Mary Ann Zastrow, age 75, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, September 20, 2015 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
A memorial service for Mary Ann will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 16, 2015 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. that day at church. Mary Ann’s cremated remains will be interred at Springbrook Cemetery, Town of Pine River, Lincoln County.
Mary Ann was the daughter of the late Gust and Anna Zastrow. She had worked at Weinbrenner Shoe Company, the former House of Merrill, the former Ward Paper Mill, and Merrill Manufacturing.
It was at Weinbrenner that Mary Ann met her life-long friend, Helen Frederick. Mary Ann was hard working, enjoyed helping others, enjoyed taking trips, and was the Queen of the Red Hattitudes II. Mary Ann very much enjoyed being part of this Red Hatters group.
She was a very kind-hearted person and always helped others. She was also active with her church Trinity Lutheran Church. Her and Helen were always on the go; traveling, visiting others, and shopping. Mary Ann was very fond of her niece, Linda (Jeremy) Nass and their dog, Bernie.
Survivors include her sister, Theresa Graap of Merrill; her brother, Jerry (Susan) Zastrow of Merrill; her niece, Linda (Jeremy) Nass of Wausau; and many cousins. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Gust and Anna Zastrow; her brother-in-law, Gerald Graap; and two nephews.

Kristine R. (Gegner) Cochrane, age 60, of Ocala, Florida, passed away on September 24, 2015 surrounded by her family at Legacy Hospice House of Marion County, Florida.
Kristine was born on November 1, 1954 in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin and was adopted by Oswald and Ruth (Radloff) Gegner. She married Richard L. Cochrane Sr. on October 20, 2000 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. He survives. Throughout her youth, Kristine was involved in Girl Scouts and 4-H. Her nickname was “Pickles”. She attended Trinity Lutheran Elementary School until 8th grade. Kristine graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1972. After high school, she attended classes at N.T.C. and began her clerical career at Weinbrenner Shoe Company until the early 1980’s. Kristine then continued her career at Wausau Insurance, SNE Enterprises, I.T.C. Trucking Corp., and Semco. In 2000, she married and moved to North Fort Myers, Florida. There she worked part time in the office at Jacqueline Bridal and Lynx Services while enjoying the freedom to travel over-the-road with her husband and see the United States. She retired in 2013 and moved to Ocala, Florida. Throughout her life she enjoyed music, crocheting, writing poetry, her truck trips, and had a lifelong love of the beach.
Kristine is survived by husband, Richard L. Cochrane, Sr. of Ocala FL; daughters, Cheryl Tucker of Ocala, FL and Michelle (Christopher) Salter of Merrill, WI; grandchildren, Zachary Tucker of Ocala, FL, and Ava Salter of Merrill, WI; sister, Julie Gegner of San Diego, CA; nieces, Dominique Gattuso and Alexandra Gattuso both of San Diego, CA; best friend, Sandi Roesler of Stevens Point, WI; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Kristine is further survived by step-children, Richard Cochrane, Jr., Patrick Cochrane, and William (Chrissy) Cochrane all of Florida and Elizabeth Cochrane of Rhinelander, WI; and step-grandchildren, Abby, Conner, Cody, Blaze, Trevin, and Kadin all of Florida, and Crystal of Rhinelander, WI. Kristine was preceded in death by her parents, Oswald “Ozzie” and Ruth (Radloff) Gegner; one aunt, several uncles; and cousins.
A memorial service for Kristine will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, October 3, 2015 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Saturday at the funeral home. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with local arrangements.

Former Merrill, Wisconsin resident Theodore Markley Gilbert, Jr., 83, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 27th, 2015, at his home in Mtn. Home, Arkansas. He was married to his wife Mary for 48 years.

Ted was born November, 20, 1931, in Neenah, WI, to Theodore Markley Gilbert, Sr. and Ruth Dickinson Gilbert.

Ted could accomplish anything he set his mind to. He successfully completed and graduated from Shattuck Military School (Episcopal), Faribault, MN and Western Michigan, Kalamazoo, MI. He spent four years in the Air Force stationed at Kimpo, Korea – 67th Reconnaissance where he was a successful Ariel photo scanner and Carto drafting specialist. He received the National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.

Throughout his career Ted was a computer programmer at Church Mutual Insurance Company of Merrill, WI, owner/designer of several apartment units, and started a trucking business.

