In an unexpected turn of events, the race for the Weyauwega-Fremont School Board seat representing the Town of Lind, Town of Saxeville, and Town of Waupaca the unofficial results have come to a tie between Joanie Buss and Trisha Loehrke, with both candidates receiving 1,277 votes. With the Weyauwega-Fremont School Board Election now at a standstill, all eyes are on the next steps to determine who will fill the seat. According to Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 120.06(6)(b)), in the event of a tie in a school board election where nomination papers are required, the winner is determined by drawing lots—typically involving a random selection method, such as drawing names from a hat. However, if nomination papers were not required, the district may have a different procedure in place. Meanwhile, Doug Ehrenberg retained his seat, defeating challenger Ben Selsing, and Brad Gerrits secured his uncontested spot on the board. As the district navigates this rare electoral outcome, the community eagerly awaits further details on how the tie will be resolved. Stay tuned for updates on when and how the decision will be made. Best of luck to both candidates

The Village of Fremont saw a shakeup in leadership following Tuesday’s election, with residents voting for change in key positions. In the race for Village President, Nicki Scott  unseated Bobbie Marks , earning 198 votes to Marks’ 143 . Scott, a strong advocate for government transparency, is eager to bring new energy and openness to the role. She has expressed a commitment to ensuring that residents are better informed and involved in village decisions. The Village of Fremont Election Results also brought change to the Village Board of Trustees , with three seats up for grabs. Taylor Berndt  led the field with 236 votes, followed by Mary Ann Oehlke  with 222 votes , followed by Leo Billings  securing 181 votes . Adam Socha  received 147 votes . With T.C. Bartel  not seeking reelection, at least one new face was guaranteed on the board. Berndt, the founder of Weyauwega-Fremont News, aims to use his media platform to improve communication between the board and residents. He along with Scott plans to introduce live streaming of village meetings and increase digital engagement within the community. Scott and Berndt’s victories reflect a broader push for accessibility and community involvement in Fremont. Residents can expect new initiatives aimed at fostering transparency and participation in decision-making processes. With a mix of fresh perspectives and experienced leadership, the newly elected officials are poised to shape the future of Fremont. The community will be watching closely as they begin their terms and set their vision into motion.

As the April 1, 2025, election approaches, Weyauwega-Fremont voters will have the opportunity to shape the future of their school district. Candidates running for the school board have shared their backgrounds, motivations, and plans to address the district’s challenges. Meet the Weyauwega-Fremont School Board Candidates Brad Gerrits – Town of Bloomfield A fifth-generation dairyman, Brad Gerrits has been involved in the Fremont Elementary PTO and served on the school board since 2023. Inspired by his grandfather’s service on a school board, Gerrits aims to ensure the district remains financially responsible while maintaining quality education. He highlights the importance of balancing rising costs with careful planning and credits dedicated teachers and community volunteers as the district’s biggest strength. Joanie Buss – Towns of Lind, Saxeville, and Waupaca A business owner and active community member, Buss has been involved in local fundraisers and the Fremont Chamber Board. Inspired by her high school English teacher, she is dedicated to improving educational opportunities for students. Her goals include ensuring teachers have the resources they need and addressing declining proficiency levels from elementary to high school.   Trisha Loehrke – Towns of Lind, Saxeville, and Waupaca A lifelong resident and Weyauwega-Fremont graduate, Loehrke has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. She was motivated to run after noticing a lack of academic challenges for students, including her own daughter. Loehrke has supported curriculum improvements, including adding two new Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Her primary focus remains on academic performance and financial responsibility, ensuring taxpayer funds are used effectively to benefit students. Doug Ehrenberg – Village of Fremont Ehrenberg, a Fremont resident and small business owner, for 25 years, has served on the school board for 11 years, including eight as president. He is seeking re-election with a continued focus on making student-centered decisions.   