Dorothy (Dottie) Lillian McDermid Heggblom, age 103, of Scottsdale, AZ, passed away on Monday, September 25, 2017, at her residence in Scottsdale, AZ.  She was born on December 29, 1913 in Chicago, IL, the youngest of three children of Ralph McDermid & Lillian Elvira Manewal  McDermid.  Dorothy’s parents’ families had emigrated from England, Scotland and Germany, and had deep roots in America.  Fairbanks House, in Dedham, MA was built by her ancestor in 1637. The timber-frame house remains open today as a museum.  Dorothy grew up just north of Chicago in Glencoe, IL.  After high school, she attended the University of Wisconsin, transferred to Northwestern University, joined the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, and graduated.  During one geology class in Madison, she met Conrad (Connie) Heggblom of Merrill, WI and the rest is history!

Dottie and Connie were married on July 17, 1937 in Glencoe, IL and honeymooned in Merrill.  For the next thirty years, Connie’s work with Gulf Oil Corporation took them to Mississippi, California, The Bahamas, Mozambique, Libya and Denmark.  Dottie was an excellent corporate wife, willing to travel the world and create a warm family home wherever the company would send her husband.  She demonstrated that willingness as early as 1948, when Connie was transferred from Nassau, Bahamas to Lourenco Marques, Mozambique.  With an eight year old, a five year old and an infant, Dottie and Connie spent four weeks on The Robin Gray, a twelve passenger freighter, which took them from New York City to Capetown, South Africa.  Dottie and the children continued on to Lourenco Marques without Connie, who had gone ahead to Mozambique on business.

Throughout her life, Dottie enjoyed good health, playing bridge, golfing, studying history and traveling.  She and Connie enjoyed his membership in The Circumnavigators, a club whose members all have circled the globe.  In retirement, Dottie & Connie divided their time between Scottsdale, AZ and Merrill, WI, where in 1972, they replaced the fifty year old cottage on Lake Pesobic with a Wausau home.

Dottie is survived by her son:  Allan (Frances) Heggblom, daughter: Carol (Bruce) Murdoch, son: John Heggblom, grandchildren:  Eric Heggblom, Vanessa (John) Pollitt, Ellen (James) Rose, Robert (Fadime) Murdoch, Erin (Stephen) Toth, Johanna (David Gregory) Holloway, great grandchildren:  Stephen Hamer Toth, Victoria Merrydith Toth, Jacob Durham Pollitt, Allyson Rose Pollitt, Dorothy Frances Rose, Isabel Mary Rose and Thomas James Rose.  She is preceded in death by her parents: Ralph and Lillian McDermid, husband:  Conrad Heggblom, sister:  Elvira and brother:  Ralph.

A private graveside service for Dorothy will be held at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery in Merrill.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Memorials in memory of Dorothy may be directed to the Merrill Historical Society, 100 E. 3^rd Street, Merrill, WI, 54452.

Diana K. Latzig, age 60, formerly of Gleason, died Friday, October 6, 2017, at Pine Crest Nursing Home.

Diana was born June 17, 1957, in Merrill, daughter of the late Arthur and Audrey (Henrich) Galkin. She married Brian W. Latzig on October 23, 1976. He survives. Diana assisted her husband as the bookkeeper for their masonry and Christmas tree businesses. Diana enjoyed playing cards, gardening, cooking, baking and canning, taking care of her pets, and collecting angels.

Diana is survived by her husband, Brian W. Latzig, Gleason; a daughter, Kimberly Latzig (with, Michael Spesia) of Manhattan, IL; a son, Jonathon Latzig, Gleason; her grandson, Braxton; two sisters, Bonnie Galkin, Merrill, and Patricia Wiedenhoft, Wausau; and a brother, Michael Galkin, Gleason.

Diana’s funeral will begin at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, Gleason. The Rev. Greg Laska will officiate. Burial will follow in the Latvian Cemetery, Town of Schley. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 10^th, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 9:30 AM on Wednesday, October 11^th, at the church.

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

The family has suggested that memorials in Diana’s name be directed to the Lincoln County Humane Society, 200 N. Memorial Drive, Merrill.

Diana’s family wishes to thank the staff of the Special Care Unit at Pine Crest Nursing Home for the wonderful care given to our wife, mother, and sister.

