Gerhardt S. (Gary) Graap, 66, of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2018.  Known to many as “Graapie”, Gary was born on March 31, 1951, to Rinehardt and Shirley (Schneck) Graap.  He married Marlene Marsceau on Nov. 26, 1977. She survives.

Gary attended school in Merrill and graduated in 1969.  He worked at Woodcraft Finishes for approximately 10 years and then at Semco from 1987 to 2014.  Gary was an avid Packers, Badgers and Brewers fan and enjoyed watching NASCAR races.  In his younger years he played softball, shot pool and threw horseshoes.  He also spent a lot of time fishing, hunting and enjoying the outdoors.  Another hobby of Gary’s was cooking and baking-especially making pies from scratch using apples from his own trees.  He liked watching cooking programs to get new ideas and it wasn’t long before Marlene designated him “House Chef”. Rarely using a recipe, Gary liked to “experiment” in the kitchen.  One exception to his no-recipe rule was when he made his pickled fish, then using a secret recipe.  Gary also liked listening to music, especially the “Blues”, and spoiling the family dogs, Skippy, Honda, Brewer and Badger.

Survivors include his wife Marlene, sons Christopher (Brandi Spychalla) and Aaron, grandchildren Alexis and Austin, his mother Shirley Graap, sisters Lesley Graap, Leanne Andzewski, Lou Wenda Peterson, Lonna Graap and Lana Graap; brothers Geoffrey and Gabriel; mother-in-law Faye Marsceau, sister-in-law’s Nicole Krause, Jennifer Knight, Joanne Marsceau and Kathy Marsceau, brother-in-law’s Mark Marsceau, Matt Marsceau, Mike Marsceau and Lonnie Woller, aunts Johanna Leih and Rose Lakes and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  Gary was preceded in death by his father Rinehardt, sister Lorraine, brothers Garland, Gregory, Galen and Gareth, grandparents Reinhold and Johanna Graap, Pearl Russ, Aloysius Schneck, Harold and Ellen Anderson and Norbert and Ethel Kopp, nephews Cory and Jeremy, father-in-law Eugene Marsceau, aunt Barbara Graap and uncles Lenhard Leih and Harold Graap.

A visitation and memorial service was held Feb. 11^th with Pr. Patricia Schutz officiating.  A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at S & S on Sat., Feb. 17^th from 3-6 pm.  Taylor Stine Funeral Home and Cremation Services assisted the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Duane W. ‘Dewey’ Pfister, age 85, of Merrill, died Thursday, February 8, 2018.

A committal of his cremated remains will take place at a later date at Merrill Memorial Park Scattering Garden.

Dewey was born February 11, 1932, in Merrill, son of the late Bernard and Dorothy Pfister. After serving in the U.S. Army in Korea from 1952-1953, he was a daily newspaper reporter/photographer for 36 years at Neenah, Portage, Wausau, and Merrill newspapers. He is survived by two sons, Jerry and Joe; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and a sister, Joann Rathjen.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Audrey L. Ek, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, February 9, 2018, at her home under the care of her family and hospice services.

Audrey was born in Rhinelander, the daughter of the late Frank and Signy Peter. She married Woodrow L. Ek on April 5, 1952, in Rhinelander. He preceded her in death on March 12, 2015, in Merrill. Audrey had been a Youth Counselor at Lincoln Hills School, Irma, for 25 years. She enjoyed shopping, watching hockey, and spending time with her grandchildren. Audrey was an active member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill.

Audrey is survived by her three children, Juli Ek-Marchel (husband, Denny Marchel) of River Falls, Marcia Ek of Wausau, and Mitch (Mary) Ek of Merrill; three grandchildren, Seth Marchel, Xander and Jadzia Harrell; four step grandchildren, Brian (Jenny) Genrich, Kris (Tracey) Marchel, Joshua Marchel, and Kara (Steven) Bradford; four step great grandchildren, Dylan and David Genrich, and Kylie and Kaybri Marchel; one step great granddaughter due in April; and three brothers, Raymond Peter, Bernard (Judy) Peter, and Tom (Mary) Peter, all of Rhinelander. Besides her husband and parents, Audrey is preceded in death by four siblings, Beulah Warekois, Douglas, Donald, and David Peter.

Audrey’s funeral will be at a 12 Noon, Thursday, February 15, 2018, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Patricia Schutz will officiate. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Thursday at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Wallace Schwartzman, 81, of Merrill, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2018, surrounded by his family.

Wally was born on November 16, 1936, to Raymond and Sophie Schwartzman.  On December 21, 1963, he married Bonnie Hipke.

Wally served his country in the United States Army.  He was employed as a painter until he was hired at Wausau Papers, which he retired from in 1998.  Wally enjoyed the outdoors especially hunting, bird watching, and long walks in the woods.  Some of his best memories were made playing cards with family and friends at the hunting shack and cottage.  He loved playing golf and baseball.  He played for, and managed, the Blatz Bombers.  At age 15 he chose the Philadelphia Phillies to cheer for and spent many summers watching them.

