Laurence Hofacker

December 14, 2023

Laurence (Larry) Charles Hofacker of Elmwood, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday December 7, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. Larry was born Tuesday, November 22, 1966, in Menomonie, to Jerry and Sharon (Whirry) Hofacker. He grew up in Elmwood with sisters Kim, Deb, Brenda and brother Jeremy, on the family farm, with grandparents Rose and Lawrence Hofacker just steps away. Larry spent every moment he could outdoors following his dad and grandfather, helping with chores and working in the fields.

Larry graduated from Elmwood High School in 1985. He then worked on the railroad for Loram Grinding Company, traveling the country as a production rail grinder making friends everywhere he went. Soon after, he worked for John Zimmerman installing farm equipment. Larry then followed his dad into the electrical trade, becoming a Master Electrician, owning and operating his own business. Larry enjoyed a Leinies at the end of a hard-working day.

Everything with Larry was an adventure. One of his favorite hobbies was “lighting up the sky” displaying fireworks. Larry valued the simple things in life. Hunting, cutting wood, gardening, and canning to name a few, all of which he surrounded his family in. He was also an active member of the Elmwood Community Club and Elmwood Fire Department. Larry always had time for people and went out of his way to help others.

In 2007 Larry met his true love on a trip in Mexico. Surprisingly, she grew up only ten miles away from him. He married Shelly Milliren four years later in Riviera de Maya, Mexico on February 17th, 2011. Not long after, they welcomed two beautiful daughters Tru Ann Marie and Myah Rose. Larry enjoyed being a father and savored his time with his girls, fishing, camping, teaching them to live off the land and sharing his many other interests with them.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Lawrence and Rose Hofacker; George and Ethel Whirry: his mother, Sharon Hofacker and his aunt, Lynette Whirry.

Larry is survived by his wife Shelly; His daughters: Tru Ann and Myah; His; Father Jerry Hofacker; His siblings Kim (Jim Messerschmidt) Hofacker, Deb (Steve Seefeld) Hofacker, Jeremy (Angie) Whirry, Brenda (Nicky Thiry) Krogstad. Parents-in-law; Tom and Sue Milliren. Brother-in-law; Todd Milliren. Sister-in-law; Sara (Jeff) Asher. His nieces; Libby, KayLee, Addison, Taylor. His nephews; Cody (Kari), Logan, Gavin, Jacob, Trevor, Cameron, Siraj. stepchildren, Jason, Josh and Jaime. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday December 15, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Rev. Anbalagn Shanmugam officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery at a later date.

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. Friday, to the time of the services at the church with coffee and desserts available in the church basement.

A Celebration of Larry’s life will follow the services at the Elmwood Rod & Gun Club from 3:00 to 7:00 PM Friday December 15, 2023.

Condolences may be made at rhielfuneralhome.com.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Elmwood is serving the family.

Mary Ann Bol

Western Wisconsin News

December 14, 2023

Mary Ann (Lansing) Bol, age 90, of Baldwin, Wisconsin died Friday, December 8, 2023, surrounded by her loving children.

Mary Ann was born April 20, 1933, in El Paso, Pierce County, Wisconsin the daughter of Orvie and Annabelle (Roatch) Lansing.

She grew up in Waverly, WI and graduated from Spring Valley High School, Class of 1951. Following graduation, she went to work at Montgomery Wards in St. Paul for 3 years.

On August 14, 1954, Mary Ann married Wesley Bol at the Rock Elm Methodist Church. After getting married Mary Ann found joy in being a stay-at-home mom raising five children. In 1978, Wes and Mary built Bol’s Lanes in Baldwin and owned and operated the bowling alley for 36 years. They lived in Baldwin their entire married life.

Mary enjoyed family and friends and when the grandchildren and great grandchildren came along, they were the extra special loves of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; father and mother in-law Joseph and Mary Bol; husband Wesley Bol; son Terry Bol; grandson Shawn Woolley; brother Douglas (fiancée Dixie Brown) Lansing; nephews Jeff Koehler, Alexander Klein, Laurence Bol Jr. and Randy Sanford; nieces Katherine Petricek, Kelly Powell; in-laws Gene (Betty) Knipfel, Frank Netzer, Robert Sanford, Laurence (Jean) Bol.

