C. Jean Burmeister, age 92, Athens, WI, peacefully passed away into her loving saviors arms on April 10, 2018 at Medical City Hospital in Lewisville, TX under comfort and hospice care.
Jean was born July 24, 1925 in Chicago, IL to the late John & Pearl (Gardner) Grace. The Grace family moved to Cassopolis, MI when Jean was a child and she graduated from Cassopolis
High School in 1941. In 1947 she moved to Seattle, WA and finally in 1960 she moved to Marathon, WI and later Athens, WI where she resided until her passing. In Feb 1961 she married
Martin Burmeister who preceded her in death on June 3, 2008.
Jean worked as a secretary for several companies in her younger years, at JCPenney’s as a sales clerk, and owned and operated The Wayside Inn in Athens in the 1970’s and 1980’s
before retiring.
Jean loved to read, garden, crochet, play cards, watch old western’s, listen to the Athens’ Old Timers Band, and most of all treasured the time spent with family and loved to talk about her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also self-taught herself to play the accordion as an adult and could yodel well. She looked forward to every event she was invited to and would often arrive early as she couldn’t wait for it to start.
Survivors include, her children, Edward Burkett, Lewisville, TX; Celina (Mayward) Schmidt, Merrill; and James (Kathy) Dodson, Plover; Grandchildren, Carrie (Rick) Uhlig, Christy Gresens, Casey (Laura) Burkett, Brian (Mandy) Schmidt, Duane Schmidt, Denise (Terry) Witter, Matthew Schmidt, Christopher (Tiffany Krenz) Schmidt, Mike (Nancy) Dodson, Troy (Karin) Dodson, Maria (Rory)
Leszczynski, Travis (Morgan) Dodson, Erin (Jeremy) Updike, Scott Bahrke & Michael Bahrke; 29 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers; Robert and Virgil Grace; a sister, Veona Jones; a brother-in-law, Herb Jones; and two sisters-in-law, Juanita and Beverly Grace.
Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 12, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 301 Elm Street, Athens, WI. The Rev. Mark Schwalenberg will officiate. Visitation will be Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to everyone in Athens that helped Mom out and looked after her when we were not able to. We specifically thank Officer Aaron Stencil for taking the time to visit and check in on her, Hartman’s IGA for delivering food to her home, Dorothy “Bitsy” Ewan and Lucy Lochen for taking her places and being good friends and Brian Pempek for taking care of her lawn and other tasks.
She truly loved the people and community of Athens.

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Eva Lou La Mountain passed away into God’s loving arms on May 3, 2018 after a battle with cancer.

Eva married Robert Arvin Giese and later David La Mountain

Eva is survived by her Mother, Ruth DePra,  Children: Robert “Butch” (Lori) Giese, Lisa Virginia (Norman) Barker, Hope Koplin, and Step-Sons Robert and Danny La Mountain, Grandchildren: Robert (Katie) Giese, Lisa (Jason) Bruzek, Brittany (Justin) Campbell, Elizabeth Giese (Andrew Schmidt), Brianna Koplin, Trucker Giese (Kaleigh Beckman), 5 Step-Grandchildren and several Great Grandchildren, Sisters: Ruth Moes, Bobbi Harvey, Alice (Daniel) Leah, Verna Harvey, Laverne (Pete) Garro,  Brothers:  Peter Moro, David Moro,  and Robert Harvey and nephews.

Eva was preceded in death by her father Robert Harvey.

There will be a Memorial Service at St. Paul’s Church, Town of Pine River, Merrill, WI on May 12 at 10:00.  A visitation will be from 9:00 – 10:00.

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Sandra M. Sann, age 69, of Wausau, passed away on Sunday, April 29, 2018, in Madison.

Sandra was born March 24, 1949, in Wausau, daughter of the late Milford and Mildred (Grewe) Golisch. She married Marlin ‘Butch’ Sann on August 8, 1977. He preceded her in death on January 14, 2014. Sandra was employed by All American Taxi and drove a cab in the Wausau and Mosinee areas. Sandra enjoyed craft sales, spending time with her family, gardening, attending the Marathon County Fair, Art in the Park in Wausau, and the Cranberry Fest in Eagle River.