He had a special love for his family and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Wally is survived by his wife, Bonnie and his daughters, Deanna (Mark) Burns, Mary (Steve) Holz and Sue (Brad) Geiss.  His grandchildren, Kyle (Nicole) Holz, Marissa (Casey) Narlock, Colton Holz, Erica Holz, Garret Beckman, Katrina ( Eric Cliver) Holz and Brady Geiss.  His great-grandchildren, Brantley,  Liam, and Owen Beckman, Riley, Gavin and Olivia Cliver, Matthew Holz and baby Narlock due in July.  He is further survived by his brothers Don (Gayle), Jim (Kathy), Harry (Angel) Schwartzman, sister Joan Beyer and special cousin Dave (Emily) Schwartzman.

Wally was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Sophie, siblings, Robert Schwartzman, Tom (Laurice) Schwartzman, and Marlene (Don) Woellner and a brother in law, Robert Beyer.

The family is respecting Wally’s wishes of not having a funeral, but instead a celebration of life on Saturday, February 24^th from 1:00 – 5:00 at Bret’s Hillside Pub in Merrill. Please come and share a memory with us and enjoy a Blatz!

Waid Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com

Darrin (Deion) Rogers, age 39, of Schofield, passed away on February 1, 2018 at Colonial Manor in Wausau. He was born in Merrill on August 25, 1978 to Tim and Lisa (Ames) Rogers. He loved watching the Packers, golfing, fishing and spending time with friends and family.
He is survived by his son Porter Dylan, his parents; Tim and Lisa Rogers,  grandparents; Yvonne Ames and Everett and JoAnn Rogers, uncles; Dean Ames and Darrell Ames, aunts; Linda Rogers, Denise Severt, Gwen (John) Cotter and Gayle (Jeff) Dobson, many cousins and special friends Sarah, Michelle, Brian and Kyle.  He will always be remembered for how he made everyone laugh. He will be sadly missed by those who loved him.

Per his request, there will be no services.  A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society assisted the family. www.honorone.com.

Gordon “Gordy” E. Wiederhoeft, age 78, of Merrill, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 12, 2018 at his residence, just shy of his 79^th birthday.  Gordy was born on February 13, 1939 to the late Edwin and Grace (Heise) Wiederhoeft in Merrill.  He attended school in Merrill and earned his GED through the Marines.  Gordy proudly served his country as a United States Marine, from 1957-1959.  He met the love of his life, Shirley Bienfang, and the two exchanged wedding vows on November 12, 1960 in Merrill, a union lasting 57 years.

Gordy was an iron worker, and was a proud lifetime member of the Iron Workers Union Local 383 of Madison, WI , which he joined on April 1, 1965.  He mainly worked for Oscar J. Bolt, traveling all over to work on large projects.  Gordy retired at the age of 65.  After retirement, he enjoyed bowling leagues and golfing with friends.  Gordy was also an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, as well as summer fishing and ice fishing.  He also loved to drive his snowmobile and four-wheeler around on his land.  He was an active man that cut his own firewood, and built their own home and cottage.  He was known as a jack of all trades, being able to fix or build practically anything.  Gordy was a hard worker and his work was important to him, but his life was very much family-oriented.  He enjoyed participating in demo derbies, stock car races and ice drags.  He will be sadly missed.

Gordy is survived by his wife of 57 years: Shirley Wiederhoeft of Merrill, son: Todd (Becky) Wiederhoeft of Belgium, WI, along with their son, Michael (Vanessa) Wiederhoeft of Florida, with two sons, daughter: Tammy (Mike) Thistle of Merrill, with their children, Dr. Megan Thistle of Minnesota and Mathew Thistle of Stratford, WI and daughter: Theresa (Jeff) Miner of Colorado, with their daughter, Jordan Miner, brothers: Jim (Julie) of Merrill and John Wiederhoeft of Wausau and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Laverne and David Wiederhoeft and sister: Judy Kleinschmidt.

A Funeral Liturgy for Gordy will be held on Monday, February 19, 2018 at 11:30am at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill.  Deacon Jim Arndt will officiate.  Visitation will also be held at the church on Monday, February 19, 2018 from 9:30am until the time of the liturgy.  Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Roger W. Hulke, 88, of Merrill, went to his eternal home Saturday, February 17, 2018.  He lived a long, blessed life.

Roger was born January 25, 1930, in Merrill, to William and Agnes (Schmidtke) Hulke.  He married Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Ristau on September 12, 1953 at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill – a beautiful union that lasted 64 years.  Roger was a lifelong, active member of St. John Lutheran Church, attending its grade school as a child.  He served state-side in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.  Roger set God and country as his highest priorities in life.

Roger worked at the former Ward Paper in Merrill from 1951 until his retirement in 1992.  He enjoyed bird and deer hunting, and loved to tell stories about those adventures (sometimes multiple times J).  Roger kept a beautiful garden and was happy to share his produce with friends and neighbors.

Roger was a jolly guy, and later in his life found his happy place at McDonald’s drinking coffee, solving the World’s problems, and analyzing his favorite sports teams’ performances.  Roger also had an amazing group of Fish Fry Friday Friends that he looked forward to seeing each week.