She will remain in the hearts of her children: Linda (Randy) Paul of Baldwin, WI; Kay Briles (Joe Zappa) of Baldwin, WI; Tim (Terri) Bol of Baldwin, WI; Karen (Jim) Gunderson of Woodville, WI; her 11 grandchildren; Stacy (Rick) Vorwald, Erica (Ed Simonson) Werner, Andrea Brightbill, Michael (Jenifer) Briles, Melissa Briles, Joshua (Ashley) Briles, Kelsey Bol, Colin (Danielle) Bol, Heather (Ron) Stave, Nathan (Ashlynn) Gunderson, Jacob Gunderson; her 11 great grandchildren: Camryn Hill, Carson Hill, Guthrie Hill, Tyler Werner, Cody Brightbill, Alayna Brightbill, Oliver Briles, Jayden Stave, Cole Stave, Sydney Stave, Sophie Gunderson; sisters: Reta Sanford, Peggy (Fred) Koehler, Harriet (Allan Klein) Lansing, Jane (Jo) Lansing; her brother Bert (Sharon) Lansing; sister in-laws Jan Netzer and Judy (Tom) VanFossen; special friend Fran Ellefson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Honoring Mary Ann’s wishes there will be no services, but instead a Celebration of Life to be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Baldwin American Legion. A private burial will be in the Baldwin Cemetery.

Keehr Funeral Home (keehrfuneralhome.com), Spring Valley is handling arrangements.

Dr. Earl Jacot, Jr.

Western Wisconsin News

December 14, 2023

Dr. Earl Edward Jacot, Jr., DC, also known as “Doc”, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family at the age of 91.

Earl was born in Chippewa Falls, WI to Earl and Nellie (Hamilton) Jacot on January 3, 1932. His family moved to Range, WI where he grew up and graduated from Amery High School in 1949. From there, he attended Northwestern College of Chiropractic in Minneapolis, MN to study and graduated in 1952 with his Doctorate in Chiropractic. In January of 1953, Earl joined the service and was stationed in Alabama where he served as an x-ray technician in the United States Army. After two years, he was discharged from the army and went on to finish his postgraduate courses at National College of Chiropractic in Chicago, IL. Earl married his sweetheart, Elvera Lundgren, on June 12,1954, and together they were blessed with four children – Douglas, Sherry, Loren, and Teri.

Earl operated his first chiropractic practice in Stevens Point, WI for one year before moving to Baldwin in 1957 and opening Baldwin Chiropractic Health Center. In 1973, he built the office where it currently stands and which is still family owned and operated. He had a passion for health care and for helping others which he did with warmth, love, and compassion. He served patients for 56 years and estimated giving 50,000 adjustments in his lifetime before fully retiring in 2011.

Besides his passion for his work, Earl loved his family tremendously and enjoyed many adventures. With Elvera by his side, they enjoyed a love for music, singing, traveling, snowmobiling, motorhoming, and spending time in the company of those they love. He leaves behind a legacy, not only in his work, but also as a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. In the words of one of Earl’s favorite performers, Nat King Cole, “unforgettable, that’s what you are.”

He will remain in the hearts of his wife Elvera; children Douglas (Debbie Gordon) Jacot, Sherry (Randy) Walker, Loren (Julie) Jacot, and Teri (Gregory) Adams; grandchildren Holly (Richard) Walker Kim, Anthony (Jessica) Walker, Gina (Daniel) Hatzung, Andrew Jacot, Cole Adams, and Dane Adams; great grandchildren Elsa, Lorelei, Emilia and Annika Hatzung, Charlie and Bennett Kim, Henry Walker; sister Carol (Ryder) Landgren as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Nellie Jacot, and brother, Harold Jacot.

A celebration of life service for Earl will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at First Reformed Church in Baldwin, WI. Visitation will be from 10-12 pm with a service starting at 12 pm and interment and lunch to follow. Memorials preferred to the Chiropractic Alumni Scholarship Fund at Northwestern Health Sciences University or the First Reformed Church in Baldwin. Northwestern Health Sciences University, Office of Development, 2501 W. 84th St, Bloomington, MN 55431 or online at nwhealth.edu/giving and donate in Earl’s name.

Now playing ‘Christmas Everyday’ lots of fun in one act

Paul Seeling

December 14, 2023

001THU-DSC01116-It-is-Christmas-Day-(one-of-many-to-come)(W) — It is Christmas Day at Betsy’s house (one of many to come). Photo by Paul J. Seeling

with Lori Peterson and Liz Erickson

SPRING VALLEY, WI –The Spring Valley Stagehands community theatre has delivered another gem to get you in the mood for the holidays with their fun (and funny) one act play “Christmas Everyday.” This Stagehands holiday production opened last Friday, December 8, 2023, and has three performances left on Friday, December 15 and Saturday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m. and the final matinee on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. get a ticket today, you don’t want to miss this one!

The great cast of 22 or so deliver hilarious performances that are sure to have you laughing at their antics of the situations they are found in.

To read this and other premium articles in their entirety, pickup the December 14, 2023 issue of the Sun-Argus newspaper. Click to subscribe for convenient delivery by mail, or call (715) 778-4990. Single issues are also available at area newsstands and our office in Spring Valley, WI.

