ST. ANNE'S CATHOLIC CEMETERY OBITUARIES

GEORGE F. KELLER MAN KILLED IN A FALL INTO QUARRY George Keller of Rockwood Found Dead At Bottom of Quarry (photo) George Keller, 56, was found dead at the bottom of a quarry at Rockwood late yesterday afternoon a short distance from home. Keller died of a skull fracture authorities said, suffered in a fall of over 25 feet, Sheriff Elmer ???? said. Keller evidently left his home shortly after 8 p.m. Sunday night to go to Rockwood and fell off the edge of the quarry. Joseph K?????, superintendent of the Rockwell Lime Company reported the discovery of Keller's body yesterday afternoon. Dr. Theodore Teitgen, county coroner, said there would be no inquest. Mr. Keller, employed at Rockwood 17 years was born in Germany in 18?? he married Miss Margaret Wa??, and in 1925 the family moved to Rockwood where Mr. Keller took a job in the quarry of the Rockwell Lime Company. Mrs. Keller died in 1928. Since then Mr. Keller lived in a flat near the quarry, with a son, Rudolph, occupying an adjoining flat. Survivors are a daughter, Mrs. Roger Jackson of this city, three sons, Richard and Oswald of this city. Rudolph of Rockwood; three sisters, Sister Gonzaga of West Bend, and two sisters in Germany. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 9:30 a.m. from the Pfeffer funeral home and at 10 o'clock from the St. Ann church at Francis Creek, the Rev. Joseph Rauch officiating. The body may be viewed at the funeral home after 7 o'clock tonight. Manitowoc Herald Times, Tuesday, October 28, 1941 p.2


MARGARETHA KELLER HOLD FUNERAL FOR MRS. KELLER Rockwood Resident Laid to Rest in Cemetery at Francis Creek Funeral services for Mrs. Margaret Keller, 40, who died at her home in Rockwood Saturday afternoon, were held this morning at 8 o’clock at the home and at 8:30 at the St. Anne’s church in Francis Creek, Rev. Jaekels officiating. Burial was in the Francis Creek cemetery. Mrs. Keller had been in poor health the past year and her death, attributed to a complication of diseases was not unexpected. The deceased was born in Germany in 1888, coming to this country only five years ago with her husband and children. Besides the widower, George Keller, four children survive. Manitowoc Times, Monday, December 31, 1928, Page 1


ERNEST KERSCHER Ernest (Ernie) C. Kerscher, 50, or Francis Creek, died unexpectedly Saturday afternoon, May 26, 1990, at Holy Family Medical Center, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Wednesday at St. Anne Catholic church, Francis Creek. Rev. Donald Schneider will officiate at the Mass of Christian Burial and burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mr. Kerscher was born July 1, 1939, in Francis Creek, son of Raymond and Leona Luebke Kerscher. He attended St. Anne Catholic Grade School in Francis Creek and graduated from Mishicot High School in 1958. He was employed for 22 years at Imperial Eastman. On September 10, 1966, he married the former Betty Kluczykowski. He was a member of St. Anne catholic Church, Francis Creek Village Board and the Francis Creek Sportsman Club. Survivors include his wife, Betty; two daughters, Ardie at home, Mary Sue at home and her special friend, Randy Yindra; his parents, Raymond and Leona Kerscher of Francis Creek; four brothers and two sisters-in-law, Fred and Audrey Kerscher of Manitowoc, Allen and Helen Kerscher of Elcho, Wisconsin, Tom Kerscher of Francis Creek, David Kerscher of Mellen, Wisconsin; his mother-in-law, Martha Kluczykowski of Manitowoc; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Cathy and Pete Schwantes of Rockwood, Shirley and Steve Kluczykowski of Manitowoc, Liz Kluczykowski of Manitowoc, Bob and Louise Kluczykowski of Two rivers Gary and Priscella Kluczykowski of Georgia, also surviving Bill and Joan Wachal of St. Nazianz; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Michelle Christiann and his father-in-law, Henry. Friends may call at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. this Tuesday and at the church on Wednesday from 2:30 p.m. until the hour of service. Prayer Service will be held this Tuesday evening at 7:30 p.m. led by Father Schneider. Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter



LEONA KERSCHER The Mass of Christian Burial for Leona M. Kerscher, age 83, formerly of 211 Parkway Rd., Francis Creek, who died Thursday evening, July 22, 1999, at Shady Lane Nursing Care Center, Manitowoc, will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 26, 1999, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. Rev. Theodore Hendricks officiating with burial to follow at St. Anne Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home, Kellnersville from 4-8 p.m. Sunday (TONIGHT) and Monday at church from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 10 a.m. Herald Times Reporter, July 25, 1999 ******** (Leona M./18 May 1916/22 Jul 1999/SSDI)


MICHELE KERSCHER A family funeral service was conducted Tuesday afternoon at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek, by the Rev. John Haen for Michele Christiann Kerscher, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Kerscher, of Francis Creek, who was born and died Monday at Holy Family Hospital. Burial was in the church cemetery. Survivors are the parents, the maternal grandparents; paternal grand- parents; (names omitted for privacy) maternal great grandmother, Mrs. John Somers of Custer, Wis.; and paternal great grandmother, Mrs. Helen Luebke, of Manitowoc. The infant’s mother is the former Elizabeth Kluczykowski. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wednesday, August 9, 1967, Page 16


RAYMOND KERSCHER Raymond W. Kerscher, age 93, formerly of Francis Creek, and currently a resident of North Ridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center, died Saturday evening, Oct. 14, 2006, at Holy Family Memorial Medical Center. Raymond was born June 7, 1913, in the town of Kossuth, the son of the late Louis and Rose Hassemer Kerscher. He married the former Leona Luebke on Nov. 22, 1937, at St. Anne Catholic Church in Francis Creek. She preceded him in death on July 22, 1999. Raymond farmed in the town of Kossuth and worked at Farmco Co-op. He was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church. Survivors include four sons and three daughters-in-law: Frederick (Audrey) Kerscher, Whitelaw; Allen (Helen) Kerscher, Rhinelander; Tom Kerscher, Francis Creek; David Kerscher, Mellen; Betty Kerscher, Manitowoc. He is further survived by grandchildren; step-grandchildren; great-grandchildren; one brother and sister-in-law: Lloyd (Ardis) Kerscher, Manitowoc; two brothers-in-law: Howard Hanlon, Appleton; John Kettner, Manitowoc; nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and friends survive. He was preceded in death by his wife: Leona; one son: Ernie Kerscher; one granddaughter: Michele; one step-grandson: Scott; three sisters: Agnes Kettner; Elsie Wuellner and Grace Hanlon. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2006, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. Paul Paider will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. Relatives and friends may call from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2006, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Kellnersville is serving the Kerscher family. A special thank you to the staff, of North Ridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center; the staff, of Holy Family Memorial Medical Center, and Dr. Pradeep Giriyappa, for their kind care and compassion shown to Dad. Herald Times Reporter October 2006 ******** (Raymond W./07 Jun 1913/14 Oct 2006/SSDI)



THERESA KERSCHER (d. 1927) BROKEN LEG HASTENS END OF AGED WOMAN Mrs. Theresa Kerscher passed away at the Holy Family hospital early this morning following a short illness which was brought about a week ago when the deceased suffered a broken leg. Because of her advanced age, she was unable to stand the shock and failed to rally. Funeral services will be held at Francis Creek, from St. Ann’s church, Wednesday morning, Services will be held from the home at 9 and from the church at 9:30, the Rev. Schiller officiating. Mrs. Kerscher, nee Stauber, was born in Austria, February 15, 1848, being 79 years of age at the time of death. At the age of 18, Mrs. Kerscher removed to this country with her parents, coming directly to Manitowoc county where she has since lived. Fifty seven years ago, she was married to Louis Kerscher who passed away 12 years ago. Surviving are five daughters, Mrs. John Ewen of Francis Creek, Miss Theresa Kerscher of this city, Mrs. Charles Wearg (sic) of Michigan, Mrs. Matt Koch of Two Rivers and Mrs. Joseph Kellner of Francis Creek; two sons, Louis at home and Frank at Francis Creek, two brothers, Michael and Anton of Michigan, and two sisters, Mrs. John Kiffer of Michigan and Mrs. Anna Meisner of Michigan. Twenty-seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren also remain. Manitowoc Herald News, Monday, September 12, 1927, Page 1


