Not Forgotten

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All dearly missed

Fassbender, Bill

On June 9, 2014, William “Bill” James Fassbender of Janesville, WI, passed away after battling esophageal cancer while receiving superior care from the staff at AGRACE in Fitchburg. Dr. Kinsley, thank you for helping Bill to keep his dignity.

Bill was born on February 17, 1953. He is survived by his wife, Susan; their children: son, Kory (girlfriend, Kizzi), and daughter, Kelly (Egemen) Gozoglu; many loving and supporting sisters and brothers-in-law, Don and Marie Gerred, Judy and Jerry Sommerfeldt, Bob and Sherry Gerred; loving and supporting nieces and nephews: Kim, Brian, Nathan, Todd, Traci, Isla, Chris, and Emily. Also surviving Bill are his parents, Delbert and Lenice Fassbender; and a brother, Jerry.

Bill enjoyed trapshooting on leagues at the Janesville Conservation Club. Golfing was always an adventure with his friends, Jim and Art. Saturdays were always movie dates with Susan. Bill strangely enjoyed going to Ho Chunk and donating money as often as he could. Metal detecting was a way to pass time and dream about those awaiting treasures. Bill could do any project by reading the “how to books” he got at the library. He built a deck in the front of his house that will never come down.

While Bill battled cancer, he found a way to cope and stay committed to win. He joined the Senior Center and began to paint watercolors. This was his therapy for his sleepless nights, and it allowed Bill to enjoy life again and have hope. I know he enjoyed the group of artists he had classes with on Mondays.

Bill’s wife, Susan, wishes to thank all of the friends and relatives who slept over and/or offered support so that she could get some sleep while they tended to Bill’s needs. Joni and Ron, thank you for supporting me and Bill when I had no idea what to do next. Thanks to all my friends and relatives who mopped the floor, mowed the lawn, grocery shopped, and brought over food. Chuck and Keith, Bill and I will never forget the time you spent helping and calming him. Debbie, Bill was so sorry he never got a chance to meet you, but he thought about you often and hopes you are winning your war with cancer.

Bill wanted me to also thank Dr. Shekhani personally for all of his kindness, honesty, and constant support. Dr. Shekhani, “Bill said he will see you again one day.” Bill wanted to say a million thanks to all the chemo ladies who “talked him through” the good times as well as the bad times when reality struck. It meant a lot to him to have the personal time to say goodbye to all of you the same day he got his prognosis. Pam, Bill wanted to thank you for all the rides to chemo, which included the pep talks, encouragement, and friendship.
Flanagan, Dick

Richard “Dick” Flanagan, 70, of Caledonia, Illinois, passed away, Saturday, April 19, 2014, at home in the loving embrace of his family and friends, as he had wished.

He was born on February 3, 1944, to the loving parents of Michael and Magdalen (Holland) Flanagan, in Argyle, Wisconsin. He graduated from Argyle High School in 1962. He received a degree in 1966 from UW Platteville with a double major in Business and Economics. While at Platteville, he met his best friend and soul mate, Nancy Wilcox. They were married on June 8, 1968 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville. Rich was a loyal employee at Rockford Power Train for many years. Upon retirement, he was employed part time by Industrial Electronic Components.

Dick had multiple lifelong interests in refurbishing antique tractors and classic cars, which he exhibited, winning numerous awards and trophies. He also pursued a hobby of competitive trap shooting, competing at local, regional and national competitions, again winning many awards and trophies. Dick was very proud when he earned his 25th consecutive award from the Grand American Association. Antiquing, flea markets, swap meets and auctions led him to a new passion of refurbishing various antique gas and oil cans into unique collections known as “Big D’s Cans.”