Ben Selsing – Village of Fremont A dedicated volunteer and parent, Selsing has been active in youth programs and the Weyauwega-Fremont baseball board. His priorities include improving communication between parents, the community, and the school district. He also emphasizes challenging students academically while fostering a supportive learning environment.   Key Issues Facing the District Candidates identified financial management, academic performance, and community engagement as major challenges. While some, like Buss and Loehrke, have focused on improving curriculum, others, like Selsing, stress the importance of transparency and open communication between families and school leadership. With committed candidates offering diverse perspectives, Weyauwega-Fremont voters have important choices to make in this election. Their decision will help shape the district’s future, ensuring that students receive the best possible education while maintaining fiscal responsibility. See below the questions and answers from the candidates 1. Tell us a little about yourself Brad Gerrits - Originally from Freedom, WI, I grew up as a fifth-generation dairyman just outside town on our family dairy farm.  My wife and I moved to the Fremont area in 2010, as the result of growth of our family business, and now farm in five different areas in the state of Wisconsin.  Our two boys, Charlie (10) and Leo (7), both attend Fremont Elementary and enjoy sports, hunting, fishing, and the summer water fun.  I have served on the Fremont Elementary PTO for four years before and joined the Weyauwega Fremont School Board in 2023. Joanie Buss - I have been in the Weyauwega/Fremont area since 2001. My husband and I own a small business in the Village of Fremont. I have been a member of the Fremont Chamber Board for the past 5 years. I have 2 children that are currently attending the high school in Weyauwega, one a senior and one a sophomore. I have been active in community fundraisers which benefit our school children. Trisha Loehrke - I am a graduate of Weyauwega-Fremont School District and have been a lifelong resident of the area. My daughter is a junior at WFSD. I have over 20 years of experience in the healthcare field, my career has included roles as a state surveyor and, more recently, as a Family Nurse Practitioner.  I have been a part of the WFSD board of education for the past three years. Doug Ehrenberg - I have lived in Fremont for 25 years and have been apart of the board of education for the W-F School district for 11 years, president of the board 8 of those years. Ben Selsing-  My name is Ben Selsing. My wife and I moved to Fremont eight years ago and are currently raising two children that attend Fremont Elementary. I have been involved in my children's youth programs for the last four years as a volunteer coach and currently hold a position on the Weyauwega-Fremont baseball board.   2.  What inspired you to run for the W-F School Board? Brad Gerrits-  My Grandfather served as President of the Freedom School Board for many years so serving has always been on my mind, especially when my kids reached school-age.  I also felt that I could offer certain perspectives and expertise that would benefit the school district.   Joanie Buss- I was inspired by a quote from my high school English teacher: "I am an educator because I like young people. Secondly, I am an educator because the destiny and future of our nation and the world lies in the hands of youth. It is an educator's responsibility to improve our youth's capabilities for the task which lies ahead." Mrs. Florence Byers. This quote led me to ask the question of myself as to what I can do beyond simply being a parent.   Trisha Loehrke- My decision to run for the school board was inspired by my experience when my daughter was in middle school. During that time, I observed that she and her classmates were not academically challenged. This experience motivated me to become more involved in shaping educational opportunities within our district.  Doug Ehrenberg-- My name is Doug Ehrenberg, I have lived in Fremont for 25 years.  I have been apart of the board of education for the W-F School district for 11 years and president of the board for 8 out those years.  If reelected I will continue to base my decisions on what is best for the students of the W-F School district. Thank you Ben Selsing -  The future and success of my children and other children in this district is what inspired me. I believe that if you want to make a difference and have a say in the future of our kids education you have to be willing to get involved. The best way that I saw to make that happen was to be a part of the school board.  3.  What are some challenges facing our district, and how do you plan to address them? Brad Gerrits-  We have seen a period of rapid inflation and school state funding has not kept pace.  Careful spending and proper planning need to be a priority to combat rising costs and to ensure facility maintenance and student needs are met.   