Mrs. Elizabeth Julia "Liz" Holmes (née Mueller), of Washington Island, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, at her home on Washington Island. She was 84 years old.
Born on May 1, 1941, in Sterling, Illinois, Liz was the daughter of Clarence J. Mueller and Elizabeth (Betty) Galt Beard Mueller. She grew up in Sterling, where she attended local grade schools and graduated from high school. Her commitment to learning led her to Sauk Valley Community College, where she earned an associate’s degree in accounting.
Liz began her professional life working for an accounting firm in Manitowoc, WI. After a year there, she moved to Washington Island, a place that would become her lifelong home and the heart of her community involvement. On the Island, Liz embraced a multifaceted life: she worked on the farm and assisted the Town Assessor with bookkeeping duties. Her dedication to service extended into public office as well; she served as a Supervisor for the Town of Washington and contributed to several town committees over the years.
For nearly three decades, "Betsy call me Liz" was a familiar face at Karly's restaurant, where her presence became a cherished part of the establishment's fabric. She also welcomed countless visitors through her work at the Welcome Center at Northport, offering warmth and hospitality that reflected her deep love for the Island.
Liz found joy in many pursuits outside of work. She was an avid bridge player who treasured the time spent with friends around the card table. She liked to travel with friends around the Midwest and on an Alaskan cruise with cherished friends. Liz enjoyed the weekly social lunches with several Island women. She was a lifelong learner and creative spirit. Liz took classes at Sievers School of Fiber Arts, was an avid knitter of sweaters for family and friends, became one of the first EMTs with the WI Fire Dept., and enjoyed photography and reading interests that enriched her life and connected her with others who shared her passions.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Katharyn E. Anderson (Michael); son, W. Jens Jacobsen (Becky); brother, John Mueller (Jan); sister, Margaret Mueller Ulrich (Charles); favorite cousins, E. Rip Koken (Martina); two nieces, two nephews, and several grandchildren.
Liz was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sidney Holmes; previous husband, L. Duane "Dewey" Jacobsen; and brother, Michael J. Mueller (Kelly).
The family would like to thank Susan Wacaser for her help and companionship with Mother, and Unity Hospice for your help and guidance in Mother’s care.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH to honor Liz's life and legacy. A private burial will take place in the Washington Island Town Cemetery. A time of fellowship and lunch will follow the service in Trinity’s Fellowship Hall. The family appreciates gifts of salads, side dishes, and desserts to be shared. All are welcome!
In place of flowers, the family requests donations made to the following organizations: WICHP, Historical Archives, Rescue Squad, and Rec Center of Washington Island, WI, Unity Hospice, De Pere, WI or American Cancer Society.
May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.
Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Sister Bay, Wisconsin, is assisting the family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Liz may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.
