Tomah Journal - Printable Version

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Published - Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Obituaries for January 28

Bernard C. Mittelstaedt, Victor Henry Winker

Bernard C. Mittelstaedt

Waunakee - Bernard C. Mittelstaedt passed away at UW Hospital on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2008, following a most valiant battle with multiple myeloma. He was born in Wilton, WI, to Arnold and Marian (Rice) Mittelstaedt on Feb. 14, 1950, a fitting birth date for a very romantic man. While cancer may have taken his life, it could never take away: the priceless memories he created with his adoring wife, Barbara, to whom he gave more love and joy in their 34 years of marriage than most people could know in a hundred lifetimes; the quick wit and wonderful sense of humor which made him many friends and a popular golfing and basketball buddy; the immense satisfaction he derived from his 33-year sales career with DEC International/Therma-Stor Products and the warm relationships he enjoyed with his colleagues; the reputation for great personal integrity and professionalism that he established with all of his business associates; the sharp intelligence, honed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which informed the spirited political discussions he so relished; the loyalty he gave to, and inspired in, his friends, as evidenced by the many lifelong relationships he maintained; or the enthusiasm he had for trout fishing and any sport that allowed him to “chase a ball.”

Bernie is survived, and will be sorely missed, by his eternally devoted wife, Barbara; his mother, Marian (Ernie) Bohac; his brother, Ed (Darleen) Mittelstaedt; sisters-in-law Maralee Glatz and Lynn Waller; many nieces and nephews who cherished him as “their favorite uncle”; and a multitude of treasured friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Arnold, and his parents-in-law, Betty and Lee Udell, who loved him like a true son.

At Bernie’s request, there will not be a memorial service. If those who knew and loved him will pause now and again to recall, with a smile, a fond memory of Bernie - be it a funny story, a wise bit of counsel, or a special kindness - that would be the eulogy he would most appreciate.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be given to the International Myeloma Foundation, 12650 Riverside Dr., Suite 206, North Hollywood, CA 91607.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, 608-238-3434, assisted the family with arrangements.

Victor Henry Winker

Victor Henry Winker, 58, of Tomah, died at home on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2008. He was born in Mauston on Aug. 8, 1949, to Victor and Irene (Applegate) Winker. Victor retired from Chrysler Corp. in Kenosha, where he worked for 27 years. He was a Vietnam veteran, serving in the U.S. Army and honorably discharged in 1971.

He is survived by his mother, Irene Carlsen, of Tomah; two sisters, Margie Rose of Baraboo and Janet Ganther of Tomah; a half brother, Lawrence (Karen) Applegate of Janesville; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Family services will be private. The Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.