Dorothy Jean Neuman

Dorothy Jean (Halaska) Neuman, age 93, went to her heavenly home on May 3, 2024. She was born on April 3, 1931, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Joseph Albert and Anna Evelyn (Kerrigan) Halaska. She married the love of her life, Jerry Dean Neuman, on October 14, 1950, in La Crosse, WI, and they went on to have four loving children: Linda (Marshall Keith) Walker, Shari (Jon) Riley, Mark (devoted companion Deb Scheetz) Neuman, and Deanna (John) Wiatt. In addition to her children, she is survived by eight grandchildren: Jason (Angie) Riley, Joshua (Sarah) Riley, Justin (Shannon) Riley, Andrew (Mandy) Neuman, Keith David (Patti) Walker, Samuel (devoted companion Britney Held) Walker, Elizabeth (Samuel) McKenzie, and Annalea Scheck along with 19 great-grandchildren.

Dorothy's professional journey was marked by dedication and hard work. She served as the Personnel Manager at the La Crosse Garment Factory for over seven years and later as an administrative secretary at both St. Francis and Gundersen Lutheran Hospitals for over 40 years. Her commitment to her work was a testament to her strong character and work ethic.

A beacon of selflessness and warmth, Dorothy's life journey was defined by a strong faith in God and a boundless love for her family. This unwavering devotion was evident in every moment she spent with her family, with an added little sparkle in her eyes when any of her grandchildren were present. She put the needs of others before her own, and was always ready with a welcoming hug and a few words of advice. Family was the cornerstone of her joy, and she cherished every opportunity to gather together, especially during our annual trips to Spooner for almost 60 years. She remained the central role model for her family and encouraged everyone to stay connected and support one another.

Outside of her family and work, Dorothy found joy in her social circles. She was a cherished member of various card club groups, where laughter and camaraderie flourished around the table. She also enjoyed traveling, playing golf, and spending time with her Red Hat Ladies and Christian Women groups. Her social life was a testament to her vibrant personality and her ability to find solace and strength in the company of others.

Dorothy is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; parents, Joseph and Anna Evelyn; three sisters, Rita Belue, Rose Marie Halaska, and Mary Germann; and three brothers, Bernard Halaska, Joseph Halaska, and Charles Halaska.

Throughout her life, Dorothy was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. She demonstrated her commitment to Christ in all aspects of her daily life, following the words of her confirmation passage: "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the Crown of Life" Revelations 2:10.

Dorothy will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her legacy of love and faith will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

Services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1201 Avon Street, La Crosse, WI, on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Friends may call at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. The burial will immediately follow the service at Oak Grove Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Prairie Home Assisted Living, Bluffview Memory Care, and St. Croix Hospice for caring for Dorothy. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Dorothy Neuman’s honor may be sent directly to Immanuel Lutheran Church at 1201 Avon Street, La Crosse, WI 54601.