Eugene Albert Rice, age 82, passed away on Friday, October 6, 2017 at Aspirus Hospital Palliative Care surrounded by his loving family.  Gene was born on September 23, 1935 to the late Irvin Sr. and Bertha (Graunke) Rice of Gleason.

Gene was a hard-working family man and cherished time spent with all family members enjoying each of their unique interests and hobbies.  Gene was a truck driver with R.O.W Windows for 27 years.  In 1992 he retired from Merrill Junior High as head custodian.  He was a jack of all trades and able to fix anything.  He was a member of the Grundy Hunting Club and an avid Packer fan.  He was well known for his special sense of humor.

Gene is survived by his wife of 63 years: Karen; daughters: Kerry (David) Guenther, Theresa (Chip) Jaco, and Sue (Joe) Ament; sons: Michael (Patty) and Scott; 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, 3 step grandchildren, and 2 step great grandchildren; a brother: Irvin Jr. ( Denise) Rice; sister: Karen Rice; and a sister-in law: Phyllis Rice.  He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 great granddaughter, 3 brothers, and 2 sisters-in-law.

Funeral Services for Gene will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at 11am at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill.  Pastor Scott Gustafson will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 from 4pm-7pm at Waid Funeral Home and again on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 from 10am until the time of the service, at the church.  Burial at Merrill Memorial Park will immediately follow. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Patricia (Ruprecht) Grunewald, age 90, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2017 at Oak Ridge Living. She was born on Oct. 13, 1926, in Milwaukee,the daughter of Erwin and Hazel (Behrens) Ruprecht.  Patricia was raised in Merrill and graduated from Our Lady of the Holy Cross High School.  She married William A. Grunewald on June 14, 1945, in Merrill.  Patricia moved to Madison in 1974, and worked for American Family Insurance as an underwriter and claims adjuster, retiring in 1990.  She was a past member of the Toastmasters, Sweet Adeline’s in Merrill and St. Francis/St. Robert’s Catholic Church in Merrill.  Patricia had many friends and loved to share her time and service whenever possible. Patricia is survived by her son, William (Sandra) Grunewald; and granddaughters, Shelby and Jessica Grunewald.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William; and sister, Sueann Ruprecht.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. FRANCIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1708 E. 10th St., Merrill at Noon on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, with Father Chris Kemp presiding. Burial will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Merrill. Visitation will be held at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Thursday.  The family wishes to thank the staff at Oak Ridge Living and Agrace HospiceCare for all of their wonderful care.  Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Irene L. Learman passed away October 6^th, 2017. She was born February 13^th, 1928. Daughter of the Late Peter and Clara (Anderson) Paulson. She resided on a farm near Stoughton WI and also graduated from there. Irene moved to Milwaukee WI where she worked at Master Padlock Company. She met and married her husband Jerome Ackerman there. They moved to Merrill WI as her parents lived in Gleason WI.

Irene worked at Merrill Manufacturing Company for 27 years, where she also retired. Her husband passed away in 1981. Later in life she married Eugene Learman, who passed away in 1986. She went to work part time at Weinbrenner Shoe Outlet as a sales clerk over 15 years. She loved working in her flower garden, and enjoyed her cat Tyke.

Preceded in death by her brothers Palmer and Julian Paulson of Madison WI and sister Mabel Anderson of Stoughton WI. Survived by daughter Nancy Ackerman and sister-in-law Lola Paulson. Further survived by nieces nephews other relatives and friends. Special friend Jane Raasch who was always there, like a daughter to Irene and Michelle Sirovina who has been a positive light in the family. Irene belonged to Our Savior Church.

Memorial service will be held at later date.

Vance E. Miller, age 65, of Merrill, died Saturday, October 7, 2017, at his home of natural causes.

Vance was born December 10, 1951, in Ohio, son of the late Herman and Mural Miller. He married Julie Batchelder on July 1, 1983. She survives. Vance had been employed in the banking industry in the Las Vegas, Nevada area. He enjoyed his morning walks, motorcycling, and cooking. But most of all, Vance loved his family.

Vance is survived by his wife, Julie Miller, Merrill; two children, Sarah (Ed) Fuchs, Clearlake, CA, and Donald (Kelli) Miller, Rocklin, CA; five grandchildren, Liberty, Mason, Elle, Hailey, and Grayson; as well as other relatives and friends. Besides his parents, Vance is preceded in death by his brother, Skip Miller.