Roger was an avid fan of the Brewers, Badgers and Packers.  His favorite team by far was the Merrill Bluejays.  He followed many high school sports teams, cheering especially loud when his grandchildren or great-grandchildren were playing.  Roger was a great patriarch that was invested in the lives of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and one could often find him with a smile on his face, bragging about them.

Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Hulke of Merrill; daughters, Nancy (Gary) Porath and Kathy (Ned) Seubert of Merrill; son, James (Jane) Hulke of LaCrosse; seven grandchildren, Leah (Rod) Akey of Merrill, Rachel Fischer of Victoria, MN, Luke (Meghan) Porath of Menomonee Falls, Brad Seubert of Wauwatosa, Andy (Cassandra) Seubert of Weston, Jessica Macha of Holmen and Ben Hulke of Wheat Ridge, CO; seven great-grandchildren, Abe, Eve, Aubrey, Brooks, Giana, Ari and Alex; sister, Laura Murphy of Appleton; and sisters-in-law, Veryl ‘Faye’ Hulke of Merrill and Shirley Hulke of Neenah.  Roger was preceded in death by his parents, William and Agnes Hulke; his sisters, Irene Pick, Emma Mahn, Alice Nielsen, Vernette Zimmerman, Elaine Dahm and an infant sister; and his brothers, Harlin ‘Harley’ Hulke and David Hulke.

The funeral service for Roger will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, February 22, 2018 at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill.  Rev. David Szeto will officiate.  Burial will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery with graveside military rites conducted by V.F.W. Post 1638 – Merrill.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Wednesday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home and after 10:00 A.M. Thursday at the church.  Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

The family suggests memorials be directed to St. John Lutheran Church or School, or the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.   

Harlan H. LaPerriere, 73, of Merrill passed away Friday, February 16, 2018 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Harlan was born on May 12, 1944 in Sturgeon Bay, WI, son of the late Howard LaPerriere and Phyllis (Deates) LaPerriere.  When Harlan was two years old, his mother married Harold Kretschmar, and together Phyllis and Harold raised Harlan.  Harlan married Lorraine Kleinschmidt on June 1, 1963 in Woodruff, WI.  She preceded him in death on January 22, 2015.

Harlan enlisted in the United States Navy on June 25, 1962 and was honorably discharged on June 25, 1968.  After his service in the Navy, Harlan held various jobs including Weinbrenner Shoe Company, Northern Specialty and Church Mutual.  Harlan was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Merrill.  He was also a member of V.F.W. Post 1638 – Merrill.   Harlan enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting.  He also enjoyed watching football and baseball especially the Packers and Brewers.

Survivors include his daughters, Shevon (Jeff) Schmeltzer and Nicole (Don) Rohde of Merrill; three granddaughters, Amanda (Dustin) Adams, Candace (James) Graap and Amber (Tim) Mulrooney; eleven great-grandchildren, Lakeyn, Ayden, Kenzingtyn, Hudsyn, Madyson, Jayden, Emersyn, Graycen, Irelyn, Addilyn and Aislyn; and his half-sister, Bonnie (Collin) Stanton of Dickinson, Texas.  Harlan was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine; his parents, Phyllis and Harold Kretschmar; and his birth father, Howard LaPerriere.

A celebration of Harlan’s life will take place at a later date.  Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Harry ‘Hans’ R. Tritten, 80, of Merrill passed away Friday, February 16, 2018 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill, under the care of his family, the nursing home staff and hospice services.

Harry was born on April 24, 1937, in Wausau, son of the late Harry A. Tritten, Sr. and Marie (Kundo) Tritten.  He married Ethel Dittmar on July 11, 1959.  She survives.  Harry and Ethel ran a dairy farm in the Town of Pine River for twenty years.  In 1979, they sold the farm and Harry went to work at the Woodchip Corporation (later called Hunt Forest) until retirement in 2004.  Harry spent many long weekends camping and fishing with his wife, and enjoying his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He will be sadly missed by his family.

Survivors include his wife, Ethel Tritten; daughters, Cindy Krause and Gail (Rob) Daley; grandsons, Anthony (Becky) Renken and Matthew (Ashley) Renken; great-grandchildren, Hunter and Harley Renken; step grandchildren, Joshua Daley (Tia Maguire), Nikole Daley (Troy Knight), Amy Krause and Lori (Kurt) Wendt; step great-granddaughter, Emily Wendt; and brother, Frank Tritten.  Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Marie Tritten; son-in-law, Larry Krause; and sister-in-law, Marjorie Tritten.

The family would like to thank the Pine Crest Nursing Home nursing staff for the kindness and support given to Harry and his family. 

A private funeral service will be held.  Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Lester L. Judnic, 85, of Merrill, formerly of Rib Lake, passed away Thursday February 15, 2018 at Ascension Good Samaritan Hospital in Merrill.

Lester was born November 26, 1932 in the Town of Greenwood to Joseph and Mary (Mauser) Judnic. He married Marilyn M. Haas on June 23, 1962 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in the Town of Greenwood. Marilyn survives.

