Beth Calkins

1949 - 2025

Beth Ann Calkins (Mueller), September 16, 1949 – October 13, 2025.

Beth Ann Calkins (Mueller), 76, of Elroy, Wisc., passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, in La Crosse, with her husband by her side.

Beth was born on September 16, 1949, in West Bend, Wisc., to Francis and Ruth Mueller, graduated from West Bend High School in 1967, and went on to earn her degree in Home Economics Education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She taught Home Economics in Middleton for a year, where she met her future husband, Kirk. Then they moved to Minocqua and lived there for two years before they realized that gardening in that area was very challenging. She, Kirk, and their children, Stephanie and Nathan, moved to their 43 acre rural residence just outside of Elroy in 1977 and have lived there ever since. Beth taught in the New Lisbon and Hillsboro School Districts, where she shared not only practical skills but also patience, creativity, and kindness with her students.

Beth practiced her profession at home by creating beauty with her hands and her heart. She enjoyed sharing her knowledge and creative skills with others. Beth loved weaving, sewing, crocheting, and gardening-and her home was always filled with colorful yarns, blooming plants, and handmade treasures. She found joy in the simple things: tending to her garden, crafting something new, or spending quiet time with family.

Beth's greatest pride and joy was her family and she will be remembered for her kindness and the way she made everyone feel cared for. She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Kirk, of Elroy; her children, Stephanie (John) Belter and Nathan (Mary) Calkins; her sisters, Joy (Bob) Hess and Lynn (Ron) Ackley; and her cherished grandchildren, Madeline, Mackenna, Marcus, and Juliet, who brought her endless happiness and laughter. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Ruth Mueller.

Memorial donations in Beth's name may be made to PBS Wisconsin.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, the Elroy Health Services, and to all those in the healthcare field who showed compassion and care throughout her journey.