Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, 430 Wisconsin Street, Portage, WI (2026)

02/21/2026

PORTAGE – Rischel Marie Howell, age 25, of Portage, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at her home.

Rischel was born on July 25, 2000, in Portage, the daughter of Daniel and Sara (Welsh) Howell. She had graduated from Portage High School in 2018. Rischel had worked as a kitchen aide at Heritage House in Portage, where her grandfather, William, is currently living. She had a special bond with him, spending time with him everyday. Rischel enjoyed reading, art, painting, crocheting, drawing and especially spending time with her friends, being her goofy self. She also loved playing video games and especially her cats.

She is survived by her mother, Sara Howell; her father, Daniel (Mary Tessmer) Howell; her brother, Nico Howell; her sisters, Kacy Karcher, Jennifer (Derek Lainberger) Tessmer and Kelsey Tessmer; two nieces, Kali and Kennedy Tessmer; a nephew, Kylo Sanders; her grandfather, William Welsh; her grandparents, Freeman (Marla) Grover; her godfather and special uncle, Vito Cefalu; her uncles, Bill (Jeanne) Welsh, Greg Welsh, Rick Welsh, Tim (Mary) Welsh, Peter Welsh and John (Brian Culley) Welsh; her aunt, Crystal (Steve) Arloff; her two cats, Binx and Luna; many friends, cousins and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Shirley Welsh and her aunts, Teri Welsh and Alice Welsh.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with Pastor Kay Hallanger officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Columbia County Humane Society, and the family would appreciate flowers sent for Rischel.

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

02/19/2026

PORTAGE – Virgil Dale Chance went to bed and woke with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, early in the morning on February 15, 2026, at the age of 93. He would have turned 94 on June 1. He was born on June 1, 1932, at his grandmother’s house in Alva, Oklahoma, to Joseph Stong Chance and Nellie Madeline (Lord) Chance.

His schooling took place in several locations, as his father was in the military. In the 1940s, he attended school in Alva while his dad was in England working with Eisenhower. He graduated from Alva high school in 1950 and continued his education at Northwestern Teachers College in Alva.

He went into business with his father at Joe Chance & Son Neon Signs after learning neon tube bending in his basement. During his senior year, he met Gladys Rae Abbott while she was a freshman. They were married on July 8, 1952. They lived with his Aunt in the same house where he was born.
Their son Jimmy Dale was born in 1953, daughter Linda Darlene in 1954. In February 1956, needing more income they moved to Portage, Wisconsin and Joseph Stong Chance II was born in 1958. After a short trip back to Alva to help his father, daughter Marilyn Sue was born in 1961. In 1962, they returned to Portage.

Midwest Sign Company was his life’s work until his retirement in 2000. He also worked as a crossing guard for the Portage schools for several years. He loved children and truly enjoyed serving in that role. He had many special kids in his life. In 2000, after suffering a heart attack, he received many get-well cards in a box from the kids. He joined the Gideons which strengthend his faith and he loved passing out New Testaments to children and to people at the fair.

In 1964, he and Gladys joined the Curling Club, where he served as men’s president in 1970. They made many friends and enjoyed those years well into the 1980s. He also spent years golfing and loved fishing. Their favorite dates were spent fishing, and he wanted to fish up until his last day.
Virgil was a wonderful and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He greatly enjoyed gardening—big or small. He loved woodworking and tinkering to fix everything, always seeming to have an answer for any problem. His special laugh will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
As we say goodbye, we love you.

He is survived by his wife of almost 74 years, Gladys Rae (Abbott) Chance; daughter Linda (Larry) Klosiewski of South Milwaukee; daughter-in-law Shirley Chance of Portage; son-in-law Kenneth Jahn of Portage; sisters-in-law Betty Chance of Alva, Oklahoma, Jane Abbott of Portage, Nancy Brown of Bristow, Oklahoma, and Lila Altamirano of Rillito, Arizona; brothers-in-law Lewis Byfield of Fairview, Oklahoma, and Bob (Barbara) Abbott of Copperas Cove, Texas; grandchildren Karl and Kori Klosiewski, Michael and Tina Klosiewski, Zem Zander Chance, Joe and Becky Chance Schauf, Allyson Chance and Ben Gladwin, Ryan Jahn, Joseph and Katie Jahn, Nicholas and Lindsey Jahn, and Jesse Chance Jahn; and great-grandchildren Morgan(Leo Gormez) Klosiewski, Quin Lenore Chance Hart, Neve Alexander and Luis Jimenez, Dylan and Kara Alexander, Trystan Jahn, Bristol Jahn, and Autumn Schauf.
He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to nieces Kathy Young, Barbara Haltom, and Brenda Rhodes for their love, caring and help from Oklahoma.