A Memorial Service for Vance will begin at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 13, 2017, at Holy Cross Chapel –Bell Tower Residence, 1500 O’Day St. Merrill. Family and friends will visit starting at 12 Noon at Holy Cross Chapel. Sister John Marie will officiate. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Jeffrey R. “Mountain” Hill, age 62, of Gleason, died accidentally on Sunday, October 8, 2017.

His kindness, generosity and selflessness will be deeply missed.  Always ready with a sincere smile, Mountain made friends easily and permanently.  He was always quick to lend a hand to anyone in need.  Mountain lived an honest life and leaves a community of family and friends missing his sincerity and warmth.

He was a skilled engineer, builder and was the owner and operator of Northern States Tool & Cutter, in Gleason, for 38 years.

Born November 12, 1954, in Merrill, son of Marion Hill and the late Robert Hill, he is survived by his wife, Kristine Hill of Gleason; his mother, Marion Hill of Merrill; two children, Melanie Hill (fiancée Robert Vikander) of Minneapolis and Ryan Hill (Andrew Schiff) of Oakland, California; two sisters, Mary Hill of Oklahoma and Sara (Jeff) Simon of Kohler, WI; and one brother, Randy (Delnice) Hill of Merrill; along with other relatives and friends. Besides his father, Robert Hill, Jeff was preceded in death by one brother, Michael Hill.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 12, 2017, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Jack Dale Allen, formerly of Merrill, passed away October 4, 2017, surrounded by his family at William S Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Middleton, WI after a battle with dementia.  Jack was born May 11, 1944, in Merrill to Rosalie (Vanderhoef) Allen and Berwyn Allen. He graduated from Merrill High School in 1962 and served three years in the US Army stationed in Germany.

In 1965 he married Carol Polak.  He was an electronics technician, woodworker & home mechanic.  He and his wife owned and operated the Bramble Patch, in New Glarus, WI.

He is survived by his mother Rosalie, Merrill, his wife Carol, daughter Sheri (Peter) Weix, New Glarus, son Jason (Charlotte) Allen, Waukesha, two grandchildren, one brother Ronald (Marion) Allen, Gleason, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held later this year.

Condolences may be sent to The Allen Family PO Box 33, New Glarus, WI 53574.

Barbara J. Nolan, age 78, of Merrill, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at home.   Barbara was born to the late Arnold and Bettina (Staley) Wiley on February 3, 1939 in LaCrosse, WI.  On August 27, 1960 Barbara exchanged vows with the love of her life, J. Michael Nolan in Madison, WI.  He survives.

Barbara graduated from UW-Madison with a degree in education.  She taught elementary school in Madison, and later Little Chute, WI , until the birth of her first daughter.  Barbara devoted her life to her four daughters, husband  and community.  She served on various community boards, volunteered at the catholic schools as a librarian and at Pine Crest Nursing Home for many years.  She enjoyed arts and crafts, including making her famous Father Christmas figures.  She was an avid card and game player, and enjoyed spending time with her friends and family at her cottage on Tug Lake.   Barbara was a member at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Michael; daughters: Amy (Bradley ) Boettcher, Jenny (Jeff) Oosterhuis, Sara (Amy) Nolan, and Mary Beth (Chris) Higgins; grandchildren Eric, Peter (Dana), Ali, Nolan, Jack, Conrad and Bettina; and one sister: Nancy Robinson.  She was preceded in death by one son, Arnold Blake.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Barbara will be held on Friday, October 13, 2017 at 11am at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill.  Father Chris Kemp will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2017 from 4pm-7pm at the funeral home and again on Friday, October 13, 2017 from 10am until the time of Mass, at the church.  Burial will immediately follow in the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery in Merrill.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in Barbara’s name be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association at 203 Schiek Plaza, Rhinelander, WI  54501 or the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation at 110 E. 42^nd St. 16^th Floor, New York, NY 10017 / www.alzinfo.org.

The family wishes to thank the first responders that came to Barbara’s aide.  They were very caring and helpful.  Family also wishes to thank Kindhearted Home Care for their support and care for Barbara over the years.

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

Thomas “Tom” G. Pfotenhauer, 66, of Fremont, OH passed away in the Emergency Room at ProMedica Memorial Hospital on Monday, October 9, 2017.  He was born on February 18, 1951 in Merrill, WI to James and Ruth (Danner) Pfotenhauer.

