Verla R. Bilgo (née Schloemer), 95, of Kewaskum, passed away on April 9, 2026, at Kathy’s Hospice, with her loving family at her side.

Verla was born on March 17, 1931, in West Bend, the daughter of the late Austin and Camilla (Farber) Schloemer. On July 18, 1953, she was united in marriage to her lifelong love and best friend, August (Augie) Bilgo Jr., at Trinity Lutheran Church in West Bend. Verla was a woman of faith, which guided her through life’s highest joys and deepest challenges. She was also a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, and spending time with her family was one of her favorite pastimes. Verla enjoyed frequenting auctions and antiquing with Augie across the Midwest. She enjoyed a good hand of sheepshead and was not above cheating while playing Old Maid with her great-grandchildren. In their retirement, Verla and Augie enjoyed camping, storytelling, and a good old-fashioned. Verla was a devoted fan of the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, and Badgers, and could often be found in front of the TV cheering on her teams.

Verla was a light and positive presence. She had a way of making others feel welcome, and those who spent time with her always left feeling better than when they arrived. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Those Verla leaves behind to cherish her memory include her four loving children: Deb (Mike) Doherty of Kewaskum; Doug (Mary) Bilgo of Campbellsport; Jim (Anne) Bilgo of Valders; and Sherry (Scott) Thelen of Kewaskum; 11 grandchildren: Nicole (Scott) Heller, Damien Doherty, Austin (Lindsay) Doherty, Kim (Tedi) Keceli, Whitney (Alex) Bretl, Danielle (Kerry) Kopelke, Tyler Bilgo, Riley Bilgo, Rachel (Zach) Marston, Paige (Josh) Peterson, and Jade (Branden) Benoit; 18 great-grandchildren; other relatives; and many friends. Special thanks to Verla’s good friend, Madelynn Miezio, who spent many hours providing her comfort and companionship.

In addition to her parents, Verla was preceded in death by her husband, Augie; sisters: Joyce (Glenway) Fischer, Shirley Schloemer, Camilla (Jim) Kreis, and Bernetta (Charles) Sutherland; and brother-in-law Roger (Barbara) Bilgo.

Private family graveside services will be held at Lutheran Memorial Park in Kewaskum, with Rev. Paul Cerny officiating.

Memorials to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Campbellsport or Kathy Hospice, in Verla’s name, would be appreciated.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the nurses, doctors, and staff at The Cottages and Kathy Hospice for their compassionate care and kindness.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Verla’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.