Ted had many hobbies and interests. He enjoyed bowling (he rolled the first 300 game in Merrill, WI in 1965 and later inducted into the Merrill Hall of Fame in 1993), golfing, cards, canoeing, sailing, tennis (an excellent player), trap shooting (member of the Trap Shooter’s Club, Merrill, WI) , snowmobiling, he loved to read books and loved all dogs, especially the dachshund. He was an active member of the Wisconsin Club, Mtn. Home, AR. and a Green Bay Packer fan (a proud ticket holder for 47 years).

Ted and Mary enjoyed living on Tug Lake, Irma, WI for 20 years where he was a wonderful father and together they raised their two children. In 2001, they retired to Mtn. Home, AR where they enjoyed living and made many new friends.
Ted is survived by his wife, Mary Lou Gilbert, James Gilbert, Midwest City, OK (son) and Mary Beth Hill, Susan & Jeff Van Slyke, Thompson’s Station, TN (daughter and son-in-law), Henley and Hannah Van Slyke (grandchildren), and Albert & Lisa Gilbert, Boulder City, NV (brother & sister-in-law). Other surviving family members are Dr. Joe & Carol Anderson, Madison, WI (brother and sister-in-law), Tom & Patty Pfotenhauer, Fremont, OH (brother and sister-in-law), Ruth Pfotenhauer , Franklin Park, IL (sister-in-law) and Chris Spaulding, and many nieces and nephews. Also, deceased family members Theodore M. Gilbert, Sr. and Ruth Gilbert (mother & father) and Jerry Gilbert (brother).

A Memorial Service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 1, 2015, at Roller Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Susie Wilson officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions, and memorials may be made to the Hospice of the Ozarks, 701 Burnett Dr., Mtn. Home, AR, 72653. Arrangements are by Roller Funeral Home. Visit an online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com

Charles D. Reynolds passed away peacefully into the hands of the Lord on Friday September 25, 2015. Chuck was the beloved son of the late John and Wilhelmina Danfield Reynolds; brother of Dorothy Martin and the late John “Red” Reynolds, and Ellen Ruth Parker; also survived by nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Chuck was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, a WWII veteran of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and spent his entire career traveling the world with U.S. Steel as a geologist. Funeral Saturday, October 3, 2015, Mass of Christian Burial in the Chapel of the Vincentian Home, 111 Perrymont Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, at 3pm. A graveside service will be held in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Merrill, Wisconsin on Tuesday, October 6th at 12:30pm. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA.(freyvogelfuneralhome.com)

Elaine E. Rutell, age 98, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, under the care of her family and the nursing home staff.
Elaine was born January 13, 1917, in Merrill, daughter of the late Joseph and Ella Van Slate. She married Ralph Rutell on September 16, 1938, and he preceded her in death on February 11, 1983. She then married Chet Rutell on July 8, 1989. He preceded her in death on February 13, 2003. Elaine had previously been employed with Weinbrenner Shoe Company, Merrill. Her and Ralph also owned and operated “Rutell’s Grocery” on Merrill’s southwest side. At the time of her retirement, Elaine was with the claims department at Wausau Insurance. Elaine enjoyed fishing and spending time at their cottage on Hixon Lake in the Rhinelander area, an occasional casino trip, the Green Bay Packers, and both the Milwaukee Braves and the Atlanta Braves. Elaine had been an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill and was a member of the Ladies Aid.
Survivors include her daughter, Gay (Dick) Baumgart, Merrill; her son, Merrill (Mary) Rutell, Milwaukee; four grandchildren, Jessica (Joao) Rutell-Basilio, Milwaukee, Mark (Amber Leverich) Baumgart, Merrill, Aaron (Hannah) Rutell, Milwaukee, and Ethan (Megan) Rutell, Montgomery, Alabama; four great-grandchildren, David Baumgart, Caleb Rutell, Houston Rutell, and Kaia Rutell-Basilio; twin great-grandchildren on the way; and three step great-grandchildren, Erik, Alex, and A.J. Elaine was preceded in death by her husbands, Ralph Rutell and Chet Rutell; her parents; Joseph and Ella Van Slate; a daughter and son-in-law, Glory and Robert Klanderud; an infant daughter, Rachel May Rutell; and seven brothers, Ellsworth, Stanley, Roland, Ivan, Elroy, Woodrow, and Merlin Van Slate.
The funeral service will be held at 12:00 P.M., Noon, Wednesday, October 7, 2015, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. R. Brian Stolarczyk will officiate. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM Wednesday at the funeral home.
The family suggests memorials be directed to H.A.V.E.N. or the Lincoln County Humane Society.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

