In Memoriam | Sheboygan County Historical Society Museum

Henry Jung

The staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers of the Sheboygan County Historical Society were deeply saddened at the loss of Honorary Board Member, Henry Jung. His dedication and service to not only our organization, but the community (and beyond) will be felt for generations to come. We extend our deepest condolences to all those who mourn Henry’s loss, especially his wife Eleanor, son Tom, and the entire Jung family. In the spirit of Henry’s love of history, his always supportive manner, and his joyful person, we share a few of our favorite photos, along with Executive Director Travis Gross’ comments at the time of Henry’s transition to Honorary Board Member in 2019.

Sometimes an organization is blessed with a person that goes above and beyond all expectations. I am overjoyed to acknowledge our newest Honorary Board Member who exemplifies this type of person. Mr. Henry Jung came to the Society in 1998 and within a few years became a Board Member, retaining a position on the board for 14 years. His thoughtful insights and knowledge have aided the Society in improving its operations and services to the community.

Henry’s involvement, however, was not only as a Board Member. Henry served on numerous committees including Budget, Financial Development, Endowment and Executive. Henry served as Chair of the Programming Committee for over ten years and was involved in developing the Society’s popular Third Saturdays programs. He was always present welcoming our guests during our programs. He was also instrumental in securing properties for our popular Historic Homes Tours.

Henry’s skills as a fundraiser made sure our programming was always financially supported and still is today. To honor a friend and another Society volunteer, Henry suggested and helped develop the Kenneth W. Conger Educational Endowment Fund. This fund is utilized to pay for one of the Society’s Educational Programming staff members. Henry’s thoughtfulness honored Ken’s legacy at the Society and cemented financial support for the Education Programs in perpetuity.

Thank you Henry for your over-the-top support of the Society. It was, and continues to be, an honor to know you and work with you. ~Travis

Bernie Markevitch

We at the Historical Society were saddened over the weekend by the news of Bernie Markevitch’s passing. Bernie was a highly involved volunteer and supporter of the Society, especially our Holiday Memories event.

Bernie came to the museum more than two decades ago when he started helping with the Taylor House decorations during Holiday Memories. Through the years Bernie helped with other events and was always available to answer questions or give suggestions on our displays. In 2013, Bernie took over the position of “Lead Elf” during Holiday Memories, not only maintaining his role with the Taylor House but also taking on the challenge of using the Prange’s animated pieces in our ever changing holiday vignettes. He also shared his vision for taking the decorations throughout the entire museum, a vision that helped us in increasing the popularity of the event. Putting it simply, Bernie would suggest a vision and we would apply it. Rarely if ever did it not produce something magical.

Bernie was also a walking encyclopedia of Sheboygan history. None of us will forget the conversations on the topic anytime soon. He had a story for every store in the downtown area, often involving his creative display abilities. In fact, his knowledge was so deep that he partnered with friend and fellow Society volunteer Henry Jung to bring us the “Bernie and Henry Show”, a walk down memory lane of growing up and living in Sheboygan through their eyes. It has been one of our highest attended events in the past 10 years.

The staff, Board of Directors and volunteers send our deepest condolences to Bernie’s loved ones, we are all truly saddened by this loss. But we are all honored and consider it a privilege to have known and worked with Bernie, he will never leave any of our memories. His boisterous laugh and stellar sense of humor can now be shared beyond our physical world.

Rest in peace Bernie.

Travis Gross

Executive Director