Wava Jean Vertein

Wava Jean Vertein, 85, of North Freedom passed away Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at St. Clare Meadows. Wava was born on May 29, 1932, the daughter of the late Lloyd and Vera (Frambs) Bender. She married Merrell H. Vertein on June 14, 1952 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in North Freedom. Wava was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary since 1955. A lifelong member and supporter of the Mid-Continent Railroad Museum in North Freedom. Together with her husband they owned and operated Benders Feed Mill located in North Freedom and Baraboo along with the Vertein Oil Company of North Freedom. She enjoyed playing cards and traveling.She is survived by her children, Cindy (Jeff) Haertlein of North Freedom, Greg (Dawn) Vertein of Stevens Point; 2 grandchildren, Nicholas Vertein and Brenna Vertein both of Stevens Point. She is further survived by her 2 brothers, James (Sandy) Bender and Keith Bender; an uncle, Roger Frambs; in-laws, Harriet (Ray) Schroeder, Don (Lyla) Vertein; and many other loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Merrell; a son, Randall Vertein; and in-laws, Harry and Amanda Vertein.Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Baraboo at 11 am with Pastor Karen Hofstad officiating. Visitation will be held from 9 am until the time of service at church. Burial will follow at Oak Hill in North Freedom.