Sandra is survived by her step daughter, Toni Mohr (Matt Wehn) Las Vegas, Nevada; her step son, Douglas (Jodi) Sann, Mosinee; five step grandchildren, Clay, Austin, Ashley, Brendon, and Matt; her sister, Beverly Hanson, Wausau; and three sisters in law, Barbara Golisch, Merrill, Mavis (Mel) Wurm of Wisconsin, and Marrianne (David) Schave, Wausau. Besides her husband, Butch, and parents, Milford and Mildred Golisch, Sandra is preceded in death by her brother, Kermit, Golisch; her sister, Norma Shirley Schmidt; and in-laws Peter Hanson, Sam Sann, and Dolly Sann.

A family memorial will be held at a later date. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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Marcella A. Hopp, age 91, of Merrill, passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at Bell Tower Residence in Merrill.

Marcella was born February 7, 1927, in Niagara, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Paul and Bertha (Bagley) Lange, Sr. She married James A. Hopp on August 30, 1947, in Gleason. He preceded her in death on October 27, 1989. She then married Elmer Heinichen on April 2, 1991. He preceded her in death on January 7, 2014. Marcella had been a cook at the Red Crown Lodge in Woodruff, and had also been a clerk at the former Fowler’s Drug Store in Merrill. Marcella enjoyed spending winters in North Fort Myers Beach, Florida; cooking and baking; reminiscing about the ‘old days’; and spending time with her family.

Marcella is survived by her daughter, Sandra Hopp (husband, Ernie Hulke), Troy, Alabama; her son, Glenn (SueEllen) Hopp, Rhinelander; two step daughters, Janet Mudek, New Berlin, and Diane (Greg) Voss, West Allis; two step sons, Norman (Pat) Heinichen, North Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and Roger Heinichen, Pewaukee; five grandchildren, Todd (Taryn) Rampart, Heidi (Nate) Meydam, Eric (Crystal) Hopp, Kelly (Ben) Christenson, and Karline Hopp; seven great grandchildren, Dusty, Brett, Brady, Samantha, Dominic, Charlie, and Eleanora; and several step grandchildren and step great grandchildren; one sister, Genevieve Jensen, Delavan; one brother, Byron (Janet) Lange, Tomahawk; and a sister in law, Betty Lange, Merrill. Besides her parents and husbands, Marcella is preceded in death by three brothers, Leslie, Paul, and Ronald Lange.

Marcella’s funeral will begin at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 11, 2018, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. Patricia Schutz will officiate. Burial will take place at a later date in Luther Memorial Lutheran Church Cemetery, Town of Schley. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Thursday, and after 10:00 AM Friday all at the funeral home. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family.

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

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Joseph O. Reichl, age 89, passed away on Thursday, May 10, 2018, at Woodlawn Court in Merrill.

Joe was born May 7, 1929, in Wausau, son of the late Oscar and Caroline (Barres) Reichl. He married Grayce Anderson on October 22, 1975. She survives. Joe had been the owner and operator of Merrill Glass Company. He enjoyed attending both boat and car shows, and spending time on their houseboat on the Mississippi River. Joe served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman.

Survivors include his wife Gracye Reichl, Merrill; three daughters, Robin Reichl, Madison, Virginia (Brian) Zinser, Marquette, Michigan, and Sarah Reichl, Wausau; one son, Alex (Janice) Reichl, Stevens Point; four grandchildren, Natalie, Kate, Jack, and Caroline; and a great grandchild on the way. Besides his parents, Joe is preceded in death by a granddaughter, Anna Marie Reichl; and three brothers, John, Ray, and Charles.

Per Joe’s wishes there will be no services. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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Virginia R. Gremler, 63, Merrill, died Wednesday May 2, 2018 at the Aspirus Hospice House, Wausau.

She was born September 29, 1954, in Merrill, daughter of Daisy (Drew) Bergman, Gleason and the late Carl Bergman. On August 14, 1977, she married Joe Gremler at St. John’s Church, Merrill. He survives.

Survivors besides her husband, Joe and mother, Daisy, include her children, David Gremler, Merrill, Robert Strozewski, Texas, Cara (John) Anderson, North Carolina, Renee Bennish, Wausau, Brenda Gremler, Merrill; grandchildren, Ashley (Manuel) Diaz, Kyle Roberts, Corbin Strozewski, Trinity Strozewski, Dena Strozewski, Tyler (Ruth) Anderson, Joeann (Caleb) Taylor, Alexis Anderson, Andrew Anderson, Damon Bennish; great grandchildren, Isabella, Taylor, Hazel, Sakura; and six brothers. Virginia was preceded in death by her father, Carl Bergman, grandmother, Hazel Drew, grandfather, Robert Drew and a son, Joe Gremler Jr.