He was preceded in death by his son Jimmy Dale Chance (August 18, 2023); daughter Marilyn Sue Jahn (October 19, 2023); son Joseph Stong Chance II (July 10, 2025); granddaughters Whitney Rae Jahn and Stephanie Ruth Jahn; his parents; his brother Donald A. Chance; his sister Terrie Jo (Chance) Byfield; brothers-in-law Thomas L. Abbott, Max A. Abbott, Ambrosio Altamirano, and Daniel Tidwell; and sister-in-law Donna Abbott Tidwell.
Pallbearers will be grandsons Karl Klosiewski, Ryan Jahn, Joe Jahn, Nicholas Jahn, Jesse Jahn, and Mike Klosiewski; great-grandson Trystan Jahn; and nephew Tad Abbott.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 11:00 am at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Portage with Rev. Rod Armon officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday, March 6, 2026 from 9:00 am to 10:45 am Inurnment will be at a later date at Oak Grove Cemetery in Portage.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Portage or to the Gideons International.

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

02/19/2026

POYNETTE – Stephen C. Robson, age 65, of Poynette, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at St Clare Hospital in Baraboo surrounded by his loving family.

Steve was born in Poynette, Wisconsin on October 9, 1960, the son of Clinton and Virginia (Hoodie) Robson. He attended school in Cambria and graduated, part of the graduating class of 1978. Steve participated in football, FFA, and played drums.

Steve was a master plumber for 40 plus years, retiring in October 2025.

Steve was involved and enjoyed racing, anything mechanical, and was known for his 1955 GMC “green truck” that he built from the ground up and cherished. He enjoyed anything outdoors, especially doing yard work, mowing and splitting wood. Steve was known for his great sense of humor. He was truly kind and generous, he would give anyone the shirt off his back. Steve was a loving and dedicated father to his children. Many friends and family would call him “Mr. Mom”. Steve’s dog “Remi” was his pride and joy and held an incredibly special place in his heart.

He is survived by his mother; Virginia “Ginny” Robson, children; Tracy (Teddy) Merwin, Chase (Erin) Robson, “bonus son”; Jim Brumm, a soon to be granddaughter, step-grandsons; Terrell (Jazmine) Merwin, Carter Merwin, step great-grandsons; Brantley and Braydon, sisters; Barb Robson, Jan Derr, Mary (Steve) Hensen, as well as many other relatives, and friends.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, and grandchildren; Cashton and Dalton.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m. Services will be held at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette with Pastor Susan Shands officiating. While attending the visitation or service, the family requests wearing green or racing attire.

Donations can be made to the family for future plumbing scholarships.

The Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

02/19/2026

PORTAGE- Virgil Dale Chance went to bed and woke with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, early in the morning on February 15, 2026, at the age of 93. He would have turned 94 on June 1. He was born on June 1, 1932, at his grandmother’s house in Alva, Oklahoma, to Joseph Stong Chance and Nellie Madeline (Lord) Chance.

His schooling took place in several locations, as his father was in the military. In the 1940s, he attended school in Alva while his dad was in England working with Eisenhower. He graduated from Alva high school in 1950 and continued his education at Northwestern Teachers College in Alva.

He went into business with his father at Joe Chance & Son Neon Signs after learning neon tube bending in his basement. During his senior year, he met Gladys Rae Abbott while she was a freshman. They were married on July 8, 1952. They lived with his Aunt in the same house where he was born.
Their son Jimmy Dale was born in 1953, daughter Linda Darlene in 1954. In February 1956, needing more income they moved to Portage, Wisconsin and Joseph Stong Chance II was born in 1958. After a short trip back to Alva to help his father, daughter Marilyn Sue was born in 1961. In 1962, they returned to Portage.