Santa visits Elmwood

Cari Cornelius

December 13, 2023

003WED-Elves(W) — This is the picturesque scene created by the EACC on Saturday, December 2nd during Santa Day. Submitted photo

ELMWOOD, WI – Santa visited Elmwood on the afternoon of Saturday, December 2, 2023. Arriving in style in a Belgian horse drawn wagon, he delighted over seventy-five children during the two-hour event. As Santa posed for pictures with the kids, each one was able to take home a jam-packed goodie bag, prepared by his helpers in the Elmwood Area Community Club (EACC). Besides delighting the kids, Santa even had a visit from two of his four-legged friends who posed for a picture with him.

Besides seeing Santa, families lined up to take a spin around town with the Belgian horses, spent time crafting sock snowmen, Santa advent calendars, and more! To finish off the afternoon, a very serious snowball competition took place, with the kids being the clear victors. After a fun afternoon, an entire spread of delicious sugar, peanut butter, and shortbread cookies were enjoyed along with over six gallons of milk!

To finish the day off, the tables were moved and reset for a wonderful evening of lasagna and music provided by some talented University of Wisconsin – RF students. With over forty people in attendance to listen to the music and enjoy the meal, a wonderful time was had by all. The menu included delicious home cooked lasagna, salad, and garlic toast. Following the dinner was a delicious spread of desserts – including pies made by Simply Simon, and a selection of Italian inspired cakes made by Bo-Jo’s Creations.

To read this and other premium articles in their entirety, pickup the December 7, 2023 issue of the Sun-Argus newspaper. Click to subscribe for convenient delivery by mail, or call (715) 778-4990. Single issues are also available at area newsstands and our office in Spring Valley, WI.

B-W HS recognized during apprenticeship week

Western Wisconsin News

December 12, 2023

001ATUE-Baldwin-Woodville-HS(W) — Baldwin Woodville High School Counselor Kit Smestad (holding proclamation) with apprenticeship students, Sam Waters, Lana Bazille and Emily Arreola, and St. Croix EDC representatives Tom Aaby and Nita Dusek. Submitted photo

Submitted by Nita Dusek, St. Croix EDC

BALDWIN, WI – St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (EDC) helped recognize the important contributions of local schools and businesses during National Apprenticeship Week, November 13-19, 2023, with a stop at Baldwin-Woodville High School (B-W HS). St. Croix EDC presented the school with a proclamation to highlight their role in hosting, training, and mentoring apprentices.

Apprenticeships are a proven model that provides training and a built-in pipeline for workers to secure solid careers across the nation and in the St. Croix Valley. They give employers the opportunity to develop and train their future workforce and apprentices earn wages while they learn.

Youth Apprenticeships integrates school-based and work-based learning to instruct students in employability and occupational skills. Registered apprenticeships are a post-secondary education, like a college or university. Registered apprentices learn only a portion of their skills in a traditional classroom and receive most of their training on-the-job working for a local employer.

For more information on prospective youth or registered apprenticeships, businesses are asked to contact their respective school district or technical college.

16th Annual Norwegian Meatball Dinner announces donations

Paul Seeling

December 12, 2023

004TUE-DSC00379-Honor-Kaitie(W) — Pictured in the Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall for a check presentation to the Honor Kaitie Fund with some of the proceeds from the 16th Annual Norwegian Meatball Dinner are (L to R) Karen Humprey, Sheriff Scott Knudson, Cheryl Slind, Pastor Ben Nelson, Cathy Borgschatz and Rick Coltrain. Photo by Paul J. Seeling

WOODVILLE, WI – Zion Lutheran Church hosted a new record crowd for their biggest 16th Annual Norwegian Meatball Dinner on Thursday, November 9, 2023. Cheryl Slind the mastermind behind what has become a hugely popular tradition in the community met with members of the Kaitie Leising Remembrance Fund to present them with a generous donation.

Slind and Zion’s Pastor Ben Nelson gave a $1,500 contribution to St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knudson, along with Karen Humphrey, and Cathy Borgschatz (both retired St. Croix County Sheriff Office retirees) and Rick Coltrain, retired Hammond, Wisconsin Police Chief.

At the donation check presentation on Friday, December 1, 2023, Slind announced the donations from the record gross proceeds of $9,300, of that the 16th Annual Zion Norwegian Meatball Dinner cleared $8,700. With that announcement she discussed how the funds would be distributed in addition to the $1,500 for the Honor Kaitie Fund, $5.700 is earmarked to assist Zion youth attending the National Youth Gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana next year. The remainder of the funds will be used at the church.

To read this and other premium articles in their entirety, pickup the December 7, 2023 issue of the Woodville Leader newspaper. Click to subscribe for convenient delivery by mail, or call (715) 778-4990. Single issues are also available at area newsstands and our office in Spring Valley, WI.