Tom married Patty Vogler in April 1980 in Minocqua, WI and she survives in Fremont.  He was currently working as a Products Applications Engineer at ABC INOAC for the past twenty-six years. Tom enjoyed fishing, photography, country music, hanging out in his man cave, working around the house and beagles.

Tom is survived by his wife of thirty-seven years, Patty Pfotenhauer; sons, Adam (Brenda) Pfotenhauer and Jacob (Kelby) Pfotenhauer all of Fremont, OH, Matthew Pfotenhauer, Raleigh, NC; siblings, Carole (Dr. Joseph) Anderson, Madison, WI, Mary Gilbert, Mountain Home, AR, Ruth Elizabeth (Chris Spaulding) Pfotenhauer, Lincoln Park, IL; grandchildren, Ayden, Aubrey and Zoei; sister-in-law, Ann Vogler, Minocqua, WI and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Beverly Hinz and brother Dennis Pfotenhauer.

Visitation:  Monday from 2 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm at Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory, 425 E. State St, Fremont, OH 43420.

Services:  Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 10:00 am at the funeral home with Certified Funeral Celebrant, Susann Robitski Zimmerman officiating.

Memorials:  Back to The Wild, 4504 Bardshar Rd, Castalia, OH 44824

Online Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.whhfh.com

or contact the family care/of Patty Pfotenhauer, 927 Birchard Avenue, Fremont, OH 43420.

Verona Evelyn Braatz was called to be with the Lord October 15, 2017 in the Town of Stettin.  She was at home surrounded by her loving family.

Verona was born Sept. 4, 1930 on the Hanke family farm in rural Marathon, daughter of the late William and Elsie (Haehlke) Hanke.  She attended high school at Marathon one year and graduated from Wausau High School.  She worked for the Nash Dealership as a bookkeeper.  She married Emil Braatz Jr. on April 7, 1951 in Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau.  During their 66 years of marriage, Verona was a hard worker on the farm milking cows, driving truck for the pea viner, hauling oats to the feed mill and in her spare time cooking delicious meals, canning vegetables and fruits and raising six children. It was normal to have ten to twelve people sitting at the supper table.  While Emil worked a day job, Verona and the kids would run the farm.  She belonged to various clubs including Vilas Homemakers, was a past president of the Marathon PTA, attended the bible study and quilting group at Trinity Lutheran Church, Stettin.  She was also the chauffeur for the many events her children and grandchildren participated in.

As a charter member of the Pommerscher Verein of Central Wisconsin she enjoyed participating in club activities and trips sponsored by the German Club.  These included trips to Germany, New York, Nebraska and Wisconsin to learn about her heritage.  Verona was a member of the Board of Directors at the time of her death.  She was known for her great dill pickles that were provided for the “Old Fashioned Card Party.”  Her children referred to her pickles as “Ma Braatz Pickles” which were often requested as Christmas gifts by family and friends.

Emil and Verona also traveled to Florida, Alaska, North and South Dakota, Washington DC, and Canada.   They loved to visit family and friends.  Many of these visits and parties included playing sheepshead.  They belonged to several card clubs and in their earlier years bowled in a couples’ league.

Verona will forever be remembered by her husband, Emil, and her children, Janelle (Thomas Bogren) Braatz of Rothschild, WI, Randall (Cynthia) Braatz of Marathon, WI, Carlene (David Daniels) Braatz of Rhinelander, WI, Joel (Cassie McLain) Braatz of Merrill, WI, Lowell (fiancée, Maureen Socha) Braatz of Wausau, W,I and Laurel (Timothy Feist) Braatz of Sturgeon Bay, WI.  She was blessed with four grandchildren: Samuel Braatz, Hannah Braatz, Kelsey Daniels and Ericka Braatz.

Other survivors include her brother and sister-in-law LaVern and Janet Hanke, brother-in-law Walter Braatz and sisters-in-law Erna Prosser and Betty Braatz.  She was preceded in death by her parents and sister JoAnn (Dorian) Schmidt, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Paul and Pearl Braatz, Edward and Elsie Osterbrink, Junice Braatz, Elizabeth Braatz, Richard Braatz and Swede Prosser.

A funeral will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 20 at Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA), Town of Stettin 1008 N. 120^th Ave, Wausau, WI.  The Rev. Phil Bogen will officiate.  Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 pm on Thursday, October 19, 2017 at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau West Chapel, 3400 Stewart Ave. and from 9:00 am until time of service Friday, October 20 at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials for Verona be made to one of the following: Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA), (1008 N. 120^th Ave. Wausau, WI  54401), Pommerscher Verein Central Wisconsin (PVCW, Box 103, Wausau, WI  54402-0103) or the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Wisconsin Chapter (3313 S. Packerland Dr., Suite E, De Pere, WI  54115).

