thought and work into our display this year. Thanks also to Penny for guiding us through our first decorating year!

11/15/2025

Ellen Walle Funeral
Music will be muted because of FB policies.

11/11/2025

Ellen A. Walle, 71, of La Crosse, died Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at Brookdale Senior Living, La Crosse. She was born in Sparta to Henry and Emma (Livangood) Blinston. She grew up in the Cataract and graduated from Sparta High School in 1972. She attended UW-La Crosse and UW-Whitewater.

While attending school, Ellen met David Walle, at a conference. On July 28, 1979, she married David at Cataract United Methodist Church. Together, they moved to Staten Island, NY, Mount Clemens, MI, Denton, TX, and Cincinnati, OH. They then lived in Des Moines, IA, Cataract,WI then Rochester, MN before returning to La Crosse in 2018.

Ellen worked as a secretary for a church and nursing home. She enjoyed talking with people, church, baking, and traveling. Ellen and David were great examples for all of us. Although both had vision handicaps, nothing held them back from enjoying their life together.

Ellen is survived by her brother, Roger Blinston of Bangor and many other close relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, David on August 9, 2025.

A funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Reverend Randy Wiliamson officiating. Burial will be in Cataract Cemetery following the luncheon.

Family and friends are invited for visitation from 10 a.m. until 12 noon on Saturday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

11/05/2025

Francis “Frank” E. Stockel, 67, of Sparta, died Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at his home. He was born on June 30, 1958 in Sparta to Valery and Alice (Haugen) Stockel. He graduated from Sparta High School and from UW Stout.

Frank moved to St. Louis, MO in 1980 pursuing a career at McDonnell Douglas Aerospace Engineering and started a family. He moved back to Sparta in 2006, becoming an active member at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. He was well known to many in Sparta, cruising in his wheelchair and waiving to many in town, making jams with the neighbors, and, also enjoying many Packers games downtown.

Frank is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Matt and Angie Stockel; grandsons, Carter, Jude and Jonas Stockel; sisters, Lavonne (Joe) Rivers, Kay (Alan) Austin, Mary Stockel; brothers, Thomas (Bonnie) Stockel, Donald (Nancy) Stockel, Vincent Stockel, Russell Stockel, and Rodney Stockel; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in parents, Alice and Valery Stockel; brothers, David, Dale and Alan Stockel; and sister, Virginia Wiblin.

Graveside and burial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025 in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Sparta, with Father Eric Berns officiating. A luncheon will follow at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Sparta. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

11/03/2025

Michael P. Kindt, 69, of Sparta, died Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Tomah VA Medical Center. He was born on February 3, 1956 in Richmond, Virginia. He was sent to a boys home, and from there went into foster homes. One foster family, James and Katherine Kindt adopted Mike, and his brothers, William and Raymond.

At age 17, Mike enlisted in the Marine Corp. He proudly served his country for 22 years; traveling around the world, serving in multiple missions. He was also a recruiter for the Marines.

After his enlistment was complete, he worked at several manufacturing facilities; and food service management at Fort McCoy. His last position was a cashier at Walmart, which he loved dearly; meeting with all types of people.

Mike met Jaleata Schaitel in Wilton, WI and they were married in 2005. He helped her with her floral business, in many capacities. In 2016 they bought their present home. He designed the remodel and landscapes, to incredible results.

Mike loved sports, and participated in several of them throughout his life. He had a passion for pop and hard rock music, dune buggies, and billiard pool games.

Mike is survived by his wife, Jaleata; daughter, Jennie (Trevor); their children, Alena, Harrison, and Giddeon; a son, Jason (Erin); their son, Jackson; step-son, Jason (Randi); their children, Anthony, Becca, and Aiden; step-son, Mark; and brothers, William and Raymond.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta. Full military honors, provided by VFW Post 2112 and American Legion Post 100, both of Sparta, will follow the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, La Crosse at 2 p.m.

A visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. on Monday, at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

11/01/2025

Phyllis Mae Abbott, 94, of Sparta passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Saturday November 1, 2025 at Morrow Home-Marycrest apartments in Sparta. She was born on July 2, 1931 in Sparta, WI to Martin and Lyda (Stark) Paulson. Her parents passed away while Phyllis was young and she was raised by her grandparents, Morten and Hannah Paulson.

Phyllis married Basil Abbott on December 23, 1950 in Sparta.

Phyllis was an in-home nanny for a while. She also worked for Teasdale Phone Company as a phone operator, in Cataract. She was also a sales clerk and worked at the grocery store in Cataract.

