Portage High School Class of 1964

I missed this Obituary for Randy Rietmann's wife. Another sad post. Condolences to Randy and the family.

CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP – Jane Louise Rietmann, age 76, of Caledonia Township, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family after a lengthy illness with several health issues and multiple myeloma.

She was born on May 17, 1949, in Cuba City, Wisconsin to Lester and Mildred (Pitzen) Reuter. Jane was the sixteenth of seventeen children. She attended Potosi High School in Potosi, Wisconsin, graduating in 1967. Jane was a member of Durward’s Glen and St. Mary’s parishes in Merrimac Wisconsin.

She loved living in the Caledonia hills and playing horseshoes with her dearest neighbors and friends. Jane worked at the Farm Service Agency in Baraboo, Wisconsin for over twenty-eight years. Jane was a meticulous and dedicated worker. She always enjoyed interacting with the local farmers. On March 1, 1969, Jane was united in marriage to Randall Rietmann at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville, Wisconsin. They shared 57 wonderful years together and raised four children. Jane was a loving wife and mother who faced her final months with remarkable strength and courage. She was the ultimate survivor. Jane cherished her time with her family and friends. She especially loved all her grandchildren. She enjoyed playing cards and was often the family Euchre Tournament champion. Jane was a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan. She was even one of ten finalists for the Green Bay Packers Fan Hall of Fame during the 2020-2021 Packers season. Jane said “It was an honor to be nominated by my son Tim. The Packers are and always will be my team.” Always, remember Jane’s rule “Never talk negatively about her beloved Green Bay Packers.” Otherwise, you might be watching the game in the other room or kicked out of the house. Many family memories were shared around the kitchen table eating chili and rooting on the Packers. Jane was always a gracious host. She loved the holidays and many family traditions revolved around them such as carving pumpkins and Easter egg hunts. Jane was a practical joker. She would always think up some elaborate prank for April Fool’s Day. Jane was up for anything. She enjoyed taking the grandkids on adventures and to the fair every year.

Jane is survived by her husband, Randall Rietmann and four children Jodie (John) Schweitzer, Todd (Kara) Rietmann, Jackie Rietmann, and Timothy (Kate) Rietmann. Her five grandchildren Mackenzie (Zach Moen) Rietmann, Nathan Schweitzer, Trinity (Calvin Mavin) Rietmann, Alexander Rietmann and Justin Rietmann; two great grandchildren Milo Lessai Mavin and Rue Jane Mavin; brothers and sisters Mercille Floerke, Clifford (Pat) Reuter, Lawrence Reuter, Jarda Timmerman, Rita Noble, Karen Dailey, Greg (Cyndi) Reuter, Marjorie (Tom) Sutton; brothers and sisters-in law Zita Reuter, Landa Reuter, Kay Maass, JoAnn (John) McLean, Judy Nichols, Thomas Rietmann, Robert (Andrea) Rietmann, Larry (Shelley) Rietmann, Rick (April) Rietmann, Jill (Philip) Koch, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Jane was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers Myron (Pat) Reuter, Leonard Reuter, Vincent Reuter, Norbert (Mary) Reuter, Richard Reuter, Jerome Reuter, and Douglas Reuter; one sister Ida Mae (Clarence) Fure; brothers and sisters in law Ernie Floerke, Ambrose Timmerman, Washy Dailey, Rita (Bill) Zamzow, Leon Maass and Ed Nichols.

Our May class luncheon is next Tuesday at 11:30 at Dino's. Come join us for our monthly get togethers on the 4th Tuesday of every month!

We have lost another classmate. Karan Wilson Barreau contacted me. I'm so sad to be sharing this information.

Paul Hilgendorf, 'Hook" a devoted father, grandfather, and cherished member of the Portage community, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, in his hometown of Portage, Wisconsin. Born on January 18, 1946, Paul’s life was marked by dedicated service, steadfast loyalty to family, and a rich tapestry of cherished memories.

A native of Portage, Paul proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, demonstrating the courage and commitment that defined much of his life. Following his military deployment, he dedicated a 40-year career to the railroad, a profession where he found camaraderie and fulfillment among his colleagues.

Paul’s zest for life extended beyond his work. He delighted in gambling and enjoyed spending time with friends at Red's or Sarbackers Tavern, engaging in lively games of Sheepshead. His adventures also included visits to the Hochunk Casino, vacationing in Las Vegas, pheasant hunting in South Dakota, and fishing in northern Wisconsin alongside his co-workers—activities that exemplified his love for companionship and the outdoors.

Above all, Paul treasured his family. He adored his wife Dorothy, who shared his journey in life. Paul was a devoted father who deeply loved his daughter Melissa, whom he affectionately regarded as his little princess. His love extended graciously to his granddaughters Shania, Faith, and Lyla, with whom he spent many joyful days caring for and accompanying to numerous outings. His nurturing spirit made him a truly wonderful grandfather and father, roles he embraced wholeheartedly.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife Dorothy, his son-in-law Jerred Simonson, and his cherished granddaughters Shania, Faith, and Lyla. He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Melissa, and his brothers and sisters.