He is further survived by his children: Debra (Tim) Zuelsdorff of Merrill, David (Melissa) Judnic of Wisconsin Rapids, Julie (Paul) Riemer of Rochester, MN, Kathy (Tim) Anderson of Merrill, Grandchildren: Megan, Katie, Brandon, Sydnie, Maggie, Luke, Sophie, Jake and Zach, Sisters Angeline Strebig of Medford, Rosie Schilling of Chicago, IL, Sisters in Law: Marcella Judnic of Medford, Arlene Judnic of Rib Lake, Brothers in Law: Edward (Elaine) Haas of Abbotsford, Alan (Kathy) Haas of Plover, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his Parents, Siblings: Joseph Judnic, Mary Nezval, Carl Judnic, Clarence Judnic, Harvey Judnic and Betty Imbach.

Lester served his country in the United States Army from May 1954 – May 1957, as a Clerk Typist. Following the military he then went on to work in Milwaukee for Briggs and Straton. After several years he returned to Rib Lake and bought a dairy farm. Lester and Marilyn worked hard throughout the years on the farm and were very proud of it, winning several quality awards. In 1995, Lester sold the farm and retired.

Lester loved his family dearly, and they were most important to him. He installed that love in his children by traveling to visit family on a weekly basis, and spending time with them whenever possible.

He was an avid Brewers and Packers fan. Lester loved his John Deere Model 620 tractor.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday February 24, 2018 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church. Father Otto Bucher will officiate. Burial will follow in St. Ann’s Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of service.

Memorial donations in honor of Lester can be given to his family, for designation at later date.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com

Virginia Rose (Amborn) Catlin, age 100 passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 18th with her loving family at her side.  Virginia was born August 27th, 1917 in Merrill, WI to Lula (Haesley) and William Amborn.  She married Vern Catlin in Loyal, WI on November 7th, 1942.  They moved to Rhinelander, WI in 1951 and together they raised seven children.  Virginia was a beautician who worked out of her home, cutting hair for many Rhinelander women and many more children.  Virginia was active in the Jaycette’s, Stunt Night and various card clubs and in their younger years, Vern and Virginia participated and won several dance contests throughout Central Wisconsin.  She enjoyed watching the Packers play each Sunday and loved making trips to the casino with friends and family.  Virginia spent most of her time raising her children and is still remembered by many neighborhood children as their “Other Mother”.

Christine R. Polebitski, 69, of Merrill, passed away Monday, February 19, 2018 at the Aspirus Hospice House in Wausau.

Christine was born March 11, 1948 in Rhinelander, daughter of the late Wayne and Norma (Johnson) Schellenger.  She married Richard Polebitski on June 16, 1972, in Rhinelander.  He survives.  Christine was a graduate of Rhinelander High School and furthered her education at UW-Eau Claire and UW-Stevens Point.  After college, she took a job with Church Mutual Insurance Company in Merrill.  After the birth of her first child, Christine became a stay at home mom and also ran an in-home daycare.

Christine was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill, where she was involved in the Mother’s Club and the Ladies Aid.  Christine enjoyed quilting and attending knitting classes at the Checkered Churn in Merrill.   Christine took great pride in her children and grandchildren and enjoyed watching her children’s sporting events.  She loved being with her family and helping with the grandkids.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Polebitski of Merrill; daughters, Michelle Rector of Oshkosh, Megan (Dan) Kaminski of Merrill and Melissa Polebitski (Peter Throm Sr.) of Wausau; sons, David Polebitski of Merrill and Scott (Suzy) Polebitski of Milwaukee; and grandchildren, Drew Kaminski, Peter Throm Jr. and Madison Polebitski.  Christine was preceded in death by her son-in-law, David Rector; parents, Wayne and Norma Schellenger; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Chester and Lucille Polebitski; and brother-in-law, James Polebitski.

The funeral service for Christine will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, February 23, 2018 at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill.  Rev. Joel Hoelter will officiate.  Burial will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home and after 10:00 A.M. Friday at the church.  Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for a memorial to be designated at a later date.  

The family wishes to thank Dr. Ben Kaster of Aspirus Wausau Hospital and the staff at the Aspirus Hospice House for the care and compassion they have shown Christine and her family. 

Arleen R. Gruetzmacher, 94, formerly of the Town of Pine River, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.

Arleen was born May 23, 1923 in the Town of Stettin, Marathon County, daughter of the late Dietrich and Martha (Tesch) Pagel.  She married Clarence R. Gruetzmacher on May 18, 1946 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Town of Stettin.  He preceded her in death on January 22, 2007.  Arleen was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill.  She enjoyed gardening, watching the birds and baking bread.  Arleen also enjoyed doing needle point, quilting and sewing.  She cherished the time she spent with her family and grandchildren.