WENZEL KERSCHER KOSSUTH MAN PIONEER OF CO. DEAD AT AGE 83 Wenzel Kerscher, a pioneer settler of the town of Kossuth and a veteran of the civil war, died at his home at Francis Creek Saturday night at the advanced age of 83 years. Mr. Kerscher is survived by an aged widow and nine children. The funeral will be held at Francis Creek tomorrow morning at 10 o’clock. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Monday, November 15, 1915, Page 8


MARY JANE KING Mary Jane King, age 87, formerly of 3619 W. Marshall St., Manitowoc died Tuesday, December 9, 2014 at Shady Lane Nursing Care Center. The former Mary Jane Sukawaty was born on June 3, 1927 in Kewaskum, daughter of the late Wenzel and Agnes (Meixensperger) Sukawaty. On September 28, 1945 Mary Jane was married to Joseph E. King. He preceded her in death on June 3, 1991. She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish and a former member of St. Anne Catholic Church. Mary Jane enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo at Oneida and she loved flowers. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law: Mary Ann (Roger) Lodel, Manitowoc; three grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one brother: Sylvester Sukawaty; two sisters and brothers-in-law: Charlotte (Elmer) Ruplinger; Lucille (Ned) Sells. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 13, 2014 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. John Becker will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m. The Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.jensreinboldandpfeffer.com Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter December 11, 2014



ELSIE KLEMANN From Der Nord Westen, 27 May 1897: Death on Wed. last week of the little child of Peter Klemann in Kossuth. The burial took place Fri. in the Kossuth Catholic Cemetery. ******** (Der Nord Westen and the Wisconsin Vital Records index both list a Kleman child as dying 19 May 1897. Der Nord Westen doesn't name the child, but the WVRI calls her Elsa. According to the Nord Westen it/she was buried 21 May 1897. The 1900 Census lists Peter's wife Sophie as having had 6 children with 5 still living. This means only one died, which would be this one.) ******** Elsa Kleman birth: 1891 Kossuth death: 19 May 1897 Kossuth, Manitowoc Co., Wisconsin burial: Francis Creek father: Peter Kleman mother: Sophia Lindau Wisconsin, Deaths and Burials, 1835-1968


PETER KLEMAN (d. 1920) KOSSUTH MAN, PIONEER OF CO., PASSES AWAY Peter Kleman, Sr. ,a pioneer resident of the county and for a half century a well known farmer of Kossuth, died at his home there at the age of 65 years. Mr. Kleman had been in ill health for over a year. Born January 2, 1865, Mr. Kleman came here with his parents when two months old and had since resided in the county for many years operating a farm at Kossuth, where he was widely known and respected. He is survived by a widow and four children, Peter Jr., of Kossuth, Nicholas of Branch, William of Rockwell, and Mrs. Mary Wodinsky of Kossuth. One brother, Michael Kleman, this city, and a sister, Mrs. Peter Holsen, also survive. The funeral will be held Saturday from the home at 9:30 to St. Ann’s church at Francis Creek. Manitowoc Herald News, Wednesday, September 22, 1920 P.1


SOPHIE KLEMAN (d. 1945) Mrs. Peter Kleman Sr., 86, of route 5, Manitowoc, died this morning on the homestead farm, now operated by her son, Peter Jr. She had been ill for some time. The body will lie in state from 2 p.m. Sunday at the Pfeffer funeral home until Tuesday at 9 a.m. when it will be moved to the St. Ann’s church, Francis Creek, for services at 9:30. The Rev. Joseph Rauch will officiate. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery. She was born Miss Sophia Lindau in 1859 in the county, and 65 years ago was married to Peter Kleman Sr. He died 25 years ago. Survivors are three sons, Peter Jr., on the home farm, Nick of Branch, William of Rockwood, daughter, Mrs. Peter Wadzinske of route 2, Manitowoc; brother, Joseph; sister, Mrs. Barbara La Frania of Chippewa Falls; 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was a member of the Altar society of St. Ann’s Church whose members will recite the rosary at 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Manitowoc Herald Times, Saturday, July 28, 1945 P.2


WILLIAM KLEMAN William Kleman, 77, of Rt. 4, Manitowoc, died Thursday evening at Veterans Administration Hospital, Wood, where he had been a patient 15 days. Funeral services will be at 9:45 a.m. Monday at Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. John M. Haen will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery. Mr. Kleman was born May 6, 1887, in the Town of Kossuth, son of the late Peter and Sophie Lindauer Kleman. He always resided in the township. He married Rose Christoff Nov 27, 1923, at Luxemburg and prior to retiring 13 years ago, Mr. Kleman had been employed as a carpenter by Manitowoc Shipbuilding Inc. He was a member of Carpenters Local 349 and a veteran of World War I, serving from Sept. 21, 1917, to April 25, 1919, as a mechanic with Company B of the 340th Infantry. Surviving are his wife, a son, (private), two daughters, (private), a brother, Peter, of Rt. 4, Manitowoc, a sister, Mrs. Mary Wadzinski, of Rt. 2, Manitowoc, and three grandchildren. A son, two brothers, and a sister preceded him in death. Friends may call at the funeral home after 3 p.m. Sunday where the Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Graveside military rites will be by Drews- Bleser Post No. 88, American Legion. Manitowoc Herald Times, Friday, March 19, 1965 P. 3


PETER KOCH SAD CASE OF DROWNING.-On the 12th inst., while some young men were bathing at Neshoto, in this county, a sad event occurred. A young man named PETER KOCH, while in the act of swimming was taken with cramp in his arms, and before assistance could reach him he was drowned. He was in his twenty-fifth year, respected by all who knew him, and his untimely death has cast a gloom over the entire neighborhood. July 20, 1866 P. 1 ******** sohn von/P. u. M. Koch/geboren/20 Nov. 1841/gestorben/14 Juli 1866 Information sent in by researcher/see contributors page Peter Koch, b.29 Nov 1841, d.14 Jul 1866 b. Rheinland, Kreis Saarburg, Wehr, Prussia (Germany) Son of Peter and Maria (Staudt) Koch Note: This person drowned in the saw mill pond where he was employed as a log roller and log sorter at Shoto, WI He was never married.


ANNA KOCHAN Mrs. Anton Kochan Sr., 78 (photo) died early today at the farm home in Kossuth. Funeral services will be held at 9 a.m. Monday at the farm home and at 9:30 at St. Ann Catholic church, Francis Creek, the Rev. Joseph Rauch officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Born Anna Seibert in Kossuth in 1869, she was married to Mr. Kochan in 1889. They lived on a farm near Reifs Mills 13 years and moved to the present farm where they have since resided. The couple observed its golden wedding in 1939. She was a past president of the St. Ann Rosary society. Survivors are the husband, four sons, Anton Jr. of this city, Bernard and Leo of route 2, Manitowoc, and John of Francis Creek, four daughters, Sister Mary Leonilla of Antigo, Cecelia Kochan and Mrs. Elmer Teetz of Milwaukee and Mrs. Leo Crechard of this city; two sisters, Mrs. Francis Zipperer of Whitelaw and Mrs. Theresa Neuser of route 2, Manitowoc; 19 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The body will be moved to the farm home from the Mittnacht-Kollath funeral home at 3 p.m. Saturday where the rosary will be recited at 3 p.m. Sunday. Manitowoc Herald Times, Friday, May 28, 1948 P.2