A visitation to honor Paul will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Kratz Funeral Home, located at 302 E Conant Street, Portage, WI 53901. Following the visitation, a memorial service will take place at the same location from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Our class luncheon is Tuesday 11:30 at Dino's Restaurant & Lounge . I'm hoping to see some of our "Snow birds" that have returned. I'm sure our waitress will be happy to see her favorite customer!

PORTAGE – Conrad Martin “Marty” Gavinski, Jr., 80, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, following a long battle with cancer.

Marty was born on March 10, 1946, in Portage, WI, to Conrad and Esther (Kobza) Gavinski. He was one of the first group of students to attend St. Mary Catholic School. After graduating from Portage High School in 1964, Marty earned an accounting degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1968 and completed his CPA exam in 1972. While at UW-Whitewater, he met Sharon “Sherry” Eckhardt and they were married on August 15, 1970.

He began his accounting career at a CPA firm in Madison before returning to Portage in 1973. He went on to serve as the controller for ABG Plastics and later became CFO and co-owner at Penda Corporation and TriEnda. Over the years, he also owned 51 Classics and Title Experts, LLC.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Marty earned nine varsity letters in high school for football, basketball, and baseball and later found a love for men’s fastpitch softball. That passion stayed with him, and he spent more than 40 years coaching numerous teams, especially at St. Mary and Portage High Schools. He was also a devoted fan, holding season tickets for the University of Wisconsin Badgers for football and basketball, as well as the Green Bay Packers. He and Sherry spent their summers playing golf as members of Portage Country Club.

Many people remember Marty for his coaching voice echoing throughout the gym, but it was his generous spirit and dedication to giving back that was felt most throughout the Portage community. He was a founding member of the Greater Portage Youth Education Foundation to raise funds for a new high school, served as president of the Portage Area Economic Development Corporation, volunteered for 50 years on the St. Mary Church finance committee, and was president and board member for Portage Country Club. In 2007, he was inducted into the Portage High School Hall of Fame.

Marty is survived by his wife, Sherry; his three children: Tom, Todd (Anjie), and Gregg (Sarah); seven grandchildren; sisters, Joann (Gary) Armson and Deb (Bill) Schumann; sister-in-law, Sue Gavinski; brother-in-law, John (Sandy) Eckhardt; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, L.H. and Gwen Eckhardt; and brother, Steve Gavinski.

The family would like to thank Dr. Justine Bruce and her team from the UW Carbone Cancer Center, Dr. Jill Pogorelec at Aspirus, Dr. Joseph Holt at UW Hospital, and the staff at the Serenity House in Tomah, WI, for their care.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Portage, with Rev. Randy Timmerman presiding. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery in Portage. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage and from 10:00 -11:00 a.m. on the day of the funeral at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family for St. Mary Catholic School, the Portage Warrior Fund, or Serenity House.

1946-2026: It’s not the start date or the end date; it’s the dash in between that counts!

We had a great turnout at our last class luncheon. I hope we have another good group next Tuesday! 11:30 at Dino's Restaurant & Lounge .

Don't miss our next luncheon Tuesday, February 24th at 11:30 at Dino's Restaurant & Lounge. The weather doesn't look too bad. See you soon!

Photo taken by Cavanaugh’s Home Art Studio in the 1950s. Front row left to right: Jean Groth, Pat Griffith, Mary Janda, Joanne Amend, Vicky Berger, Nancy Lenz and Wanda Roecker. Second row left to right: Susan Wickus, Renee Ruz, unknown, Patty Kayartz, Barbie Phelps, Pauline Rogano, Jeanne Hannifan, Cheryl Little, Sharon Murphy and Alice Saxe. Third row left to right: Martha Curtis, Ingrid Irving, Jane Hinkley, Jane Watzke, Judy Lesser, Susan Jones. Back row: Neva Taylor; leader, Diane Woodman; helper, Mrs. Atkinson. If you know any of the names not mentioned please help!

I am saddened to share another classmates passing.


James F. McGowan
September 3, 1946 - January 20, 2026

U.S. Veteran James Francis McGowan, a proud Vietnam veteran, passed away on January 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born September 3, 1946, in Portage, Wisconsin, Jim was known for his quick wit, easygoing nature, and gift for conversation. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Jim loved people, good stories, and good company.

He worked for many years as a hairstylist at La Petite Salon, where he built lasting friendships and took pride in his work. A devoted sports fan, Jim enjoyed cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers and was known for his humor and ability to light up a room.

Jim is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sally McGowan; his son, Casey McGowan (Amanda); granddaughters Megan and Macy; and brothers Jerry (Jackie) and Dan (Susan). He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Reinetta “Netty” McGowan, and brothers Michael and Tom (Cheri) McGowan.

A visitation will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, from 11:30am to 1:30 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, with memories shared at 1:00 p.m. A celebration of life will follow at The Wisconsin (60 Gasser Road, Room 1848) from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. with light appetizers.

Jim will be fondly remembered for his warmth, laughter, service to his country, and the many lives he touched.

Our next luncheon is right around the corner! Meet me at Dino's Restaurant & Lounge next Tuesday at 11:30.