FREMONT – After days of rising water and difficult conditions across the Village, Town of Fremont, and the Town of Wolf River, a community-wide cleanup effort is now being organized to help residents begin the recovery process. This volunteer-led effort will take place on Saturday, starting at 9:00 AM, with a central check-in location at the Town of Fremont Hall. From there, volunteers will be grouped into teams and sent out across the community to assist residents where help is needed most, with a focus on the immediate needs left behind by the floodwaters. Volunteers will assist with sandbag removal, clearing debris, cleaning out flooded homes and yards, and helping residents move damaged belongings. For many homeowners, especially those in low-lying areas near the Wolf River, this will be one of the first major steps toward getting back to normal. Organizers say the response from the community has already been strong, with residents stepping up to offer their time, equipment, and support. Those who are able to help are encouraged to bring useful items such as trucks, trailers, gloves, boots, rakes, brooms, cleaning supplies, and other tools. Some protective gear, including rubber gloves and masks, will also be available on site. Safety remains a top priority. Flood-affected areas may still contain contaminated water, hidden debris, sharp objects, and unstable surfaces. Volunteers are asked to come prepared, stay aware of their surroundings, and follow team guidance throughout the day. Want to help? Sign up here to volunteer:https://forms.gle/SuPaPvpBKx6ZttDn8 Need help? Request assistance here:https://forms.gle/rZjRCvACPCPmJQxc8 Organizers note that this is a community-led effort, and while every attempt will be made to help as many people as possible, response times may vary depending on need and conditions. As Fremont begins to recover, this effort highlights what many have already seen throughout the past several days, neighbors stepping up for neighbors, and a community coming together when it matters most. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com.

Town of Weyauwega  – A fatal crash early Tuesday morning has once again raised serious concerns about driver safety in the area, particularly involving wrong-way incidents and high-risk intersections near "Sunset Curve" According to the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched at 1:36 a.m. on April 21, 2026, to U.S. Highway 10 near Old Highway 49 after reports of a crash in the eastbound lanes. Preliminary findings indicate a wrong-way driver was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes when they collided head-on with a semi-tractor trailer. The driver of the wrong-way vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene. The semi driver was not injured and is cooperating with investigators. Alcohol is believed to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation. Second Arrest During Emergency Response While crews were still working at the scene, deputies observed another driver ignore barricades and enter the closed section of highway. That driver was stopped and arrested for multiple violations, including reckless endangerment and operating with a revoked license. A Dangerous Pattern Emerging Tuesday’s crash occurred near the intersection of Highway 10 and Old Highway 49, an area many locals refer to as “Sunset Curve.” This is not the first fatal crash at that location. In October 2025, a driver entering Highway 10 from Old Highway 49 was struck by a semi, resulting in another fatality. Beyond this intersection, the region has also seen other serious wrong-way incidents. In January 2024, a fatal crash in Weyauwega involving the Gonzalez family was also caused by a wrong-way driver, highlighting a broader and deeply concerning trend. With multiple deadly crashes tied to wrong-way driving in and around Weyauwega over the past two years, residents and officials alike need to begin asking whether more preventative measures are needed, including improved signage, lighting, or wrong-way detection systems. Community Safety Questions around Sunset Curve Highway Access While each crash has its own circumstances, the repeated presence of wrong-way driving in fatal incidents raises larger questions about awareness, impaired driving, and roadway design. Early morning hours, reduced visibility, and alcohol-related impairment are all known risk factors in wrong-way crashes. Multi-Agency Response Emergency crews from across the area responded to Tuesday’s crash, including the Weyauwega Police Department, Weyauwega Fire Department, Gold Cross Ambulance, ThedaStar Air Medical, the Waupaca County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Waupaca County Highway Department. Authorities continue to urge drivers to remain alert, follow posted traffic controls, and never drive under the influence. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com .