Joanie Buss- As a parent, my concern is that my child is getting the best education that the school can provide. As a taxpayer, I am concerned the students are getting the best education without breaking the bank. This includes employing quality teachers and providing them, and their students, with the tools necessary to provide the best learning environment possible.   Trisha Loehrke- A key challenge facing the district is academic performance. Over the past six months, the district has focused on improving the curriculum and ensuring alignment with state standards. Additionally, two Advanced Placement (AP) courses have been added for the 2025-2026 school year. To address this challenge, I would continue to support the staff involved in the implementation of the updated curriculum, ensuring it continues to evolve to meet the needs of our students.  Another significant challenge is the district's financial standing. Given the current economic state, it is crucial for the district to remain fiscally responsible. While financial constraints are a challenge, the primary goal must remain providing a high-quality education to our students, and we must balance this objective with prudent financial management.   Doug Ehrenberg-- My name is Doug Ehrenberg, I have lived in Fremont for 25 years.  I have been apart of the board of education for the W-F School district for 11 years and president of the board for 8 out those years.  If reelected I will continue to base my decisions on what is best for the students of the W-F School district. Thank you Ben Selsing - One challenge I would like to address would be more open communication between parents, community, and the school district. Parents and community need to feel like they are being heard while still supporting our educators and ultimately providing our students with the skills and opportunities to be successful. Another issue would be to challenge our students and provide them with the proper education throughout our entire district for higher learning and academic excellence.  4. What do you see as the strengths of the W-F School District? Brad Gerrits-  One of the greatest strengths I have seen are the people, who are the backbone of are district . Our schools are fortunate to have so many great teachers and staff members who care about the success of our students and strive to bring out their best.  It also great to see the district having an abundant number of volunteers and community supporters who provide time and resources to enhance a wide variety of programs and initiative.   Joanie Buss- The biggest strength of our school district is the many teachers and volunteers that make up the network of support for our students. There never seems to be a lack of volunteers, ranging from the staff, to parents, extended family and other community members. Recently, the Weyauwega-Fremont high school wrestling team competed, both individually and as a team, at the state wrestling tournament. The outpouring of support from the community and school was absolutely amazing.   Trisha Loehrke- One of the key strengths of our school district is the exceptional staff who are deeply committed to the success of our students. Our educators consistently go above and beyond, dedicating countless hours beyond the regular school day to ensure that students receive a high-quality learning experience. Additionally, the WFSD offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to the school musical, which provide students with valuable opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build a strong sense of community. Doug Ehrenberg-- My name is Doug Ehrenberg, I have lived in Fremont for 25 years.  I have been apart of the board of education for the W-F School district for 11 years and president of the board for 8 out those years.  If reelected I will continue to base my decisions on what is best for the students of the W-F School district. Thank you Ben Selsing - A huge strength this district has is an unbelievable support system within our community. If utilized properly this support system could provide many opportunities for students and educators to achieve greater learning and higher academic achievements. I also feel that the small-town family feel of this school system provides a safe environment for our educators to educate and our children to learn.  5. What is one goal you hope to accomplish if elected? Brad Gerrits-  My main priority is to end my term with having the district in a better position than it was when I started. Joanie Buss- One goal that I hope to accomplish if elected, is to concentrate on providing the best curriculum possible for our students. Where are we failing as a district? Why is there such a falloff of proficiency from elementary test scores to high school scores?   