The family would like to extend a special Thank you to Renee Jacobson and Nicole Williams.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

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James R. Voigt, age 76, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, May 11, 2018, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

James was born April 23, 1942, in Merrill, son of the late Ralph and Ernestine (Kleinschmidt) Voigt. James was self-employed. He is survived by three sons, Jeff Voigt and Jim (Gigi Heinz) Voigt both of Merrill, and Ralph Voigt of Stevens Point; two grandchildren, Brooke and Austin; four sisters, Dawn (Gerald) Schmidt, Merrill, Darlene (David) Herdt, Merrill, Shirley Hopkins, Wausau, and Carol (Mark) Pankow, Merrill; and five brothers, Ralph (Arlene) Voigt, Wayne (Virginia) Voigt, Gene (Phyllis) Voigt, LaVerne (Linda) Voigt, all of Merrill, and Mike Voigt of Texas.

The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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Michael VanRixel age 74 passed away on Tuesday May 15,2018 at Good Samaritan Hospital. Michael was born on December 22, 1943 to the late Matthew & Dorothy (Streich) VanRixel in Racine, WI. On June 14, 1975 He married the love of his life and best friend Barbara (Rainville) VanRixel.

Michael, alongside of his wife, owned and operated The Saloon and The Outback bar in Wausau as well as his own carpentry business. Music was his passion! He could play anything with strings and no one could make a steel guitar cry like he could. He played in numerous bands but really enjoyed sitting around the campfire with friends and family playing his guitar and singing songs.

He loved to spend time fishing on the Prairie River with his boys and the Willow Flowage with his grandchildren. He enjoyed his bus trips to the casino with his wife and friends and never met a poker machine he didn’t like.

Mike loved sports, especially the Packers, and he never missed a game. His friends and family endearingly called him “COACH”. He also liked baseball and his favorite players by far were his two grandsons. No matter the weather he was there to watch them play. He was so proud to have been there to see his Grandson hit his first Grand Slam. He lived for spending time with all of his grandchildren. He enjoyed spoiling them with sweets, watching Looney Tunes, teaching them carpentry, and showing the kids how to play drums on the pots and pans while he sang and played the guitar

Michael is survived by his wife, Barb; sons Brian (Jeannie) VanRixel, Kevin VanRixel, and Keith VanRixel; daughter: Melanie (Travis) Stroming; step-daughters: Kim (Jesse) Mickoleski and Stacy (Kurt) Blarek and Step-sons: Dan (Lori) Mickoleski and Scott Mickoleski; thirteen grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters: Bonnie (Maynard) Breunig, Barb (Ralph) Konkel, Pam Zimmerman, and DeDe (David) Hanke. He was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Dorothy VanRixel; Father and mother-in-law Charles and Ione Rainville and Granddaughter Jessica Mickoleski

A celebration of life will be held June 2, 2018 at Nancy’s Jamar’s Countryside Bar and Grill 4011 E. Wausau Ave Wausau, WI 54403 at 3pm. A luncheon will be served. Waid Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Merrill are assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com

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Donald “Don” E. Hoffman, age 79, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, May 18, 2018 at Pine Crest Nursing Home while surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Service.  He was born on June 23, 1938 to the late Clifford and Mildred (Monroe) Hoffman.  Don attended the Irma State Graded School in Irma, WI.  While growing up, he worked on the family farm, as well as various construction jobs.  Don retired as a mechanic in 2002 from Knispel and Latzig.  After retirement, Don spent many hours in his garage making all kinds of wooden crafts.  During Christmas, he enjoyed making lots of chocolate candy, especially “Angel Food”.  Don was considered by many as being the “candy man”.  He was a very social person that wanted to be a friend to everyone.  He enjoyed dancing and going to casinos.  Don will be missed by all who knew him.

