Ardella M. Esten, age 84, of Eagle River, formerly of Berlin, died peacefully on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Aspirus Eagle River Hospital.
She was born August 8, 1940, in Berlin, WI, the daughter of Robert and Gwendolyn Pigorsch Borchardt. Ardella was a 1957 graduate of Berlin High School.
Ardella worked in the kitchen at Main Street restaurant and the ABA Conference Center in Green Lake. Many ladies in the area know Ardella through her Avon and Tupperware businesses. She was also talented at making plastic canvas crafts which she sold.
Rex Edward Prohl, age 82, of Montello, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Juliette Manor in Berlin.
He was born June 9, 1942, in Milwaukee, WI, the son of Wilbert and Dorothy Hoff Prohl. Rex was a self-employed truck driver for many years. He also worked security for Pro Health in Oconomowoc. Rex loved to garden and grew a big display of hostas. He was a NASCAR fan and loved to fish.
Gary Lee Cotanch, age 85, of Poy Sippi, died peacefully on Monday, June 2, 2025, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah.
He was born July 14, 1939, in Berlin, WI, the son of Dale and Florence Selle Cotanch. Gary was a 1957 graduate of Weyauwega High School. On June 10, 1961, he was united in marriage to Beverly Quimby.
Gary worked for the Wisconsin State Highway Department for 39 years. He kept Highway 49 in Waushara County clear of snow and ice in the winter and mowed the roadsides throughout the county. He took pride in keeping the roads safe. Gary was known as “49er” to many in the area because you could always find him “working hard” on the road. He also drove a milk truck for a number of years. Gary enjoyed listening to polka music, sitting in his garage watching the cars go by and waving at his neighbors. His greatest joy was mowing his lawn and keeping it immaculate. Gary was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Redgranite.