John R. Van Sleet, age 39, of Wausau, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2015.
John was born June 17, 1976, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, son of Bruce and Susan (Nelson) Van Sleet, Merrill. John had been a Business Analyst for A.C. Nielsen, Chicago, Illinois. He enjoyed spending time with his family. John also enjoyed being outdoors and spending time with nature, whether it was snow shoeing, water skiing, hunting or fishing. John was musically talented. He was an excellent singer and guitar player. His musical talents earned him several lead roles in class plays over the years.
Survivors include his parents, Bruce and Susan Van Sleet, Merrill; his fiancée, Rhnea Wimmer, Wausau; two brothers, Paul (Dana) Van Sleet, Mendota Heights, Minnesota, and Donovan (fiancée, Cathi Metcalf) Van Sleet, Graham, Washington; his half sister, Jeanne (Jeff) Erickson, Toledo, Ohio; and four nephews, Davin, Sean, Eli, and Nicholas Van Sleet.
Family and friends may gather at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, from 4 to 7 PM on Monday, October 5, 2015. Burial will take place at a later date in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery, Merrill.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

LaMar “Jay” Stapleton, age 59, died unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, September 29, 2015. He was born on February 29, 1956 in Stevens Point to Cecil and Dolly (Finley) Stapleton. He and Donna Stapleton (Schwartz) were united in marriage in Northridge, CA in 1991.
Jay was a 1974 graduate of Weyerhauser High School. He worked in computer consulting and had owned his own computer company in California for over 15 years. Jay currently worked in sales and marketing at Maple Hollow in Merrill. He was a very helpful person who loved to learn and share his knowledge with whomever he could. Jay was very involved in his community and was always helping at his local synagogue. He enjoyed working in his yard and took great pride in keeping it looking sharp. Jay loved nature and looked forward to fishing every summer. He and Donna loved to take drives just to enjoy the beauty of nature. Jay was an avid Packer fan. He could, more often than not, be found smoking his favorite pipe. Spending time with his family and friends was very important to Jay. He loved to tell stories and was very fun to be around with his great sense of humor. Jay will be remembered as a bright, well liked man with a great smile who was always ready with a big bear hug.
Survivors include his wife: Donna Stapleton (Schwartz), of Merrill; son: Benjamin (Jennifer) Stapleton; grandson: Sammy Stapleton; seven siblings: Jean Stapleton, John Stapleton, Susie Stapleton, Laura Stapleton, Mary (Mark) Krombholz, Douglas Stapleton and John (Jennifer) Holm Jr. Jay was further loved by 15 nieces and nephews and 18 great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Laurence Hazelton, and sister and brother-in-law, Tina and John Jennerman.
Funeral services for Jay will be held at 1:30 PM on Sunday, October 4, 2015 at Waid Funeral Home. Rabbi Dan Danson will officiate. Visitation will be held from 11:30 AM until the time of service, also at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or to Mount Sinai Congregation in Wausau, 910 W. Randolph St. Wausau, WI 54401. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.
Jay’s family would like to say a special thank you to the first responders who worked so hard and were so kind and compassionate that night.

Damon R. Trzebiatowski, age 58, of Merrill, died Wednesday, September 30, 2015, under hospice care at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
Damon was born March 3, 1957, in Milwaukee, son of Rita (Uhl) Trzebiatowski, Antigo, and the late Clarence Trzebiatowski. He married Gloria Puphal-Blaubach on July 19, 2001. She survives. Damon had been a bartender, and was the former owner and operator of ’64 Pub’ in the Town of Corning, Lincoln County. He enjoyed fishing, metal fabrication, and gardening.
Survivors include his wife, Gloria Trzebiatowski, Merrill; his mother, Rita Trzebiatowski, Antigo; his step daughter, Cheri (Steve, Jr.) Ament, Merrill; his stepson, Joe (Jenny Benzinger) Blaubach, Irma; two step grandchildren, Ashley Ament and Cassie Blaubach; and two sisters, Diann (Roger) Evers, Pound, Wisconsin, and Debra Olson, Eau Claire. Besides his father, Damon is preceded in death by a brother in law, Dan Olson; and a nephew, Ezell.
Family and friends may gather from 4 to 7 PM on Wednesday, October 7, 2015, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Merrill Memorial Park Columbarium.
The Family wishes to thank Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice services for the wonderful care given to Damon.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Eleanore Dorothy Buck was born to eternal life in Christ on Wednesday, September 30, 2015, at the age of 98.

