Daniel M. “Hank” Caylor, 65 of Merrill, died unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, October 18, 2015.
Hank was born in Merrill on Veterans Day, November 11, 1949. It wasn’t until he was fifty years old that his brothers finally told him that they did not line Main St. with flags on November 11th because it was his birthday. Hank was born to the late C.L. “Bud” and Jean Caylor. He married Carol L. Winkelman on April 5, 1975. She survives.
He attended grade school at St. Francis Catholic School, graduated from Merrill Senior High School in 1967, and then attended Menard Junior College.
When he was a kid his father nicknamed him “Hank the Hired Hand”, a name he earned by always having an odd job or two. After college he worked at the family store, had his own exterminator business, drove school bus, and was a life guard at the Merrill pool. He began working for the city in 1973 as the first city bus driver for “Dial a Bus.” In January of 1974, he was appointed to the City of Merrill Police Department. He served as the school safety officer and was an advisor to several traffic and safety committees in the state of Wisconsin prior to retiring in September of 2001. Hank also owned Merrill Monument Company for many years.
Never being one to sit around, Hank always had an iron or four in the fire. He worked at Taylor & Stine Funeral Home before becoming the sexton at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery in 2004. Being a police officer helped Hank learn how to help people in need, making his retirement jobs a fit natural for him.
Thanks to the influence of his father, Hank always seemed like the child the circus forgot to take along when they left town. He dreamed of traveling with the circus or carnivals and collected memorabilia and trains for most of his life. He even started his own business Wink’s Concessions. Hank loved working the Midway and interacting with everyone that came along.
Hank served Lincoln County as the County Board Supervisor for District One in the City of Merrill since 2000. He served on the Law Enforcement and EMS committee, the Health Committee, and was chair of the Personal Committee. His peers elected him vice- chair of the board during his last two terms.
Hank was also active in the local AMVETS, Ducks Unlimited, Knights of Columbus, and the Merrill Historical Society where he was past president. Hank was very into genealogy and the history of his community; he spent countless hours at the library where he would read through old newspapers and books.
Most of all, if you knew Hank you know he loved to have fun and laugh. Stories will be told for generations by family members and police officers of all the laughs, the jokes, the pranks, and the fun that Hank loved to have. His laugh was infectious and usually preceded the punch line in most jokes.
He is survived by his wife Carol of Merrill, his daughters, Meghan W. Caylor of Madison and Jenney R. Caylor of Merrill. He is further survived by his siblings, Kathryn Sensenbrenner of Madison, Mary (Eldred) Kufahl of Merrill, Margaret (Myron) Oestreich of Merrill, Peter (Colleen) Caylor of Fairfax Station, Virginia, Timothy (Donna) Caylor of Irma, as well as many nieces and nephews, He is also survived by Sally (Leonard) Smith, MI, Joey (Glen) Powers, TN, Bennie Winkelman, Wausau, Linda Koob, Gleason, Larry (Deb) Winkelman, Tomahawk and Paula Osness of Merrill. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers and sisters in laws, T. William Caylor and wife Darlene, Michael “Loopy” Caylor and wife Kathy, and Steve Osness.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 23, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. Francis Catholic Church in Merrill. Father Chris Kemp will officiate and burial will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery. Graveside Military rites will be performed by VFW Post 1638. Friends may call on Thursday, October 22, 2015 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Taylor & Stine Funeral Home in Merrill and on Friday from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM at the funeral home.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be his fellow retired members of the Merrill Police Department, a group that was family to him.
The family wishes to extend thanks to the emergency workers who responded to the home and helped Hank, especially his former fellow officers.
Online condolences can be made at Taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Dorothy L. Peters, age 89, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, October 18, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.
Dorothy was born November 18, 1925, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Henry and Martha (Bockhaus) Peters. Dorothy had worked as a secretary at the former vocational school in Merrill. She later worked as the assistant librarian at T.B. Scott Library, Merrill. Dorothy was long-time member of St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. Through the church, she became involved with shut-in visitations, prison ministries, and the church library. Dorothy loved to read and was a very educated woman. She enjoyed gardening and loved her cats, especially her kitty Emily. Dorothy truly enjoyed the last four years she spent at Park Place.
Survivors include her first cousin, Helen Meyer of Merrill; Helen’s children, John (Debra) Meyer and family, Jim (Camille) Meyer and family, Barb Meyer and family, and Mark Meyer; Dorothy’s extended family, Chime Wangdu and family of Bronx, New York, and Nawang Lama and family of San Francisco, California; her loving caregiver, Mary Parratta; and many special friends. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Martha Peters; and her special caregiver, ‘J’ Vaughn VenRooy.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, October 27, 2015 at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. Rev. Joel Hoelter will officiate. Burial will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday at church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Joseph Allen Huber, 57, passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side, October 14, 2015, in Merrill, after a long illness. Joe was born November 6, 1957, in Chicago, IL, to the late Gordon and Grace (Jones) Huber.