Midwest Sign Company was his life’s work until his retirement in 2000. He also worked as a crossing guard for the Portage schools for several years. He loved children and truly enjoyed serving in that role. He had many special kids in his life. In 2000, after suffering a heart attack, he received many get-well cards in a box from the kids. He joined the Gideons which strengthend his faith and he loved passing out New Testaments to children and to people at the fair.

In 1964, he and Gladys joined the Curling Club, where he served as men’s president in 1970. They made many friends and enjoyed those years well into the 1980s. He also spent years golfing and loved fishing. Their favorite dates were spent fishing, and he wanted to fish up until his last day.
Virgil was a wonderful and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He greatly enjoyed gardening—big or small. He loved woodworking and tinkering to fix everything, always seeming to have an answer for any problem. His special laugh will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
As we say goodbye, we love you.

He is survived by his wife of almost 74 years, Gladys Rae (Abbott) Chance; daughter Linda (Larry) Klosiewski of South Milwaukee; daughter-in-law Shirley Chance of Portage; son-in-law Kenneth Jahn of Portage; sisters-in-law Betty Chance of Alva, Oklahoma, Jane Abbott of Portage, Nancy Brown of Bristow, Oklahoma, and Lila Altamirano of Rillito, Arizona; brothers-in-law Lewis Byfield of Fairview, Oklahoma, and Bob (Barbara) Abbott of Copperas Cove, Texas; grandchildren Karl and Kori Klosiewski, Michael and Tina Klosiewski, Zem Zander Chance, Joe and Becky Chance Schauf, Allyson Chance and Ben Gladwin, Ryan Jahn, Joseph and Katie Jahn, Nicholas and Lindsey Jahn, and Jesse Chance Jahn; and great-grandchildren Morgan(Leo Gormez) Klosiewski, Quin Lenore Chance Hart, Neve Alexander and Luis Jimenez, Dylan and Kara Alexander, Trystan Jahn, Bristol Jahn, and Autumn Schauf.
He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to nieces Kathy Young, Barbara Haltom, and Brenda Rhodes for their love, caring and help from Oklahoma.

He was preceded in death by his son Jimmy Dale Chance (August 18, 2023); daughter Marilyn Sue Jahn (October 19, 2023); son Joseph Stong Chance II (July 10, 2025); granddaughters Whitney Rae Jahn and Stephanie Ruth Jahn; his parents; his brother Donald A. Chance; his sister Terrie Jo (Chance) Byfield; brothers-in-law Thomas L. Abbott, Max A. Abbott, Ambrosio Altamirano, and Daniel Tidwell; and sister-in-law Donna Abbott Tidwell.
Pallbearers will be grandsons Karl Klosiewski, Ryan Jahn, Joe Jahn, Nicholas Jahn, Jesse Jahn, and Mike Klosiewski; great-grandson Trystan Jahn; and nephew Tad Abbott.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 11:00 am at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Portage with Rev. Rod Armon officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday, PORTAGE-March 6, 2026 from 9:00 am to 10:45 am Inurnment will be at a later date at Oak Grove Cemetery in Portage.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Portage or to the Gideons International.

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

02/17/2026

FITCHBURG – Daniel Carney, age 78, of Fitchburg, formerly of Hazelhurst, WI, died on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Agrace Hospice Care in Fitchburg.

Dan was born on June 9, 1947, the firstborn child of Norman “Butch” and Ruth (Hasenfuss) Carney. He attended the UW Oshkosh, where he studied to become a teacher and was a proud member of the Sigma Epsilon Fraternity, forming lifelong friendships.

During his summers, Dan kept busy “robbing trains” at Fort Dells—where he also convinced the love of his life to give him a chance. He married Cynthia (Cindy) Curry in 1980. Together they settled “Up North,” where they raised their daughters. Dan continued his passion for "educating the youth of America", and strongly supported multiple high school sports teams in various capacities.

Throughout his life, Dan was an enthusiastic collector of many things and eagerly shared his love of all sports, birds and trains with anyone willing to listen. He fueled his collector mindset with years of running The Baseball Card Shoppe in Minocqua. In retirement, Dan volunteered his time with the Hazelhurst Lions Club and as an election officiant until he moved to the Madison area to be closer to family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy; his daughters, Erin Carney and Amanda (Jonathan) Mitchell; his grandchildren, Charlie and Olivia; his brother, Mike (Beverly) Carney; his sister, Sherill (Gregg) Booth; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Dan’s Life will be held on April 13 at 9:00 a.m. at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center or to a charity of your choice.

