WITTE

Fern Irene Witte, 99, of Sparta, IL; born on February 5, 1924 in Tilden, IL; the daughter of Everett and Florence (Morton) Snodgrass; passed away on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at Coulterville Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

Fern left her home to join the United States Army as a field nurse at the age of 17.  The war ended before she could be deployed to serve overseas, but she continued her education to become the first pediatric nurse practitioner in the State of Wisconsin.  Fern was always on the move while working as a PNP.  It was no surprise when she had to leave any time of the day or night to help those in need.  There were times that she treated people from her home as well, whether it was giving stitches to someone in need or treating other injuries.  Fern was a hard worker that never knew how to sit still and a helper that never turned anyone away.  She enjoyed water skiing, gardening, and knitting while watching television.

She is survived by three children – Reta (John) Michak of Centennial, CO, Ralph (Amy) Witte of Green Bay, WI, and Rick (Randy Syphr) Witte of Portland, OR; eight grandchildren – Rachel Keen, Katie Witte, Robb Witte, Karl Witte, Molly Baron, Whitney Adams, Mark Witte, and Laurel Dznezlade; eight great grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Fern was preceded in death by her husband – Clarence Witte who passed away in 2004; parents; son – Robert Witte; grandson – John Michak; two sisters – Lucille Guthrie and Juanita Crockett; brother – Daryl Snodgrass.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.  Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Carl Miller officiating.  Committal services will be held at Tilden Cemetery in Tilden, IL.

Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.