Joe was an avid sports fan, a joy that began in his youth, playing basketball, which lead to him winning many trophies. He played softball and participated in pool and dart leagues. He followed many professional teams. His favorites were the Chicago Bears, the Oklahoma Sooners,  the Chicago Blackhawks, and the Chicago Cubs. He was watching the latest drive to the World Series. He especially enjoyed playing and watching golf.

Joe is survived by his wife, Deborah Huber, of 29 years; a son, Elliot Hirnschall; a daughter, Jessica (Roger) Weisman; a grandson, Landen; two granddaughters, Jorden and Brooklen, all of Merrill; a brother, Ben, of North Dakota; a sister, Ava (Jim) Casper, of Florida; and Adele of Merrill. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.

Joe took great joy in his grandchildren. He thought the sun rose and set on them. He was anxiously awaiting the arrival of Brooklen. He did many things with them, from taking them to the park, to teaching them how to ride a two wheeler.

At the request of Joe, a celebration of life will be held at S&S, on November 14, 2015, at 4:00 P.M.

Daniel L. Brown, formerly of Merrill, currently residing in Weston, died Friday, October 23, 2015, at UW Hospital-Madison after a lengthy illness.
Dan was born January 7, 1960, in Merrill, son of the late Jack and Donna (Klade) Brown. Dan had been employed with Lange Enterprises as a bus driver. He enjoyed working on his hobby farm, watching the Green Bay Packers, hunting and fishing, and driving his Ford pickup truck. But most of all, Dan enjoyed the time he spent with his two grandchildren.
Survivors include his daughters, Bobbie (Robert) Kienbaum of Weston and Danielle (fiancé, Craig LaBarge) of Merrill; two grandchildren, Noah and Nadia; and his siblings, Cindy (Paul) Folta and Rick (Cheryl) Brown both of Merrill; and his sister in law, Peg Brown of Merrill. Besides his parents, Dan is preceded in death by his brother, Jeff Brown; and two nieces, Mandy and Heidi Brown.
Dan’s funeral will begin at 10:00 AM Saturday, October 31, 2015, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. Mark Laatsch will officiate. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM Friday and after 9:00 AM Saturday at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Elsie M. Bade, 100, of Merrill, died Saturday, October 24, 2015, at Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center, Merrill.
Elsie was born April 11, 1915, in the town of Corning, daughter of the late Arthur and Martha (Hass) Schmidt. She married Clarence Bade on January 18, 1936. He preceded her in death on November 24, 2006. Elsie and Clarence diary farmed in the town of Scott until their retirement. They both enjoyed traveling and playing cards. Elsie was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill, and was a long time member of both the Ladies Aid and Altar Guild of the church. Elsie had a great love for her family and enjoyed preparing festival meals for the holidays.
Survivors include daughters Ethel Natzke and Joyce (Melvin) Klebenow, both of Merrill; her sons, Harvey (Ardell) of Athens and Roger (Darlene) Bade of Merrill; 11 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; 2 great great granddaughters; her sister, Selma Adams of Merrill; and a sister in law, Leona Schmidt of Merrill. Besides her husband and parents, Elsie is preceded in death by her son in law, Harold Natzke; sisters Lillian Zimmerman, Laura Hahn, and Dorothea Kleinschmidt; and brothers Elmer, Norman, Rueben, Alfred, Fritz, and Arthur, Jr.
The family would like to thank Debbie and her staff at Woodland Court for the excellent ‘family style’ care given to Elsie the past three years.
The funeral will begin at 10:30 AM on Friday, October 30, 2015, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Joel Hoelter will officiate. Burial will follow in St. Paul’s Cemetery, town of Scott. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM Thursday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 9:00 AM Friday at the church.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Earl D. Kressel, age 89, of Gleason, died Friday, October 23, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.