FREMONT, WI — As the Wolf River slowly begins to recede, many Fremont residents are preparing to return home and face what comes next. What’s left behind is more than just water. Across the village, floodwaters carried mud, debris, fuel residue, bacteria, and in some cases sewer contamination  into homes. Even houses that appear “not too bad” may still have hidden damage that can impact health and long-term safety if not handled properly. With many homes in areas like Wolf River Drive taking on significant water, how cleanup is handled in the next few days will make all the difference . This guide is here to help residents take the next steps safely, carefully, and with confidence. First Things First: Make Sure It’s Safe Before stepping back inside: Wait until officials say it is safe to return and roads are open Be cautious of unstable floors, debris, and standing water Do not walk through flood water if there electric still on If your area is still restricted or marked exit-only, do not attempt to return yet. Stay Updated with RAVE Alerts As conditions continue to change, residents are encouraged to sign up for Waupaca County RAVE Alerts . This system provides real-time notifications for: Road closures Evacuation updates Utility restoration Emergency alerts It’s one of the fastest ways to know when it is safe to return home or when conditions change in your area. Click here to sign up! Treat All Floodwater as Contaminated Even if your home did not have a direct sewer backup, floodwater should be treated as unsafe. Avoid direct contact whenever possible. Wear: Rubber gloves Waterproof boots Eye protection A mask, especially in enclosed areas If you have cuts or open wounds, take extra precautions or avoid exposure entirely. Step One: Remove the Water Quickly The faster water is removed, the better chance you have of limiting damage. Use: Pumps Wet vacs Buckets if needed Do not use regular household vacuums for floodwater. Step Two: Remove What Cannot Be Saved This is one of the hardest steps, but it is necessary. Items that absorbed floodwater should be removed: Carpet and padding Mattresses Upholstered furniture Insulation Cardboard and paper goods These materials hold bacteria and moisture and will quickly lead to mold. Generally not salvageable: Carpet and padding Pressboard or particleboard furniture Wet insulation Sometimes salvageable: Solid wood furniture Metal items Some appliances (after inspection) Step Three: Open Up the Walls If water reached your walls, the damage likely extends beyond what you can see. Recommended approach: Remove drywall at least 12 to 24 inches above the water line Many contractors recommend cutting up to 4 feet (next stud height)  for proper drying and easier repair Remove all wet insulation Leave wall cavities open to dry Moisture trapped inside walls is one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage after flooding. Step Four: Clean and Disinfect Thoroughly Once debris is removed, everything needs to be cleaned. Wash surfaces with soap and water Disinfect using: Household disinfectants Or a bleach solution (about 1 cup bleach per gallon of water ) Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners. Focus on: Floors Walls Appliances Any surface touched by floodwater Step Five: Drying is Critical Drying is one of the most important parts of the entire process. Homes should be dried as quickly as possible  using: Fans Dehumidifiers Open windows when weather allows Airflow is key. Mold can begin forming in as little as 24 to 48 hours , even if surfaces feel dry. Avoid These Common Mistakes Many long-term issues come from early mistakes. Avoid: Turning power back on if outlets or panels were wet Keeping drywall or insulation that got soaked Assuming clear water is safe Waiting several days to begin drying Using household vacuums on floodwater When to Call a Professional Some situations require expert help. Call a professional if: Water reached electrical systems Gas service was shut off You see structural damage or shifting Large sections of walls or ceilings are affected Mold begins to appear Document Everything Before You Toss It Before throwing anything away: Take photos and videos of every room Capture water lines on walls Document damaged belongings Keep: Receipts for supplies and equipment Records of cleanup and repairs This will be critical for: Insurance claims FEMA or state assistance Trash & Sand Drop-Off Available Due to suspended pickup services, a drop-off site is available: Hwy 110 & Theodore Dr (near the Fremont Area Fire Department) Trash and recycling accepted Used sandbags can be dropped off Drive-through dumpsters available How to Help: Fremont Community Donations A local effort is underway to help residents safely clean and recover. Needed items include: Cleaning and disinfecting supplies Gloves and protective gear Extension cords and tools Fans and dehumidifiers (critical need) View and donate HERE One Step at a Time Flood recovery can feel overwhelming. There is no quick fix. Focus on: Staying safe Preventing further damage Taking the next step forward It won’t feel like home right away, but every step forward matters. And in Fremont, no one is doing this alone. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com .