Don is survived by his special friend and longtime companion: Joan Jacobson of Antigo, brother: Roy “Butch” Hoffman, six sisters: Phyllis Rice, Arlene Bagley, Arleigh Linder ,Harriet Rehwinkel, all of Merrill, Alice Braithwaite of Poynette, WI and Jean (Roger) Alms of Red Wing, MN, many nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by two brothers: Harold and Harry, sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws.

Special thanks to Don’s family, friends and neighbors for all that they did while he was recovering from his surgeries.

A Memorial Liturgy for Don will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at 5:30pm at Waid Funeral Home.  Deacon Jim Arndt will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 from 4pm until the time of the liturgy, also at the funeral home.  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.

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Gary Gene Weber or “Web” as he was known by most everyone, age 67, of Merrill, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 19 2018, at his home, surrounded by his wife, Nadine, his son, Cody and his daughter-in-law, Shannon, along with Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.  His daughter, Callie, and grandson, Wyatt were not physically at his side, but their hearts were very much with him.  Gary entered this world on September 16, 1950 to Earl and Selma Weber in Merrill, he was their first born son.  Selma survives.  Gary attended and graduated from Merrill High School and worked on grandma and grandpa Schuster’s farm and the Associated Co-op.  Gary married Nadine Roberts on July 9, 1977 in Tomahawk, WI.  She survives.   They had two children, Callie (Daniel) Boneck and Cody (Shannon) Weber, and his grandson, Wyatt, who was his pride and joy.

Gary proudly served his country in the Army National Guard, starting in 1969, and continued to serve for the next 7 years and was honorably discharged.  He was very active with Motorsports and enjoyed competing in demolition derby’s throughout central Wisconsin.  Gary was also an active member of the Merrill Ice Drags for many years, with his numerous Chevy’s throughout the years.  Gary was also an avid pool league player for much of his life.  He enjoyed talking with his buddies and drinking Old Style at the tavern.  He wanted his friends at S&S to know he truly enjoyed their company.  Gary did not have much of a serious side and that was evident throughout much of his life.  He was a kind-hearted and giving man, who would give anyone the shirt off his back if he knew that it was needed.  Gary was a simple man who didn’t expect anything from anyone.  Except for the Green Bay Packers and Rusty Wallace, then Brad Keselowski to win!  Gary was employed by Anderson Brothers & Johnson red granite quarry company, and then Merrill Equipment, until his retirement.  He is remembered as a very hard-working man .  This last January, Gary and Cody went to Charlotte, NC to visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame and he met his driver, Brad Keselowski, a trip that they both cherished.

Gary is survived by his mother:  Selma Weber of Merrill, his wife: Nadine Weber of Merrill, daughter: Callie (Daniel) Boneck of Oregon, son: Cody (Shannon) Weber of Merrill, grandson: Wyatt Weber, sisters: Nancy (Ken) Raddatz, Susan (Terry) Marth and Terry (Duwaine) Weber-Nahring, all of Merrill, brother: Dennis (Jocelyn) Weber of Merrill and numerous nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his father: Earl Weber.  In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in Gary’s name be directed to “Jessi’s Wish”.

A Funeral Service for Gary will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at 7:15pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill.  The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2018 from 4pm until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.  Military honors will be performed by the local V.F.W. Post #1638 immediately following the service at the funeral home.

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

“Bye. Love you, mush.  Thanks everyone for the good times, I wish you all luck and take care!  I encourage everyone to get a colonoscopy when appropriate.” ~Gary

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Don G. Langenkamp, 73, of Green Bay, passed away peacefully Friday, May 18, 2018. He was born on June 24, 1944 to the late Gordon and Dorothy “Beth” (Stumpf) Langenkamp. On August 3, 1968 he married Mary Jane Ploederl at Holy Cross Church, Kaukauna.

He attended and graduated from UW Madison with a degree in English. Don worked as a journalist for multiple newspapers, most notably The Green Bay Press-Gazette for over 25 years.  During his career he received numerous awards including, the 1977 National Sportswriter of the Year Award and the 1981 and 1984 Wisconsin Newspaper Association Columnist awards. Don was an avid fisherman, golfer, sports enthusiast, and he enjoyed wintering in the Florida Keys.

He is survived by his children: Lisa (Scott Kositzke) Langenkamp, Sturgeon Bay, Kristina Langenkamp, Jeffrey (Robin) Langenkamp also of Green Bay and grandchildren: Mackenzie and Alexis Brunette.  Don is further survived by his brother, James (Vida) Langenkamp, and sister, Betsy (Mark) Smith, his dog Sadie as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Langenkamp and his parents.