ANTON KOCHAN Anton C. Kochan, 88, a retired Town of Kossuth farmer, died early Saturday at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc, following a brief illness. Funeral services will be held at 8:45 a.m. Monday at the Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 9:30 at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. Joseph A. Rauch will be the celebrant at a solemn requiem high mass, with burial in the church cemetery. Born in Kossuth in 1863, Mr. Kochan married the former Anna Seibert in 1889. The couple operated a farm near Riefs (sic) Mills for 13 years before moving to the present Kosuth (sic) farm where the deceased had been making his home with a son, Leo. Mrs. Kochan died in 1948. Mr. Kochan was an active member of his church, having been a charter member of the St. Anne Holy Name Society and a past treasurer of both the St. Anne and St. Augustine (Rief Mills) congregations. He was also a former director of the Francis Creek Equity. Surviving, in addition to the son, Leo, are three other sons, Anton Jr., of Manitowoc, Bernard of Route 2, Manitowoc, and John of Francis Creek; four daughters, Sister M. Leonilla, now teaching in a Catholic school at Hollandtown, Wis., Mrs. Leo Krechard of Manitowoc and Cecelia Kochan and Mrs. Elmer Teetz of Milwaukee; two sisters, Mrs. Martin Radlinger and Mrs. Joseph Reis of Marathon County; 19 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Friends may call at the Mittnacht Funeral Home from 10 a.m. Sunday to the time of services Monday morning. Members of the St. Anne Holy Name Society and the Manitowoc Council Knights of Columbus will recite the rosary at 8 p.m. Sunday. Manitowoc Herald Times, Saturday, March 29, 1952 P.2


BERNARD KOCHAN Bernard (Ben) Kochan, 91, a Francis Creek resident, died Thursday afternoon, February 25, at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville, and 10:30 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated by the Rev. James Massart. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Mr. Kochan was born Aug. 10, 1890, in the Town of Kossuth, son of the late Anton and Anna Siebert Kochan. He married Erma Hessel May 12, 1914, at Francis Creek. She preceded him in death in 1954. Mr. Kochan had been employed with Mirro Corporation many years, retiring in 1958. He was a 50 year member and former president of Catholic Knights Branch 86 of Francis Creek, an honorary life member of Knights of Columbus Council 710 of Manitowoc and a member of Francis Creek-Rockwood Senior Citizens. Survivors include three daughters and two sons-in-law, Florence of Francis Creek, Marian and Ralph Fico of Milwaukee and Delores and Robert Peschman of Brookfield; four sisters, Mrs. Julia Crechard, Miss Cecelia Kochan and Mrs. Anna Teetz of Maniotwoc and Sister Leonela of Silver Lake Convent, Manitowoc; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. An infant son, a daughter, Carol and three brothers, Anton, Leo and John, preceded him in death. Friends may call at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville, after 4 o’clock this Friday afternoon and Saturday until the time of service. A prayer service will be at 7:30 o’clock Friday evening by Father Massart, Catholic Knights and Knights of Columbus. Herald Times Reporter, Feb. 26, 1982 P. 3



CAROL KOCHAN CHILD KILLED, SEEK CAR DRIVER CAROL KOCHAN, 13, IS KILLED AT FRANCIS CREEK Girl Sustains Fractured Skull When Hit by Car of Vampire Driver; Dies Within an Hour A hit and run driver who fled from Francis Creek early last night after striking down and fatally injuring Carol, the 13-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Kochan of that village, is being saught by authorities of this and surrounding counties today. Only a meagre description of the car, said to be a large sedan, was furnished to the authorities by a young friend who was the only person in the vicinity at the time of the accident. Miss Kochan died at the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hessel, at about 8 o'clock after living with a fractured skull for about an hour after the accident. She never regained consciousness following her being picked up at the side of the road. Saw Approaching Car Belief that the girl saw the oncoming, rapidly-driven car was expressed by her parents who said that the child was walking south on the east side of the highway when she was struck. She was en route to her home, about one-quarter of a mile south of the place where the accident occurred, and was planning to return to the St. Ann's school later to take part in a play given by students of the school there. The impact of the collision was heard by Marcella Blimel, her companion of the afternoon and who left the home of the parish priest, Rev. Joseph Rauch, with her after the two had assisted the housekeeper in making final preparations for the play in the evening. The Blimel girl was walking north toward the school and when she heard the noise of the collision she ran to the side of the victim. She fell and severely bruised her face and hands and then mainly tried to lift Miss Kochan. Finding herself unable to help or carry the girl, Miss Blimel hastened to the home of the priest and he with others removed the girl to her grandfather's home across the street. Car Never Halted Miss Blimel told Sheriff Carstens that the car had not halted after striking the Kochan child but continued on its way north. She was unable to state what type of car it was but said that it was a large close automobile traveling at a high rate of speed. The car did not swerve to the side of the road after hitting its victim and belief has been expressed that the driver was unaware that he had struck a pedestrian. Was Rockwood Student Miss Kochan recently graduated from the St. Ann's parochial school at Francis Creek and was a member of the freshman class of the high school, Rockwood. She was born in the town of Kossuth in September, 1918, and spent her entire life in the immediate vicinity. She was a popular girl and was active in church and school affairs, being a member of the Young Ladies Society of the St. Ann church. Besides her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Kochan, she is survived by three sisters, Florence, Marion and Delores, all at home. Funeral Wednesday Funeral services will be held from the St. Ann church Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock with the Rev. Joseph Rauch officiating. Interment will take place at the church cemetery. To Hold Inquest Coroner W.G. Kemper announced at noon today that an inquest would be held at the court house here tomorrow afternoon at 3 o'clock. The corner's jury consisting of Jack McConnell, A.F. Rank, George Schadeburg Sr., Otto A. Vogel, Hugo Menzel and Raleigh Schmitz was drawn this morning and viewed the remains at the Pfeffer Funeral Home bfore adjouring until the time for the taking of testimony. Manitowoc Herald News, March 21, 1932 P. 1


CECELIA KOCHAN Miss Cecelia C. Kochan, 85, a resident of St. Mary’s Home, Manitowoc, died Thursday, January 15, 1987 at the home. Funeral services will be 9 am Saturday at St. Mary’s Home Chapel, Manitowoc. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Tom Wojiechowski with burial at St. Anne Cemetery, Francis Creek, Wisconsin. Miss Kochan was born April 2, 1901 in the Town of Kossuth, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Anton and Anna Seibert Kochan. Miss Kochan was employed for 39 years by Wisconsin Bell Telephone Company, retiring in 1962. Miss Kochan was a member of Wisconsin Telephone Pioneers. Survivors include two sisters, Anna Teetz and Julia Crechard, both of Manitowoc; a sister-in-law, Loretta Kochan of Manitowoc; nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends survive. She was preceded in death by four brothers and a sister. Friends may call at St. Mary Home Chapel, Manitowoc, from 5:30 pm to 9 pm Friday. Prayer service will be held at 7 pm Friday evening at the chapel. Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home is in charge of funeral arrangements. Manitowoc Herald Times - Thurs., Jan. 15, 1987 - page 18 ******** (2 Apr. 1901/Jan. 1987/SSDI)



ERMA KOCHAN Mrs. Ben Kochan, 61, of Francis Creek, died Tuesday morning at the Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc, following a month’s illness. Funeral services will be held at 8:45 a.m. Thursday at the Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 9:30 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. Joseph Rauch will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery. She was born Erma Hessel in Francis Creek in 1893, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hessel, and in 1914 was married to Ben Kochan. They lived in Manitowoc for a time and then moved to Francis Creek. Surviving are the husband, three daughters, Florence at home and Mrs. Ralph Fico and Mrs. Robert Peschman of Milwaukee; two brothers, Louis of Manitowoc and Edward of Francis Creek; four sisters, Mrs. William Bertler of Manitowoc, Miss Rose Hessel of Milwaukee, Mrs. Joseph Muench of Francis Creek and Mrs. John Fenlon of Cooperstown; and two grand- children. Friends may call at the funeral home after Wednesday noon where the Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Wednesday by the Knights of Columbus and St. Ann Christian Mothers and at 8 p.m. by the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. Manitowoc Herald Times, Tuesday, September 28, 1954 P. 15


