By Lori Ehde
A familiar landmark at Maplewood Cemetery is now missing after an apparent theft of an iron monument.
Caretaker Todd Evans isn't sure exactly when the theft occurred, but he noticed the marker was missing last week when he mowed grass last week.
Evans could describe the monument only from memory, but he said it stood taller than 3 feet, and was topped with a bowl.
"It was a one-of-a-kind in this cemetery. Most graves today are made of granite," he said. "I don't know if it's priceless, but it must be irreplaceable - at least to the family."
The monument could be seen clearly from the road, and Evans said it was easily removed from the metal base, which remains as a marker for the lots.
"I imagine it was a collectible," he said. "I just can't believe someone would do that in a cemetery."
Bussacker is the name that appeared on the monument, and it marked an eight-grave lot that was purchased in the southeast section of the cemetery in 1898.
Evans said five people were buried in the lot, but C. Bussacker is the only name that appeared on the monument. Maplewood Cemetery's interment records donÕt date back far enough to name the others buried there.
For that reason, Evans is unable to notify family members of the theft. All he could do is report it to local law enforcement.
"I told them the next time they have a drug bust to keep their eyes open for an iron monument with a bowl on top," Evans said.
If grave stones or markers are vandalized or stolen, Maplewood Cemetery is not liable for the losses. Evans said the family won't likely know about the theft unless they return to visit the graves.
Anyone with information about the theft can call the Rock County Sheriff's Department at 283-5000.