Orlan "Orlie" Holte

Orlan “Orlie” Holte, age 83, a lifelong resident of rural Westby, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2025, at Norseland Nursing Home surrounded by his family. He was born on September 5, 1941, in Viroqua, to Orvald and Thelma (Olson) Holte.

Orlie graduated from Westby High School in 1959. After high school, he ventured to Kenosha, where he worked at American Motors for a short time before returning to Westby to embrace life on the family farm. He managed a milk route for several years; however, his true passion was farming. In addition to working the land he loved, Orlie spent 20 years employed at Nelson Muffler before retiring in 2018.

Orlie was a loving husband to his wife, Susan “Deb” Holte, for 41 years and a caring father to his two daughters, Donna (Damien) Brown and Danielle Holte. He shared countless adventures with his brother, Loren (Judy) Holte, a bond filled with stories only siblings can share. Orlie is also survived by his nephew and niece, Justin Holte and Jaime (Chris) Richardson, his great-nieces and nephews, Macy, Jaylin, Logan, Dylan, and Ella, and many friends, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Orvald and Thelma Holte, as well as several close friends.

Known for his sharp sense of humor and mischievous spirit, Orlie was a jokester at heart who could always bring a smile to those around him. He had a love for life’s little thrills, his playful nature shone brightest when he was shooting off fireworks, a tradition that brought joy to many. Orlie was also drawn to a good game of euchre, spending countless hours playing cards with family and friends. A bit of a gambler at heart, he enjoyed making trips to the casino, always ready to test his luck. He also loved scratch-offs, convinced that the next one would be a big winner.

An avid outdoorsman, Orlie found happiness in fishing, hunting, and golfing. During the summer months, he could often be found mowing the lawn, taking pride in keeping his yard looking its best. When he wasn’t outdoors, he was cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers, remaining a loyal fan through every season.

Orlie’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Norseland Nursing Home for the compassionate care they provided. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Norseland Nursing Home in his honor.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Orlie will be laid to rest at Coon Prairie Cemetery. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com.

Orlie will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Orlie's family.

708 S. Main St.

Westby, WI 54667

608-634-2100