FREMONT, WI —  In the face of rising floodwaters, the Village of Fremont is showing exactly what a small-town community is all about. On Thursday alone, thousands of sandbags were filled , as residents, volunteers, and even Weyauwega Fremont High School students  stepped up to help protect homes along the Wolf River. Close to 100 volunteers  worked throughout the day, side by side, doing everything they could to hold back the rising water. It’s a response many say defines Fremont. A Growing Emergency Behind the scenes of that effort is a rapidly changing situation. Water levels along the Wolf River continue to rise, climbing at an estimated three-quarters of an inch per hour , putting increasing pressure on homes, roads, and infrastructure. As of 9pm Thursday night, Wolf River Drive has now been closed from both ends at Highway 96 , with access limited to residents only. Officials are asking the public to stay clear of the area. Residents in low-lying areas are being urged to evacuate for their safety . Sandbags, Supplies, and Support The demand for sandbags has been so high that the village has temporarily run out as of Thursday evening. With relief on the way. A semi load of pre-filled sandbags is expected to arrive at 8:00 AM Friday , along with additional empty bags for residents to fill. More sand has also been delivered for those who already have bags on hand. Utilities and Infrastructure Concerns As conditions worsen, additional precautions are being taken. Many homes in low lying areas have had their natural gas temporarily shut off by We Energies  to protect infrastructure and reduce risk. Affected residents are being contacted directly. Village officials are also asking residents to check their sump pump systems. Sump pumps should discharge water into yards, not into the sanitary sewer system , which is currently overwhelmed. Excess water could lead to sewer backups inside homes  if the system fails. School Closure and Historic Impact Due to the flooding, the Weyauwega-Fremont School District has canceled in-person classes for Friday . Local officials say the situation is severe. This is the worst flooding Fremont has experienced since 1973 . More Rain Ahead Unfortunately, the situation may not improve immediately. Forecasts are calling for over an inch of additional rain , which could slow any progress and keep river levels elevated into next week. Staying Informed Residents are encouraged to follow official updates from: Waupaca County Emergency Management Waupaca County Sheriffs Department Village of Fremont A Community That Shows Up While the floodwaters continue to rise, so does something else, community spirit. From students to neighbors to volunteers, Fremont is coming together in a way that reminds everyone what small towns are made of. Stay safe everyone, and thanks for making this community special. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com .

FREMONT, WI  – Even with the water continuing to rise in the Weyauwega-Fremont area, there is finally a sign of progress in the ongoing Wolf River flooding situation. Officials report that water levels at the Balsam Row Road Dam  have noticeably receded over the past 24 hours , making it the first key point along the river system to show improvement. Photos shared by the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office show a clear drop in water levels compared to Wednesday morning. In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office said they are feeling “much more comfortable” with current conditions and are optimistic the trend will continue. Photo provided by the Shawano Sheriff's office What This Means for Downstream Communities This development could mark the beginning of a slow but important shift. As water levels drop at Balsam Row, the next area expected to respond is Shawano Lake , which plays a critical role in controlling how quickly water moves downstream. If levels continue to fall there, it will help slow the surge of water heading toward Shiocton and New London , followed by Weyauwega and Fremont . New London Still Rising, Weyauwega Fremont Not There Yet According to the latest National Water Prediction Service data. The updated forecast shows water levels in New London beginning to recede Friday evening around 7:00 PM , which is a significant improvement from earlier projections. Just yesterday, forecasts suggested: The river would not fall below 11 feet until Tuesday afternoon Now, updated projections show: Levels dropping below 11 feet by Monday evening For Weyauwega Fremont residents, the river has not yet reached its peak, meaning water levels are still expected to rise before any noticeable improvement begins. Weather Could Still Change the Timeline Even with improving projections, one key factor remains: Friday night’s rain . Current forecasts call for around a half inch to one inch of rain , with the possibility of locally higher amounts if thunderstorms develop. River forecasts like the ones used above do take expected rainfall into account , but they are highly sensitive to changes in actual conditions. That means: If rainfall stays on the lower end, the current timeline for relief is likely to hold If storms produce heavier rain, the river could take longer to crest and recede If less rain falls than expected, water levels could drop sooner In short, while the trend is improving, the situation is still evolving. Residents affected by the Wolf River Urged to Stay Prepared Even with encouraging signs upstream, conditions remain serious across much of the Wolf River system. Officials continue to urge: Residents in low-lying areas  to evacuate if necessary Ongoing sandbagging efforts  where water is still rising Close monitoring of local updates as conditions change quickly The next 24 to 48 hours will be critical. While early signs point toward improvement, rainfall Friday night will play a major role in determining how quickly the Wolf River begins to fall across the area. We’ll continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as the situation develops across Weyauwega, Fremont, and surrounding communities.

