The Rhinelander Daily News - Online news and information for the Rhinelander, Wisconsin region

Ronald T. Bridgette

Ronald T. Bridgette, age 66, died August 18, 2008 in his home in Crandon. Ronald was born in Racine, served in the U.S. Army Reserves for seven years, started his own software company in the late 70’s and later became a manufacturing consultant working with companies all over the United States.

He lived to hunt and loved the outdoors.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; their children, Michelle, Carrie and David; and five grandchildren, Cassie, David, Devin, Dylan and Dustin.

His wishes will be honored by a small gathering of family and friends.

Ronda L. Votis

Ronda L. Votis, age 55, of Crandon, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, August 17, 2008. Ronda was born in Laona on April 26, 1953, the daughter of Donald and Shirley (Wald) Votis.

She was a 1971 graduate of Crandon High School. After high school, Ronda attended classes at Nicolet College in Rhinelander; and later started working at the Forest County Courthouse. Ronda started in the Zoning Office and later moved to the Social Service Department where she was still a devoted employee for over 30 years. She was a very loving mother and was always available to help others; which included donating a lot of time to local groups and organizations. Ronda was a very creative and talented person. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by son, Ronald “Ronnie” Krueger of Crandon; mother, Shirley Votis of Hiles; brother, Terry (Darlene) Votis of Hiles; and special nephew, Clint Votis.

She is preceded in death by her father, Don.

Pallbearers were Clint Votis, Paul Nirschl, Robert Votis, Phil Voll, Jeff Krueger and Chuck Sekel.

Visitation was held on Thursday, August 21, 2008 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Weber-Hill Funeral Home in Crandon and again on Friday, August 22, 2008 from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Crandon. Funeral Service will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Eric Vertein officiating. Interment will be in the Crandon Lakeside Cemetery. Weber-Hill Funeral Home in Crandon is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Ella M. Soman

Ella M. Soman, age 41, of Stone Lake (Crandon), passed away unexpectedly, Friday, August 22, 2008 at her home. She was born July 17, 1967 in Eagle River, the daughter of Clifford and Emily (Tahwa) Soman.

Ella went to school in Eagle River and then graduated from high school in Flandreau, South Dakota. She enjoyed four wheeling, trips to the casino, and being with her friends. Ella also enjoyed doing beadwork, arts and crafts. She will be sadly missed.

She is survived by her brothers and sisters, Chris (Linda) Soman, Collin (Brook) Soman, Effie Soman, Chief (Jessica) Soman, Camron Soman and Emily (Tommy) Soman. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Emily.

Visitation was held on Sunday, August 24, 2008 after 4 p.m. at the Potawatomi Recreational Center and again on Monday, August 25, 2008 until the time of the service. Big Drum Service followed the visitation on Monday with Mr. Pete Pemma leading the services. Interment was in the Potawatomi Tribal Cemetery in Blackwell. Weber-Hill Funeral Home in Crandon assisted the family with the arrangements.

Joseph E. Renkas

Joseph E. Renkas, age 41, of Armstrong Creek, drew his last breath on August 21, 2008 at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Green Bay from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident on August 16 in Goodman, in the arms of his soul-mate and wife, Jan (Johnson), surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Aside from his wife and children, his many loves included hunting, fishing, his work as a recovery agent/private detective and the outdoors.

Joe was born on February 21, 1967, in Kenosha, WI, to Joseph R. and D. Marlene (Sparks) Renkas. He was preceded in death by his mother, and is survived by his father, his wife and three children, Kimberly Renkas of Kenosha and Joseph M. and Janeska Renkas, both of Armstrong Creek.

Joe is also survived by three sisters, Debra (Tim) Potterville of Pembine, Diane (Jim) Brothen of West Bend and Mary Jo (Brad) Peterson of Kenosha; and five nieces and nephews; as well as his in-laws, Sally (Dennis) Paugels of Rockford, Ill., and Kenneth (Eileen) Johnson of Thermopolis, Wyo. Not to be left out are the many, many friends Joe has touched in his earthly travels. He will be sorely missed!

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 29, 2008 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Armstrong Creek. Funeral Mass will follow at 1 p.m. Interment will be in the Pine Hill Cemetery in Armstrong Creek. Weber-Hill Funeral Home, (715) 478-2322, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials appreciated to the family or the Camp Five Museum Foundation has established an Educational Scholarship Fund for his son, Joseph M. at the Laona State Bank P.O. Box 128 Laona, WI 54541.

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