DEFOREST-Ann Manthe, age 83, of De Forest and formerly Arlington, died peacefully at home on March 15, 2016, following a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Ann was born on August 6, 1932, the daughter of Frank and Margaret (Catlin) Willard. She was married to David Manthe on April 7, 1951 and throughout their marriage worked along with him in his milk hauling business. She also transported special education children to school, and drove school bus for the Poynette and De Forest School Systems for many years. She loved her family and friends; her gardens; and animals, especially her faithful companion, Parlay the dog, who brought her so much joy in difficult times. Her beautiful and contagious smile, love, and caring nature will be sorely missed.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, David; her son and daughters, David (Nancy Swiggum), Margaret (Randy) Schuster and Cindy; granddaughter, Stacey (Scott) Kuiper; grandsons Brett (Katy) Schuster, Jordan Manthe, and Neil Manthe; great grandchildren, Grace, Hannah, Molly, and Noah Kuiper and Owen Schuster; life-time friend, Dorothy Stoltenberg; and neighbor and dear friend, Doris Manthe.

She was preceded in death by her parents; twin sister, Mary Wagner; and brothers, Robert and William Willard.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 18, 2016, at ZION EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, W6906 Co Rd K, Arlington, with Rev. Scott Schwertfeger and the Rev. Jacob Scott officiating. A visitation will be held at the church on Thursday, March 17, 2016, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and again from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the day of the funeral. Interment will be in the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Leeds.

The Ryan Funeral Home is assisting the family.

The family would like to thank the staff of Agrace HospiceCare, especially Lynn and Angela, for their care and support during Mom’s long journey.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ann Manthe

August 06, 1932 - March 15, 2016

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