Marguerite Goetsch

Marguerite "Marge" B. Goetsch, age 97, of Neillsville, WI, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 3, 2023, at her home.

Marguerite Belle Mann was born on May 12, 1926, in DePere, WI, to proud parents Preston and Lillian (Sickles) Mann. She graduated from West DePere High School in 1944 and furthered her education at Carroll College, earning a degree in education in 1950. On July 31, 1947, she married the love of her life, David Goetsch, in Waukesha, WI. Marge dedicated herself to raising their family, and in 1962, she embarked on a fulfilling teaching career at Waukesha High School - South Campus, retiring in 1984. She and David then made their home in St. Germain, WI following retirement. In 1998, they settled in Neillsville, WI.

Marge's faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was an active member of the Presbyterian Church in Waukesha and later, the United Church of Christ in both St. Germain and Neillsville. She served on numerous state committees for the United Church of Christ, including the board of directors for the Neillsville UCC and the Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers as well as church Moderator for several years. Marge's dedication extended to volunteering at the Neillsville Care and Rehabilitation Center and The HighGround. She was also a member of P.E.O., the Red Hat Society, and the Alpha Z Delta Sorority. Marge enjoyed playing Bridge, Sheepshead, and Cribbage, was part of several bridge clubs, and cherished her outings to Lake Michigan for fishing and world-wide travels.

Marge leaves behind a profound legacy. She wished to be remembered for the positive impact she had on her students' lives, helping them make better choices. Above all, she aspired to be a loving mother and was widely admired for her selflessness years of volunteerism. She will be remembered for her humor and kindness.

The family extends a special thank you to Linda Rodrigues for her loving care, companionship, and compassion, which allowed Marge to maintain her independence. Joyce Baker played a vital role in Marge's life, accompanying her to various social events and community outings. Through her church involvement, Marge formed a cherished friendship with Carole Romens, sharing memorable visits and treats.

Marge's parting message to her loved ones was simple yet profound: "I always tried to do what I thought was right and fair. Maybe I wasn't, but I tried."

She is survived by her daughters, Susan Pavlovich of Pewaukee, WI, Lisa (Thomas) Nagel of St. Germain, WI, and Debbie (Mike) Perkl of Neillsville, WI, along with her granddaughters Corrie (Jason) Boon of Eau Claire, WI, Elizabeth (Nick) Nett of Chippewa Falls, WI, Kristin Taipale of Hammond, WI, Erin Pavlovich of Oconomowoc, WI, Angela Wellhouse of Oconomowoc, WI, and grandsons Matt (Sheila) Nagel of St. Germain, WI, and Mike (Cortney) Nagel of Waukesha, WI. Her great-grandchildren include Max, Brooklynn and Jordan Boon, Kendall Nett, Eric and Sarah Nagel, Brieley and Brenden Nagel, Keanna (Maxx) Schmidt, Paul Breznik-Pavlovich, Samantha Wellhouse, and Alyssa Pavlovich. She is also survived by great-great-grandchildren Miles and Blaire Schmidt.

Additionally, she is survived by many nieces and nephews, including a special niece, Carol, and a special nephew, David.

Marge was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David, her parents, Preston and Lillian Mann, and her siblings, Charlie Mann, Earl Mann, Raymond Mann, Bobbie Mann, Virginia Barnes, and Mary Luepke.

A Memorial Service in honor of Marge will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the United Church of Christ in Neillsville. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on the same day at the United Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers Memorials may be directed to the United Church of Christ, 515 W. 2nd St., Neillsville, WI 54456 or Meals on Wheels of Clark County, 517 Court St., Neillsville, WI 54456.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Marge's family with funeral arrangements.