WAUPACA COUNTY – As rising water levels along the Wolf River continue to impact communities across the area, local officials are urging residents to take an important step to stay informed: sign up for the Waupaca County RAVE Alert System. Flooding along the Wolf River has already led to high water conditions, changing road closures, and safety concerns in low-lying areas. With river levels slow to recede and additional rain possible in the coming days, conditions can shift quickly. That’s where the RAVE system becomes especially important. Real-Time Alerts During Flooding The RAVE Alert System is designed to send immediate notifications during emergencies, including flooding situations like those currently affecting the Wolf River. Residents who are signed up can receive updates about: • Road closures and detours • Flood warnings and river level concerns • Evacuation notices if conditions worsen • Emergency safety instructions These alerts are sent directly to your phone, email, or both, helping ensure you are not relying solely on social media or word of mouth for critical updates. Why Rave Alerts Matter Right Now With the Wolf River running high, even small amounts of additional rainfall can prolong flooding or create new problem areas. Roads that are open one day may be closed the next, and conditions near the river can change rapidly. Having direct alerts from Waupaca County Emergency Management allows residents to react faster and make safer decisions for themselves and their families. Officials say this is especially important for those living near the river, in flood-prone areas, or who commute through affected roadways. How to Sign Up Signing up for RAVE Alerts takes just a few minutes: • Visit the Waupaca County Emergency Management website or by clicking here! “Waupaca County RAVE Alert signup” • Enter your contact information • Choose how you want to receive alerts (text, call, email) • Add locations that matter to you, such as your home, work, or family members’ addresses The service is free and can be customized so you only receive the alerts that are most relevant to you. A Simple Step That Makes a Big Difference As communities continue to monitor the Wolf River and prepare for changing conditions, staying informed is one of the most effective ways to stay safe. Officials encourage residents not to wait until conditions worsen. Signing up now ensures you’ll receive important updates as they happen. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com

WEYAUWEGA-FREMONT, WI  – With the raising of historic water levels along the Wolf River, evacuations have been declared in low-lying areas across Fremont, Weyauwega, and New London, as officials continue to monitor a significant spring flood event. What Changed with the Wolf River Today New evacuation notices have been issued for low-lying river areas in Weyauwega, Fremont and New London, The Waupaca County Sheriff's office says, " Anyone specially within the areas shown in the maps attached that low lying river areas are being advised to evacuate due to dangerous flood waters. If you choose to remain in place, your safety cannot be guaranteed and it is highly recommended you evacuate to ensure your safety" Residents who returned home in low places in Weyauwega who received earlier notices are being asked to prepare to leave again. As of now, no issues or problems are seen with the Weyauwega Mill pond dam. Officials stress conditions can change quickly, especially with the continued rising water Waupaca County and Local Officials Urge residents to sign up for R.A.V.E The Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to sign up for the Rave Mobile Safety system , which delivers real-time emergency alerts directly to your phone. The free system provides updates on evacuations, road closures, and rapidly changing conditions. Residents can sign up by visiting the Waupaca County website or clicking here “Waupaca County Rave Alert” online and registering with a phone number or email. Current Wolf River Levels and Forecast According to the National Water Prediction Service, the Wolf River at New London was measured at 10.67 feet as of 2:30 PM on April 15 , already above moderate flood stage. Flood categories at that location are: Flood stage: 9.0 feet Moderate flooding: 10.5 feet Major flooding: 11.1 feet The river is forecast to crest at approximately 11.6 feet Friday evening , entering major flood stage. Current projections show water levels remaining elevated, with the river not expected to fall below 11 feet until early next week, potentially around Tuesday, April 22. Many longtime residents note that Fremont typically sees lower river levels than New London, with a delay in rise of roughly 6-12 hours. However, with the amount of recent rainfall and saturated ground, officials say this event is difficult to compare to past years. Expected Timeline Wednesday: Rivers above flood stage, lowland flooding ongoing Friday evening: Projected crest near 11.6 feet (1 additional foot for New London) Weekend: Continued high water levels Early next week: Gradual drop begins Weather Outlook and Its Impact The National Weather Service is forecasting additional chances of rain through Friday night and into Saturday, with total rainfall generally expected to range from a half inch to around one inch across the area . While widespread heavy rainfall is not currently expected, even these lighter amounts can raise the water level with the flood basin so full. Evacuations Focused on Low-Lying Areas Residents in low-lying areas are encouraged to plan ahead for pets, as not all shelters may be able to accommodate them. Officials