Dick was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church and a 3rd degree member of Knights of Columbus St. Bridget Council 4330. He was a charter member of Illinois Packer Backers, a Green Bay Packer stockholder and a member of the Harley Davidson Group, Rock River Chapter. Dick was a special friend to everyone he met. His quick wit, handshake, and the twinkle in his eyes made everyone feel special. Dick was very proud of his Irish heritage. He courageously battled cancer with his faith, humor, and positive attitude, which became an inspiration to his doctors, nurses, family and friends. To express online condolences, please visit: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

“I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4: 7.
Follett, Bob

Robert J. “Bob” Follett, age 86, formerly of Janesville, died
Friday, March 27, 2015 at Burlington Rehab in Burlington, WI. He was born on
October 23, 1928 in Waukesha, WI, the son of Arthur and Edna (Stinemates)
Follett. He graduated from Waukesha High School in 1947, and served in the US
Army from 1951 to 1952 in the 318 Transportation Truck Company. He married
Vivian Ciancimino on December 20, 1952 in Waukesha and she died on Sept 17,
2004. Robert was employed at the Janesville Phone Company for 44 years. He was
the past President and long-time member of the Janesville Conservation Club. He
enjoyed trap shooting, riding his “Suzie” motorcycle, mall walking, and spending
time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his 2 children, Janet (Jim) Petersen of Gillett and Mark
(Kathy) Follett of Elkhorn; 5 grandchildren: Twins, Melissa (John) Gillis and
Heather (Greg) Gerbers both of Green Bay, Matt (Danielle) Petersen of Oconto
Falls, Steven (Katie Mathesius) Follett of Elkhorn and Adam Follett of Seattle,
WA; 6 great grandchildren: Allison, Alex, Tyler, Ella, Evan and Chloe; a sister,
Doris Rhode of Waukesha; a brother, Martin (Ellen) Follett of Wauwatosa; many
nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his
parents, wife, and a brother, Raymond “Bud” Follett.

Comment from Mary Bleiler —

Bob was one of the main faces at this club for many years. He and his wife, Vivian, took great pride in the club. Bob was the one that brought the computer into our registered shoots. Back then it was “Shoot Compute.” It made some of our jobs so much easier. He always stayed informed and in touch with the daily duties of the club. He and another gentleman were the first to be honored on our Wall of Honor by his peers. I do believe that was the first time I saw him speechless. He always had a smile on his face. Bob’s son told us that Bob will be buried in his Janesville Conservation Club jacket. Our hearts go out to Bob’s son, Mark, and his daughter, Janet.
Gullickson, Corky

Richard “Corky” O. Gullickson, age 83, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2017 at Nazareth Health and Rehabilitation. He was born in Stoughton on October 15, 1933, the son of Oyvind and Inger Gullickson. Corky worked at Uniroyal in Stoughton and retired after 36 years of service. He enjoyed traveling and trap shooting. Corky is survived by his children, Patty Gullickson Anderson, Benay Ford, and Wayne Gullickson; grandchildren, Jeramy, Cory, Devin, Ashley, and Kailey; great grandchildren, Skyler, Malik, Jordan, and Chance. He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Richard E. Gullickson. A special thank you to Nazareth House, UW Hospital East and West, and to Stoughton Hospital, for their care and compassion.
Hamilton, Hambone

Allan O. “Bone/Hambone” Hamilton, age 76, passed away Tuesday, May 7, 2013, at Mercy Hospital in Janesville following a lengthy illness. Allan was born March 27, 1937, in Liberty, WI, the son of Otto and Gladys (Clark) Hamilton. On March 1, 1988, he married Judy Allen in Janesville.

He was retired from General Motors after 38 and ½ years. Allan will be fondly remembered for his love of hunting and trap shooting. He will also be remembered by his friends and neighbors as the “Mayor of Rockport Road.” Allan is survived by his wife, Judy of Janesville; two children, Heidi Hamilton and Scott Hamilton, both of Janesville; three brothers: Dale (Sandra) Hamilton of Janesville, Dean (Terri) Hamilton of Rockton, WI, and Rudy (Ruth Ann) Hamilton of LaFarge, WI; one sister-in-law, Carolyn Allen of Rockford, IL; several grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Allan was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Lee Hamilton.