Phyllis is survived by her children, Dennis (Cathy) Abbott of West Salem, Cheryl (Claire) Wenzel of Janesville, Sheila Abbott of Sparta, Darrell (Patti) Abbott of Cataract, Lee (Fran) Abbott of Sparta, and Lynn (Rhonda) Abbott of Cataract; grandchildren, Nathan (Laurie) Abbott, Bryan (Amy) Oesterle, Tina Oesterle, Ted (Sylvia) Wenzel, Tyler (Rachel) Wenzel, Brooke (Jared) Crocker, Brandi Strait, Jack Strait, Allisa (Dustin) Madison, Sierra (Jose) Tello, Ashley (Logan) Greeno, and Seth (Haylee) Abbott; great-grandchildren, Joe, Ben, Ava, Alexandria, Morgan, Montana, Macy, Zach, Samantha, Vivian, Tate, Christopher, Tristan, Parker, Weston, Corbin, Lydia, Sebastian, Jase, Cameron, and Sawyer; great-great-grandchildren, Harper, Ivy, Baby, and Raury; sisters-in-law, Elaine Paulson of Medford, Annamae (Abbott) Pollack of Angelo, and June Abbott of Tomah; brother-in-law, Warren (Caren) Abbott of Nevada; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Basil Abbott; paternal grandparents, Morten and Hannah Paulson; maternal grandparents, William and Martha (Zillmer) Stark; brother, William Paulson; numerous brothers and sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Chaplain Shane Haynes officiating. Burial will follow in the Cataract Cemetery.

Family and Friends are invited for visitation from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

10/27/2025

Kadin Charles Ahler, born June 15th, 2003, age 22, found forever peace on September 22, 2025.

He was a resident and graduate of Cashton High School in Cashton, Wisconsin. His family was so proud of him for recently graduating from Viterbo University with his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration—Accounting, while interning at Marine Credit Union.

During high school, Kadin was recognized multiple times for his drive and work ethic, which earned him many substantial scholarships. His success was fueled by his desire to make his dad and family proud, and that speaks volumes about the man he was.

If you knew Kadin, you know he was borderline genius, which also showed up in his gaming skills. What started with a simple Sonic game as a kid quickly became a lifelong passion that led him to be ranked among the top players in the United States—an achievement he took seriously and worked hard to maintain.

In the last couple of years, Kadin’s drive, work ethic, and self-discipline carried over into his health and his confidence. He tirelessly worked and educated himself to reach the goals he set out for himself.

To know Kadin is to love Kadin. He had a light and a personality that one could not forget. Kadin had a way of truly seeing you in ways most people simply couldn’t. He showed up, and he listened—really listened—to every single word you said. It was evident how authentic his soul was, how pure his love was, and how deeply his heart poured out for every person around him.

Kadin showed up as everyone’s biggest fan, wanting nothing but the absolute best for those he cherished—and even for those he had only just crossed paths with. He left a mark and an impact on every heart blessed enough to be in his presence. To say Kadin will be missed is a gross understatement. He will be mourned, longed for, and countless souls will forever count down the seconds until they can once again feel the embrace of one of his bear hugs.
As Kadin’s family, if you are moved to do anything in his honor, we only ask this: show up like Kadin in this complicated world. Show up with a big heart. Put others before yourself. Tell people you love them. Show compassion. Educate yourself. Make someone laugh. Dial the number, even if you don’t know what to say. Talk too much and too often. Leave traces of love and yourself everywhere you go.

Remember that everyone is carrying burdens we know nothing about—big or small. If you have the chance to lighten someone’s load, do it. Spread love and positivity. If someone is on your heart, call them. If you think someone looks beautiful, tell them. If you see a mother at the store doing her best, remind her she’s doing great. If you’re proud of a coworker for getting sober, let them know. Don’t let love or encouragement go unsaid.

Kadin’s family was one of beautiful uniqueness—as though hand-chosen along the way. He is remembered with endless love by his father, Steve Ahler; his sisters, Stephanie (Tyson) Gullicksrud, Paige (Jordan) Kerska, Ashley Pomeroy, Shawna Pomeroy, Allie Pomeroy, and Kara Pomeroy; his nephews, Isaac Gullicksrud, Eli Gullicksrud, Zachary Halling, and Andrew Radar; and his nieces, Evelynn Pomeroy, Kinslee Jones, Layla Davis, Brea Davis, Natalie Pomeroy, Charley Bos, and Riley Bos.

Kadin was also deeply cared for by Robin Ahler, who held a special motherly role in his life, as well as Wade and Teresa Pulham and their family. He shared a lifelong bond of brotherhood with Jeremiah Zimmerman and Levi Kneifl.

He was preceded in death by his aunt, Tina Pomeroy; his maternal grandmother, Sheila Pomeroy; his Nana, Mary Ahler; his Papa, Charles Ahler; and his paternal grandmother, Shirley Ahler-Hankins.

A celebration of Kadin’s beautiful life will be held on November 2, 2025 at the Cashton Community Hall in Cashton, WI. Starting at noon with a small service at 1 p.m. Afterwards there will be food and refreshments.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

10/24/2025

Beverly J. (Doane) Erickson passed over to heaven, at the age of 98, on October 24, 2025 at 4:30 a.m., at The Serenity House, in Tomah.
Beverly was born on March 8, 1927, in La Crosse, to Wilmer and Mary Doane. She was married to Walter Thomas Krop, in 1947. They had two daughters, Valorie and Deidre. She remarried in 1955, to Orville Erickson. They had a son, Lance.

She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Walter; and second husband, Orville.

Beverly is survived by her children, Valorie Burns, Deidre Erickson, and Lance Erickson; 1 grandson, Brandon Burns; and great-grandchildren.

There will be no public service, at the request of the deceased.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.