are also urging residents to sign up for the Rave Mobile Safety system to receive real-time alerts and updates. Local Impacts Already Developing Flooding impacts are already being seen throughout the Weyauwega Fremont area, including: Gills on the Wolf is managing to keep the water out with pumps and sandbags. Fort Fremont has canceled the Fort Fremont Classic Fishing tournament Road closures in impacted areas, including parts of New London Where Residents Can Get Sandbags Sandbags are being made available in several communities across Waupaca County, with distribution typically coordinated by local public works departments, fire departments, and emergency management. Residents in affected areas should check with: Their local city or village hall Public works departments Fire departments or emergency management pages on Facebook In many cases, sand and bags are being provided, but residents may need to fill and transport the bags themselves . Officials recommend calling ahead or checking official social media pages for the most up-to-date locations and availability, as distribution sites can change based on demand and river conditions. Dams Being Closely Monitored Ongoing attention is being given to the Shawano Dam and the Balsam Row Dam, both of which play a key role in managing water levels along the Wolf River system. At this time, all dams are holding, and there have been no reports of structural failure. Both are long-standing structures designed to manage high water events, but continued monitoring is critical during prolonged flooding. If conditions were to change, including any concern involving dam integrity, officials say larger evacuation orders would be issued immediately by law enforcement and Waupaca County Emergency Management. What Residents Should Do Residents are encouraged to stay alert and take practical precautions: Monitor updates from local officials and emergency management Sign up for emergency alerts through the Rave Mobile Safety system Avoid driving through flooded roads Prepare essential items, including medications, chargers, and important documents Have an evacuation plan ready if located near the river For updates, residents can call 211. Emergency lines such as 911 should be reserved for urgent situations only. A Situation to Take Seriously While this is a serious and evolving flood event, officials stress that evacuations are currently limited to low-lying areas, and infrastructure, including dams, remains stable. With the river expected to peak later this week, conditions will continue to be monitored closely. For now, the focus remains on preparedness, awareness, and community response. Watch Waupaca County Sheriffs Office for more details!

WAUPACA COUNTY, Wis. — Newly filed court documents are providing the first detailed look at what investigators allege happened in the disappearance of Jon “Jake” Morgan. A criminal complaint filed February 26, 2026 in Waupaca County Circuit Court charges Desiree Rose Osman with multiple felonies related to events that allegedly occurred March 6, 2020 in the Town of Farmington Charges Filed The complaint lists the following charges: • First Degree Reckless Homicide – Deliver Drugs (Class C Felony) • Hiding a Corpse as Party to a Crime (Class F Felony) • Manufacture or Deliver Heroin (Less Than 3 Grams) (Class F Felony) • Two counts of Felony Bail Jumping (Class H Felonies) The most serious charge, First Degree Reckless Homicide, alleges that on or about March 6, 2020, Osman caused Morgan’s death through the delivery or manufacture of a Schedule I or II controlled substance, specifically fentanyl. If convicted, that charge carries a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison. Timeline Alleged in Complaint According to the complaint, Morgan was last seen between the evening of March 5 and the morning of March 6, 2020, at a residence in the King area of the Town of Farmington. Investigators state Morgan never returned to work, never picked up his paycheck, and never contacted family, friends, or coworkers after approximately 4:13 a.m. on March 6, 2020. His phone stopped transmitting data that morning and has never been located. The complaint alleges: • Osman admitted she and Morgan used heroin together in the early morning hours of March 6, 2020 • Osman admitted she was the last person to see Morgan alive • Internet search history from her phone shows searches related to overdose and drugs shortly after 8 a.m. that morning • She contacted Walgreens and someone known to possess Narcan that morning Investigators state Morgan’s body has not been located despite extensive searches. A cadaver dog reportedly alerted to the scent of human remains in a vehicle connected to the investigation. Statements and Investigation The complaint notes Osman was interviewed at least five times during the investigation. Investigators state her accounts changed over time. Authorities allege video surveillance shows a vehicle traveling on area roads during a time frame when Osman’s phone was turned off. Investigators believe Morgan’s body was moved from the residence. Court documents also indicate Osman was on bond in other criminal cases at the time of Morgan’s disappearance, leading to the felony bail jumping charges. Presumption of Innocence It is important to note that a criminal complaint contains allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Morgan’s body has not been recovered. This case remains active in Waupaca County Circuit Court. We will continue to monitor court proceedings and provide updates as more information becomes available. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com .