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

02/13/2026

RANDOLPH – Judith F. Klawitter, age 92, formerly of Montello and Cambria, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Randolph Health Services.

Judith was born on October 4, 1933, in Antigo, Wisconsin, the daughter of Darrell Norman and Martha Irene (Keough). She was married to Herbert R Klawitter, Jr., who preceded her in death.

Judith lived in Anchorage, Alaska during part of her childhood. She enjoyed telling stories of helping her dad fish and care for his sled dogs. Over the years she owned and operated multiple businesses with her husband Bud. In the early years they opened and ran a small restaurant serving breakfast in Black River Falls. Later she worked side by side with Bud and their youngest son Jeff, operating a tree trimming business called B&J Tree Service. She loved antiques and refinishing furniture which she sold in a small retail shop in Cambria, while also running the larger metal and furniture stripping business. In the 1970’s she was active in the Marquette County Farm Bureau and enjoyed bowling with close friends on a women’s league. Judith had worked as a waitress, bartender and a cook. She was known for her specialty pies that she made from scratch when she worked at the diner in Fox Lake. She loved to garden and play euchre. She also enjoyed hunting and fishing in her younger years with her family. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, quick wit and good sense of humor along with her strength, tenacity and independence.

She is survived by her four children, Deborah (Larry) Slager, Terrie (Craig) Trautman, Michael (Kathleen) Klawitter and Julie Busche; her daughter-in-law, Lori Klawitter; her sister, Beverly Kienbaum; ten grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her son, Jeff, brother, Bob Koch, sister, Pat and two sons, Scott and Rodney in infancy.

Visitation prior to the service, will be from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral services will be at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with Chaplain Becky Jo Merwin officiating. Burial will follow in the Cambria Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg.
Judith’s family would like to give special thanks to the team at Agrace Hospice and the UW Geriatric Team for their support and comfort.

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

02/12/2026

PORTAGE - - Surrounded by his loving family members, Steven Lee Rohrbeck, age 70, of Portage, unexpectedly passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.

Steve was born on October 1, 1955 in Portage as the son of Arwin Eugene Rohrbeck and Nancy Lee (Rohrbeck) Engstrom. Steve graduated from Portage High School in 1973. Steve married
Deborah (Debbie) Ann Maier on February 14, 1976. Steve and Debbie had three sons and raised their family in Portage.

As a lifelong Portage resident, Steve truly loved the city and was well known for his many active roles throughout the community. Steve coached the St. John’s Lutheran School boys’ basketball
team and sang in the St. John’s church choir in Portage. He served as an elected official on the Columbia County Board of Supervisors and the Portage Common Council.

For 35 years, Steve was a certified Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) master official in baseball, softball, and volleyball. He officiated countless games ranging from middle and high school to Home Talent League throughout the state. In 1981, Steve was one of the founding members for the Portage Little League Baseball program, and he umpired the first Little League game in Portage history. Steve was inducted into the North American Fastpitch Association (NAFA) Hall of Honor.

Steve is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years; Debbie, his three sons; Andrew (Melissa), Benjamin (Kimberly), and Matthew (Darcie), and his brother; James. Steve treasured being a grandpa to his five grandchildren: Abigail, Noah, Madison, Elise, and Harvey.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 27 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Portage with Pastor Rod Armon, officiating. Visitation will start at 9:00 a.m. and go until 11:45 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. followed by a luncheon at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Portage Athletics Warrior Fund or the St. John’s Lutheran Church choir.

The family would like to thank Polly Koepp and Steve’s Goddaughter, Sarah “Scooter” McLauchlin, for their love and compassion. To the members of his umpire family, thank you -
Steve valued your friendship on and off the field.

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

02/12/2026

Joyce Ann Tow, age 90, of Portage, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Randolph Health Center, with her family by her side.

Joyce was born on October 5, 1935, in Fairmont, Minnesota, the daughter of Ira and Esther (Fowler) Schleininger. She married Derrell Tow in Fairmont, Minnesota on November 15, 1957. Derrell preceded her in death. Joyce worked in housekeeping for Divine Savior Hospital in Portage for many years.