Trisha Loehrke- My primary objective remains consistent with the goal I have pursued over the past three years: to improve the curriculum within our district. We have been facing several challenges, including underperformance on state assessments, the need to provide advanced coursework that enables students to earn college credit, and the integration of apprenticeship programs that prepare students for their future careers.  The district must navigate budgetary constraints, balancing the need for academic advancement with fiscal responsibility to ensure proper use of taxpayer funds. As a member of the school board, it is essential to recognize that the resources managed are derived from the taxpayers in our community.  Doug Ehrenberg-- My name is Doug Ehrenberg, I have lived in Fremont for 25 years.  I have been apart of the board of education for the W-F School district for 11 years and president of the board for 8 out those years.  If reelected I will continue to base my decisions on what is best for the students of the W-F School district. Thank you Ben Selsing - My biggest goal as a school board member would be to support and challenge the students and provide them with the best environment to grow and learn for future opportunities. Another thing I hope to achieve is to listen and collect as much information as possible from our school board, educators, parents, and community members to make the most rational decisions to support our children's needs.  Conclusion The Weyauwega-Fremont School Board election is a crucial opportunity for residents to shape the future of education in our community. With candidates sharing their vision on everything from fiscal responsibility to student success, voters have the chance to choose leaders who will guide the district forward. Be sure to review their responses, consider what matters most to you, and make your voice heard on April 1, 2025. Every vote counts in building a stronger, brighter future for our schools! Thank you to all the candidates for taking the time to answer the Weyauwega Fremont News questions. Sample ballot

(Week of March 17 - March 24, 2025) 📅 Monday (3/17) 🏛 City of Weyauwega  - City Council Meeting (6:30 PM) 📅 Tuesday (3/18) 🎤 T’s Corner Bar  - Elite Trivia Night  (7 PM, Free to Play!) 🍔 Haufschildts Brew Haus  - Monthly Reuben Style Burger & Pizza Specials  (served daily) ☕ JD’s Café  - March Specials: Reuben Breakfast Burrito, Steak & Eggs, Reuben Burger & Fries 📅 Wednesday (3/19) 🍽 Picklebellies  - Egg Roll Wednesday  (Kitchen opens at 4 PM) 📚 Weyauwega-Fremont School District  - Board of Education Meeting (6 PM, High School Forum Room) 📚 Fremont Elementary  - STEM Board Meeting (6 PM) 📅 Thursday (3/20) 🍕 Picklebellies  - Pizza Buffet  (4-8:30 PM, All You Can Eat!) 🍔 Haufschildts Brew Haus  - Reuben Style Burger & Pizza Specials (served daily) 📅 Friday (3/21) 🎣 Friday Fish Fry Specials at: Picklebellies  ($2 Rail Old Fashioned) JD’s Café  (March Specialty Coffee & Fish Fry) 📅 Saturday (3/22) 🍿 Rio Lobo  - Gourmet Popcorn Flights  (E6485 CR-F, Weyauwega, WI) 🎨 St. Peter Lutheran Church & School  - Crafting Fellowship  (9 AM - 12 PM, Bring Your Own Project or Join a Group Project) 🚌 Wilsons Brickhouse  - Bus Trip to New Dublin St. Patrick’s Celebration  ($20 Round Trip, Bus Returns Around 5 PM) 📅 Sunday (3/23) 🍗 Picklebellies  - Broasted Chicken Special 📅 Monday (3/24) 🍕 American Legion Post 391  - Pizza Night  (Bar opens at 4 PM, Pizza starts at 4:30 PM, Dine-in or Carry-out, Call 920-446-3616) 📝 Got an event to share?  Let us know at events@weyauwegafremontnews.com

With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, Double J Shuttle Service and the Fremont Chamber are making it easier—and safer—than ever to enjoy the celebrations! This year, they are offering free shuttle rides from 6pm to 2:30am between Fremont, Weyauwega, and New Dublin (New London) so everyone can experience the legendary Irish festivities without worrying about transportation. The shuttle will run throughout the day and night, ensuring partygoers can make their way to and from the celebrations conveniently. Whether you’re heading out for the parade, enjoying live music, or just soaking in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit, Double J has you covered. “We love being part of the community and making sure everyone gets home safely,” said James Janusheske “JJ”, owner of Double J Shuttle. “New Dublin is the place to be, and we’re happy to provide a fun, and safe way to get there and back.” Shuttles will be available at designated pickup points in Fremont and Weyauwega, with return trips running until late into the night. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day without the stress of driving—just hop on and enjoy the ride! For more details and pickup times, check out Double J Shuttle Service’s Facebook page or contact them directly for pricing, Cheers to a safe and unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day