Family and friends may gather at St. Matthew Parish, 130 St. Matthew Street, Green Bay, beginning at 10:30am, Wednesday, May 23, 2018 until 11:45am with a Memorial Mass to follow at Noon with the Rev. Robert Kabat, officiating. Inurnment will take place at Allouez Catholic Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. Cotter Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

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Roland Edgar Hetfeld, age 95, passed away on Friday, May 18, 2018, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital.  He was born on June 3, 1922 to the late Carl W. and Alma I. (Fishbeck) Hetfeld in St. Paul, MN.  Roland attended school at Goodman and graduated with the class of 1940.  After graduation, he moved to Los Angeles and worked at the Lockheed Aircraft Corp. before enlisting in the service.  Roland proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard from October 1942 until February 1946, when he was honorably discharged.  He was a Radio Man 2^nd Class in the Coast Guard and earned the Pacific Theatre metal, the American Theatre metal, the Good Conduct metal and a purple heart from WWII.  Roland participated in the invasion of New Guinea and the Philippines.  After returning from the military, he met and fell in love with Francis Ulrica Anderson, and the two exchanged wedding vows on March 30, 1946 in Goodman, WI.  Sadly, Francis preceded him in death in 2012.  Roland attended the Wisconsin State Teachers College in Superior, WI and graduated from there in 1950.  He was an elementary principal in Goodman from 1950-1954, and moved to Merrill in 1954.  He then earned his bachelor’s degree in science and education in 1960 from UW-Madison.  He taught Botany and bacteriology at UW-Marathon/Marshfield.  Roland had worked for the Merrill Area Public School System for many years and retired as a science teacher in 1984.

Roland enjoyed being a camp director at the Birch Trail Girl Scout Camp for several years, as well as being a Boy Scout leader in Goodman.  He was a hunter’s safety instructor for many years in Merrill.  Roland was a member of the Merrill Teacher’s Association and the Christ United Methodist Church in Merrill.

Roland is survived by his sons: Jeffery (Pamela) Hetfeld of Merrill and Carl Hetfeld of Milltown, WI, sister: Sarah Moore of Orlando, FL, grandchildren: Amy (Dan) Riley, Karla (Steve) Wickersham, Josh (Jennifer) Hetfeld, Nick (Christy) Hetfeld, Megan (Adam) Snegosky, Luke (Lydia) Hetfeld, Jasmine Hetfeld and Nayda Hetfeld, step grandchildren: Braden Moening, Brittany Lofgren and McKayla (Kyle) Walker and great grandchildren: Khloe, Andrew, Matthew, Joshua, Brooke, Lauren, Avery, Audrey, Claire, Noelle, Nolan, Parker and Courtney.  He is preceded in death by his parents: Carl and Alma Hetfeld, wife: Francis Hetfeld, sons: Oscar, Scott and Ross, brother: Calvin Hetfeld, sister: Charlotte Gremban and sister-in-law: Lois (Warren) Slatter.

A Memorial Service for Roland will be held on Friday, June 1, 2018 at 11am at the Christ United Methodist Church in Merrill.  Pastor Ho Lee will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Friday, June 1, 2018 from 10am until the time of the service, also at the church.  Military honors, performed by the V.F.W. Post 1638, will be conducted at the church, immediately following the service.  Inurnment will take place at a later date in Goodman, WI.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

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Rose M. ‘Thea’ Theissen, 110, of Merrill, formerly of Fort Madison, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.

Thea was born December 28, 1907, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, daughter of the late Clement and Mary (Linen) Schaefer.  Thea graduated from Breckenridge High School and continued her education at State School of Science in Wahpeton, North Dakota.  She married Elmer Theissen on August 6, 1929.  Elmer worked as a pharmacist for Ford Hopkins Drug Stores and was relocated several times.  Thea and Elmer eventually settled in Fort Madison, Iowa, bought the Ford Hopkins Drug Store and renamed it Theissen Rexall Drug.  Thea worked alongside her husband as a clerk at the pharmacy.  Elmer passed away on September 15, 1991.  Thea enjoyed volunteering and served with the Gray Ladies of the Red Cross in the Fort Madison area for over 55 years.