Survivors include her son, Gary (Elma) Gruetzmacher of Merrill; son-in-law, Michael (Marilyn) Jirovec of Merrill; six grandchildren, Tracy (Michael) Renn, Todd (Jesie) Gruetzmacher, Troy Gruetzmacher, Karen (Rich) Reitz, Bryce Jirovec and Rory (Jenny) Jirovec; twelve great-grandchildren, Alyssa Renn, Alex (Tatiana) Renn, Jaxon Renn, Connor Renn, Christine Blakeslee, Brittany Blakeslee, Ava Gruetzmacher, Eve Gruetzmacher, Abdel Gruetzmacher, Addison Jirovec, Brenna Jirovec and Claire Jirovec; brother, James L. (Barbara) Pagel of Wausau; her in-laws, Rosalie Sprafke, Arlette Gruetzmacher and Elroy (Phyllis) Gruetzmacher; and many nieces and nephews.  Arleen was preceded in death by her parents, Dietrich and Martha Pagel; daughter, Sandy Jirovec; sister, Stella Ninnemann; and brothers, Norman Pagel and Vernon Pagel.

The funeral service for Arleen will be held at 11:0 A.M., Saturday, February 24, 2018, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Patricia Schutz will officiate. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Saturday at the church. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Our greatest loss, our Mother, Paulina Ann (Grabko) Dombrowski Fellbaum, 84, of Wausau/ Marathon entered Heaven Tuesday, February 20, 2018 with family rushing to be by her side due to a cardiac arrest.

She was born September 16, 1933, in Hatley, daughter of the late Alexander and Elizabeth (Kuklinski) Grabko.  Paulina grew up during the Great Depression.  She was the oldest daughter of a family of eight, four brothers and three sisters.  She and her seven siblings walked daily to a one room school in the town of Reed.  All they knew was the Polish language but when used at school they were punished.  Paulina went to school until the age of 16 and started her first job at Marathon Electric.

On August 13, 1955 she married Albert Peter Dombrowski at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent.  They were blessed with four children.  Life was busy for them when suddenly Albert’s life ended short on May 18, 1962.  As life would have it, six years later Paulina found love again and on September 28, 1968 she married Vernon Rudolf Fellbaum at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent.  They farmed, traveled, and enjoyed life up until Vernon passed on March 6, 1996 due to cancer.

After Pauline left the farm she enjoyed a part time job at Schlotzky’s Deli where she baked.  She loved to can, with her Kerr Jars and a day of canning was like a holiday to her.  She loved to highlight how many quarts she could do in one day.  Pauline also loved to reminisce about the events that happened on the birthday of her children, including weather conditions and the number of hours of labor.  Randy was a morning delivery and was quick.  Renee in turn was many hours of labor.  Suzie was easier than expected and resulted in her giving birth to Randy, 11 months later.

Paulina was the family’s laundry mat and could get any stain out.  She had her own remedies which included boat cleaner.  She also loved polka music, fishing, and Hodag.  She enjoyed riding in her late husband, Albert’s 1924 Model T and most of all she loved her children and grandchildren.  Paulina loved taking care of all the babies in the family, her greatest passion was doing for others.  There is a loss for words all the good things our mother has done in her lifetime but one thing is for sure Paulina was truly and amazing and special woman.  All of our lives will never be the same.  Her big heart was priceless.

Survivors include her four children, Suzanne (Gary) Burmeister, Marathon, Randy (Jeanene) Dombrowski, Alpharetta, Georgia and Renee (Robert) Burmeister, Marathon; six grandchildren, Albert (Cheryl) Burmeister, Wisconsin Rapids, Lynette (fiancé Jeremy Bryant) Burmeister, Edgar, Lee (Gina) Burmeister, Wausau, Jordan Dombrowski, Alpharetta, Georgia, Sarah (Ehren) Malinowski, Wausau and Derek Burmeister, Minnetonka, Minnesota; seven great-grandchildren, Maculey, Alexandria, Seth, Miranda, Aliyah, Audrey and Madisyn; siblings, Anton (Rosemary) Grabko, Hatley, Clarence (Frances) Grabko, Hatley, Irene Loberg, Menominee Falls, Violet Woodell, Raleigh, North Carolina, Joseph (Lorna) Grabko, Hatley and Verna (Robert) Knishka, Kronenwetter; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Chesterine (John) Brzezenski, Stevens Point, Karen Dombrowski, Amherst, Romona Ulrich, Wausau, Arden (Arlene) Fellbaum, Hamburg, Ardell Salzwedel, Wausau, Aryle (Carl) Schmidt, Wausau, Darlene Osness, Wausau, Lorna (Joe) Grabko, Hatley and Sharon Schultz, Wausau and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Bruce Burmeister, brother, Ray (Evelyn) Grabko, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Caroline Litza, Evelyn Dombrowski Hubert Dombrowski, Marcella Beckman, Beverly Fellbaum, Dennis Fellbaum and Donald Fellbaum.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 24, 2018 at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent.  Rev. Augustine Bentil will preside.  Burial will be in the parish cemetery, Bevent.  Visitation will be Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until the time of services all at the church.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

