Obituaries

In loving memory of Evelyn Fiorentino 1943-2025 Evelyn Fiorentino of Port Washington, Wisconsin died on June 8, 2025 in Grafton, Wisconsin. She was born on May 2, 1943 in Huron, South Dakota to the late Walter and Leone Karge. She was a loving mother and proud grandmother whose warmth and kindness touched all that knew her. She had a passion for crafts, cooking, traveling, HSN and the Minnesota Vikings. Evelyn is proceeded in death by her mother and father, her brother Leslie Karge, her brother Merle Karge, her son Edward Emery and grandsons James Taylor and Tyler Isbell. She is survived by her siblings: Wayne Karge of Anchorage, Alaska, Delores Miller of Willis,, Texas, Carolyn Minto of Winter, Wisconsin and David (Cheryl) Karge of Austin, Minnesota. She is also survived by her children, Billy Emery of Winter, Wisconsin, Tate Emery of Shell Lake, Wisconsin, Glenda Isbell of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Tanya Emery Denman of Clayton, Wisconsin and Richard (Carla) Fiorentino of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. Her pride and joy included all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Those include: Alexis Ladkins, Breeanna Emery, Emily Emery, Kaytesa Taylor, Buddy Isbell, Alexx Isbell, Jesse Isbell, Shadow Denman, Baillee Finley, Laine Emery, Rhea Emery, Gretchen Emery and Kaela Lang. Though she is no longer with us, her love and memory will live on forever in the hearts of all that knew her. A funeral/memorial service will not be held. The family would like to thank the incredible staff of Aurora Healthcare in Grafton, Wisconsin.

 Janice “Jan” Crowley, age 65, of Elkhorn passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at her home. She was born September 18, 1959, to James (Jim) and Shirley Hamilton of Clinton, WI. Jan attended the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. While in Milwaukee, she met the love of her life and married Scott R. Crowley on March 17, 1979. She created art throughout her life, loved to photograph birds, enjoyed nature and cherished her family. She loved to brag about her grandsons and children. She enjoyed baking, gardening, fishing, travel, watercolor painting and pottery. Jan will be remembered for her free-spirited sass, deep rooted faith, love of all things Celtic and her pursuit of beauty in all things through her art. She was the family historian and cherished writing and reading. Jan was always busy at home working on house projects, making homemade meals and baked goods, planting hostas and tending to her gardening. Bird watching and photography were dear to her heart. She kindly made Scott row her across lakes to photograph loons or adventure to find the perfect photo of a crane. Jan constantly sought out new skills and hobbies; putting her hands to work and her creativity was always active. Yet, she always found time for others and had compassion and patience when people needed it. It was clear she wore her heart on her sleeve. Her heart was a compass that always pointed towards her children. She loved nothing more than being with her family. Nature spoke to her soul, and she loved a booming thunderstorm, a quiet morning with the birds or listening to the crashing of waves. Jan is survived by her husband of 46 years, Scott Crowley; her daughter, Laura (Rami) Lajin and their two children, Cullen & Lennox and her son Lee (Selina Lamberti) Crowley and her mother Shirley Hamilton and her siblings Roger (Pam) Hamilton, Sue (Dan) Blair, Beth (Mark Bedford) Hamilton, Rob (Amy) Hamilton. She was predeceased by her father, Jim Hamilton. Jan's Funeral Service will be 1pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, at LAGRANGE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, N8548 County Rd H, Whitewater, WI 53190, with Rev. Mark Bedford officiating. Friends and family will be received at the church on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall.

Roger Adolph Block born on June 1st, 1940, in Gillette, Wisconsin, passed away on May 29th, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the age of 84. Family is not sharing service information at this time, please keep them in your thoughts. May he rest in peace.

 Denise Marie “Niecey” Liles (née Hurtikant), age 59, passed away on May 28, 2025, in Waterford, Wisconsin. Born on March 4, 1966, in Chicago, Illinois, Denise lived a vibrant and generous life filled with creativity, compassion, and sparkle. A graduate of Harper College in Palatine, Illinois, Denise channeled her passion for beauty and celebration into a remarkable career. For 15 years, she ran a beloved wedding magazine that became a treasured resource for countless brides-to-be. Her publication "Veil Magazine" was known for its stunning photography and thoughtful advice—reflecting her deep love for romance and her talent for turning dreams into reality. Denise found immense joy in helping others plan their perfect day and was always ready with ideas to make every detail shine. Denise had an eye for style and a heart full of generosity. She delighted in styling outfits for friends and family, always adding her signature touch of sparkle. Her love of perfume was legendary—her collection boasted over 100 bottles—and she approached each scent as an extension of her joyful personality. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Denise was known for her fun-loving spirit and unwavering loyalty. She gave freely of herself to those around her—offering time, care, and unconditional love without hesitation. Whether lending an ear or stepping in to help someone in need, she made people feel seen and cherished. Her affection extended especially to animals—particularly German Shepherds. Over the years, she shared her life with many beloved dogs, with Rock being her most recent companion. Her bond with them reflected the same warmth and devotion she gave so freely to others. Denise is survived by her husband Weldon Liles; her mother Genevieve Hurtikant:her brother Donald Hurtikant; her sister Michelle Martin; nephew RJ (Rodney Timothy Jr. Martin); nieces Reece and Riley; nephew Lukas Hurtikant; and Uncle Fred Hurtikant. She was preceded in death by her father Donald F. Hurtikant and Aunt Aldonna Arundel. Those who knew Denise will remember her as a woman who brought light wherever she went—a creative soul with a generous heart who made life more beautiful simply by being herself. May her memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