A special thank you to Aspirus Hospice for directing the Braatz family in taking care of Verona during the last month.  Your guidance helped us keep Verona at home in a loving environment.  A special thank you goes to Cassie for leading our family through the last months.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

Tammy L. Schroedel, age 45, of Marshfield, passed away on Monday, October 16, 2017, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Milwaukee, WI.  Tammy was born on August 22, 1972 in Rhinelander, WI.  She attended D.C. Everest High School and graduated from Merrill High School, and had attended some classes at Northcentral Technical College.

Tammy enjoyed reading, watching movies, playing computer games, shopping, baking and cooking.

She looked forward to celebrating Christmas and camping with family and friends.

Tammy loved spending time with her family, especially her grandson.

Tammy is survived by her parents: John and Diane (Bushar) Schroedel of Merrill, Step-parents: Jack and Marilyn Henrich of Cottage Grove, 3 daughters:  Jenna (Troy) Stadler, Jerrica Dengel, and Jaclyn Dengel, all of Merrill,  5 sisters:   Jackie (Lou) Blankenheim of Hartland, Sandy Grymkoski of Kenosha, Lisa (Terry) Przybyla of Franklin, Sheli (Josh) Albrecht of Weston and Jessica (Garrett) Hartwig of Merrill, brother: Bill (Kay) Schroedel of Hatley, half-brother: Danny McCarty of Cottage Grove, 2 step-sisters: Sabrina (Eric) Wagner of Merrill and Isabelle Henrich of Eau Claire, grandfather: Philip Bushar of Merrill, grandson: Carter of Merrill, many nieces and nephews, boyfriend: Chris Fieber and his children of Marshfield.

Tammy is preceded in death by biological father: Bruce McCarty, grandparents: Henry and Lillian (Kruzicki) Schroedel, Dorothy (Steinbach) Bushar, biological grandparents: Richard and Betty McCarty.

The family has chosen not to have a service at this time.

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

Eleanor A. Schield, age 97, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, October 16, 2017, while residing at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill.

Eleanor was born August 4, 1920, in the Town of Pine River, Lincoln County, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Fred and Martha (Lambrecht) Kahre. She married Leslie N. Schield on September 18, 1943, in the Town of Pine River. He preceded her in death on June 16, 1993. Eleanor worked as a waitress for over 25 years in Merrill area restaurants. Eleanor was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill, where she was involved in the Ladies Aid, Mission Circle, the L.W.M.L, and the church’s food stand at the Lincoln County Fair. She also volunteered her time at Bethesda Thrift Shop in Wausau, and was a docent at the Merrill Historical Society. Eleanor’s work ethic began on the family farm in the Town of Pine River where she learned cooking, baking, and gardening.

Eleanor is survived by two daughters, Karen (John) Staff, Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, and Cindy (Daniel) Rystrom, Dallas, Texas; one son, Lyle (Pam) Schield, Schofield, Wisconsin; six grandchildren, Christopher (Tracy) Staff, Andrew (Jessica) Staff, Teresa Staff, Robert Rystrom, Carrie Mueller, and Bradley Schield; six great grandchildren, Trevor, Victoria, Logan, Chloe, Riley, and Brandon; and four step great grandchildren, Lucas, Dyllan, Brianna, and Mitchell. Besides her parents and husband, Eleanor is preceded in death by a granddaughter, Jennifer Logerquist; and two brothers, Elmer and Arnold Kahre.

Eleanor’s funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 30, 2017, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Raymond Connor will officiate. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM Sunday, October 29^th at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 10:00 AM Monday, October 30^th at the church.

The family suggests that memorials be directed to St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill, the Merrill Historical Society, Interim Hospice, or Bell Tower Residence.

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

Kevin Michael Ives passed away unexpectedly Friday October 20th, 2017 at the age of 51. He was born September 11th, 1966 in Menominee Falls, WI to Gary and Darlene Ives.

A beloved Packer and Brewer fan, Kevin was a loyal friend, devoted husband, loving father and compassionate son and brother. Passionate about hunting and fishing in the Northwoods. He worked for several years as a Orientation and Mobility Instructor teaching students with visual impairments throughout the state.