A resident of Merrill, Wisconsin for most of her life, Dorothy received loving care at Luther Manor in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin for most of the past decade.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her loving husband Clarence Wesley Buck. She is survived by her two sons, Thomas (Jane) Buck and Daniel (Ginny) Buck, as well as grandchildren, Col. Peter (Pamela) Buck, Heidi (Frank) Fuchsberger, Arica (Heath) Grafton, and Taylor (Jill) Buck and ten great-grandchildren.

Services were held at the Luther Manor Faith and Education Center at 4611 N. 92nd Street, Wauwatosa on Monday, October 5, 2015. Entombment at the Restlawn Cemetery in Wausau, Wisconsin.

 
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated for the Luther Manor Foundation, Covenant Lutheran Church, 8121 W Hope Avenue, Milwaukee 53222, or St John Lutheran Church, 1104 E Third Street, Merrill, WI 54452.

Darlene Sann of Merrill passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4th at Pine Crest Nursing Home under the care of hospice and with family at her side.

Darlene was born February 3, 1939 to Clarence and Myrtle (Dorn) Henrich in the Town of Pine River. In 1961, she married David E. Sann at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Pine River. They lived in the Town of Texas running a small dairy farm, gardening, growing flowers and raising their three children until Dave’s death in 1982. Darlene moved to Merrill where she remained a homemaker and also worked for the Lincoln County Nursing Service. In her younger years, Darlene also worked at the Merrill Glove Factory and with her aunt and uncle at the family tavern, Henrichs Club.

Darlene is survived by her children, Douglas D. Sann, Darla D. Sann(Tim S. Koenig), and Diana D. Sann, all of Merrill; and her step grandchildren, Nick K. Koenig, of Merrill and Asonja N. Koenig, of Wausau. She is further survived by one brother, George (Nancy) Henrich, Sr.; three sisters Dianne (Henrich) Belling, Judith (Engles) Schwemm, and Rita (Engles) Kimmins; her step-father, Howard Engles; as well as thirteen nieces and nephews; fourteen great-nieces and great-nephews and; one great-great-nephew. Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, David E. Sann; and her parents, Clarence and Myrtle Henrich.

Darlene enjoyed many things: her large collection of knick- knacks and salt/pepper shakers, couponing, and snuggling with her kitties: Prince Charlie, Lady and Munchkin. She loved spending time with her family, especially at family reunions and holidays, and visiting with her wonderful friends & neighbors. She also liked going out to lunch, taking car rides in the country, listening to the local radio station, WJMT, and especially listening to the Polkas. Some of her recent favorite outings were going to see the Merrill City Band and to Eagles Club for the Women Connecting Club, with her friend and care-giver Chris Strasser-Gano.

Mom was very proud of her children and loved to help support any fundraiser they were working on at the time. Her favorites were the Annual Pine River Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser where she loved to see her son, Doug, dressed in his uniform and to have lunch and play in some raffles. Also, the Lincoln County Humane Society Fall Banquet where she enjoyed the raffles, dinner and meeting people with her daughter, Darla. She also loved all the crafts that her youngest daughter, Diana, made and brought home for her to enjoy. She was very happy to spend time with Tim, Nick & Asonja, especially when she would babysit the grandkids in their younger years. She always had plenty of mint ice cream to go around!

Our family would like to thank all the staff at Pine Crest Nursing Home, and her many doctors and nurses over the years. A special thanks also goes to Kindhearted Home Care for the help they have given our family through the years.
A memorial service will be held at 4:30 P.M., Saturday, October 17, 2015, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. Susan Christian will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Bernice H. Dinicola, age 96, of Merrill died on October 7, 2015 at her home in the town of Harding.

She was born on June 9, 1919 in Chicago, Illinois to Charles and Mary Zabel. Bernice worked at Western Electric as an accountant in Chicago, Illinois until retirement. She loved cheering on the Packers and spending time on the lake fishing. Bernice also enjoyed playing cards with her “poker buddies”.

Bernice is survived by her son: John Avelis of Portage, Michigan and her daughter: Carol Avelis of Merrill. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband: John Avelis.

Per the request of the family, there will be no services.

Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made www.waidfuneral.com.