Thea moved to Merrill in 2004 and lived with her daughter for the past fourteen years.  She was devoted to her Catholic faith and was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill.   Thea enjoyed taking walks, vegetable gardening, knitting, reading and receiving mail.  Thea especially enjoyed attending her granddaughters’ events.

Survivors include three daughters, Mary McElwee of Waukesha, WI, Eleanor (Gary) Wright of Battle Creek, MI and Audrey Anderson of Merrill, WI; 13 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren.  Thea was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Theissen; parents, Clement and Mary Schaefer; daughters, Ruth Rose Theissen and Helen Ann Theissen; great-grandson, Trevor Howard; siblings, Herb Schaefer, Clarence Schaefer, Anne Schaefer, Gertrude Hintgen and Rita Brenner; and son-in-law, Bill McElwee.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 P.M., Noon, Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Merrill.  Father Chris Kemp will preside.  Burial will take place at a later date in Gethsemane Cemetery, Fort Madison, Iowa.  The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday 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 would like to thank the staff at Pine Crest Nursing Home for taking such good care of ‘Grandma Thea’.

The family suggests memorials be directed to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Merrill.

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Beatrice Catherine (Blaisdell) Zastrow, age 83, of Merrill, formerly of Neillsville, WI, died on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at Good Samaritan Hospital, Merrill.

Beatrice was born on February 18, 1935 in Minocqua, WI to the late John Wm “Jack” and Clara M. (Zimmerman) Blaisdell.  She graduated from Merrill High School.  Beatrice married Franklin Zastrow on August 4, 1956 at First Presbyterian Church, Merrill. He preceded her in death.

Beatrice worked for Cardinal’s Resort in Trout Lake, WI,   the former Holy Cross Hospital as a nurse’s aide, and Abby Vans Inc, Neillsville.  She also served as Den Mother for Boy Scouts Pack 402 and was involved in many church groups.  Beatrice enjoyed sewing, tending to her house plants, traveling, fishing, camping, and especially time spent doing things with her children and grandchildren.

Beatrice is survived by her sons; Steven E. (Julie) of Merrill, Leon D. of Menasha, Mark A. (Yvonne) of Wausau, and Michael L. of Neillsville; daughter Catherine (Corey) Dornbrack of Merrill, grandchildren; Stephanie (Tim) Koller, Brenda (Don) Gardner, and Marcus Zastrow, and Laura (Tyler Linzmeier) Jones and Kevin Jones , Carl and Rose Dornbrack; and one great grandson Anthony Linzmeier, son-in-law; Mark (Peggy) Jones.

Besides her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her son; Clay Franklin, daughter; Cynthia Marie Jones and sister; Jacqueline Blaisdell.

Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, May 31 at the Town of Levis Cemetery, Neillsville WI.

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

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MaryJane Tracey passed away peacefully on May 31st, 2018 at the age of 80. MaryJane was born on July 8th, 1937. She was adopted by Rev. John and Aurelia Seidler. MaryJane attended Lakeland College where she studied nursing and music. She married Ronald Tracey on April 22nd, 1961. She worked many years for the Oneida Indians at the Oneida Health Center as an LPN and Diabetic Educator. MaryJane was an excellent cook. She liked making food and sharing it with others. She also enjoyed traveling, camping, singing, but most of all she loved spending time with family and her dog Velvet. She is survived by her children John Tracey (Barb), Carolyn Frahm (Mike), David Tracey (Kari), and Daniel Tracey (Laurie). 8 grandchildren Jennifer (Nick), Kalie, Shawn (Tayra), Brianna, Ty, Logan, Laken, and Michael. 3 great grandchildren Jameson, James, and Roslyn. 1 brother Claude Brown (Iona). She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. MaryJane was preceded in death by her parents Rev. John and Aurelia Seidler, her husband Ronald, and many brothers and sisters. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, June 5th at Christ United Methodist Church, 306 N. Mill St. Merrill, WI with Rev. Ho Lee officiating. Visitation is from 10-11. The service is from 11-12 with luncheon to follow. Burial will be at Gleason Cemetery, Hwy. 17 Gleason for anyone who wants to join after the luncheon. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

