Elizabeth E. Ingersoll, age 97, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Cranberry Court in Wisconsin Rapids. Elizabeth was born October 31, 1928, in Almond to Anthony and Gladys (Walker) Wallner. She grew up on the family farm south of Plainfield and was one of eight children, experiences that shaped her lifelong faith, service, and dedication to others. She graduated from Plainfield High School and attended the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. Elizabeth devoted her career to education, teaching in Hancock, Almond, the Tri-County Area School District, and a rural school in Arnott, where she influenced many young lives. Faith was central to Elizabeth’s life. A devoted member of Plainfield United Methodist Church, she served as advisory council chair, choir member, church school superintendent, and teacher in church school and Vacation Bible School. She was also active in United Methodist Women locally and at the district level. Elizabeth also served her community with distinction. She was a Village of Plainfield Trustee for 20 years, served on numerous committees, and was a member of the Plainfield Library Board and the Waushara American Cancer Society. She also devoted many years to the Gideon Auxiliary, joining in 1973 and serving in numerous leadership roles, including president and vice president for Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula. Elizabeth is survived by her grandchildren, Kimberly (Russell) Freeman, Larry (Denise) Sanchez, and Lance (Kristie) Sanchez; her great-grandchildren, Hailey, Derek, Dalton, Glenda, Landon, Julian, Alexa, and Kiara; her step-son, Stephen (Susan) Ingersoll; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Merlin W. Tunks and Wilbur “Bill” Ingersoll; her daughter, Glenda Faye Sanchez; and her siblings, Donald (Dorthy) Wallner, Walker (Donna) Wallner, Jean (Ellsworth) Barden, Lauretta (Lowell) Detlor, Dorothy (Raymond) Helmrick, Mary (Pat) Smith, and Carol (Donald) Klabunde. A funeral service will be held Saturday, June 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Plainfield United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Elizabeth will be laid to rest beside her husband Merlin in Plainfield Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Plainfield United Methodist Church would be appreciated. Please visit, www.stahlfuneralhome.com to share your online condolences. Elizabeth’s life was marked by faith, service, and quiet strength. She will be remembered for her kindness, devotion to family and community, and the lasting impact she made on so many lives.