WAUPACA COUNTY, Wis. — A suspect has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of Jon “Jake” Morgan, according to a media release issued Thursday afternoon by the Waupaca County Sheriff's Office. Authorities confirmed that a suspect was taken into custody on February 26, 2026 at 1:25 PM. No additional details about the suspect or potential charges have been released at this time. Law enforcement stated the investigation remains active and ongoing. In their statement, officials offered their deepest sympathies to the Morgan family and asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time. The Sheriff’s Office also extended appreciation to numerous agencies that assisted in the investigation, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation, INTERPOL, United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Secret Service, United States Customs and Border Protection, as well as the Waushara County Sheriff's Office, New London Police Department, and Waupaca Police Department. A Case That Gripped the Community Jon “Jake” Morgan was 22 years old when he disappeared on March 6, 2020. He was last seen in the King area of Waupaca County after leaving a residence on foot during the morning hours. His phone last pinged in the area shortly after, and he never reported to work later that day. Family members quickly reported him missing, and extensive search efforts followed. Over the past several years, the case has remained one of the most talked-about and heartbreaking investigations in Waupaca County. Vigils, social media campaigns, and continued pleas for information kept Jake’s name in the public eye as his family searched for answers. Until now, no arrests had been made. Thursday’s announcement marks the most significant development in the case in nearly six years. However, authorities have made clear that the investigation is not over and further details will be released when appropriate. Weyauwega Fremont News & Events will continue to follow this story closely and provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. Have a story or message to share? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com .

November 10th, 1944 - February 13th, 2026 Lawrence Lynn "Larry" Martochko, age 81, of Fremont, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at ThedaCare Medical Center in Appleton.  He was born on November 10, 1944 in Milwaukee, WI, to Ada Powell.  Twelve years later, Larry would be adopted by Charles Martochko.  He attended St. Michael's Catholic School, Stueben Jr. High and then Milwaukee Tech.  On June 21, 1963, Larry married Janet Schuerman, in Milwaukee when they were just 18 and 19 years old.  While in Milwaukee, Larry worked for Briggs and Stratton, Sears and Frito Lay.  In 1976, Larry and Jan and their four children moved to Fremont, where they purchased Kelln's Resort on the Wolf River and renamed it Larry and Jan's Resort.They ran the resort for 45 years until selling it in 2020.   His love for boating and fishing was known to many, and Larry enjoyed sharing his passion with the many visitors to the resort. He also was quite proficient with boat motor repair, which also came in quite handy throughout the years.  Larry held the office of President and Vice President on the Fremont Chamber of Commerce for over 25 years, during which time he was involved in many activities throughout the village.  He was also  a former President of the Waupaca County Chamber of Commerce and was instrumental in the formation of the Waupaca County Visitors Guide.  Also during that time, Larry ran many booths for Sport and Fishing Shows, eventually becoming show manager.  Larry and Jan were fortunate to be able to escape winter by first spending time in Florida and more recently in Arizona.  They were also able to enjoy visits from their children and grandchildren in their home away from home.  In more recent years, Larry discovered his love of karaoke, and his talent for it.  He especially enjoyed singing Elvis songs, but may be best remembered for signature song, "My Way". He was a member of Most Precious Blood in New London.    Larry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Janet; three children, Ann(Kurt)Pamperin, Mike Martochko and Mary Keehn; nine grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Brazil, a son-in-law, Michael Schmoll and a sister, Ada Wangelin. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 12:00 pm at Lewin Funeral Home, 210 W. Main St., Fremont. Deacon Paul Widmar will officiate.  Visitation will be held at Lewin Funeral Home on Thursday, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Fremont.  The Lewin Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.   To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lawrence "Larry" L. Martochko, please visit their floral store.