Researched by Michael J. Caylor Jr

2-22-78
The race for Mayor in Merrill is down to two candidates after the primary election yesterday. Alderman Patrick Nugent and incumbent Mayor Ralph “Fata” Voigt were the two top voter getters in the five way race when the ballots were counted and will now face off head to head in April. Nugent, currently the alderman of the 5th ward, led the race with 1,027 votes followed by Voigt with 751. Henry Golde finished third with 595 votes and took the 6th ward where he had previously served one year on the county board. Finishing fourth with 528 votes was David Moravec followed by Gerald Bauer with 179 votes. The three candidates defeated Tuesday pulled a total of just over 1,300 voters whose votes will now be sought by Nugent and Voigt along with those of others who did not go to the polls Tuesday. In the only other primary race, Harold Hanson, a Lincoln County Board member for over a quarter of a century in the 10th district, was knocked out of the three way race. Walter Kienbaum, now a school bus driver and former sheriff, and George Knospe, a sales representative for ROW Cash & Carry, will advance to the April ballot after out polling Hanson.

Before the polls closed on Tuesday candidate Nugent was busy in Madison filing a formal complaint with the state’s insurance board alleging illegal practices by two of the three members of the city’s insurance committee. Nugent complained to the insurance board that the two men acted as consultants and agents for the city while it was seeking liability insurance last year. Phil Russell and Gene Block both told the paper they welcome the investigation as they had done nothing improper. Nugent claims that the city contracted through a local insurance provider for coverage without soliciting bids, but a member of the insurance group refuted the claim saying the city had solicited insurance quotes from 40 companies but very few were interested due to past losses incurred by the city and also noting the airport and transit system also makes covering the city less desirable. (I will save the anticipation here; both were quickly cleared and had done nothing wrong) In other city hall news, Dennis Cramer has resigned his position as Recreation Director as he has accepted a similar job in Abilene, Texas. Park Superintendent Dennis Donoghue will administer the recreation job until a replacement is found.

Lincoln Hills School in Irma will get a quarter of a million dollars in security improvements after action by the State Building Commission in Madison. State Representative Sheehan Donoghue and State Senator Clifford Krueger led the call for the investments in the facility in the Town of Birch. The money will be used to install mesh window coverings over all residential cottage windows. Last year nearly half of the juveniles who fled the state coed facility did so by breaking a window to escape from a building. The state will also install a 14 foot high woven wire fence topped by security mesh around the recreation area outside five residential cottages. Lincoln Hills had 59 runaways flee the grounds in 1977.

2-24-88
Recent action by the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors has led to the demand for arbitration by Local 332-A of the court house employees. The board voted last week to remove the “Fair Share” clause from the group’s contract. The clause requires all employees who would be eligible to join the union to pay union dues regardless if they had joined the union upon hire. In years previous the county allowed new hires to decide if they wanted to join the union or not, some opted not but are now required to pay union dues. Phil Salamone is the legal representative for the AFSCME group noted the dues for full time employees is $14.90 per month.

A longtime local businessman and a representative to both the Merrill City Council and Lincoln County Board had died. Walter “Gooze” Proft Sr. passed away Saturday at his home at the age of 60. Proft was an alderman for the 9th ward from 1972 to 1976 and was appointed to the county board two years ago to represent district 7. Proft spent all of his adult life in the grocery business. He owned and operated Gooze’s Superette on East Main Street from 1962 to 1978. The building is now occupied by Kids Corner Pizza. (Later Bugsy’s and the Italian U-Boat before the fire which brought the building down) After closing his own store, Proft was the produce manager at Hal’s Red Owl in Wausau and most recently became the night manager at Drew’s East Supermarket. For more than 10 years, the former Merrill Ranger was an umpire and coach in Merrill’s Little League program.

Four Merrill wrestlers are headed to Madison for the state’s individual tournament. They are Dean Nowinski, Joe Ramsey, Craig Josiger and Chris Gennrich. The four survived sectionals at Stevens Point this past week with Ramsey and Josiger making return trips. The girls’ basketball team completed their regular season with a loss to Wausau West. Lisa Wegner led the scoring in the 61-49 loss. The girls will play Lakeland at the Wausau West fieldhouse Thursday in the first round of regionals; they end their Valley season with a 7-9 record. The boys’ team dropped their last two games against West and Antigo and now head to the final game of the season against Wausau East Friday. The boys’ team is currently 1-14 in the Valley and 4-15 overall.

In a sure sign of spring, according to an ad on page 7, the Dairy Queen is now open!

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Lincoln County took one step closer to purchasing the former Lincoln School block from MAPS. The purchase price remains unchanged at $250,000. Any environmental or other problems found with the property will be covered up to $7,500 by the school district, if the costs exceed that amount, the two groups would have to return to the bargaining table. According to County Corporation Counsel Nancy Bergstrom, the lot would likely be used for parking, a county safety building, or a judiciary building. (Or Walgreens)

Merrill Police would like to assure you that there are no gangs in Merrill. Lt. Michael Caylor told the Foto News that rumors are still swirling in town after police broke up a fight between four Asian males aged 18-20 and a “few boys from Merrill.” Fear among citizens also increased when rumors circulated that the out of town group had guns, but those were only BB guns according to Caylor. Some local youths are trying to impress friends by getting tattoos and claiming affiliation, but Caylor stated they are just locals who are well known by police. A state and national data base that lists gang affiliation is also available to local police to check out visitors, according to Lt. Ned Seubert, local DARE and Youth Officer.