Judith M. Nugent, 75, of Waupun, died Monday, October 12, 2015 at Touchstone Living Center in Fond du Lac.

Judy was born July 2, 1940 in Merrill, WI the daughter of Earl and Clara Klick Oldenburg. On December 28, 1968 she married Michael Werner in Madison, WI. They later moved to Waupun where she helped raise their two children. Judy then later married Jack Nugent of Waupun. They were together for over 30 years until his passing a few years ago. Judy was a Lab Technician at Waupun Memorial Hospital for many years. She was full of life, enjoying many things such as knitting, traveling with Jack, and of course, cooking and entertaining. Judy also had a great dedication to volunteering for Ducks Unlimited. She was an individual who always put family first.

Judy is survived by children: Judson Werner of Waupun; Ryan (Kevin) Bille of Eden Prairie, MN; Jay (Jill) Nugent of Milwaukee, WI, Kathleen Nugent of Minneapolis, MN, Shaun (Chris) Nugent of Chanhassen, MN, and Kelly (Matt) Denton of Oconomowoc, WI; and grandchildren: Landon and Delilah Werner; Maci, Corbynn, and Quinn Bille, Bryan, Colin, Alena, Carlos, and Riley Nugent, and Paxton and Zaria Denton.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her parents, Earl and Lillian; and an aunt, Eleanor Biever.

A memorial service for Judith M. Nugent will be held Sunday, October 18, 2015 at 2 p.m. at Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun with Rev. J.D. Mc Carty officiating. Friends and relatives may call on the family on Sunday at the funeral home from 12 noon until the time of service.

Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home of Waupun and staff are serving the family.  Please visit our website at www.wernerharmsenfuneralhome.com for further information and to send condolences.

Kenneth L. Barron Sr., age 91, of Merrill died on October 11, 2015 at Bell Tower Residence in Merrill.

He was born to Andrew and Elisabeth (Jones) Barron on March 29, 1924 in Chicago, IL. Kenneth married Alice Andersen on April 3, 1942 in Kokoka, MO. She preceded him in death in 1998. In 1943, Kenneth enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served as a Surgical Technician. After the military service, Kenneth was an executive of Martin-Boyer Insurance Company in Chicago, IL. Later in life, he worked as a dairy farmer up until his retirement. Kenneth enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom he adored. When he was able, Kenneth would go boating on the Wisconsin River or just finding some peace and quiet while fishing on the river.
Kenneth is survived by his daughter: Barbara L. (Perry) Barron-Kaufmann, Redding, CT; sister-in-law: Barbara A. Barron, Bloomingdale, IL; five grandchildren: Damara Diamond, Downer Grove, IL; Andrea (William) Taylor, Mequon, WI; Cynthia (Michael) Bunten Tiffin, IA; Rebecca (Steven) Bush, Eastman, WI; Kirsten (Jonathan) Price, Green Bay, WI; and six great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Alice Barron; brother, Jack Barron; daughter, Marlene Barron; son, Kenneth L. Barron Jr.; and grandson, Peter Diamond Jr.
Private family services will be held at the Ridgewood Memorial Park, IL at a later date.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Florence A. Moyer, age 92, of Merrill, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2015, at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill.
Florence was born April 18, 1923, in Merrill, daughter of the late John and Florence (Krueger) Kloke. She married Edward J. Moyer on November 10, 1951. He preceded her in death on February 5, 2011. Florence graduated from Merrill High School and then attended the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She came home to Merrill and took a job in the office at former Hanson Glove Corporation. Florence was a member of St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ, Merrill, where she volunteered with the Ladies Aid. Florence also volunteered at Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center. She enjoyed needlepoint and knitting, and in her younger years, she excelled at playing the cello.
Survivors include her daughter, Ann Andersen of Delavan, Wisconsin; her son, Gary Moyer of Merrill; three granddaughters, Kari Mikolyzk of Glendale, Emily (Ahchung) Ho of Muskego, and Megan Andersen of Portland, Oregon; one great-grandson, Andrew Gengler; one sister, Colleen (Pete) Caylor of Fairfax Station, Virginia; and one brother, John ‘Jack’ (Beth) Kloke of Hallieford, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward J. Moyer; and her parents, John and Florence Kloke.
Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, October 20, 2015 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. A private funeral service will be held. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Duane M. Alberg, age 91, of Charlene Avenue, Tomahawk, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, October 12, 2015 at Golden Living – Golden Age Nursing Home under the care of AsceraCare Hospice.