Comment from Mary Bleiler —

Hambones was the second life member of the Janesville Conservation Club. In 2002, Hambones was nominated for the Wall of Honor and became a recipient of the award for his major contributions in the reconstruction and the overall growth of the Janesville Conservation Club. He was president of the club in 1973 and 1974. Bones will be remembered for his endless supply of cigars. I think he chewed more of them than he smoked! I will never forget the chicken dinner he bought after a shoot at the LaFarge Gun Club. His brother said he paid for it with the money he won from him playing cards. You will be missed.
Melvin, Red

Ronald “Red” Melvin passed away on March 13, at the age of 77, at Mercy Hospital in Janesville. He was born Feb. 2 in rural Lafarge, Wi. He married Paulette Ames in 1956. He served in the U.S. Army from 1958-1960. He worked at General Motors in Janesville for 17 years, retiring in 1992. Red was a trap shooter, fisherman, hunter and avid sports fan. He enjoyed his hunting land in Readstown. He was a member at the Janesville Conservation Club and on the Board of Directors there. Red was a recipient of a Wall of Honor award at the club in December of 2005 for his years of service and dedication. Ron is survived by his wife Paulette, daughter, Amy (Charlie) Nyborg of Janesville, son, Jason (Susie) Melvin of New Glarus and grandchildren, Audra Nyborg, Chase Nyborg, Libby Melvin, Ben Melvin and Lucy Melvin. A sister April (Randy) Young, niece Vanna (Derek) Schroeder and nephew, Daniel Young of Viroqua.

Red appreciated the kindness and care of all the medical staff at Mercy Hospital over the years. Memorials may be made to Salem Ridge Methodist Church of Lafarge, WI, or The Janesville Conservation Club.

Comment from Mary Bleiler —

It comes with great sadness to inform you that we lost yet another “good” one. Red, I will miss not getting your coffee money playing cards and seeing you sit at your table listening to you tell your stories (and some lies). Paulette, Amy and Jason, we all will miss him. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Morgan, Melvin

Melvin R. Morgan, age 70, of Janesville, died on Thursday, March 3, 2016, at home. He was born in Columbus, WI on May 5, 1945, the son of Erlo and Marie (Schoff) Morgan. He married Dorothy A. Phillips in Oxford, WI on March 28, 1970. Melvin had been employed by the Chicago North Western Railroad and retired from the Union Pacific Railroad on June 1, 2005, after 42 years of service. He was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, and the Janesville Conservation Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trap shooting, traveling and camping.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Dorothy Morgan; children, Pamela (Tim) Solles of Janesville and Bradley Morgan of Janesville; grandchild, Ryan Solles; siblings, Eddie (Joan) Morgan of Oxford and Melody (Tom) Driscoll of Portland, OR; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Nancy Morgan.
Putman, Gordy

Gordon L. Putman, 79, of Clinton, WI, passed away on Monday, July 24, 2017 at UW Hospital, Madison, WI.

He was born April 24, 1938 in Beloit, WI, to Roy and Eva (Rockwell) Putman. Gordy was a 1956 graduate of Darien High School. He was a veteran serving with the U.S. Army for three years. Gordy married Betty Jacobs on September 17, 1957 in Woodstock, IL.

Gordy was employed by Local 118 as a pipefitter/welder, retiring in 2001. He was a fighter to the end, a friend to many, and could “BS” with the best of them. Gordy was a devoted family man who enjoyed trap shooting, tinkering around the house, and teaching his grandchildren and great grandchildren many life lessons while babysitting.

Survivors include his wife, Betty; children, Teresa (John) Turner of Orfordville, WI, Tim Putman of Lebanon, MO, and Brenda (Bruce) Larsen of Harrisburg, SD; grandchildren, Amie (Nate) Kratz, Adam (Lauren) Turner, Matt Larsen, Courtney (fiancé Matt) Larsen, Jacob Larsen, Josh Larsen, and Jordan Larsen; great grandchildren, Ronin, Aksel, and Avery; four step great grandchildren; sister, Beverly Harvey; and special niece, Sandy Williams.