Online condolences may be made at hansenschillingfuneralhome.com

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Mary Ellen Krueger, age 73, of rural Merrill, passed away on Saturday, June 2, 2018, at the Hospice House in Wausau, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary Ellen was born May 25, 1945, in Wausau, daughter of the late Franklin and Irma (Hanke) Kopplin. She married Orville L. Krueger on September 12, 1964, in St. John Lutheran Church, Town of Maine. He preceded her in death on November 16, 1986. For 29 years, Mary Ellen worked at the former Fiskars Manufacturing, Wausau, until they closed their doors. Not ready to retire, Mary Ellen then went to work for Lactalis in the Town of Maine, and also for the Town of Corning. She helped clean the town hall in Corning and also assisted the township as a poll worker. Mary Ellen enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and attending both their sporting events and musical recitals; gardening and canning; collecting decorative owls; and playing dice and the card game ‘peanuts’.

Mary Ellen is survived by two daughters, Cami (Todd) Pester, and Tara (Shannon) Hannemann, both of Merrill; one son, Jeff Krueger (Jen Larson), Tomahawk; six grandchildren, Jacob and Marissa Gutsch, and Tanner, Kaden, Parker, and Preston Hannemann; one step grandchild, Mollie Pester; two sisters, Joanne (Charles) Zahn, Wausau, and Lorraine (Stanley) Wiederhoeft, Hamburg; and a sister in law, Virginia Zastrow, Merrill. Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her husband, Orville, and her parents, Franklin and Irma Kopplin.

Mary Ellen’s funeral will begin at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 8, 2018, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Town of Berlin. The Rev. Andrew DeGier will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 10:00 AM Friday at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Mary Ellen’s family wishes to thank both Dr. Christopher G. Peterson of the Aspirus Cancer Center and the staff at the Aspirus Hospice House for the loving care given to our mother.  

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Debra “Deb” J. Gryskiewicz, age 57, of Merrill, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, June 1, 2018 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, after a long battle with cancer.  She was born on January 21, 1961 to the late Erwin and Audrey (Tesch) Baumann in Merrill.  Deb grew up in the Merrill area and attended and graduated from Wausau West High School.

When she was younger, Deb was employed at various retail stores and did some housekeeping as well.  Later in life, she spent her time volunteering at many locations in the Merrill area, including Pine Crest Nursing Home and the Eagles Club.  Volunteering and supporting this community was very important to Deb.  She was also a member of the Red Hatter Society and Eagles Club.  Deb is remembered as a loving and giving person, which she demonstrated in her volunteer work.  She enjoyed attending area musicals and plays and was a very social person.  Deb was a woman of strong faith, which helped her during her battle with cancer.  She will be sadly missed by all who were touched by her kindness and love.

Deb is survived by her son: Adam (Liz) Gryskiewicz of Luxemburg, WI, along with her grandchildren: AJ and Adalyn, brothers: Erwin “Butch”, Jeff (Kathy) and Terry (Amy) Baumann, sister: Sue (John) Heckendorf, best friend: Leslie Gaughan, her special cat: “Miss Kitty” and many other loving relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents: Erwin and Audrey Baumann.

A Funeral Service for Deb will be held on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at 12noon at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill.  The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 from 9am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.  Burial will immediately follow the service at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery in the town of Berlin.

In lieu of flowers please donate to a cancer or diabetes fund.

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

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Amy K. (Mrs. Tim) Duley, age 50, passed away on Friday, June 1, 2018.

Amy was born on May 27, 1968, in South Bend, Indiana. She was the daughter of Dr. Wayne and Mary Knochel, Rochester, Indiana. She married Tim A. Duley on August 1, 2002. He survives. Amy was a graduate of Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas. She was currently employed at Wendorf Bus Service as well as Kwik Trip, both located in Merrill. Amy was active in the ‘Mother’s Club’ at St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill. She enjoyed cooking and taking care of her fish tanks.

Amy is survived by her husband, Tim A. Duley, Merrill; three sons, Nathan and Nicholas Meyer, and Alex Duley, all of Merrill; her parents, Dr. Wayne and Mary Knochel, Rochester, Indiana; her twin sister, Nancy (Will) Clodfelter, San Diego, California; and two brothers, Dr. Kurt (Amy) Knochel, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Kris (Sherry) Knochel, Atlanta, Georgia; as well as other relatives and friends.

