Jay Dee Stump, born October 16, 1962, in Neillsville, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 6, 2025, in Hurley, Wisconsin. His passing leaves a deep
void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Jay was a lifelong farmer with a deep love for the land and animals. He grew up in Greenwood, Wisconsin, on Distinction Farm, where his roots in agriculture began. As a youth, he proudly showed registered Holsteins through 4-H and FFA.
In 1985, Jay married the love of his life, Lona Schmidt. Together, they operated Distinction Farm, breeding registered Holsteins and raising their children, Austen and Leah, on the farm until 1998. They later moved to Willard, Wisconsin, where Jay continued his passion for farming crops. When they moved, Jay bought Leah her first horse and supported her in showing registered Holsteins through 4-H and at the State Fair—something that made him especially proud.
Jay and his son, Austen worked side-by-side, cooperatively running their farming operations and sharing equipment. His legacy will undoubtedly continue through Austen (Lindsey), who shares his same dedication and love for the land.
Outside of farming, Jay had a zest for life and adventure. He and Lona shared a love of snowmobiling and UTVing, which led them to purchase a home in Hurley—a perfect spot to hit the trails and host friends who shared their passion. Jay was an active member and volunteer in his local snowmobile clubs, teaching safety courses and helping groom and maintain trails for both the GWR Riders and White Thunder Riders.
Jay will be deeply missed by his wife, Lona; his children, Austen (Lindsey) and Leah (Chris) Urso; and his beloved granddaughters, Kennedy and Emersyn. He is also survived by his parents, Keith and Dawn Stump; sisters, Jill (Jim Hoskens) and Janet (Dan) Stensgard; brothers-in-law, Scott (Julie) Schmidt and Chad (Cheryl) Schmidt; nieces and nephews; and too many friends to name.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local snowmobile club in Jay’s memory—help keep the trails smooth and the ride going for generations to come.
Jay’s strong work ethic, sense of humor, and love for family, farming, and the outdoors will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him. May the snow always be fresh, the trails wide open, and the laughter loud.
“Done talkin.”
We invite you to join us in sharing your memories of Jay at a celebration of life on Sunday, October 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pine Lake Lodge in Mercer, Wisconsin.