She is survived by her children, LeAnna Rittmann, of Pardeeville, Ruth (Richard) Price of Cambria, and Thomas (Janet Hryszko) Tow, of Portage; sister, Frances Fenske, of Fairmont, Minnesota; grandchildren, Kyle (Alinza) Price, Nicholas (Elyse) Rittmann, Kelsey Rittmann; and great-granddaughter, Charlie Rittmann, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, brothers, William, Robert, and Richard; sisters, Helen, Mary, and Susan.

A celebration of life will be private and held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
Martin County Historical Society
304 E Blue Earth Ave
Fairmont, MN 56031-2865

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

02/11/2026

David William Brown, born March 20, 1957, to Kathryn and Charles Brown, passed away peacefully after a long and courageous battle with renal cell carcinoma. Throughout his journey, he showed remarkable strength, grace, and determination—traits that defined the way he lived his life.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Donna Brown; his daughter, Katie Lindeman (husband Mike); his son, Kyle Brown (wife Jordan); and his four treasured grandchildren: Hannah, Travis, Hunter, and Stella. He is also survived by his two sisters, Carlyne and Darlynn. He adored his family deeply and took tremendous pride in the joyful legacy he leaves behind. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kathryn and Charles Brown, and his brothers, Charles "Chuck" and Thomas Brown.

A hardworking and dedicated man, David was the proud owner of Brown’s Mobil, where he poured his heart into his shop and the community he served. Known affectionately by many as “Dr. Dave,” he took great pride in his work and had a special gift for diagnosing car troubles with care, patience, and skill. He deeply valued the relationships he built with his customers and staff, many of whom became lifelong friends.

David’s interests painted a picture of a man with a big heart and a curious mind. He had a deep appreciation for cars, animals, and music, and found genuine joy in jamming out on his piano, filling the home with music. He was happiest when he was helping others — always willing to lend a hand, offer guidance, or share a kind word. David also cherished time outdoors, tending to his garden or enjoying peaceful pier and porch moments with Donna, which were among his most cherished times.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Community United Methodist Church in Poynette, with the Rev. Michele Hopp officiating. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at the church. A celebration of David's life will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Whispering Pines, 101 Bethel Drive, Poynette.

He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, generosity, and the quiet strength he carried through every chapter of his life. David touched many hearts and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Memorials may be made to the U. W. Carbone Cancer Center.

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

02/06/2026

PORTAGE – Arlene H. Dorn, age 86, of Portage, passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at her home.

Arlene was born on April 10, 1939, in Seneca, Wisconsin, the daughter of Oris and Claudine (Scheckel) Kielhold. She graduated from Oregon High School and the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Arlene was married to Lloyd A. Dorn on February 1, 1964. He preceded her in death. She was a physical therapist in the Jefferson and Montello/Princeton areas. Arlene attended St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Portage.

She is survived by her children, David Dorn, Darlene (Arne) Schulz, Donna (Rick) Haugom and Dennis Dorn; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, (you know who you are); nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, a sister, Carolyn, brothers, Paul, Allan, Oris, Herman and Lyle, and daughter, Diane Reichert.

Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage. Graveside services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at St. Mary Cemetery in Oregon, Wisconsin, with Rev. Msgr. Donald J. Heiar, Jr. officiating.

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

02/06/2026

Michael Anthony Harvat Heil, 33, of Montello, Wisconsin, passed away on January 30, 2026, in Portage. Born on March 18, 1992-three months premature-Michael entered the world with a strength and determination that carried him through every day of his life. His early arrival led to cerebral palsy, but it never dimmed the joy, humor, and warmth he brought to everyone around him.

Michael was surrounded by a family whose love shaped his world. He was cared for with unwavering devotion by his grandparents, James A. Heil and Patricia A. Heil. His grandpa read to him, sharing stories and comfort, while his grandma made sure he never missed out on the things he loved most-always saying "All four" to ensure he got every one of his favorites. And those favorites were a mouthful: Christmas Mickey, Circus Mickey, Beach Party Mickey, and Fun Song Mickey. Michael would rattle them off proudly, and Grandma would smile and say, "All four."

He shared a special, playful bond with his uncles, Troy E. Heil and Loren J. Heil, whom he loved to tease and joke around with. With Uncle Troy, he had running jokes about "red lighting" and the "brain sucker," and with Uncle Loren, he knew he could get absolutely anything he wanted-Loren spoiled him without hesitation. Uncle Loren would often come home with a hamburger and fries for him, or surprise him with some kind of toy, always knowing exactly what would make Michael smile.