JOHN W. KOCHAN John W. Kochan, 69 (photo), of Francis Creek, died Tuesday morning at Maple Crest Sanatorium, Whitelaw. Funeral services will be at 9:15 a.m. Friday at Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 10 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. John Haen will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery. Mr. Kochan was born Dec. 26, 1891, in the Town of Kossuth, son of the late Anton and Anna Siebert Kochan. He was educated at St. Ann and Palm Grove schools in the township. He learned the carpenter trade as a young man, later working with Louis Mueller, contractor, at Denmark until 1942. He was then employed by Manitowoc Shipbuilding Inc., retiring in 1953. He married Rose Delsmann May 20, 1924, at Francis Creek where the couple resided. He was a member of St. Ann Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus and Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. Surviving are his wife, two sons, (private); two daughters, (private); two brothers, Ben of Francis Creek and Leo of Rt. 2., Two Rivers; four sisters, Sister M. Leonilla of Holy Family Convent, Alverno, Miss Cecelia Kochan and Mrs. Elmer Teetz of Milwaukee and Mrs. Leo Crechard of Manitowoc; and 13 grandchildren. A brother, Anton, preceded him in death. Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Thursday where the Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. by the Knights of Columbus and at 9:15 p.m. by the Holy Name Society and Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. Manitowoc Herald Times, Wednesday, July 5, 1961 P. 17


ROSE E. KOCHAN Rose E. Kochan, 81, of Park Lawn Nursing Home, Manitowoc, formerly of 424 Birchwood Dr., Francis Creek, died Friday evening, March 29, at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be 9:15 a.m. Tuesday at Parkside Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and 10 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. James P. Massart will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery. Mrs. Kochan, nee Rose Delsmann, was born Feb. 12, 1899, in the Town of Kossuth, daughter of the late Frank and Margaret Andres Delsmann. She was married to John Kochan May 20, 1924, at St. Anne Catholic Church. He preceded her in death July 4, 1961. She was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church, St. Anne Christian Mothers and Altar Society and Catholic Knights Insurance Society. Survivors include two sons, and two daughters-in-law, Donald and Lorraine Kochan and Ralph and Joan Kochan; two daughters and two sons-in-law, Rose Mary and Robert Lambert and Mary Jane and Ronald Burish; four brothers, and three sisters-in-law, Frank and Catherine Delsmann, Ben and Emily Delsmann, Jake and Martha Delsmann and William Delsmann; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Margaret and Robert Swope, Agnes Reynolds, Clare Delsmann and Eugene Rosinsky; 18 grandchildren and other relatives and friends. A brother, two sisters and a grandson preceded her in death. Friends may call at Parkside Funeral Home 4 o'clock to 9 o'clock this Monday afternoon, where a prayer service will be at 8 o'clock. Herald Times Reporter, March 31, 1980 P.3 (12 Feb. 1899/Mar. 1980/SSDI)


FLORENCE A. KOCIAN Florence A. Kocian, age 70, of 911 Forest Home Drive, Francis Creek, died Thursday afternoon, October 3, 1996 at Holy Family Memorial Medical Center. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 5, 1996, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. Rev. Raymond Schrimpf will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. The former Florence Schrimpf was born September 22, 1926 in the town of Kossuth, daughter of the late Frank and Theresa Espen Schrimpf. She was a graduate of Mishicot High School. On October 7, 1946 she married Matt J. Kocian Jr. at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. Florence and Matt owned and operated Kocian Supply in Francis Creek for the past 50 years and she was employed by Farmco in Francis Creek for 39 years retiring in 1984. She is a member of St. Anne Catholic Church and the Francis Creek Rockwood Senior Citizens. Survivors include her husband, Matt, Francis Creek; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jim and Judy Kocian, Francis Creek, Rick and Ruth Kocian, Francis Creek; one daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Jerry “Toby” Schermetzler, Manitowoc; six grandchildren, Tanya and Tai Kocian, Joel and Jill Kocian, Brad and Jeffrey Schermetzler; one great grandson, Preston Ullman; three brothers and one sister-in-law, Fr. Raymond Schrimpf, Francis Creek, Fr. Reginald Schrimpf, St. Mary’s Home, Manitowoc, Reinhard and Ruth Schrimpf, Fond du Lac; one sister, Doris Schrimpf, Francis Creek; two brothers-in-law and two sisters-in-law, Clarence and Agnes Kocian, Kellnersville, Ed Kocian, Francis Creek, June Kocian, Manitowoc; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by four brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law. Relatives and friends may call at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek, Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of services. Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Services, Kellnersville, is serving the family. Manitowoc Herald Times - Friday, Oct. 4, 1996 - page A2


MATT J. KOCIAN Matt J. Kocian Jr., age 81 of 911 Forest Home Dr. Francis Creek, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003 at Rivers Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2003 at the Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Kellnersville. Rev. Paul Paider will officiate with burial at St. Anne Cemetery in Francis Creek. Military gravesite rites will be accorded by Kubale-O'Connell VFW Post #6179 of Cato. Matt was born Oct. 26, 1922 in the town of Cooperstown, son of the late Matt and Katherine Tisler Kocian Sr. He grew up and attended school in the town of Cooperstown. Matt was a United States Army veteran serving during WWII in the European Theatre. On Oct. 7, 1946 Matt was married to the former Florence Schrimpf at St. Anne Catholic Church in Francis Creek. Florence preceded Matt in death on Oct. 3, 1996. Matt and Florence owned and operated Kocian Supply in Francis Creek for over 50 years. Matt was the first village president of Francis Creek when incorporated in 19060 serving until 1983. He was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church of Francis Creek, current member of the board of directors of First National Bank of Francis Creek, life member of Kubale-O'Connell VFW Post #6179 of Cato, life member of Francis Creek Sportsman's Club, past member of the Francis Creek Lions Club and a past member of the Francis Creek Volunteer Fire Dept. Survivors include two sons and daughters in law: Jim and Judy Kocian of Manitowoc; Rick and Ruth Kocian of Francis Creek; one daughter and son in law: Mary and Jerry "Toby" Schermetzler of Manitowoc: six grandchildren: Tanya and Jamie Ullman of Manitowoc: Tai Kocian of Manitowoc; Joel Kocian of Francis Creek: Jill and Matt Johnson of Denmark: Brad Schermetzler of Madison: Jeffrey Schermetzler of Mani-towoc: one great grandson: Preston Ullman of Manitowoc; four sisters in law and one brother in law: Agnes Kocian of Kellnersville; June Kocian of Manitowoc: Doris Schrimpf of Francis Creek; Reinhard and Ruth Schrimpf of Fond du Lac; nieces, nephews other relatives and friends survive. Matt was preceded in death by two sisters: Molly Cherney and Eleanor Wachal; five brothers: Joseph., Victor: George; Edward: and Clarence; two sisters-in-law: Rose Kocian and Fern Kocian; and three brothers-in-law: Quirin Wachal; Fr. Raymond Schrimpf, SDS; and Fr. Reginald Schrimpf. SDS. Relatives and friends may call at the Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Kellnersville on Tuesday from 4 until 8 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter Sunday, November 16, 2003 pg. A3 ******** Matt J. Kocian Jr., age 81, of 911 Forest Home Dr., Francis Creek, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, at Rivers Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center, Manitowoc. Relatives and friends may call at the Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Kellnersville from 4 until 8 p.m. today and on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2003, at the Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Kellnersville. Rev. Paul Paider will officiate with burial at St. Anne Cemetery in Francis Creek. Military gravesite rites will be accorded by Kubale-O’Connell VFW Post #6179 of Cato. Herald Times Reporter November 2003



HENRY KOENS Melnik news: Quite a number from here attended the funeral of the late Henry Koens from his late home with burial at the Catholic cemetery in Francis Creek. The deceased had been a resident of this section for a number of years and in that time had made many friends who were sorry to hear of his early demise. Manitowoc Times, Wednesday, October 31, 1928, Page 9 ******* (No stone/obit indicates he is in this cem.)