He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Diane Lambert.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the team in the Trauma and Life Support Center at UW Hospital-Madison. The care and concern for Gordy and his family will never be forgotten.
Schmidt, Al

Alan E. “Al” Schmidt, age 76, of Oregon, WI, passed away on Friday, December 6, 2013, at his home in Oregon.

He was born on Oct. 21, 1937, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Edward and Mary Schmidt. He graduated from Lyon’s Township High School in Illinois, in 1956, and later attended Illinois Institute of Technology, graduating in 1967, with degrees in mechanical and aerospace engineering. Al worked for a number of top engineering companies, making key contributions to project work on NASA’s Lunar Lander and Skylab Programs. He joined Oscar Mayer in 1981, working in General Machine Development (GMD), Project Engineer Management and R&D Engineering until his retirement in 1997. After retirement, he remained active, teaching Tai Ji, volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, fishing, hunting and shooting trap.

Al is survived by his wife, Maurine MacBride, whom he married on Oct. 21, 1996, in Madison. Other survivors include his sons, Clay, Max, Craig (Jenni) Villeneuve and Brian (Debbie) Villeneuve; sister, Nancy (Dwain) Hill; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Dennis, Earl

Edgerton, WI – Earl Roland Dennis, age 88, passed away peacefully at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital-Janesville on Saturday, August 22, 2020. He was born in Viroqua, Vernon County, WI on April 17, 1932, the son of Claire & Josephine (Call) Dennis. He graduated from Viroqua High School in 1950, after he had enlisted to serve in the United States Army National Guard on August 15, 1949 and was honorably discharged on November 23, 1950 as a Private, Company C 128th Infantry. Earl then enlisted in the United States Navy on November 24, 1950 and was honorably discharged on September 15, 1954 as a Driver Third Class USN. Earl was united in marriage to Nona Mae Chesebro on May 25, 1956 in Onalaska, LaCrosse County, WI. They moved to Fort Atkinson, WI and started his career with General Motors while raising their three children, Patti, James, & Carolyn “Suzy”. They built and moved to their permanent home in the Town of Fulton, Rock County, Edgerton, WI in 1990. Earl retired from General Motors in 1987 after 32 years as a maintenance technician. Earl was very proud to say, “I worked for more than 32 years at General Motors and have been retired for more than 32 years!”
Earl enjoyed wood working, trap shooting, fishing, bird watching, rooting for the Badgers, Brewers, and Packers.
Earl is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nona, his three children Patti (Terry) James, Jim Dennis (Michelle Roettger), and Carolyn “Suzy” (Daryl) Voigt. Daughter-in-law, Hollie Dennis, eight grandchildren: Nick James, Tyler James, Sarah Dennis, Michelle (Fredd) Carr, Kaitlyn Dennis, Matthew Dennis, Megahn Scafe, and Leah Scafe. Four great grandchildren: Sawyer, Camdeyn, Kelci, and Delaney Carr. Niece, Diana Hanson, Nephew, Allan Hanson. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Beverly Hanson; nephew, Michael Hanson; also, numerous nieces and nephews in the LaCrosse area. He is truly loved and will be missed tremendously by all.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Please visit www.whitcomb-lynch.com to send condolences to the family.
Fassbender, Delbert

JANESVILLE – Delbert L. Fassbender, age 89 of Janesville, died on May 13, 2021, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Janesville Hospital. He was born on December 14, 1931 in Patch Grove, Grant County, Wis., the son of James and Neva (Rockwell) Fassbender. He grew up in Grant County where he graduated from high school. Delbert married Lenice Purkapile on June 16, 1952 at the Fennimore United Methodist Church.