He is survived by his parents Gary and Darlene Ives, wife Jeannine, children Leonna and Lato Ives, sister Karen Ives, nieces and nephews Brianna Franske, Heather Rae White, Logan, Landon, Aiyana Gray-Ives and grandnieces and nephews Kéndahl, Rahny, Asher, Daniel and Beau White. Further survived by other relatives and many friends.

Visitation will be Tuesday, Oct. 24th at 12:00pm at Trinity Lutheran Church in Minocqua (8781 Brunswick Rd). Service to follow at 1:00 then procession to Plum Lake Cemetery in Sayner. Luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the University of Wisconsin Organ Procurement Organization in Kevin’s name.

Bolger Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family, 715-356-3200 or visit www.bolgerfuneral.com to share condolences.

Elgart E. Salefske, age 93, of Merrill, passed away Friday, October 27, 2017 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.

Elgart Edward Salefske was born on September 29, 1924 to Wilhelm and Anna (Kottke) Salefske.

In his younger years, Elgart logged with Leo Zastrow, his friend and neighbor, and Matt Wagner of Marathon City.  He also served in the United States Navy during World War II.

In 1948, Elgart married Miriam Berndt and went to work at the co-op hauling gas.  He then worked at the Studebaker Garage for seven years, moving to the Witburn Garage from there he retired after thirty-seven years.

Elgart loved to hunt and fish.  One year, he shot three eight-point bucks in two days.  He and his wife loved fishing up north so much, that they bought a mobile home in Arbor Vitae.  They often fished Trout Lake, catching seven-to-eight pound Trout and Whitefish.  Elgart believed his wife was the best fisherwoman on Trout Lake.

In 1970, Elgart and Miriam built a new home in the Oberg subdivision.  They had a large garden, and sold their produce at the farmers’ market for 10 years.  Elgart also loved to work in the woods around his home on his beloved 8N Ford tractor.

Elgart self-taught himself taxidermy, mounting many deer horns and heads for friends and relatives.  He also mounted several of the fish that he and Miriam caught.

Elgart is survived by nieces and nephews, Janean Larson, Sharon Woller, Kathy Case, Carol Berndt, Norman Berndt, Daryl Berndt and Terry Berndt; and his sister-in-law, Dorothy Berndt.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Miriam Salefske; his parents, Wilhelm and Anna Salefske; his brother, Norman Salefske; his brothers-in-law, Norman (Adeline) Berndt, Lylas (Bernice) Berndt and Carlos Berndt; and his nephew, James Berndt.  Elgart will be sadly missed by his family and many friends.

The funeral service for Elgart will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 3, 2017 at St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Merrill.  Rev. Kyle Carnes will officiate.  Burial will take place in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery, Merrill, with graveside military rites conducted by V.F.W. Post 1638, Merrill.  Visitation will begin at 9:30 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

Janet J. Kloth, age 82, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, October 27, 2017, at St. Clare’s Hospital in Weston, WI, while surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on October 29, 1934 in Wausau, WI and was the daughter of the late Edwin and Caroline (Klockziem) Kniess.  Janet attended school in Wausau, before staying home to help on the family dairy farm.  She met and fell in love with Roland Henry Kloth, and the two exchanged vows on May 9, 1953 in Medford, WI.  He preceded her in death on March 20, 2000.

Janet was born and raised on the family’s dairy farm in the town of Hamburg.  She continued to farm all throughout her adult life.  Janet was a full-time wife and mother, and would occasionally work with the pelts at the Fromm Brothers farm, the Ginseng Garden for many years, cutting boughs at Badger Evergreen and cleaning at Eddie’s Bakery.  She enjoyed collecting cookie jars, plants and bells – along with many other knickknacks that she liked to have around her house.  Janet was very talented at embroidering flour sack towels.   Janet always had a huge garden at home on the farm and really enjoyed canning all of the food that she harvested.  She loved making all of the family’s food from scratch – as well as baking her famous apple cake.  She adored her family and looked forward to all holiday and family gatherings.  She was such a friendly person, and enjoyed playing cards with her family and friends, like Sheephead, Rummy and Poker.  Whenever she could, she would cheer for her Packers and Brewers.  Janet loved flowers, especially the bright and colorful ones.  She had a passion for dancing, especially polka dancing. Janet was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill. Janet was a happy spirit with a kind soul. She will be sadly missed.