ANDREAS KOLZER Andreas Kolzer was born 1800 [he was actually born about 1798] in Mittelstrimmig, Rheinland, Germany, emigrated in 1853, died Feb 1863, and is buried in St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery, Kossuth Township, Manitowoc Co., Wis. He was the son of Johann Peter Kolzer and Sybilla Theis of Mittelstrimmig. Andreas was married in 1825 at SS. Philippus and Jacobus Kirche in Mittelstrimmig to Magdalena Peiffer (1804 - 2 March 1852 in Mittelstrimmig). Andreas emigrated in 1853, after the death of his wife in 1852. He emigrated with most of his children, arriving in New York on the ship Golden Age on July 14, 1853. ******** Andreas Kolzer, another early settler of Manitowoc County, remained in Manitowoc County where several of his children settled, while 3 of his children, after a few years of living in Wisconsin, went on to Nemaha Co., Kansas. Descendants are still in Kansas, and in parts of Texas, Missouri, Colorado and California, as well as distant cousins remaining in the Mittelstrimmig area of Germany. ******** (tombstone photo and above information contributed by researcher/see contributors page) (Note: There is more in the biographies on this site under P.J. Koelzer)


GEORG KORNELY From Der Nord Westen, 02 Jan. 1896: Death in Kossuth on Tues. evening of 40 yr. old Georg Korneli, of typhus. The deceased was a brother of Peter Korneli and was born and raised in Town Kossuth. He leaves a widow and 7 children. The funeral will take place tomorrow morning at the Catholic Cemetery in Francis Creek.


MARY C. KORNELY (From the correspondent in Francis Creek) Last Saturday noon Mrs. Georg Korneli died after a long illness with cancer. Her husband had preceded her in death 12 years ago. The burial was Tuesday morning at the Catholic cemetery. 7 children survive. Der Nord Westen, 22 Apr. 1909 ******* Order for Proof of Will. STATE OF WISCONSIN, COUNTY COURT for Manitowoc County. In the matter of the estate of Mary C. Kornely, deceased. In Probate. An Instrument in writing, purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of Mary C. Kornely of town of Kossuth, in said County having been delivered into said Court: And William H. Spencer, of town of Kossuth in said County, having presented to said Court his petition in writing duly verified, representing, among other things, that said Mary C. Kornely died testate, at town of Kossuth, in said County, on the 17th day of April, 1909, that said Instrument is the Last Will of said deceased and that William H. Spencer is named therein as Executor, and praying that said Instrument be proven and admitted to Probate and that letters testamentary be thereon issued to William H. Spencer. It Is Ordered: That said petition and the matters therein be heard, and proofs of said Last Will and Testament be taken, at a Special term of said County Court, to be held at the Probate Office in the city of Manitowoc, on Tuesday, the 18th day of May, 1909, at 10 o'clock A.M. And It Is Further Ordered: That notice of the time and place of said hearing be given by publication hereof for three successive weeks, once each week, previous to the time of said hearing, in the Manitowoc Pilot a newspaper published in said Manitowoc County. Dated April 21st, 1909. By the Court, John Chloupek, County Judge. Manitowoc Pilot, May 6, 1909 P. 4




EDUARD KORTENS From Der Nord Westen, Aug. 6, 1891: Death of 48 yr. old Edward Kortens in Town Kossuth on 02 Aug., of a stroke. He leaves a widow and 4 children. The burial took place Tues. (sent in by researcher/see contributors page)


BARBARA J. KRAJNIK Barbara J. Krajnik, age 63, of Francis Creek, died on Wednesday, Feb 23, 2011, at Shady Lane Nursing Care Center; after a seven-year courageous battle with cancer. Barbara was born on Feb. 15, 1948, in Green Bay, daughter of the late Richard and Jean (Spargo) DeGrave. She graduated with the class of 1966 from Green Bay West High School. On July 25, 1969, she married David P. Krajnik Sr. in Honolulu, Hawaii. Barbara was employed for many years at Fox Hills until her retirement. She was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church in Francis Creek. Barbara was a loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed fishing, gardening and canning fruit and vegetables. Survivors include her husband: David P. Krajnik Sr., Francis Creek; three children: Sean (Wendy) Krajnik, Plover, David P. Krajnik Jr. and his partner Robert Walton, both of Francis Creek, Carrie (Daniel) Oakley, Francis Creek; five grandchildren: Bailey and Peyton Krajnik, Plover, Riley Norton, Zaine Oakley and Ava Oakley, Francis Creek; father-in-law: Ernest Krajnik Sr., Francis Creek; one sister: Debra Besaw, Green Bay; six brothers-in-law and seven sisters-in-law: Ernie (Bonnie) Krajnik, Francis Creek, Danny (Mary) Krajnik, Manitowoc, Allan (Jeanne) Krajnik, Manitowoc, Kerry (Mary) Krajnik, Francis Creek, Patsy Sampe, Two Rivers, Cindy (Jim) Haase, Mishicot, Mary (Dan) Bergeren, Manitowoc. Nieces, nephews, their relatives and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter-in-law: Tannya Krajnik; mother-in-law: Edith Krajnik. A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 28, 2011, at St. Anne Catholic Church in Francis Creek. The Rev. Richard Klingeisen will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will take place at St. Anne cemetery. Relatives and friends may call on Monday at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11 a.m. The Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Kellnersville is assisting the Krajnik family. Online condolences may be sent to www.jensreinbolandpfeffer.com. Herald Times Reporter, Feb. 26, 2011


JOSEPH KRAJNIK Joseph J. Krainik, 88, of 409 Laurel Drive, Francis Creek, died Wednesday morning, September 24, 1986 at his residence. Funeral services will be 10:30 am Saturday at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville. Rev. Donald Schneider will officiate with entombment to follow at Knollwood Mausoleum. Msgr. Alfred Schneider will conduct Memorial Services and Kubale- O’Connell VFW Post will have military rites at the Mausoleum. Mr. Krainik was born May 20, 1898 in the Town of Kossuth, son of the late Wencel and Anna Cherney Krajnik. Mr. Krainik was a World War II Veteran, entering Military Service in 1942 with the Army in New Guinea, Southwest Pacific Theatre and was discharged in 1944 with the rank of Sergeant. He married the former Viola Herman on September 28, 1957 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The couple resided at Polifka Corners, moving to Francis Creek 13 years ago. Mr. Krainik was a Master Barber by trade, working in Milwaukee, Chicago, Michigan and several local communities. In his early years, Mr. Krainik was a basketball and baseball player and was an avid fisherman and hunter. Mr. Krainik was a life member and past commander of the Kubale-O’Connell VFW Post 6179 of Cato, past deputy chief of staff of the 8th District VFW of Wisconsin, member of All-State Team of Past Commanders in 1967-1968, member of Military Order of Cooties Pup Tent Number 34 Veterans of Foreign Wars, past junior vice-commander of Manitowoc County Veterans Council, member of Kellnersville Betterment Association, honorary member of Francis Creek Sportsmen Club, member of several Senior Citizens Clubs and a former member of Kellnersville unit of Manitowoc County Fish and Game. Survivors include his wife, Viola; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Otto Krainik of route 1, Whitelaw and Ernest and Edith Krainik of Francis Creek; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Mrs. Alvina Pagel of Manitowoc, Anna and Charles Siebert of Fullerton, California and Ellen and Dr. Ralph Petersen of Manitowoc; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and three sisters. Friends may call at Saur Funeral Home, from 4 pm to 9 pm Friday and Saturday until the time of services. Memorial Service will be held at 8 pm Friday by Military Order of cooties Pup Tent Number 34 Veterans of Foreign Wars. Memorials may be made to Kubale-O’connell VFW Post. Manitowoc Herald Times - Thurs., Sept. 25, 1986 - page 18