After moving to Janesville, Delbert went to work for General Motors where he was employed for 30 years. While at General Motors he served as a union committeeman for U.A.W. Local # 95. Delbert was a long-time member of Janesville Loyal Order of Moose Lodge # 197, where he held many offices including Governor. He served on the Board of Directors of Blackhawk Community Credit Union. He was a member of the Janesville Conservation Club and enjoyed trapshooting, hunting and fishing. Delbert was a member of U.A.W. Local # 95 retirees and Cargill United Methodist Church.

Survivors include one son, Jerry (Deb) Fassbender of Elkhorn, Wis.; four grandchildren, Jami Fassbender, Jennifer (Martin) Block, Kory (Kizzi) Fassbender, and Kelly (Edmund) Gozoglu; seven great-grandchildren, Tyler Wenzel, Hunter Gooslin, Braeden Wenzel, Zoey Block, Jaxon Block, Julian Gozoglu and Callan Gozoglu; and one brother, John (Sharon) Fassbender.

Delbert was preceded in death by his wife, Lenice on January 11, 2015. He was also predeceased by his parents; one son, William Fassbender; three brothers, Charles Fassbender, Richard Fassbender, and Jay Fassbender; and two sisters, Janet Quale and Janice Fassbender.

Services will be at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 21, 2021 at HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME, Janesville. Rev. Steve Scott will officiate. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Friday, May 21st from 2 p.m. until the time of services. Private entombment will be in Milton Lawns Memorial Park Mausoleum.

Comment from Earl Dennis —

I met Al a couple years ago when he replaced another shooter on our team. I’m sorry I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing him long before that. He was a great guy, generous and helpful in any way he could be. He seemed to enjoy being able to help out a teammate or encourage a young shooter. Al was the genuine article, a really nice guy, and a good friend.

Comment from Chip Porter —

I remember the first day I met Al, along with Brad Davis at one of my first ATA shoots at Janesville several years ago. We all shot on a singles squad together. The adjustable comb on Al’s gun came loose on the first trap and he was unable to fix it and shot a 76. We sat and ate lunch and he told me it was the worst he’s shot in 30 years.

I had no idea if they guy was blowing smoke or if he was legitimately good and had a bad day. We were squadded together for Handicap also….where he changed guns and shot a 99. I guess I got my answer. He shot the 99 with a Beretta 686 that I now own. Since that time I have been doing my best to prove that it to, can shoot a 76 just like Al’s Kolar. The quest continues for me…

…however, it saddens me that it goes on without my buddy Al.

I had given Al the nickname “Crusher” when we were heading to Florida to shoot the Dixie grand together. The last time I shot with Al was at Janesville also. I was shooting leadoff and Al was on 5. I looked down the line and asked, Squad ready? Then asked, You ready Crusher?

I got that big Al, “The Crusher” Schmidt smile and a thumbs up. What a great smile.

Comment from Shawn Davis —

What I remember most about Al is he always said something really nice to me at the competitive shoots. He would say “good job,” or “keep up the good work, Shawn.” I’m really going to miss him.

Comment from Bob Simpson —

Al was a kindhearted man that our family will not soon forget. We have great memories of him getting my youngest child, Hanna, excited about shooting. My oldest son, Zach, has great respect for Al, as do I. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family. May God strengthen you through this time of grief.

Comment from Brad Davis —

Al was a free spirit with an optimistic outlook on life — and I will miss our talks together. My son will miss him, too, since Al paid him compliments whenever we met. Many older shooters refuse to shoot with kids, but Al enjoyed it. The last time I shot with him on a mixed squad of two youth shooters and three adults, he shot a 100-straight in the singles event. He set a great example for the kids that day in Brodhead. They witnessed a fellow trapshooter old enough to be their grandfather maintain his focus and composure while under pressure. He didn’t tell the boys how to shoot trap. He showed them how to shoot trap. When the event was over, Al wasn’t too interested in talking about his accomplishment — he just wanted to know how the boys did.