Janet is survived by her 7 sons: Dennis (Linda) Kloth of Schofield, Eldon (Julie) Kloth, Allen (Cindy) Kloth, both of Merrill, Jeffrey (friend Malinda Spangler) Kloth of Wausau, Aaron (Cheryl) Kloth, Armin Kloth and Ernest Kloth, all of Merrill, 4 daughters: Nancy (Jeffrey) Schneider, JoAnn (late Randy) Hodgson, both of Merrill, Sharon (Steve) Bushar of Wausau and  Jenny (Jeremy) Woller of Merrill, 14 grandchildren: Matthew, Tara, Shana, Ashley, Melissa, Stephanie, Samuel, Shelly, Sarah, Jared, Allison, Kaytlin, Nathan and Brennen, 6 great grandchildren: Bentleigh, Huddson, Axel, Mason, Emily and Addilyn, sister: Adeline Kloth and brother: Eugene (Elaine) Kniess, both of Medford.  She was preceded in death by her parents: Edwin and Caroline Kniess, husband: Roland Henry Kloth, infant daughter and son-in-law: Randy Hodgson.

Funeral Services for Janet will be held on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 at 11am at St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill.  The Rev. David Szeto will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Monday, October 30, 2017 from 4pm-8pm at Waid Funeral Home and again on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 from 10am until the time of the service, at the church.  Interment will immediately follow the service at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

William “Bill” Hinz, age 71, of Merrill, passed away Monday, October 30, 2017 at his home under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice. He was born August 11, 1946 in Merrill to William and Clara (Ullman) Hinz. On August 19, 1967, Bill and Bonnie Maluegge were united in marriage at St. Francis Parish in Merrill, a union that would last over 50 years. She survives.

Bill graduated from Merrill Senior High School. He worked all his life as a heat and frost insulator for Taylor Insulation. In his spare time, Bill loved golfing, camping at the shack and snowmobiling. He enjoyed traveling to Florida and Mexico, cheering on the Packers, watching NASCAR and deer hunting. Most of all, Bill cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a member of the Rock Island Snowmobile Club. He will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his wife: Bonnie Hinz, Merrill; mother: Clara Hinz; three children: Todd (Kelli Deates) Hinz, Tammy (Todd) Roman and Troy (Nicole) Hinz; seven grandchildren: Brittany, Heather, Ariel, Rheanna, Courtney, Molly and Nicolas; two brothers-in-law: Scott and Mark Maluegge; and three sisters-in-law: Gayle and Twig Maluegge and Donna Hinz. He was preceded in death by his father, William Sr.; brother, Dale Hinz; and mother and father-in-law, Reuben & Betty Maluegge.

Funeral Services for Bill will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 3, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held from 5-8 on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at Waid Funeral Home and again from 10 AM until the time of service at the church on Friday. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Patrick L. Kulawinski, 62, of Merrill, passed away Monday, October 30, 2017 at Ascension St. Clare’s Hospital, Weston.

Patrick was born September 11, 1955, in Merrill, son of the late Chester and Gayle (Severt) Kulawinski.  He worked as a farm laborer for many years and also as a masonry assistant. Pat enjoyed both hunting and fishing in his earlier years.

Survivors include his brothers, Michael (Cheryl) Kulawinski of Merrill, Tony Kulawinski of Merrill and Scott (Denise) Kulawinski of Birnamwood; and his brother-in-law, Ed Gruett of Merrill.  Patrick was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Kristine Gruett.

A private service may be held at a later date.  Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Cadeyan Hrabik Bayer, age 4, died on Friday October 27, 2017 in Appleton, Wisconsin and ascended into heaven’s embrace.

Cadeyan was born on June 13th, 2013 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, Wisconsin to loving parents Joshua and Hilary (Van Der Leest) Bayer.

Cadeyan loved playing with Mickey Mouse, Thomas the Train, Magnaformers, and Hatchimals. He especially loved to swim and dance with his brother and sister. He loved to collect, paint, and hide Marathon rocks. During his short time on earth he touched every person’s life who had been blessed to meet him, profoundly, with his sweet temperament and joyous laughter. He had a smile that brightened life and could confer love and happiness in the purest way. He was very precocious. He was dearly loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed.

