Obituaries: December 20, 2024

Thomas J. Oyster
Thomas J. Oyster, 84, of Markesan, Wis., passed away on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, at his home. Per his wishes, no funeral service will be held. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Ripon, Wis. Arrangements are with Butzin-Marchant Funeral Home of Ripon.
Tom was born on Jan. 5, 1940, in Green Bay, Wis., the son of George W. Jr. and Margaret M. Jordan Oyster. He graduated from high school in Green Bay and went on to Ripon College for his undergraduate studies, eventually earning his master’s degree in science at Purdue University.
He started his teaching career in Menasha, Wis., before spending most of his career as a chemistry professor at Ripon College.
In addition to his profound teaching career, Tom accomplished many other things in life. He also earned a computer science degree and developed computer systems and software for Green Lake and for Princeton High School, where he was the coordinator of computer activities. He worked in the computer science program at Ripon College, as well as at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tenn. Tom was also a commercial pilot, flying businessmen around the Green Lake area. He was an avid ice-boater and enjoyed skiing and hiking in Colorado. Tom was an accomplished woodworker, often working on projects with his Amish friends in the area. In his spare time, he listened to classical music, spent time with his dogs throughout the years, and enjoyed a good happy hour with his many friends.
Tom is survived by his dog, Colt; and many good friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George Jr. and Margaret Oyster; sister, Nancy Oyster; and aunt, Leone Oyster.

Walter B. Moe
Walter Bertram Moe, 89, of Lake Vermilion, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in the hospital. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia.

Irene Ritsche
Irene Dahlquist Ritsche, 93, of Babbitt, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. A graveside service was held on Tuesday, Dec. 17 at the Argo Cemetery. A family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.
She is survived by her daughters, Jan (Bill) Gutekunst and Sharon (Erick) Gresly; grandchildren, Joe (Stephanee) Sullivan, Robin (Ryan) Egan, Erik (Caitlin) Gutekunst, Sara (fiance Scott) Gutekunst, Kirstin (Aaron) Magnuson and Ryan Nephew; many great-grandchildren; and niece, Barbara (Ron) Bunnell.