Nicholas "Nick" F. Britten

Nicholas "Nick" Frank Britten, age 95, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026. He was born on June 11, 1930 to Frank Charles Britten and Gertrude “Mayme” (Shoop) Britten, and remained deeply rooted in Wisconsin throughout his life.

Nick devoted his life to farming, finding joy and purpose in raising horses and cows and caring for the land he loved. His days were shaped by hard work, steady routines, and a quiet appreciation for the simple beauty of rural life.

He was united in marriage to Mary Elaine Hannan, with whom he shared more than 60 years of love, partnership, and devotion. Together, they built a life grounded in family, faith, and perseverance. He was preceded in death by his wife, three brothers, Byron, Francis, and Roy; four sisters-in-law, Jan, Karen, Kay, and Marge, and five brothers-in-law, David, Jim, Joe, Richard, and Wayne.

Nick is survived by his children, Jolene Britten Johnson and Franklin Britten (Dawn Olson); his grandchildren, Nick Britten (Courtney Britten), Lindsey Johnson (Eric Dawson), and Josh Austin; and his cherished great-grandchild, Cullen Britten, whose arrival brought him particular excitement and pride. Additionally, he is fondly remembered by sisters-in-law, Linda and Mildred, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Nick was deeply grateful for the kindness and friendship of his neighbors and friends, including but not limited to Annette and Terry Schoenberg, Jim and Rose Huse, Jeff and Vicki Blomberg and Jim and Melissa Hodgson. Special thank you to Ken and Mary Sweeney, who helped by driving him to appointments for many years and who accompanied him on rides around the countryside to look at open fields and hay bales—simple moments that meant so much to him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 30, at 11:00 a.m. at the Island Lake Church of Christ in Island Lake, Wisconsin with Angela Nelson officiating. Nick will be remembered for his wittiness, outgoing friendliness, unwavering work ethic, love of the land, and devotion to his family.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.