Naomi Braun (“Mac”) of Merrill, born Nov. 3, 1922 passed away peacefully at Bell Tower February 19, 2018.

She WAS, and WILL ALWAYS BE, YOUNG AT HEART!

She was preceded in death by her husband Dr. William E. Braun of Merrill, sister Lynne Reiger and sons Gary M. Braun and Peter F. Braun.

Survivors include her brother Richard McCoy, sons Daniel Braun, William Richard Braun  (Janet Braun) and daughter Sandra Braun (Vanessa Carr).  Also, Nancy Braun (Gary’s wife), Grandchildren Justin Braun, Chelsea Braun, Michael Braun (Erica Braun), Andrew Braun, Jennifer Braun, Nathan Lewis, and great grandchildren Aurora and Jasper Braun.

Mom was raised in Wauwatosa, WI, graduated from Wauwatosa High School and attended Layton School of Art in Milwaukee, WI.

She was accomplished in the fine arts and enjoyed design and architecture. In her earlier days she produced a number of wonderful paintings. She also loved Big Band music and could “cut a rug” with the best of them!

Throughout her life, Naomi generously contributed and supported charitable causes.

She was a dedicated wife and mother to raising a family of five children and managing an active household.

While she loved the family and friends excursions to the beloved cabin in Canada,

she  cherished  her home life surrounded by the endless beauty of nature and wildlife on the Wisconsin River.

Most of all she loved her family and lived a life filled with verve and sweetness and had an infectious love of life.

To continue the legacy of Naomi’s generous spirit, in lieu of flowers, send contributions to Naomi Braun Memorial at:

Wisconsin Public Television, PO Box 7929 Merrill, WI 53707-7929

and/or Merrill River Bend Trail  address: Friends of RBT, PO Box 561, Merrill, WI 54452

A gathering of family and friends to remember Naomi will be held at Taylor-Stine Funeral Home and announced at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Persa Manoura Kusserow, 79, died Friday, February 23, 2018 at her home.

Born June 2, 1938 in Anogia, Crete, Greece, she was a daughter of the late Maria Manoura. Ms. Kusserow attended Alice Drive Baptist Church in Sumter and was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church of Appleton, Wisconsin.

Survivors include three children, Aliza Tindall (Dan) of Sumter, Tony Kusserow (Debbie) of Merrill, Wisc., and Jesse Kusserow of Appleton; five grandchildren, Danielle Bersabe (Adrian), Albert Tindall (Rose), Peter Tindall (Stephanie), Nicole Soberg (Eric), and Jessica Kusserow (fiancé, Dan Gipp); ten great grandchildren; and three sisters, Terpsis, Artemis, and Agapi all of Greece.

A funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jock Hendricks officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Alice Drive Baptist Church-Open Door Offering, 1305 Loring Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29150.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

Our hero, Charles Harvey Dittmar, 70, of Merrill, was reunited with his son, Timothy C. Dittmar at their home in Heaven, Saturday, February 24, 2018, with his loving family by his side at Saint Claire’s Hospital.

Charles, also known as Chuck, Charlie, or Papa, was born May 14, 1947 in Superior, Wisconsin, son of Harvey and Dorthy Dittmar. He was married to the love of his life, Sandra for 44 years. Chuck was a graduate of Wausau High School. Soon after, he enlisted in the United States Air Force from1965-1970, where he served two and a half years in the Vietnam War. In that time served, he received three purple hearts and wings for 250 combat parachute jumps. He also remained a lifetime member of the VFW Post 1638. He was currently on the waiting list for the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.  After proudly serving his country, he was a welder and a steel fabricator for nearly 40 years at Merrill Iron and Steel, later to be known as Agra Construction.

Chuck was an avid outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman and a simplistic lover of nature. In his early days, he loved smelting and rafting down the Brokaw Strip. He took such pride when he shot two deer with one bullet at the Bear Track Inn hunting shack. His greatest pastime was fishing and hunting with his son, grandsons and son-in-law. He especially loved his yearly ice fishing trip to Minnesota with his friends and family. After he retired, he and his wife found the greatest joy in taking their daily drives through the council grounds and looking for eagles and deer.

Chuck was a life-long, green and gold blooded Packers fan. He also loved watching his Milwaukee Brewers and the Rock Fall Gunners.

He was survived by his wife Sandy, daughter Tiffany, son-in-law Robbie, and their three children, Elizabeth, Lucas and Adam; siblings Duane (Jan), Jerry and Susan Dittmar; his mother-in-law Honey Weber; and many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and his furry family:  Flash, Kandy and Oscar.

He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Charles, his parents Harvey and Dorthy, Elmer, and father-in-law Harry Weber.