Boys’ basketball team splits open week with tight games

Ron Cipriano

December 11, 2023

SPRING VALLEY, WI – In an interesting turn of events this week, the Spring Valley boys’ basketball team edged out a win on the road by three points, then lost a tough game at home, also by three points.

Spring Valley 46, McDonell Central 43 – The Cardinals took advantage of poor shooting by the Macks to take the game from the home team in the season-opening win.

McDonell lived, and on this night died, on the three-pointer as they shot just 31% from the field, making 16-of-52 shots. Of those 52 shots, the Macks were 9-of-37 from three-point range.

SV School District ranks in top 25% across state

Western Wisconsin News

December 11, 2023

Submitted by John Groh, District Administrator, Spring Valley Schools

SPRING VALLEY, WI – The School District of Spring Valley ranks in the top 25% of all districts across the state. Each fall, 420 public school districts in Wisconsin receive a report summarizing student achievement. In mid-November the results for the 2022-23 State Accountability Report were released publicly.

Spring Valley Schools saw very positive results. The district’s overall rating improved more than any other district in the Dunn-St. Croix Conference. Each SV School ranks in the top two compared to all other conference schools. At every level, Spring Valley Elementary School, Spring Valley Middle School, and Spring Valley Hish School, earned the designation “exceeds expectations.”

There are many factors that likely contributed to the positive outcomes and growth. For example, much effort has been made to achieve the district’s six-point strategic plan. Increasing professional development for staff along with recruiting and retaining high quality staff certainly made a difference. The Spring Valley School Board has also committed to purchasing a high-quality curriculum and the proper training to implement it successfully. Finally, the students and staff have emerged from COVID-19 by working extremely hard.

The teachers and administrators had this to say regarding the positive results:

“There is increased communication through weekly professional learning community meetings so that all teachers help each other and are on the same page.” – Tyler Anderson, 4th Grade Teacher.
“I’m most excited that we are adequately preparing our students for the world – to be thinkers and have inquisitive minds.” – Karli Stroo, 2nd Grade Teacher.
“State tests are reading intensive. We’ve spent a lot of time and effort to increase students’ opportunities to read.” – Ryan Kapping, HS Science Teacher.
“We have worked hard to follow our curriculum, which pushes students to think deeply and at a more analytical level.” – Marge Bednarek, MS Language Arts Teacher.
“The establishment of strong routines is important. For example, students lead the conversation in learning mathematics in ways beyond simply memorizing.” – Julie Trcka, 3rd Grade Teacher.
“Students are taking ownership of their learning by knowing where they are at and setting goals.” – Brittany Hoolihan, SVE Counselor.
“I am most proud of our commitment to wanting to improve.” – Nicole Lamb, SVE Principal.
“We have broadened our view to consistently meet the needs of all students through data driven planning.” – Amy Webb, Director Curriculum and Instruction/Reading Specialist/Interventionist.
“We are deliberate in planning using student data in the beginning, middle and end of the year to provide focused interventions and instruction.” – Lisa Fesenmaier, 1st Grade Teacher.
“We’ve focused on grade level standards, focused on best practices in teaching, and supported staff with high-quality professional development.” – Chris Segerstrom, MS/HS principal.
“We are choosing to be innovative.” – Jane Borgerding, 1st Grade Teacher.

Many factors influence student learning, with students’ families being the biggest influence. However, when students walk into the classrooms of Spring Valley, schoolteachers and staff are committed to working together, sharing best practices, using high quality instructional materials, setting high expectations and sharing them with students, and focusing on learning.

Marge Bednarek, middle school language arts teacher, has dedicated many years to educating the children of Spring Valley. When asked what she was proud of from last year’s work, she shared, “I’m proud of our students. I told them, ‘I am pushing you, but it is going to be worth it!’”

Zion Lutheran Church Choir celebrates the ‘Joy’ of the season in song

Paul Seeling

December 10, 2023

003SUN-DSC00928-The-choir-is-ready(W) — The Zion Lutheran Church Senior Choir is ready to begin the 2023 concert “A Journey to Joy” Cantata for Christmas by Joseph M. Martin. Photo by Paul J. Seeling

WOODVILLE, WI – The Zion Lutheran Church Senior Choir in Woodville, Wisconsin celebrated the “Joy” of the season in song as well as inspiring scripture narration with a wonderful Christmas Concert last Sunday, December 3, 2023, in the Sanctuary of the church. It was then topped it off with a beautiful (and tasty) candle lit Norwegian Kaffee Kallas in the Fellowship Hall.

Senior Choir Director Elizabeth Leon led the talented 21 exceptional voices of the Choir in “A Journey to Joy” a moving Cantata for Christmas by Joseph M. Martin.

The program began with a Welcome and Prayer from Zion Pastor Ben Nelson who expressed his gratitude to all in attendance for their presence and for being allowed to join with the choir.