Duane was born on February 24, 1924 in Merrill to Edwin & Gertrude (Sisson) Alberg. He was a Tomahawk High School Graduate, Class of 1942. After graduation, he entered the United States Navy. Duane served for three years as a Radioman in the South Pacific Theater, WWII. After an honorable discharge in 1946, he moved home back to Tomahawk. Shortly after being home, he married Patricia Ann Ball. They were wed on June 1, 1946, nearly 70 years ago, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Tomahawk. Together, Duane & Pat have two children, Mark & Lois. Duane worked as an Administrative Manager & Auditor at the MT&W Railroad and Owens Illinois for 40 years until his retirement in December of 1982. Duane loved to go boating on the Wisconsin River, golfing & sports, and woodworking. Duane loved spending time with his family; He was in attendance at all of their activities, dance recitals, and sporting events. Duane was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church and was also a member of the American Legion.

Duane is survived by his wife, Pat Alberg of Tomahawk; son, Mark (Jackie) Alberg of Tomahawk; daughter, Lois (David) Hilgendorf of Tomahawk; 6 Grandchildren, Danielle Engel, Stacy Hilgendorf, Andrew Alberg, Michelle Nelson, Melissa Kahle & Shawn Alberg; and sister in law, Alice Alberg of Merrill. Duane is further survived by 15 Great Grandchildren and the 16th great grandchild on the way, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Melvin, three sisters, Edna Koebe, Elaine Alft & Audrey Saeger.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Duane Alberg will take place at 11:00AM on Friday, October 16, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church. Fr. Edward Powell will officiate. Visitation will take place on Thursday, October 15 from 4:00PM until 7:00PM at the Krueger Family Funeral Home with a vigil service at 7:00PM. Visitation will continue at the church on Friday from 10:00AM until the time of Mass at 11:00AM. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Tomahawk.

The Krueger Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. You may view the obit and share online condolences at www.kruegerfamilyfuneral.com.

