Elden John Waltemath

Elden John Waltemath, better known as John, age 71, of Necedah, Wisconsin, passed away at his home on Monday, March 2, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with cancer, with his love, Gina Osmolski, by his side.

Born on July 29th, 1954, in Necedah, Wisconsin, to parents Blanche and Fritz, he lived his entire life in Necedah. Driving over the bridge next to the dam his father helped build, past the Veteran's Home where his mother cooked pies and meals, and talking smart at the Veteran's Hall, named for his brother who gave his life in Vietnam. Necedah was his home, his family, and he lived a rich life surrounded by everyone and everything that was important to him.

John was one of ten children and many, many, more cousins, aunts, and uncles. He graduated from Necedah High School in 1972 and married Katherine Hanson on February 3, 1973. They were married for 24 years and had three children: Nicole, Shelli, and John.

Life was full of lessons and adventures. Camping with the cousins, family trips out West, hunting, fishing, and family reunions. Boy those family reunions. How to check and change your oil, how to spot poison ivy, play pool, and how to clean a fish. Lessons were taught like, "Always keep your word," "Don't lend money you expect to get back," and "Do as I say, not as I do." Good thing we didn't listen too much to that last one because he did a lot of good things.

John is survived by his partner, Gina Osmolski; his children: Nicole (Michael Wenberg) Waltemath, Shelli (Garrett Jasinski) Waltemath, and John (Nicole Baldwin) Waltemath; his grandchildren: Hannah Matuszczak, Noah (Susie) Waltemath, and Jacob Waltemath; and his siblings: Peter Waltemath, Dawn Waltemath, Jean Ayres, and Janet Castell. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, second cousins, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Blanche and Frederick Waltemath, and his siblings: Arnold Chitwood, Robert Chitwood, Wayne Chitwood, Nick Waltemath, and Charlotte Hobart.

The family thanks all who knew dad and were part of his journey. It was a good one. Tell the stories.

A casual Celebration of John's Life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Necedah Veterans Memorial Hall. In lieu of flowers or cards, please consider making a donation in John's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Carl W. Nelson Animal Shelter, two organizations he frequently supported.

The Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.