VIOLA KRAJNIK Viola (Herman) Krainik, a.k.a. Krajnik, age 95, a Francis Creek resident, died Monday, Sept. 26, 2005, at Aurora Medical Center, Manitowoc County. Viola was born Oct. 10, 1909 near Branch, in the town of Kossuth (Route 5), daughter of the late Luke and Emma (Hessel) Herman. The family moved to Mishicot in 1915 and then to Francis Creek in 1922. She was a graduate of Lincoln High School class of 1927. Viola was employed at Hessel Music House for several years, then at Korzinek Music Shop until her retirement in 1965. On Sept. 28, 1957, Viola married Joseph Krainik at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. After their marriage, they lived at Polifka Corners from 1957 until 1974 when they moved to Francis Creek. Viola was a member of St. Anne Catholic Parish, Francis Creek and St. Anne Altar Society. She was a long time member of the Kubale-O'Connell VFW Auxiliary Post 6179, Kellnersville having served as president, secretary and treasurer. She was honored as auxiliary president at the VFW state convention in West Allis. Viola was an active participant in the Francis Creek-Rockwood Senior Citizens where she served as secretary for eight years. She also enjoyed belonging to the Kellnersville Senior Citizens. Viola went home to the Lord on Sept. 26, 2005. She was preceded in death by her husband: Joseph, on Sept. 24, 1986; her parents; two brothers: Luke Herman Jr. and Carl (Webber) Herman; two sisters: Beatrice Benish and an infant sister, Mary; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Survivors include nephews: Robert (Jean) Herman, Francis Creek; Thomas Benish, Madison; Paul (Diane) Benish, Eau Claire; John (Hillary) Benish, Alderson, W.Va.; nieces: Mary Ann (James) Peroutka, Marshfield; Joan (Lupe) Paez, West St. Paul, Minn.; brother-in-law: Ernest Krajnik, Francis Creek and nieces and nephews of the Krajnik family. A special family, the Neilitz family, is also included. Other relatives and friends will miss Viola. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, 2005, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. Paul Paider will officiate with entombment at Knollwood Mausoleum, Manitowoc, to follow. Relatives and friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. Thursday to the time of liturgy at 10 a.m. Memorials to St. Anne Parish, Francis Creek or the donor's choice would be appreciated. The staff of the Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home, Kellnersville is serving the Krainik family. Herald Times Reporter September 2005


MARIA KRIES Death of Mrs. Marie Susanne Kries, wife of Peter Kries, on 08 Jan. in Kossuth. She leaves her husband and seven children. Burial was last Sat. Der Nord Westen, 15 Jan. 1880 ******** (First publication Feb. 5, 1891) No. 8 STATE OF WISCONSIN-COUNTY COURT FOR MANITOWOC COUNTY. In Probate. In the matter of the estate of Maria Kries, deceased. An instrument in writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Maria Kries of Town of Kossuth, in said county, having been delivered into said court. And Mary Dalsmann (sic), of Kossuth in said county having presented to said court her petition in writing duly verified, representing among other things, that said Maria Kries died testate, at Kossuth, in said county on the 8th day of January 1879 that said instrument is the last will of said deceased and that Peter Kries Husband and Mary Kries daughter, are named therein as executors, and praying that said instrument be proven and admitted to probate and that letters testamentary be thereon issued to Mary Dalsmann nee Kries. It is ordered, That said petition and the matters therein be heard, and proofs of said last will and testament be taken at a regular term of said county court, to be held at the probate office in the city of Manitowoc, on Tuesday, the 3rd day of March 1891, at 10 o'clock A.M. And it is furhter orderd, That notice of the time and place of said hearing be given by publication hereof for there (sic) successive weeks, once each week, previous to the time of said hearing in the Manitwooc Pilot a newspaper published in Manitowoc County. Dated Manitowoc Wis., Feb. 4, 1891. By the Court. Emil Baensch, County Judge. Markham & Markham. Manitowoc Pilot, Thursday, February 19, 1891 P. 2


JOSEF KRONFORST Notes From Kingsbridge: Mr. Jos. Kronforst, one of the first settlers of this county died at his home here Thursday, Sept. 30, after a short illness, aged 64 years. Death was due indirectly to cancer of the stomach. He is survived by his wife and seven children all of whom are in good standing. Mr. Kronforst was born in Germany, March 3, 1845, and came to this country in 1868. He was married in 1869 and resided on a farm here until two years ago when he purchased a cottage in this burg and has since lived a retired life. The funeral was held Monday, Oct. 4, at 9 o'clock from the late home. Interment was at the Francis Creek Catholic cemetery. We extend our sympathy to the bereaved family. Manitowoc Pilot Thursday, October 7, 1909 pg. 8



MARIE KRONFORST STROKE FATAL TO MRS. KRONFORST, 82, PIONEER OF COUNTY Mrs. Mary Kronforst, widow of Joseph Kronforst, died at the home of her son, William, in this city Saturday afternoon at 1:15, her demise being due to a stroke which she suffered. She had come here to make her home only three weeks ago. The funeral will be held Tuesday morning with services at the Catholic church at Francis Creek, where the burial will take place. Mrs. Kronforst, Nee Sperl, was born in Germany eighty- two years ago. Her husband preceded her in death seventeen years ago and she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. George Silversack of this city, four sons, William of this city, Frank of Larrabee, James of Kaukauna and Joseph of Mishicot, a brother, George Sperl of Manitowoc, twenty-three grandchildren and twenty-seven great grandchildren. Manitowoc Herald News, Monday, June 13, 1927 P. 12


ROBERT KUBALE Robert “Bob” Kubale, age 77, Green Bay resident, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at Woodside Lutheran Home. Bob was born July 20, 1933, in Reedsville, to the late Joseph and Josephine (Novak) Kubale. Bob served his country as a member of the U.S. Army in Alaska during the Korean War. On June 24, 1961, Bob married Frances Birringer. He received his bachelor’s degree in education form UW Oshkosh and then went on to earn a master’s degree in mathematics from Reed College ni Oregon. Bob spent his entire career sharing his teaching skills and compassionate ways with students at Washington Junior High and East High schools. After retirement, Bob volunteered as a tutor at many area schools and also served as a volunteer at Bellin Hospital. In addition to teaching and tutoring the children of others, he found time to enjoy his own children and grandchildren, as well as golfing, bowling, reading, traveling and playing cards. Bob was a member of St. Mary of the Angels Parish for 45 years, where he was an altar server, greeter, member of the Men’s Club and an ever ready volunteer each time a need arose. Faith and service to others marked Bob’s entire life. He was a very kind and gentle man and will be sadly missed. Survivors include his wife of 48 years: Fran; two daughters: Theresa (Jim) Ponto, Combined Locks, Karen (Jesse) Romain, Woodbury, Minn.; and four grandchildren: Daniel Ponto, Joseph, Janessa and Christopher Romain. He is also survived by two brothers: Lawrence (Dorothy) Kubale, Middleton, Bernard (Karen) Kubale, Merton; three sisters, Kathryn (Bill) Coonen, Hartford, Dorothy Reinke and Barbara Muelemans, both of Reedsville, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by two brothers: Edward and Bill Kubale; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Harriet Kubale, Bob Meuelmans, Ronald Reinke, and Mary Kubale. Friends may call at Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason St., on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. Parish Wake Service 7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday at St. Mary of the Angels Church, corner of Cass and Irwin from 9 to 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Tom Wojciechowski officiating. Burial will be in St. Anne Cemetery, Francis Creek. Online condolences may be sent to the Kubale family at www.prokowall.com. The family would like to thank the staff at Woodside Lutheran Home for their caring and compassionate care. Herald Times Reporter, Nov. 4, 2009


ORLIS J. LARSON, JR. Orlis J. Larson, Jr. age 45, of 12315 Melnik Rd. Whitelaw, WI entered into eternal rest Thursday afternoon May 12, 2016 at his residence surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with liver cancer. Orlis was born July 17, 1970 in Manitowoc to the late Orlis and Dolores Wachowski Larson Sr. and has been a lifelong area resident. He was a 1988 graduate of the Mishicot High School. Orlis married the former Robin Lutterman August 14, 1999 in Manitowoc. He was the former owner of both the Melnik Builders Co. and Larson Metal Fab, and was currently employed as a carpenter for the Lunda Construction Co. of Little Chute. He was a member of the Local Carpenter's Union. Orlis enjoyed his working career and loved spending time with his family four-wheeling and being in the outdoors. He is survived by his loving wife: Robin, one daughter: Cindy, two sons: Alex and Cody all at home, three sisters: Lisa Larson (Jerome Schultz) of Shoto, Candi and Pete Ney, of Francis Creek, Arlet Larson, of Shoto. He is further survived by his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Billy Jon (B.J.) Lutterman, of St. Nazianz, Corrine Schwarz, of Two Rivers, Nick Tadych, Scott Tadych, James Tadych Jr. all of Manitowoc, Travis Lindsey, of FL, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his father and mothers-in-law: Terry and Celeste Lutterman and Carol Lutterman, and by one nephew: James Larson. A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at the Lambert-Eckert Funeral Home 344 So. State St., in Mishicot, with Phil Kinzel, Lay Pastor of the Melnik Presbyterian Church officiating, with burial of his cremated remains in the St. Anne's Catholic Church Cemetery, in Francis Creek at a later date. Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter May 14, 2016