(Week of March 17 - March 24, 2025) 📅 Monday (3/17) 🍔 Anglers  - Burger Special: $2.50 hamburgers, $3 cheeseburgers (dine-in only) ⛳ Fremont Riverdeck  - Indoor Golf ($40/hr) 📅 Tuesday (3/18) 🌮 Anglers  - Taco Tuesday 🍔 Hotel Fremont  - Specialty Burgers ⛳ Fremont Riverdeck  - Indoor Golf ($40/hr) 📅 Wednesday (3/19) 🍹 Gala Resort  - $3 Old Fashioneds, Italian Night & ½ off pizza 🍗 Bridge Bar  - Chicken Sandwich Specials ⛳ Fremont Riverdeck  - Indoor Golf ($40/hr) 📖 Neuschafer Library  - Fremont Book Club: Discuss The Martian  by Andy Weir at Cobblestone Inn (6 PM) 📅 Thursday (3/20) 🍗 Bridge Bar  - Thursday Thunder: Pick 3 items for $8 🍗 Gala Resort  - 5 PM Wing Night + $2.50 Bush Lights 🍻 Wolf River Lodge  - Meat Raffle 🎲 Boathouse  - Pick the Joker (6 & 7 PM sign-in, drawing at 7:15 PM) ⛳ Fremont Riverdeck  - Indoor Golf ($40/hr) 📅 Friday (3/21) 🐟 Friday Fish Specials at: Anglers Wolf River Lodge Gala Resort (Award-Winning Fish Fry) Bridge Bar Hotel Fremont Nauti Turtle ⛳ Fremont Riverdeck  - Indoor Golf ($60/hr) 📅 Saturday (3/22) 🍻 Buss Stop  - Cowboys and Fidlin’ Ed 3pm 🎲 Boathouse  - Pick the Joker 1, 3, and 5 PM sign-in, Bryan Kimpel music, 8pm! 🎱 Wolf River Lodge  - 1 PM Singles Pool Tournament 👜 Fremont Chamber of Commerce Designer Bag Bingo  - 12 PM & 5 PM ($40 per session, email travelfremontwi@gmail.com  for more info) 🥩 Prime Rib Specials at: Hotel Fremont Nauti Turtle 🚍 Bridge Bar  - New Dublin Pick-Up Spot at 10:45am to St. Patrick’s Celebration! Call Double J Shuttle Service to reserve your ride. 📅 Sunday (3/23) 🍗 Broasted Chicken Specials at: Wolf River Lodge Hotel Fremont (Sunday Funday) 🥂 Nauti Turtle  - Brunch (10 AM - 12 PM) + $10 Specials until 5 PM ⛳ Fremont Riverdeck  - Indoor Golf ($60/hr) 📅 Monday (3/24) 🍕 American Legion Post 391  - Pizza Night (Bar opens at 4 PM, pizza starts at 4:30 PM, dine-in or carry-out, call 920-446-3616) Get out and enjoy all that Fremont has to offer! 🎶🍻⛳🐟 📩 Got an event to share?  Send your details to events@weyauwegafremontnews.com

September 15, 1940  -  March 19, 2025 Susan J. Langdon, age 84, of Fremont, died on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Appleton .  She was born on September 15, 1940 in , the daughter of the late Wallace and Merna (Bork) Frost. After graduating from Clintonville High School, Susie worked for the phone company in Weyauwega .  She then met Stan Langdon and they were married.  Together they moved to Sarasota, Florida where Stan ran his optometry practice and Susie worked as his receptionist.  Stan passed away suddenly in 1986.  Susie later met Carroll "Cal" Howlett. They spent many years living in Florida before returning to Fremont, Wisconsin.  Susie and Cal were together for 39 years before Cal preceded her in death on October 20, 2024.     Susie loved traveling, and visited many places around the world.  She also liked reading, shopping, socializing,  and will be remembered for her feisty personality.  Susie also enjoyed spending time with some of her special nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Susie is survived by her nieces and nephews,Tim, Mark, Lori, Amy, Mary, Julie, Vicki, Jeff, Lee, Lynn, Debbie, Brian and Lisa; she is also survived by many great-nieces and nephews and their families.   She was preceded in death by her parents Wallace and Merna(Bork)Frost,her husband, Stanley Langdon, her significant other, Cal Howlett, two brothers, Doug(Luella)Frost and Willy Frost and two sisters, Dolores(Butch)Wohlt and Claudette(John  "Casey") Looker, two nephews, Scott and Todd and a niece, SueAnn.   A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at the Lewin Funeral Home, 210 W. Main St., Fremont at 2PM.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday from 12:30 PM until the time of service. Lewin funeral home is assisting a family with arrangements. To purchase flowers, or to leave tribute. Please go to their website here: https://www.lewinfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Susan-J-Langdon?obId=39783115#/obituaryInfo

Fremont is filled with amazing businesses, organizations, and hidden gems that make our community special—and now, it’s time to celebrate them! The Best of Fremont Area competition is officially underway, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to vote for their favorite local spots. With 20 categories to vote on, this is your opportunity to recognize the hardworking businesses and community staples that help make Fremont a premier destination. Whether it’s your go-to restaurant, a favorite boutique, or a standout local service, your vote helps shine a light on what makes Fremont truly unique. How to Participate: 📅 Competition Runs Until: September 1st 📍 Where to Vote: Best of Fremont Survey 🏆 Categories: From dining and shopping to recreation and community services, there’s something for everyone! Use this time to revisit old favorites and maybe even discover a few new ones! Let’s come together as a community to celebrate the businesses and organizations that make Fremont a fantastic place to live, work, and visit. Spread the word, cast your votes, and show your support for The Best of Fremont Area!

