Virgene “Jeanie” A. Wiedl, age 92, of Norwalk, WI, passed away Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Bethany St. Joseph’s in La Crosse, WI. Jeanie was born on March 16, 1934, during a terrible ice storm at the family farm, as the weather made it impossible to reach the hospital. She was the daughter of George W. and Marie Anna (Lawrence) Wiedl.
After graduating from Norwalk High School in 1952, Jeanie began a remarkable career of dedication and service. Each morning, she would rise early to milk the cows before heading to work at St. Mary’s Hospital in Sparta, now part of Mayo Clinic Health System. There, she trained on the job as a surgical assistant, building a career that spanned more than 50 years. Jeanie continued working until her retirement at the age of 77.
Jeanie is survived by her brother, Richard (Louise) Wiedl of Onalaska; sister-in-law, Marie Wiedl of Norwalk; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Jeanie was preceded in death by her parents George and Marie; her brothers, Lawrence “Fritz” and Tony Wiedl; sisters, Patricia Miller, Carol (William) Heller; and Mildred “Millie” Wiedl.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Norwalk, WI. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