Elida J. Woller, age 82, of Merrill, passed away October 13, 2015 at Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center. She was born March 15, 1933 in Merrill to the late William and Sylvia (Buntrock) Sukow. She and Kenneth R. Woller were united in marriage on June 12, 1954. He preceded her in death September 17, 1997.
Elida attended and graduated from Merrill Senior High School. She earned her teaching degree at Lincoln County Normal School. She taught every grade at one point or another throughout most of her adult life – a career lasting over 42 years. In her younger years, Elida worked at Woolworth’s in Merrill. She enjoyed embroidering dishtowels, word searches and reading. Elida was an avid bowler and belonged to several leagues over the years. She was also on a golf league with her husband, Kenneth. Elida enjoyed having friends over for card parties and loved to travel with her family all over the U.S. Elida was a quiet lady who was always very helpful and enjoyed entertaining people. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, the church Dorcas Society and the Red Hat Ladies. Elida’s family was most important to her and she enjoyed spending time with all of them whenever she could.
Survivors include her son: Basil (Valerie) Woller, The Woodlands, TX; two daughters: Dawn (significant other, Mark Mensching) Osness, Merrill, and Lorie (Chrys) Kurtzweil, Irma; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; three sisters: Marie Merkel, Lois Hintz and Gloria Plamann; two brothers: Wayne Sukow and Hank Sukow; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Kenneth, and daughter, Beth Lahr.
Funeral Services for Elida will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, October 19, 2015 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4-8 PM Sunday, October 18th at Waid Funeral Home and again from 10 AM until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in Snow Hill Cemetery. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Jack B. Schubert, age 64, passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 13, 2015. He was born on May 17, 1951 to the late Lorenz and Laura (Stange) Schubert in Merrill, WI. Jack attended and graduated from the Merrill High School. He eventually met Sharon Schroeder and she became the love of his life. The two of them were united in marriage on June 9, 1973 in Merrill, WI.
Jack and Sharon ran a family-owned dairy farm in Merrill for many years. After retiring from farming, Jack worked in the shipping and receiving department at Reindl Printing. Most recently, Jack was employed at Fleet Farm in Antigo, helping out in all of the departments. He had recently retired from Fleet Farm and enjoyed the last two years of that retirement. Jack had a love for the outdoors, and was an avid hunter. He would hunt anything and everything, and taught his boys the skill of hunting. Jack took pride in manicuring his lawn, and enjoyed his many types of flowers and growing vegetables out of his garden. He would spend time being out in nature, and loved watching his birds, especially the cardinals. Jack and his family would enjoy camping at the Fox Fire Campground in Woodruff, WI, where fun was had by all! They would also take the occasional trip to the casino. Jack and his family were very involved in 4-H, even becoming leaders at one time or another. Family was very important to Jack, he would enjoy spending time with them at every chance he had. He will be sadly missed.
Jack is survived by his loving wife: Sharon Schubert of Merrill, his sons: Jerad (Shari) Schubert of Merrill and Jason Schubert of Wausau, grandchildren: Kathy, Travis and Melinda Schubert, two step grandchildren: Michelle (Jesse) Roberge and Eric (Dana) Woller, five step great grandchildren, two sisters: Mary (Herb) Falk of Merrill and Bonnie (Bill) Mueller of Ohio, brother: Lawrence (Ginny) Schubert of Indiana and many nieces and nephews.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents: Lorenz and Laura Schubert, two brothers: Dale and Kenny, sister: Yvette and two identical twin brothers who died at birth.
A Memorial Service for Jack will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2015 at 12pm at the Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Pastor Missy Holdorf will officiate. Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2015 from 9am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Joseph Allen Huber age 57 passed away peacefully in Merrill on October 14, 2015 after a long illness. Joe was born November 6, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Gordon and Grace (Jones) Huber.
Joe was an avid sports fan, a joy that began in his youth playing basketball, which led to his winning many trophies, and culminated with watching the latest drive of the Cubbies to the World Series. In between, he played softball and participated in pool and darts leagues and followed many teams, including his favorites, the Chicago Bulls, the Chicago Bears, the Blackhawks, the Cubs, and the Oklahoma Sooners. He especially enjoyed playing and watching golf.
Joe is survived by his brother Ben of North Dakota and sisters, Ava (Jim) Casper of Florida, and Adele of Merrill, a niece, Angela Ellenbecker, Merrill, and nephews, Joe-Rich (Tammy) Huber, Milwaukee, Daniel Ellenbecker (Cho), Madison, and Kenneth Ellenbecker, Merrill. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents, and his brother, Tom.
The family is especially appreciative of the tremendous help of Angela and Daniel during these final weeks of Joe’s illness and for Kenny who helped Auntie behind the scenes.
Joe’s closest friends and his family knew how he felt about public viewings and funerals in general, so, while there will be no public celebration of his life, a private family service and interment will be at a later date in Twin Buttes, North Dakota.
In lieu of flowers or money memorials, the family believes Joe would prefer his friends and family spend a special day of celebration with their family in the hopes that they can find the same joy he found in his own greater family.