WEYAUWEGA -  The City of Weyauwega is inviting residents to a public hearing on a proposed update to the city’s zoning ordinance, a rewrite officials say is intended to modernize the code and make it easier to use. The hearing will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 6:00 pm at the Weyauwega Municipal Building, 109 E Main Street. The hearing will be conducted by the City of Weyauwega Planning Commission and will focus on a proposed rewrite of Chapter 530 Zoning of the city’s municipal code that has been worked on for over a year. In practical terms, this means reorganizing and updating the existing zoning rules so they are clearer and easier to use, not changing how most properties in Weyauwega are currently used. Zoning rules guide how land can be used throughout the city, including residential, business, and industrial areas. While the phrase “repeal and recreate” can sound significant, this proposal is primarily a cleanup and modernization effort that is taking place in cities, towns and villages all around Wisconsin. According to the City, work on the zoning update began in early 2025. Officials say updates were needed to comply with current state statutes and zoning planning law, and to address obsolete, inconsistent, and redundant language. The goal of the rewrite is to make the zoning ordinance more simplified, streamlined, and user-friendly. City officials also indicated the update was not prompted by a specific issue, but simply that it was time to update the code. Small communities are finding that a full chapter rewrite is the most practical and cost effective way for to update ordinances. Sadly, changing even a single word or line in a zoning ordinance can thousands of dollars once legal review, staff time, and required public notices and publication costs are included. Reviewing and updating a full section at one time greatly reduces repeated costs and allows city officials and residents to consider the rules as a whole instead of piecemeal. The most significant change in the draft is the addition of Live and Work units in the Business and Industrial districts. This would allow a person to both live and operate a business in the same building, such as living above or attached to a shop or workspace. These uses would not be automatic and would still require city review and approval, and they would not apply to regular residential neighborhoods. To help with the rewrite, the city is being assisted by Jeffrey Sanders with Community Planning and Consulting, LLC. Planning Commission Members The Weyauwega Planning Commission includes both elected officials and citizen members. Members include: Mayor Rich Luedke, Chair Alderperson Pat Gorchals Alderperson Meta Berg Citizen members Bob Anibas, Andy Rosenwinkel, Judy Nowak Behm, and Nick Gunderson How to Review the Draft and Submit Comments The “Revised Pre-Public Hearing Draft Chapter 530” is available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office and or by clicking here for the city’s website . If you would like you to submit written testimony you may to the City of Weyauwega Plan Commission, Attn: City Clerk, 109 E Main Street or PO Box 578, Weyauwega, WI 54983, or emailed to the City Clerk by 12:00PM on February 4 th , 2026 Residents who want to learn more are encouraged to review the draft ordinance and attend the hearing to share comments or ask questions. Have questions or concerns about the change and want your voice heard? Email us at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com .

June 1, 1942 - January 28, 2026 Ronald O. Anunson, age 83, of Fremont, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. He died exactly as he lived, surrounded by friends and doing what he loved most: playing a round of cribbage. Born on June 1, 1942, in Neenah, WI, Ron was the son of the late Orvis and Severna (Moke) Anunson. Following high school, Ron joined the U.S. Army, where he jokingly claimed he earned his "PhD in potato peeling" while serving as a cook at Fort Knox, KY. Shortly after his honorable discharge, he began a beautiful 60-year journey with his wife, Verdaine Westphal, whom he married on May 15, 1965, in Readfield, WI. A dedicated and hardworking man, Ron was a 58-year active member of UA Local 669, serving as a sprinkler fitter for Pace Corporation until his retirement on April 1, 2000. His faith was his foundation. As a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in East Bloomfield, he served his congregation faithfully as a school board member, trustee, and elder. Ron lived for the outdoors, whether he was on the water fishing or “hittin’ bombs” on a softball diamond. An elite hunter, Ron’s legacy in the community was cemented in 1974, when he was recognized by Pope & Young for a top-scoring bow-harvested whitetail in Wisconsin. Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Verdaine; his sons, Darryl (Melissa) Anunson and David (Vicki) Anunson; and his four cherished grandchildren, Gillian, Mara, Lexi, and Bradley. He is further survived by his brothers, Orvis (Sue) Anunson and Ted Anunson; sister, Sandra Sauer; brother-in-law, Leo Haase; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Judith Haase, and brother-in-law, John Sauer. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 12:00 pm at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 8580 37th Ave., Fremont. Pastor Paul Mose will officiate. Visitation will be held at Lewin Funeral Home on Monday, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm, and at the church on Tuesday from 11:00 am until the time of the service.  Burial will be in Wolf River Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for St. John Lutheran Church.   Lewin Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald O. Anunson, please visit their floral store.