This week, we thank the Fremont Chamber of Commerce for supporting the week of Weyauwega Fremont News and Events! Nestled along the beautiful Wolf River, the Fremont Chamber of Commerce continues to play a vital role in fostering economic growth, community events, and tourism in the area. This dedicated organization supports businesses, promotes local events, and ensures that both residents and visitors experience all that Fremont has to offer. Purse Bingo Takes Center Stage! One of the chamber's most highly anticipated events is  Purse Bingo , which will take place this  Saturday, March 22,  at the  Fremont River Deck.  This exciting event draws locals and visitors from all over to win high-end designer handbags while supporting community initiatives. Tickets are exclusively available at Hotel Fremont , open daily now, until the event, and will be sold at the door. Whether you're a seasoned bingo player or just looking for a fun day on the town, this event promises a day of entertainment, great prizes, and full of Fremont Fun! Check out all the happenings between and after purse bingo at the local restaurants and bars! Cowboy and Friends perform at the Buss stop at 3, while Pick the Joker happens at the boathouse at 1,3, and 5 pm, with Bryan Kimple playing at 8 pm! Fremont Chamber Partners for Safe Rides To ensure locals and tourists alike get home safe, the Fremont Chamber is proud to team up again with Double J Shuttle Service to provide free shuttle rides to New London’s New Dublin celebration with a pickup at 10:45 AM from the Bridge Bar parking lot. Contact Double J to reserve your spot by calling 920-470-9495! Chamber President Lisa Socha expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We love seeing the community come together for events like Purse Bingo. The support we receive allows us to continue offering services like free shuttle rides, making Fremont a safer and more enjoyable place for all.” The Heart of Fremont’s Community The Fremont Chamber of Commerce is all about creating a welcoming, thriving community. From supporting small businesses to organizing events that support the Village and Town of Fremont, Wolf River, and Orihula, the Chamber is at the heart of what makes the greater Fremont so special. Come Visit, Explore, and Support Fremont! By participating in events like Purse Bingo and utilizing community resources like the free shuttle service, you’re helping ensure that Fremont continues to be a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Stay tuned for more exciting events from the Fremont Chamber of Commerce, and be sure to shop, dine, and play local! For more information, visit the Fremont Chamber of Commerce at TravelFremontWI.com

January 29, 1940 — March 12, 2025 Romilda A. Timm age 85, of Weyauwega, passed away at Bethany Home in Waupaca, on March 12, 2025. She was born on January 29, 1940, in Keshena, Wisconsin, the daughter of the late Laverne Akey and Bernard Frechette. On December 28, 1960, she was united in marriage to Dennis Timm. Together, they had four children:  Todd (Kristine) Timm, Oshkosh. Grandchildren: Eric, Oshkosh; Kayla (Markus) Holzem, Oshkosh; and Bria (Sam) Lemery, Oshkosh. Great grandchildren: Aricka, Scott and Kinzley. Thomas Timm, passed away on July 31, 2001. Tricia (David) Bosquez, Weyauwega. Grandchildren: Kyle (Briana) Bosquez, Weyauwega; Cole Bosquez, Fremont; Taryn Bosquez, Weyauwega; Logan Bosquez, Appleton; and Josie Bosquez, Weyauwega. Great grandchildren: Rylee, Owyn and Shea. Timothy (Julie) Timm, Hortonville. Grandchildren: Carson, Appleton and Hayden, Hortonville. She is also survived by brothers-in-law: Russell (Diane) Schoenick, Phoenix, AZ; Orville Schoenick, Waterford, MI; Roger Schoenick, Portage, WI. Sister-in-law, Genevive Lavery, Colorado Springs, CO. Also, numerous other nephews, nieces, cousins, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis; son Tommy; brothers: Lyle Frechette and Mark Akey; parents, Laverne and Ray Akey; in-laws, Nora and Norman Schoenick; sisters-in-law: Sandy Akey, Patricia Frechette and Betty Schoenick; brothers-in-law: Tom Schoenick and Richard Lavery; a special cousin, Ronald Pleshek; and a nephew, Ryan Akey. Romilda (Mel) was involved in many activities during her wonderful life. She worked as a lab technician early on and later worked for Dr. Brownlow in his optometry business. But her full-time passion was being a mother to her four children. She dedicated her life to caring for her son, Tommy. Mel was very active in the lives of all her children and grandchildren's school and extracurricular activities. Outside of the home, Mel was spending time with a large group of special friends, enjoying the regular card club group, cook outs, playing bingo at the casino and taking wonderful vacations. In her younger years, she and Dennis were involved in the local Jaycee's/Jaycette's. Mel was very proud of all her children and grandchildren, and she will be missed greatly by all her family and friends. Her family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home in Waupaca and Thedacare Hospice for all the services they provided. The Funeral Mass for Mel will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Weyauwega with Fr. Kris Mekala officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Weyauwega. A visitation for Mel will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at the Dahlke Life Celebration Center in Weyauwega from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and on Friday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Dahlke Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Romilda A. Timm, please visit their flower store here.