Cadeyan is survived by his parents, Joshua and Hilary Bayer, his sister Arabella and brother August of Rib Mountain, WI. Grandparents: David and Mary Pat (Hrabik) Bayer of Hudson, WI and John and Virginia (Jeannie Urmanski) Van Der Leest of Edgar, WI. His aunts and uncles: Jennifer (Bayer) Charbarneau and her husband Paul. Craig Van Der Leest and his wife Kelly, Dana (Van Der Leest) Weigel and her husband Nicholas, Tara (Van Der Leest) Slack and her husband Joshua. His cousins: Marissa, Brianna, Conner, Kira, Sadie, Elijah, Katelyn, Hazel, Jude and Claire.

Cadeyan was preceded in death by his great grandparents: Leo and Marie (Seidl) Van Der Leest, George and Lottie (Kijak) Urmanski, Elton and Elizabeth (Ricchio) Bayer, and Roy Dean and Patricia (Devine) Hrabik.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Friday, November 3, 2017 at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar. The Rev. Nathaniel Kuhn will preside. Burial will be in St. John Catholic Cemetery, Edgar. Friends may call on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Cadeyan’s honor. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

Eugene “Gene” R. Graf, age 89, of Merrill, passed away on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 at his home.  Gene was born on August 22, 1928 to the late Alexander and Lillian (Arder) Graf in Chicago, IL.  In 1941, he and his family came to Gleason, WI and settled on a farm.  Gene attended and graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1946.  After school, he worked at Hachbarth’s grocery store and Ratzburg’s locker plant.  After that, he worked for the Lincoln County Highway Dept.  In 1951, he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War.  Gene had his basic training in Fort Lee, Virginia, then went overseas to Korea, where he was for 19 months with the Quarter Master Corp.  He was awarded the Korean War Service Medal and the United Nations Medal. Gene then married Elvina Kanapka on May 15, 1954, and the two raised 5 children together, Gary, Bruce, Sandy, Sue and Todd.  Elvina passed away on June 24, 1984.  In 1971, Gene decided to start his own business, which was called Gene’s Refrigeration and Appliance.  He continued to work in the field of refrigeration for the next 21 years.  Gene met and fell in love with Leona M. Voigt, and the two exchanged vows on May 24, 1986 in Merrill, a union lasting 31 years.  She survives.  Gene and his wife, Leona traveled to many places within the United States, and even made a few trips to Germany.  Gene had a passion for music and had his own band called the Music Men where he played the piano accordion. Gene was a past president of the German Club, past trustee at the Luther Memorial Church in Gleason, past elder for Trinity Lutheran Church and a county assessor for the town of Russell.  Gene was also a member of the local Merrill VFW Post #1638, and was their bugler at one time for funerals.  He is remembered as being a strong man with a wide variety of talents and skills.  Gene enjoyed oil painting and rose-malling .  He truly had a gift for working with wood, whether he was carving clocks, furniture or gun cabinets for family and friends, or just making something for around the house. Everyone loved to hear the story’s that Gene would tell, he was such a jokester!  Gene is survived by his wife: Leona M. Graf of Merrill, sons: Gary Graf of Rothschild, WI and Bruce Graf of Stanford, CT, daughters: Susan (Matthew) Holt of Kronenwetter and Sandra (David) Laehn of Merrill, son: Todd (Ann) Graf of Plymouth, WI, step-daughter: Judy Kleinschmidt and step-son: Jack (Cindy) Baguhn, both of Merrill, 7 grandchildren: Alex (Ashley) Graf, Kasie Holt, Brittany Graf, Samantha Graf, Brady Holt, Jennifer Graf and Adam Laehn, 5 step grandchildren: Kristopher Baguhn, Greg Kleinschmidt, Jason (Tanya) Kleinschmidt, Brandon (Beckie) Kleinschmidt and Sarah Mohr, 3 great grandchildren: Madison, Daxton and Sabastian and 6 step great grandchildren: Madison, Owen, Carson, Matthew, Michael, Amber, and Cody, Allison, and Jeza Kleinschmidt.  He was preceded in death by his parents: Alexander and Lillian Graf and his previous wife: Elvina Kanapka.

Funeral Services for Gene will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2017 at 11am at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill.  Pastor Kenneth Albers will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 9am until the time of the service, also at the church.  Burial will immediately follow in the Luther Memorial Cemetery in Gleason.  Military honors will be performed 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.

In lieu of flowers, Gene’s family requests that monetary donations be directed towards the new building project for the Merrill VFW Post #1638.