| Home Surname List Name Index Sources | Seventh Generation596. LaMont Rodney BURKHALTER59,281 was born on 26 August 1946 in Adrian Township, Monroe County, WI.59,764 He died on 27 June 2025 at the age of 78 in Tomah, Tomah Township, Monroe County, WI.59 Obituary Notes: "LaMont Rodney Burkhalter, age 78, of Tomah, passed away peacefully at home on June 27, 2025, with his beloved family by his side. Born to Arnold and Lucile (Albrecht) Burkhalter on August 26, 1946, in the Town of Adrian, LaMont lived a life rooted in service, resilience, community, and a deep connection to the land. Though he wore many hats in his lifetime—veteran, civil servant, inventor, jokester—he was, above all else, a proud Wisconsin farmer. After serving his country in the United States Air Force—including a tour in Vietnam where he was seriously injured—LaMont returned home with a determination that defied the odds. Told he would never walk again, he proved them wrong. That same grit and perseverance defined the rest of his life. In the years that followed, LaMont held federal positions at the VA Medical Center and Volk Field National Guard Air Force Base. But it was when he and his wife Joan returned to her family’s century-old farm that LaMont truly found his calling. Farming wasn’t just work to him—it was a passion, a way of life, and a source of endless pride. He threw himself into the land, making thoughtful and innovative updates to the farm that had been in Joan’s family for generations. He believed in hard work, conservation, and doing things right—even if it meant building the tools himself, like the no-till corn planter he designed and constructed by hand. In 1988, LaMont was honored as Conservation Farmer of the Year, a title that held deep personal meaning, as his father-in-law had received the same award in 1949. He was also recognized with numerous Dairy Proficiency Awards from Cenex Land O’ Lakes as a Top Milk Producer—accomplishments he wore with pride. Whether working the fields or repairing equipment in the shop, LaMont was in his element. He had an eye for fixing what others would throw away, and an unwavering respect for the land and animals in his care. LaMont was also a family man through and through. He shared 51 joyful, steadfast years with his wife Joan, and together they raised a family rooted in love, laughter, and tradition. He delighted in his grandchildren, beaming with pride at their accomplishments and never missing a chance to share a story—or a joke. LaMont also had a legendary poker table presence. His family would tease him that his nickname was “Chance” for his daring plays, he could lay down “a pair of ladies” and still come out ahead. When he won the pot, he’d scoop up his nickels with a trademark grin and a loud “Cha Ching!” Rap poker nights were a highlight, not for the winnings, but for the camaraderie, the laughs, and the joy of being surrounded by those he loved. LaMont’s constant companion on the farm was his loyal beagle, Lucky. The two were nearly inseparable—whether walking the fields, sitting on the porch, or taking a 4-wheeler ride. Lucky brought him comfort, joy, and the kind of steady companionship only a good dog can give. LaMont was a longtime member of St. John’s Church in Ridgeville. He especially enjoyed visits with Pastor Bob Gerke, whose conversations and friendship brought him comfort, reflection, and joy over the years. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan; his children: Ryan Burkhalter, Jason (Amanda) Burkhalter, and Lisa (Justin) Randall; grandchildren: Kimberly Burkhalter, Kyle (Nicole) Burkhalter, Aiden Burkhalter, Skyler Burkhalter, Wyatt Randall, and Gabrielle Burkhalter; great-grandchildren: Lillian and Dawson Lockington, and one great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by sisters Kathy Friske and Bonnie (Stewart) Kortbein, and a sister-in-law Linda Burkhalter as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. LaMont was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Lucile Burkhalter, and his siblings: LaVonne (Robert) Gerke, Junior Burkhalter, LaDene Zabinski, and Randy Burkhalter, brother-in-law, Jim Friske, Father and Mother-In-Law, Harold and Harriet (Burrows) Butterfuss, and a daughter, Jennifer Burkhalter. A proud member of the American Legion, LaMont leaves behind a legacy of strength, resourcefulness, and integrity. He will be remembered not only for the service he gave his country, but for the love he poured into his farm, his family, and his community—and for the joy he found in a well-played poker hand, a fixed machine, a family gathering, and a good visit with a trusted In LaMont’s memory, we say thank you—for the laughter, the hard work, the wisdom, and the life well lived. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon at the Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home 801 E. Monowau Street, Tomah. Pastor Robert Gerke will officiate. Burial will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery with military honors. A luncheon will be held immediately following the cemetery committal service at the Tomah American Legion. Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com." LaMont Rodney BURKHALTER and Sue Ellen GEHRKE were married on 12 December 1970 in Ridgeville Township, Monroe County, WI.764,765 at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Sue Ellen GEHRKE281, daughter of Harold Thomas GEHRKE and Leone Adell HOAG, was born on 17 November 1952.135 LaMont Rodney BURKHALTER and Sue Ellen GEHRKE had the following children:
LaMont Rodney BURKHALTER and Joan Marie BUTTERFUSS were married on 27 April 1974 in Ridgeville Township, Monroe County, WI.435,564,597,764 at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Joan Marie BUTTERFUSS, daughter of Harold Theodore BUTTERFUSS and Harriet Cecelia BURROWS, was born on 29 April 1950.764 LaMont Rodney BURKHALTER and Joan Marie BUTTERFUSS had the following children:
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