The Fremont Elementary PTO, in collaboration with the Student Council, has launched an exciting fundraiser to bring brand-new pickleball courts to the school! Their goal? Raise $1,000 through the sale of Little Caesars Pizza Kits —a delicious way to support a great cause! Each pizza kit sold earns $6 toward their goal, and with no money collection or deliveries required, participation couldn’t be easier. Simply follow the fundraiser link, share it with friends and family, and let the orders roll in. The sale runs from Friday, 2/28, through Monday, 3/31 , and all items are shipped directly to buyers—no hassle for parents or volunteers! Whether you’re a pizza lover or just want to support the community, now’s the perfect time to help Fremont Elementary students bring their pickleball dreams to life. 👉 Ready to order?  Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/4hGigKD  to place your order today! 📩 Have a local story to share?  Send it to Events@WeyauwegaFremontNews.com  and help us spread the word about great things happening in our community!

August 8, 1946 — March 11, 2025 Barbara Jean Hecht, age 78, of Weyauwega, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at New London Medical Center in New London, WI. She was born on August 8, 1946, in Geneva, IL, daughter of the late Lawrence and Doris (Read) Lauck. Barb, as she was lovingly known, lived a life dedicated to education and helping others. She spent her formative years in various cities throughout Illinois before making her final move to Weyauwega in 1990. For many years, Barb served as an elementary school teacher in Illinois, nurturing young minds and instilling a love of learning. Her passion for education continued when she transitioned to the School District of Weyauwega, where she became a dedicated At-Risk teacher at Weyauwega-Fremont High School. Barb was instrumental in establishing the At-Risk program, providing crucial support and guidance to students facing challenges, and helping them achieve their dreams of graduation. Her dedication extended beyond high school, as she also created the At-Risk Adult Program at Carl Sandburg Junior College. Additionally, she established a scholarship program to further support at-risk students. Barb's impact on her community was profound, and her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched. Her love story with her husband, Robert D. Hecht, was one of enduring affection. Married for 57 years, they shared a deep bond, evident in their loving hand-holding and playful banter. Barb was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert D. Hecht; her children: Laura Hecht of Weyauwega, and Larry (Jen) Hecht of Texas; her grandchildren: Christian Hecht (US Army), Rylee Fibke Hecht (Lexus Hecht), Izaac Fibke Hecht, Madylynn Hecht, Emma Hecht, and Lucas Hecht; and her great-grandchildren: Anthony Hecht, Linkyn Hecht, and Ezekiel Hecht. She also leaves behind her sister, Claudette Harrington, and many beloved nephews, nieces, in-laws, and cousins. A Memorial Service for Barb will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 11:00am at the Dahlke Life Celebration Center in Weyauwega with Rev. Jim Harley from Victory Church in New London officiating. A gathering of family and friends will take place prior to the service from 9:00am - 10:45am.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to go towards a scholarship fund in Barb's name, dedicated to supporting at-risk students at Weyauwega-Fremont School District. Please direct donations in her husband's name, Robert Hecht. Dahlke Funeral home is assisting the family with arrangements, to order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Barbara J. Hecht, please visit their flower store .