April 19, 1966 – May 27, 2025 With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Paul Richard Esser, who transitioned into eternal life on May 27, 2025, at the age of 59. Born on April 19, 1966, Paul was surrounded by the love and support of all four of his brothers and two sisters as he left this world. Paul is survived by his two sons: Alex Stephen Esser and Cole Remington Esser, and his former spouse, Jennifer Grimm Esser. He is also survived by his four brothers: William Brian Esser, Todd Charles Esser, Kevin Remington Esser, Scott Lawrence Esser, and his sisters: Beth Bernadette Esser, and Julie Esser Hill. He was preceded in death by his mother, Judith Joy Esser, and his father, William Bernard Esser. Paul’s love for life and his many passions were evident in everything he did. He loved the water—sailing, fishing, and water-skiing—and most of all, he enjoyed sharing his passion for lake-life with his sons, watching them grow to appreciate the simple joys of being on the water. He had a remarkable gift for turning any challenge into something creative, always improvising to produce inspired and often beautiful results. Whether it was through his love of music, his quick wit, or his ability to bring joy to any gathering, Paul’s presence lit up the lives of those around him. Paul’s heart was kind and gentle, and his deep love for animals reflected his caring nature. He will be forever remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the laughter he brought to everyone who knew him. A memorial service and life celebration will be held to honor Paul. Details regarding memorial contributions or tributes will be shared at a later time.  Rest in peace, Paul. Your spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know you.

 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diane “Dyna” Frances Romboy, who departed this life at age 77, while at home, holding the hand of her dear husband, Rick. Diane was a gifted student and graduated Valedictorian from Custer High School in 1966. Immediately after graduation Diane accepted a job with Miller Brewing Company - a job that would last for 39 years until her retirement in 2005. On April 22, 1994, Diane wed Rick Romboy. Their marriage spanned more than 3 decades but their love story goes back even farther - to when they met in 1980. Diane was a devoted mother to her daughter Jennifer (Jason) and a loving stepmother to Karl (Kelly), Ryan (Arran) and Robert (Maya). Diane loved her family and found such joy in becoming a grandmother to Cora, Jakob, Andrew (Tia), Isabella, Emeline, Hannah, Claira Frances, Brooklynn, Chloe, Trenten and Joseph; as well as great grandson Casey. Besides her immediate family, she is lovingly remembered as a cherished Auntie by her 2 special nephews, Brian (Beth) and Dean (Denise); as well as many great nieces and great nephews, as well as one great great nephew and one great great niece. She will also be remembered by countless special friends, whose lives were touched by her warmth and generous spirit. For the past 15 years, Diane found her paradise in Hawaii, where she traveled annually to soak in the beauty of the islands and the peace they brought her. Whether strolling along the beach or enjoying the sunset with a smile, Hawaii was her sanctuary. She was so happy when friends and family would also come for a visit to share in that peace. Diane was preceded in death by her parents Richard Wnukowski and Janet Singer; and sister Carol Holzberger. A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Friday, June 20 at the Story Hill FireHouse, 407 N. Hawley Road, Milwaukee, beginning with a visitation at 4pm and a service to follow at 5pm. In honor of Diane’s memory, memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, a charity that was near and dear to Diane’s heart.

Ella Grover (née Jackson), age 98, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, in the Medical Suites of Oak Creek in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Born on August 10, 1926, in Mauston, Wisconsin, Ella was the daughter of Nora and Christian Mauer. Her long life spanned nearly a century of profound change and enduring family bonds. Ella is survived by three sons Dennis R. Lanphear Sr. (Linda Versch), William J. Lanphear, and Leonard J. Lanphear. Grandchildren: Kevin Kreimer, Kimberly Kreimer, Jennifer Lanphear, Justina Lanphear, Jessica (Mark) Manuel, Michael (Cindy) Lanphear, Melaura Shisler, William Lanphear Jr. Joshua (Sergio) Lanphear, Carrie (Michael) Thew, Brian (Natalie) Whitton, Theresa (David) Sobotik, and Robert (Maybelline) Lanphear, and Timothy Wells. Along with several Great and Great Great Grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Charles Grover, prior husband Leonard Lanphear, parents Nora and Christian Mauer, daughters Joyce Tatzel, Sandra Tatzel, Joann Whitton, and Sherri Lanphear. Daughter-in-Law Kimberly Lanphear, grandchildren, Dennis Lanphear Jr., Larry Kreimer Jr., Mark Kreimer, and Jeff Whitton. Her dedication to her family. She embraced her role as a loving mother and grandmother with warmth and strength that left a lasting impression on those around her. Ella was a beloved mother and grandmother, and her memory will be treasured by all who knew her. May her legacy of love bring comfort to those she leaves behind.  There will be a celebration of life August 10, 2025, at (park name and address) and her ashes will be buried at the Pilgrim Rest Cemetery on August 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend.

David Velton Fox born on February 10th, 1972 in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, passed away on May 21st, 2025 in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin at the age of 53. Family is not sharing service information at this time, please keep them in your thoughts. May he rest in peace.

Tammie Lee Hardin born on May 18th, 1968 in San Antonio, Texas, passed away on May 20th, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the age of 57. Family is not sharing service information at this time, please keep them in your thoughts. May she rest in peace.