BLANCHE LEIST Mrs. Paul (Blanche) Leist, 67, of Hillcrest Road, Whitelaw, died Tuesday morning, December 22, 1987 at Two Rivers Community Hospital. Funeral services will be 10 am Thursday at Saur Funeral Home and 10:30 am at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated by Rev. Donald Schneider with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Mrs. Leist was born November 13, 1920 in the Town of Kossuth, daughter of the late Henry and Emily Pivonka Tesarik. She married Paul Leist on May 7, 1941 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek, the couple farming in the Town of Kossuth. Mrs. Leist was a member of WFLA Lodge Number 20 of Melnik. Survivors include her husband, Paul; three sons and a daughter-in-law, Donald and Dale, both at home and Allen and Barbara of Route 2, Manitowoc; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Ann and James Kramer of Manitowoc, Karen and Elroy Nienhaus of route 2, Cato and Diane Leist of Manitowoc; a brother and a sister-in-law, Kenneth and Janice Tesarik of Francis Creek; a sister and a brother-in-law, Josephine and William Stock of Clover and six grandchildren, Debbie Borowski, Patrick, Todd and Nichole Nienhaus and Chad and Derek Leist. Friends may call at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville, 4 pm to 9 pm Wednesday and Thursday until the hour of service. Prayer Service will be held at 7:30 pm Wednesday evening led by Deacon Don Schneider. Manitowoc Herald Times - Wed., Dec. 23, 1987 - page 14 ******** (13 Nov 1920/22 Dec 1987/SSDI)



BRUNO LEIST Bruno Leist, 40, Francis Creek Resident, Dies At Hospital Bruno Leist, aged 40 years, a farmer at Francis Creek, passed away last night at the hospital, where he was removed from his home a few days ago. He underwent an operation at the hospital last Thursday. The deceased has always made his home near Francis Creek. He was married to Miss Laura Petrl, who with two children, Edward and Paul, two brothers, Jerome and Richard, both of this city, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Leist, residing on Route 7 north of the city, survive. Mr. Leist was a member of the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin at Francis Creek and also served as an officer in the St. Ann’s church there. Burial will take place from the home at Francis Creek, at nine o’clock Wednesday morning and at ten o’clock from the St. Ann’s church. Manitowoc Herald News, Monday, January 16, 1928, Page 2 ******* Bruno Leist of Francis Creek died yesterday at the Holy Family hospital in Manitowoc. Mrs. Leist was formerly Miss Laura Petro of this city. Burial will take place at Francis Creek. Manitowoc Herald News, Monday, January 16, 1928, Page 9


CHARLES J. LEIST CHARLES LEIST, ROCKWELL HOTEL MAN, SUMMONED Death came to another county pioneer yesterday afternoon when Charles J. Leist, formerly a business man in this city and for the last fifteen years proprietor of the Allwood Siding hotel at Rockwell succumbed after an illness of six weeks. Mr. Leist made a trip to Rochester, Minn., to consult specialists in an effort to gain relief but was advised that an operation would be of little benefit. He returned home and has failed steadily, death coming shortly after 4 o'clock Monday after noon. The funeral service will be held Thursday morning at 10 O'clock at St. Anne's Catholic church at Francis Creek. Mr. Leist was seventy-three years old and was born in this county, not a great distance from where his death occurred. He was married nearly fifty years ago to Miss Denor and a daughter born to the couple died about twelve years ago. For a number of years the Leists made their home in this city and conducted the "Gruenen Aesel" saloon on North Ninth street, leaving here fiftenn years ago to engage in the hotel business at Rockwell. Besides the aged widow one sister Mrs. Lean Paswealk and one brother, John Leist of Spokane, Washington survive. Manitowoc Herald News, Tuesday, June 26, 1923 P. 1


DONALD P. LEIST Donald P. Leist, age 55, of 9802 Hillcrest Rd., Whitelaw, died Sunday afternoon, June 15, 1997, as the result of an automobile accident. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, 1997, at Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home, Kellnersville. Deacon Donald Schneider will officiate with cremation to follow. Donald was born March 13, 1942, at Manitowoc, son of the late Paul and Blanche Tesarik Leist. He graduated from Reedsville High School in 1960. Don farmed in the town of Kossuth his entire life. Survivors include two brothers and one sister-in-law, Dale “Butch” Leist, rural Whitelaw, Allen and Barbara Leist, rural Manitowoc; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Ann Kramer, Manitowoc, Karen and Elroy Nienhaus, rural Cato, Diane Leist, Manitowoc; four nephews, Pat and Todd Nienhaus, Chad and Derek Leist; two nieces, Debra Borowski, Nichole Nienhaus; other relatives and friends survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. Relatives and friends may call at Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home, Kellnersville, on Tuesday from 5-9 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Herald Times Reporter, June 16, 1997 P. A2



FRANCES LEIST Mrs. Frances Leist, 97, of Rt. 5, Manitowoc, died Saturday evening at the Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc, following a brief illness. Funeral services will be held at 8:45 a.m. Tuesday at the Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 9:30 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. Joseph Rauch will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery. She was born Frances Linsmeier in Germany in 1856, and came to Manitowoc County with her parents at an early age. The family settled in the town of Franklin. In 1886 she was married to Charles Leist and they operated a tavern in Manitowoc on North Ninth Street for 25 years. Later the Leists took over the Round Hall tavern on County Trunk Q for several years. They later moved to Rockwood where a tavern was operated for several years. Her husband died in 1923. She continued to make her home in Rockwood. Survivors are two grandsons, Leonard Meyer of Rt. 2, Manitowoc, and Clarence Meyer of Rt. 5, Manitowoc; 12 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren. Friends may call at the funeral home where the Rosary will be recited at 7:45 p.m. Monday by the St. Ann Christian Mothers Society of which she was a member. Manitowoc Herald Times, Monday, March 22, 1954 P. 15


LAURA LEIST Mrs. Laura A. Leist, 102, of 9002 Hillcrest Road, Whitelaw, and a resident for the last year of The Wright Home, Manitowoc, died Sunday evening, May 24, 1992, at North Ridge Care Center, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Saur Funeral Home and 10:30 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Raymond Schrimpf with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. The former Laura Petri was born August 27, 1889, in Manitowoc County, daughter of the late Jacob and Erminea Haag Petri II. She attended local schools. On November 8, 1911, she married Bruno Leist at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. He preceded her in death June 20, 1928. Mrs. Leist was a live-in housekeeper in the Manitowoc County area for many years. She was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church, the Altar Society, and the Francis Cree, Rockwood Senior Citizens. Survivors include a daughter-in-law, Agatha Leist of Valders; 11 grandchildren and their spouses, Donald Leist, Dale Leist, Diane Leist, Ann (James) Kramer, Karen (Elroy) Nienhaus, Allen (Barbara) Leist, John (Geraldine) Leist, Robert (Charlotte) Leist, William (Kathy) Leist, Karl (Victoria) Leist, Ann Edward) Smaglik; 16 great grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by two sons, Edward and Paul; a daughter-in-law, Blanche; and three brothers. Friend may call at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. this Tuesday. Parish Prayer Service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Herald Times Reporter, May 26, 1992 P. A2