Visitation will be held at Waid Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m and again on Thursday, March 1, 2018 from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Funeral services will also be held at Waid Funeral Home on Thursday, March 1, 2018, at 11 a.m.  Chaplain Marion Talaga will officiate.  Burial will follow at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the Merrill VFW Post 1638.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Enid Simon of Madison, passed away on February 23, 2018.  She was born on November 28, 1935, in Antigo, WI, daughter of Leonard and June Simon.

Enid spent her childhood on the family farmstead in Summit Township in Langlade County, Wisconsin, with her sisters and cousins.  After graduating from Antigo high school, Enid attended Valparaiso University for two years, moving to Madison in 1960 where she spent the rest of her life.

She began work at the College of Engineering Library at the University of Wisconsin. While working at the University she earned her bachelor’s degree in History and Psychology and an MS degree in Library Science.  She stayed at the Engineering library for 37 years, retiring in 1998 as a Senior Academic Librarian and one of Wendt Library’s two Associate Librarians responsible for the day-to-day operation of the library.  In 1996 she was awarded the College of Engineering’s Bollinger Academic Staff Award for her 35 years of dedicated service. The Bollinger Award highlighted Enid’s many accomplishments, including her major role in planning for the Kurt F. Wendt Library building, which opened in 1976; her coordination of collection development in engineering and related subjects; and her role in representing Wendt Library on various campus-wide library committees and councils.

Enid loved nature, walking in the woods and traveling the backroads of her beloved Wisconsin countryside, recording its beauty with her camera.  Enid also travelled, visiting England several times as well as Greece and Italy.  She was an active member of Plato, focusing on reminiscence writing and serving on the board of The Agora journal.  Enid spent time with her large, extended family, and served as the family historian and record-keeper for the Simon clan.  She knew all the cousins and what was going on in their lives.  She rarely missed the annual family reunion. She was always working on a jigsaw puzzle and reading a mystery novel, and she watched MASH at every opportunity.

Enid made friends wherever she went, and was a devoted, kind and thoughtful friend.  She was a regular presence in the lives of her nieces and nephews, a generous and loving aunt.  She will be missed by many.

Enid was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Shirley Johnson and Roberta (Bobbe) Krismer.  She is survived by her nieces and nephews, Katharine Johnson (West Chester, PA), Steven Johnson (Sturgeon Bay, WI), Charles Johnson (Minneapolis, MN) and Margaret Seizer (Sturgeon Bay, WI), grand- nieces and nephews and cousins across Wisconsin and around the world.  A visitation will be planned in Madison later in the spring.  Enid will be buried near her parents in the Town of Summit Cemetery in Langlade County.  Memorials may be made to The Nature Conservancy and mailed to: Charles Johnson, 4941 17^th Ave. South, Minneapolis, MN 55417.  The gifts will be directed to the Nature Conservancy’s work in Wisconsin.

Richard L. Hull, age 73, of Merrill, passed away on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at Woodland Court, Merrill, surrounded by his loving family.

Richard was born December 3, 1944, in Merrill, son of Marcella (Kellner) Hull and the late Herman Hull. Richard graduated from Merrill Senior High School in 1963, where he participated in football and basketball. Richard had served in the U.S. Army and also with the Wisconsin National Guard. On August 14, 1965, Richard married his high school sweetheart, Judy Schnelle. She preceded him in death on August 27, 2017. Richard retired in 2006 after working more than 40 years with the former Marathon Electric in Wausau. Richard was a member of the Merrill Silver M Club and also received his Gold M. He was an avid Packer, Brewer, and Badger fan. Richard enjoyed snowmobiling with his family; spending time hunting on his property in Newwood; hunting in the Black Hills since 1974; spending time at the Johnson’s shack; grilling chicken for family and friends; fishing; playing sheepshead and cribbage; taking care of his lawn and flower gardens; feeding and watching the birds; golfing; playing potbelly baseball for Newwood Tap; traveling all the backroads by car; wintering in Florida; and the brat fry’s at the former Hull’s Ben Franklin Store in Merrill during Crazy Days. Richard’s great joy was being a husband, father, and grandfather, and always putting his family first.

Richard is survived by three daughter, Brenda Hull (fiancée, Don Backee), Peggy (Robert) Johnson, and Wendy (Mike) Malinowski, all of Merrill; six grandchildren, Abby, Mikalea, Zack, Rob, Chloe, and Maria; three great grandchildren, Lexi, Evan, and Madi; one sister, Sandy Hoffman, Merrill; and two brothers, Douglas (Kathy) Hull, Madison, and Gerald (Sandy) Hull, Merrill. Besides his wife, Judy, and his father, Herman Hull, Richard is preceded in death by a brother in law, Harvey Hoffman.

The funeral will be at 3:00 PM on Thursday, March 8, 2018, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Entombment will follow in Merrill Memorial Park Mausoleum with graveside military rites conducted by the Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638 Honor Guard. Visitation will begin at 12 Noon Thursday at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

The Hull Family has requested that memorials be directed to Relay for Life; the Lincoln County Humane Society; or Park City Gardens.