Frances Grace Ollhoff, age 77, died unexpectedly at her home in the town of Pine River on Friday, October 16, 2015, and was embraced by the loving arms of the Lord. Frances, better known as Gracie to her family, was born on April 8, 1938 to the late Peter “Red Pete” and Stella (Janikowski) Schoone in the town of Harrison. She married Roger Ollhoff on September 21, 1957 at the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill.
Grace loved the beauty of the Harrison hills and the memories of her childhood years spent there with her brothers and sisters on the family lake. She attended Harrison Grade School and Tomahawk High School. At 16 Grace found her first full time job at the Hanson Glove Factory. She would often talk about her time as a waitress at Skipper’s Restaurant and later, as a telephone operator. After the birth of her first child, Kathy, Grace spent her years as a homemaker raising five children. Later in life she went on to work at Badger Wreath. She greatly enjoyed her time working as a supervisor at the Lions Ice Skating Rink.
Grace was active as a leader for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Her many hobbies included sewing, macrame, latch hook, knitting and shopping. Grace had a “green thumb” and was especially proud of her African Violets, something she learned from her mom. She also enjoyed traveling with her family going to such places as Canada for family fishing trips; to California with her sisters; South Dakota, Colorado, Branson, and Las Vegas. She had fond memories of her travel as a young child to the Grotto Shrine in Rudolph, which she would visit later with her grandchildren. Later in life Grace inspired her friends and family by earning the title of “Queen” for her successes in the TOPS program which she obtained by her hard work and dedication in achieving a more healthy lifestyle.
Grace loved being outdoors and enjoying nature, especially spending her day fishing and camping on Pine Lake with her husband. She would always compete with her husband, Roger, on how many more fish she could catch then him. A challenge she always won. Grace would often take long walks enjoying her love of the outdoors. She enjoyed her camping trips with her family. Grace was a gifted and talented storyteller who would spend hours with her children and grandchildren recalling her beloved childhood memories. Grace had a keen sense of humor and enjoyed recalling her childhood shenanigans, a talent that was definitely passed on to her children.
Her house was referred to as “Gracie’s Restaurant” because it was always open to anyone that wanted to come in and visit. Grace enjoyed having a welcoming place for her friends and family to gather, play cards, share stories, and share a meal. Grace was the life of the party. She was a fun-loving person and her spirited personality was loved by many, especially her nieces and nephews. She enjoyed the companionship of her many loyal pets, especially “Jake” and “Nana”. Grace will be forever missed.
Frances Grace is survived by her loving husband: Roger Ollhoff of Merrill, her children: Kathleen (Timothy) Wanless of Ringle, WI, Timothy (Cecilia) Ollhoff of Merrill, David (Kathleen) Ollhoff of Merrill, Shelley (Jerry) Hersil of Merrill, and Jennifer (Chad) Schmidt of Merrill, grandchildren: Amanda Bruski, Joseph (Abilene) Ollhoff, Amy Ollhoff, Sara (Phil) Beck, Eric Wanless. Samantha Hersil, Daniel Ollhoff, Hannah Ollhoff, Nathanial Hersil, Ashley (Dakota) Lloyd, Jared Ollhoff, Elizabeth Schmidt, Michael Schmidt and Olivia Schmidt, and her great grandchildren: Alexandrea Ollhoff, Chase Bruski, Logan Lloyd, Alexis Ollhoff and Evan Ollhoff, her brothers: David (Chris) Schoone and Dennis (Gail) Schoone, and her sisters: Mary Croker, Corrie Sandberg, Teresa Burnett and Carol (Bob) Rucinski.
Grace was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Stella Schoone, brothers: Matt Schoone, Andy Schoone and Jack Schoone, sister: Patsy Springer, sisters-in-law: Norma Sandbom and Chris Ollhoff, brother-in-law: Tom Croker and Vern Sandberg.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at 11:30AM St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill. Father Chris Kemp will officiate. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2015 from 4-8PM at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill and again on Wednesday, October 21, 2015 from 10:30AM until the time of Mass, at the church. Burial will take place at Snow Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, family requests that memorials be sent, on behalf of Frances, to St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Merrill. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Betty Jane Oknewski, age 85, passed away on October 16, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill under the care of Ministry Home Hospice after years of suffering with Alzheimer’s.

Betty Jane was born on July 6, 1930, in Irma to the late Philip & Celia (Willett) Bushar. Jane attended school in Irma. She married Louis (Louie) Oknewski on Nov 6, 1948, in Merrill and he preceded her in death on October 15, 1983. Jane moved to Tomahawk after marrying Phillip Kleinfeldt on July 29, 1990. Phil preceded her in death on July 31, 2012.

Jane worked for many years at Hansen Glove Factory in Merrill. Later, she worked for WCA, in Merrill, where she was called “dependable, calm and practical under fire”. Jane was an excellent seamstress, and made clothes for herself and her daughter, Cheri. She also enjoyed sewing outfits for the many dolls in her doll collection. She loved decorating her home for every holiday. Jane was part of a large close knit family and enjoyed the many Bushar family gatherings.

Jane is survived by her daughter, Cheri (Howard) Teal, of Middleton WI; her sister, Phyllis (Pip) Gilson, her brothers, Phillip (Porky) & David (Pete) Bushar, all of Merrill; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Jane is further survived by the families of Louie Oknewski and Phil Kleinfeldt. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Louie Oknewski; and second husband, Phil Kleinfeldt; brothers, Arnold, Louis and Freeman Bushar; half-brothers, Joseph, Thomas, Edward, Vernice and Otis Bushar; sisters, Evangeline (Van)Monti, Rosella Bushar, Louise Haring, Audrey Haring, Kathryn Zimmerman; and a half-sister, Marion Bushar.

In accordance with Jane’s wishes, there will be a private service. Burial will take place at St. Francis Cemetery, in Merrill.

Cheri would like to thank the Pine Crest Nursing Home staff for their loving care throughout her mom’s last years and for the more recent care provided by Ministry Hospice. And a special thanks for several of Cheri’s “Up North” cousins for making her many trips to see her mom more pleasant.

Krueger Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. You may view the obituary at www.kruegerfamilyfuneral.com.