Linda Schiesser, age 80 of New Glarus, WI passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at SSM Health in Monroe, WI. She was born on July 16, 1944 the daughter of first generation Swiss American parents, Frank and Elda (Strahm) Schiesser at St. Clare Hospital in Monroe, WI. Linda grew up on a farm in rural Green County, WI, and her youth was spent exploring, questioning, and learning about the life around her. Her formal education began in a one room schoolhouse and ended with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
After teaching in several Wisconsin secondary schools for 15 years, she began another career in the tourism industry. Serving as a board of director member of several regional tourism groups, Linda promoted New Glarus and Green County. Being part of Wilhelm Tell Pageant for many years served as a springboard for promoting New Glarus. In 1985 she learned the Swiss folk art of paper cutting called scherenschnitte along with her mother. This became an avenue for learning more about the many facets of Switzerland and representing New Glarus at many events. She was co-author of “Swiss Cookery” and “The Swiss Endure: Year by Year-Chronological History.”
During her teaching career she was active in her local education organizations as an officer, newsletter editor, and board member. She actively supported the youth she taught by advising organizations and sewing for musical productions.
As her life evolved, another passion developed when she began working at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside Library Circulation Department as well as the Area Research Center and University Archives. Cataloging, organizing, and researching the primary documents available to those doing their genealogy which allowed her to learn about the many resources available.
Although Linda retired early, she remained active. After the passing of her father on April 15, 2002, she and her mother enjoyed traveling, doing folk art demonstrations, and learning something new each day. Linda has given back to her hometown by serving on the New Glarus Historic Preservation Commission, as a member of the New Glarus Excellence in Education Board, and monetarily supporting many local projects. For this effort she received the 2014 Spirit of Philanthropy Award from the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin.
She continued to be a lifelong member of the Swiss United Church of Christ and a supporter of all forms of educational efforts. Her belief that learning is the highest form of understanding and a way of continual growth has encouraged her each day of her life.
Committal services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, February 21, 2025 at the Zentner-Beal Funeral Home, 29 Sixth Ave., New Glarus, WI. Mary Gafner will officiate. Burial will follow in the Swiss Cemetery, New Glarus, WI alongside her family.
In lieu of expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice as a way of giving back to others.
Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com