His mother, Ronda M. Danielson, was his constant companion and source of joy. She played Final Fantasy III with him, always getting him the white and brown plane he adored. She also made sure he was always squeaky clean-shower time was a weekly ritual-and she took pride in keeping him well-groomed, ensuring he regularly had his mani-pedis for both his hands and feet. Her care was tender, meticulous, and filled with love.

He is also survived by Ken P. Danielson, Ronda's husband.

Michael's biological father was Karl P. Harvat.

Michael's brothers-Justis J. Buford, Trystan A.D. Buford, and Walker E.J. Buford-each held a special place in his heart, forming a family circle that surrounded him with love.

Michael was not patient-he was wonderfully, unapologetically demanding. He knew exactly what he wanted, and he made sure everyone else knew it too. That determination became part of his charm and part of what made him the rock of the family. He was the glue that held everyone together, the reason the family kept moving, kept laughing, and kept showing up. Life revolved around doing things with him, and those moments became the heartbeat of the family.

His happiness came from the simple, colorful joys that lit up his world: Ferris wheels, French fries, M&M's, and anything Mickey and Minnie Mouse. He loved playing video games, especially Final Fantasy III, and took great pride in "printing his life's work," a ritual that brought him a sense of accomplishment and delight.

He also loved his tablet-especially Talking Tom. And you'd better make sure Talking Tom was actually talking, or you'd hear about it immediately: "Talking Tom don't talk!" was his unmistakable warning that something needed fixing.

Some of the family's most treasured memories were built around Michael-taking him to ride a Ferris wheel, bringing him swimming at the swimming hole, walking down to the lake together, and helping him push rocks into the water just to watch the splash. Trips to Walmart or Menards were a treat for him too-he loved looking at the ceiling fans, studying each one, and he always wanted another fan to hang in his room next to his leafy ceiling fan. These weren't just errands; they were adventures he looked forward to, moments that brought him joy and brought the family even closer.

Though wheelchair-bound, Michael's spirit was limitless. His smile was infectious-one of those rare smiles that could brighten a room and soften even the hardest day. Anyone who met him felt it instantly: the warmth, the humor, the spark that made him unforgettable. He taught compassion, resilience, and the beauty of small joys simply by being himself.

Michael's life was a gift to his family and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved him, a lasting reminder of love, strength, and joy.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made to Samaritan's Purse, P O Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 in Michael's name.

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

02/03/2026

POYNETTE – We’ve lost a good one. David was a kind and gentle man, a loving husband, brother and uncle, an awesome cat dad, and a lover of nature and beauty.

David was born to John W. Palmer and Olive (Bloom) Palmer, the middle child in a family of nine children. A lifelong resident of Poynette, he graduated from Poynette High School in 1972. He married Elizabeth “Betti” Welch in 1982. He studied to be an electronics technician but spent most of his working years as a journeyman electrician. He was known for being meticulous in his work, and not one to take shortcuts. He was a proud member of IBEW Local #159, before retiring in 2017.

David loved to travel, garden, feed the birds, and was a favorite uncle among his many nieces and nephews. He was a curious and lifelong learner; he was knowledgeable about so many things!

He was predeceased by his parents; his parents-in-law, George and Grace Welch; his brother, Bob; and brother-in-law, Clark. He is survived by his wife, Betti; siblings John (Stephanie), Jim, Rick (Lynn), Roger (Pam), Thomas (Cindy), Bill (Kelly), and Louise; his sister-in-law Chris; Betti’s siblings, Ken (Deneise), Bruce (Leetha), Linda (Greg), and Mike (Beth); and many wonderful godsons and goddaughters; nieces and nephews; friends and neighbors; and his beloved cat companions, Bud and Lizzie.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday May 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m in Poynette at Poynette Presbyterian Church.

If you feel inclined, please consider donations in Dave’s memory to your humane society, food pantry, clear your neighbors’ sidewalks (or the snow that always ends up in the driveway after the plows come through!), and be kind, always.

“I will always love you.”

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

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home

02/21/2026

02/19/2026

02/19/2026

02/19/2026

02/17/2026

02/13/2026

02/12/2026

02/12/2026

02/11/2026

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

02/03/2026

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category