PAUL LEIST Paul J. Leist, 71, of Hillcrest Road, Whitelaw, died unexpectedly Saturday evening, May 28, 1988 at Two Rivers Community Hospital. Funeral services will be 10 am Wednesday at Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville and 10:30 am at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. Rev. Donald Schneider will officiate at the Mass of Resurrection with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. Mr. Leist was born March 7, 1917, in the Town of Kossuth, son of Laura Petri Leist and the late Bruno Leist. He married the former Blanche Tesarik on May 7, 1941 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The couple farmed in the Town of Kossuth. She preceded him in death December 22, 1987. Mr. Leist was a member of Boilermakers Local 107 of Manitowoc and was employed as a Master Welder at several power plants and paper mills in the state, retiring in 1982. Survivors include his mother, Laura Leist, who resided with her son; three sons and a daughter-in-law, Donald and Dale, both at home and Allen and Barbara of Route 2, Manitowoc; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Ann and James Kramer of Manitowoc, Karen and Elroy Nienhaus of Route 2, Cato and Diane Leist of Manitowoc; six grandchildren, Debbie Borowski, Patrick, Todd and Nichole Nienhaus and Chad and Derek Leist and three sisters-in-law and two brothers-in-law, Mrs. Agatha Leist of Valders, Kenneth and Janice Tesarik of Francis Creek and William and Josephine Stock of Clover. He was preceded in death by his wife, Blanche; his father, Bruno and a brother, Edward. Friends may call at Saur Funeral Home, 4 pm to 9 pm this Tuesday and Wednesday until the hour of service. Prayer Service will be held at 6:45 pm this Tuesday led by Deacon Don Schneider. Manitowoc Herald times - Tues., May 31, 1988 - page 14 ******** (Paul J./11 Mar 1917/28 May 1988/SSDI)



ARTHUR MCMANUS Arthur W. McManus, 50 (photo), veteran crane operator of Francis Creek, died Saturday evening at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. He had suffered a stroke during the day while working at Reedsville. Funeral services will be at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday at Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 9 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, Francis Creek. The Rev. Joseph Rauch will be celebrant at the solemn high Mass and burial will be in the church cemetery. Mr. McManus was born at Eau Claire June 29, 1906, son of the late Daniel McManus and Mrs. McManus. At 16, he began working with highway and building construction crews, an occupation he pursued until his death. He was employed in the Eau Claire area until 1938, when he came to Manitowoc. He was employed by the Bahr Construction Co. until World War II and during the war was employed by the Manitowoc Shipbuilding Inc., where he was a crane operator. In this capacity he was responsible for setting delicate periscopes on submarines and placing the pre- fabricated sections on submarines under construction. At the conclusion of the war, Mr. McManus was employed by Fred. Radandt Sons Co. Although he was an operating engineer he had earned a reputation for being one of the top crane operators in this part of Wisconsin. His talent and ability with a crane was pressed into use on hundreds of construction projects in the northeastern part of the state from placing an object as fragile as the Lady of Fatima statue in a grotto at Holy Innocents Catholic Church at Manitowoc to hoisting and setting a bulky 25-ton boiler. In 1932 at Proctor, Minn., he married the former Irene Veech of Mason City, In., and the couple lived at Eau Claire prior to establishing residence at Manitowoc. He was a member of St. Ann Holy Name Society and Manitowoc Knights of Columbus. Mr. McManus is survived by his wife, two sons, (private); a daughter, (private); mother, Mrs. Daniel McManus of Eau Claire; two brothers, Bernard of Seattle, Wash., and Daniel of Milwaukee; six sisters, Mrs. V. T. Robertson and Miss Roseann McManus of Eau Claire, Mrs. Frank E____, Mrs. Eileen Bleske and Mrs. Carroll La____ of Milwaukee and Mrs. ________ (two lines are too light) at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Tuesday where the Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Tuesday by the Knights of Columbus and at 8 p.m. by the Holy Name Society. Manitowoc Herald Times, Monday, November 5, 1956 P. 19


IRENE M. MCMANUS GRALL Irene M. Grall, age 78, of 406 forest Home Drive, Francis Creek, died Wednesday, April 29, 1992, at her residence. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 2, 1992, at 11 a.m. from St. Anne Catholic Church in Francis Creek. Rev. Raphael Birringer will officiate at the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will be at the St. Anne Cemetery in Francis Creek. Born on January 6, 1914, at Mason City, Iowa, daughter of the late Garth and Blanch Moore Veech. She grew up and attended schools at Mason City, Iowa, and Duluth, Minn. She graduated from Duluth Central High School. She married Arthur W. McManus on September 24, 1932. He preceded her in death November, 1956. She then married Frank J. Grall in February of 1959. He preceded her in death February, 1971. Mrs. Grall was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church, Catholic Womens Club, and was active in the Red Cross and the Blood Bank. She received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Manitowoc Co. Unit of the American Cancer Society in 1970. Irene struggled until her death to conquer cancer. Survivors include two sons, Arthur W. McManus of Wauwatosa, Wis., Michael L. McManus of Stateville, N.C.; a daughter, Kathleen B. Conway of Woodbridge, Va.; a brother, David Garth Veech of Mason City, Iowa; three sisters, Ruth Emma Jarosh of Mason City, Iowa, Edith Virginia Krajnik of Francis Creek, Wis., Barbara Ellen Borchard of Kansas City, Kan., grandchildren; great grandchildren; step children, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by a son, David McManus, and three grandsons, Brian, Michael and Daniel McManus. Friends may call at St. Anne Catholic Church on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The family suggest that memorials be made to Holy Family Memorial Home Care Hospice. Saur Funeral Home, Kellnersville, is serving the family. Herald Times Reporter, April 30, 1992 P. B12



LEO MEYER THREE DEAD IN AUTO CRASHES TWO BROTHERS ARE VICTIMS WHEN CYCLE AND SEDAN MEET John and Edmond Van de Sande, Schleswig, Almost Instantly Killed at Millhome Last Night—Leo Meyer, 17, Pinned Under Car At King’s Bridge— Dies at Hospital THE DEAD EDMOND VAN DE SANDE, Schleswig, 20, Single JOHN VAN DE SANDE, Schleswig, 27, Married LEO MEYER, 17, R. 7, Manitowoc (The following excerpted from a very long article) An Hour Under Car. Pinned for an hour underneath an overturned Studebaker touring car, one half mile east of King’s Bridge, Leo Meyer, 17, near old Manitowoc Route 7, boy, son of Thomas Meyer, sustained injuries at 10:15 o’clock last night which caused his death at 4 o’clock this morning at the Holy Family hospital. His companion, George Gosz, Rockwood, the driver of the machine, received only minor injuries when he too, was pinned underneath the machine on an unfrequented highway about four miles south of Mishicot. Curve Looms Suddenly. According to information received by members of Meyer’s family, Leo and young Gosz were on their way to attend the firemen’s celebration at Mishicot and when rounding a corner on an unfrequented side road bordering on the Rudolph Meisner farm, a curve suddenly loomed in front of them. The driver, who is reported to have stated his machine was being driven at a rate of about 35 miles per hour, was unable to make the turn and the machine leaped across a two foot ditch into a field and then rolled over twice to pin its occupants beneath on the second revolution. On Unfrequented Road. Sometime later another car, containing a man and two women, arrived at the scene but were unable to release Meyer until a second machine arrived. Young Gosz was released after being held under the car for a half hour and the men later were able to lift the machine to permit the release of Meyer. He was immediately rushed to the office of Dr. Skwor at Mishicot by Clarence Bower, and was then speeded to the hospital here. An examination of Meyer revealed that in being pinned underneath the front seat of the machine he sustained a broken back, chest and internal injuries. Burial To Be Wednesday. Leo Meyer was the son of Thomas Meyer and made his home at the family homestead on Route 7, Manitowoc. He was born on the family homestead on June 28, 1911 and has resided there continuously. He recently started working on the farm after completing two years at the Rockwood high school. In addition to his father, Leo is survived by two brothers, Clarence and Leonard at home. Funeral services will be held at the home of his grandmother, Mrs. C.J. Leist at Rockwood, Wednesday morning at 9:30 o’clock and from the St. Ann Church at Francis Creek at 10 o’clock, Father Scheeler officiating. Burial will take place at the St. Ann cemetery. Whether an inquest will be held had not been determined this morning, District Attorney Edward Meyer being at Kiel where he was conducting an inquest and investigation today. Young Meyer was taken to the Pfeffer mortuary after his death this morning where many relatives in Manitowoc viewed the remains. Manitowoc Herald News, Wednesday, August 08, 1928 Page 2