Amy’s funeral will begin at 11:00 AM on Thursday, June 7, 2018, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Town of Pine River. The Rev. Greg Laska will officiate. Burial will follow in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, Town of Pine River. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Wednesday, June 6^th at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 9:30 AM Thursday, June 7^th at the church.

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

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Arthur “Art” A. Anderson, age 78, of Merrill, passed away on Thursday, May 31, 2018, at Pine Crest Nursing Home. Art was born May 15, 1940, in Chicago, the youngest of three children. On November 7, 1959, he married his high school sweetheart, Joann Martin, whom he met at the Hub Roller Rink.
Art worked as a printer in downtown Chicago before moving his family to Wisconsin to fulfill his dream of owning his own business (Anderson Printing Service) and living on a hobby farm in the town of Corning.
Art was a life member of the Merrill Optimist Club; he was active in BSA serving as a Cub Scout, Webelos, and Boy Scout Leader; and he was a proud member of the National Guard.  He was also a long time member at St. Francis Catholic Church in Merrill. Art was an avid bowler who also enjoyed hunting and fishing, playing cards and board games, and watching old Western movies and game shows with his friends and family.
Art was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Gunnar Anderson and Alice Lennea (Lauren) Anderson, sister-in-law, Marilyn Anderson and brother-in-law, Al Asciutto.  Art is survived by his wife of 58 years, Joann, his brother, Carl Gunnar Anderson, his sister, Ann Marie Asciutto, nine children: Michelle Anderson, North Miami, Florida, Suzanne (Tim) Devine, Eau Claire, Laura Anderson, Scottsdale, Arizona, Christine (Lee) Lau, Merrill, Nadine (Dan) Kannel, Plum City, Michael Anderson, Merrill, Paulette (Scott) Severt, Merrill, Edward (Janelle) Anderson, Ferryville, and Steven (Heather) Anderson, Winneconne, 20 grandchildren: Mitchell (Jeanne), Mallory, McKenzie, Max Devine, Brittany, Austin Malm, Emily, Sam Lau, Brandon, Shelby, Jazmin Kannel, Bruce, Gunnar Anderson, Cole, Sierra Severt, Brooke, Sage, Drake Anderson, and Margaret, Jed Anderson, one great grandson, Thomas Devine and many other loved family members and friends.
A Celebration of Art’s Life will take place on Friday, June 8 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Merrill.  Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. Father Chris Kemp will officiate.  In lieu of gifts and flowers, the family would appreciate that donations be made in Art’s memory to the Merrill Optimist Club or the American Cancer Society.

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

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Emily M. Zemke, age 95, of Merrill, passed away on Sunday, June 3, 2018, at Bell Tower Residence in Merrill.

Emily was born June 22, 1922, in the Town of Scott, Lincoln County, daughter of the late Kurt and Nora (Kuether) Pester. She married Arnold H. Zemke on June 22, 1946. He preceded her in death on November 11, 2005. Emily was a life member of St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Merrill. She was a member of the Dorcas Society, Mission Guild, and Quilting Bee’s at church, and was a former Sunday school teacher. Emily received the ‘Faith Award’ from St. Stephens Church in 1994. Emily had been employed for 29 years at the former M&I Citizens American Bank, Merrill. She was also a former member of the Merrill Business & Professional Women’s Organization. Emily enjoyed sewing, both for herself and her children. She also enjoyed baking and canning; attending her grandchildren’s sporting events; and for 35 years spending time at the family trailer on Patricia Lake in the Minocqua area.

Emily is survived by her daughter, Glynis (Michael) Schroeder, Merrill; one son, Scott Zemke, Merrill; two grandchildren, Amanda (Josh) Kohnhorst, Merrill, and Trevor Schroeder, Wausau; three great grandchildren, Allie, Bailey, and Maddie Kohnhorst; one sister, Eleanor Loud of Maryland; two brothers, Fred (Carol) Pester, Merrill, and Donald Pester (Pat Olson) Savage, Minnesota; and a special cousin, Dorothy Radke, Merrill; as well as many other cousins, nieces, and nephews. Besides her husband and parents, Emily is preceded in death by four brothers, Richard, William, Gus, and Roland Pester.

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

The family wishes to thank the staff of Bell Tower Residence, Merrill, and Ascension Hospice for the outstanding and loving care given to our mother and grandmother.

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