Earl was born November 11, 1925, in Merrill, son of the late Matthew and Mary Kressel. He married Helen Simon on September 10, 1955, in the Town of Summit. She survives. Earl had been an electrician and machinist with Murray Machinery, Wausau. Earl was an active member of Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, Gleason, where he was a former Elder, Trustee, and custodian. Earl enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was also ‘Mr. Fix-It’, having the skills to fix or repair anything. Earl served with the Town of Russell Volunteer Fire Department for 39 years, and was named “Fire Fighter of the Year” in 1978.
Survivors include his wife, Helen Kressel, Gleason; four children, James (Amy) Kresssel, Gleason, Ruth Kresssel (husband, Doug Summers), Washburn, Wisconsin, Kay (Tim) Donahue of Bermuda Dunes, CA, and Robert Kressel of Gleason; seven grandsons, Jason, Adam, Dyllan, Callan, Joseph, Nicholas, and Gunner; and one great grandson, Blake. Besides his parents, Earl is preceded in death by a sister, Adeline Hanson, and three brothers, Allan, James, and Edward.
The funeral will begin at 1:30 PM on Tuesday, October 27, 2015, at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, Gleason. The Rev. Greg Laska will officiate. Burial will follow in the Town of Summit Cemetery, Town of Summit, Langlade County. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM on Monday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 12 Noon Tuesday at the church.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Tony Francisco Charles Vecchio, Jr. of Merrill, at the age of 81, died peacefully on October 19, 2015 at Ministry Saint Clare’s Hospital in Weston, Wisconsin.
Tony was born on May 5th, 1934 to Sicilian immigrant Antonino (Tony) Vecchio, Sr. and Leona (Kruse) Vecchio in Elgin, Illinois.
After graduating from Elgin High School in 1952, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in the Construction Battalion (Seabees) where he was stationed in such places as Guam, Kwajalein, and the Philippines. He was honorably discharged in 1957, returning to Elgin where he met and married Dixie Ann Kramer of Strawberry Point, Iowa, who precedes him in death in 2000.
Together they had 6 children: Terrance A. (Mi Hui) of Merrill; Clayton C. (Lori) of Tomahawk; Jeanine A. (Lorenzo) Elias of Worley, Idaho; Kay A. of Tomahawk; Alan C. who also preceded Tony in death in 1986; and Karen E. (the only Merrill native). He has two grandchildren, Brian & Brandon, and two step-grandchildren, Greg & Russel, and also a step-great-granddaughter, Anika Elias.
In 1970, Tony and his family moved from Elgin, Illinois to Merrill, Wisconsin and founded Custom Woodworking & Supply, where he started out as a cabinet maker and general woodworker, eventually turning his business into a successful retailer and wholesaler of a huge selection of domestic and exotic woods and plywoods plus other woodworking materials and supplies. His woodworking skills are on display in the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. as well as in a presidential library. His woodworking skills are in many other places too numerous to mention. In December of 2014, after 45 years in business, Tony was forced to close the doors of Custom Woodworking & Supply, due to his health. He was still kept partially active with his son Terry (his co-worker of 15 years) in closing up the business until his death.
Tony enjoyed fishing, bowling, playing cards and ballroom dancing. He also leaves behind his dear friend Irene Radzius of Manitowish Waters.
At Tony’s request, a private family service will be held at Waid Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com

Mary Ann See, age 78, of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 23, 2015 at her home. She was born November 13, 1936 to the late Forrest and Ruth (Evans) Western in Greentop, MO. Mary Ann and Don See were united in marriage on April 9, 1955 in Mossville, IL. He preceded her in death December 25, 1996.
Mary Ann graduated from high school in Kirksville, Missouri. In her younger years she worked as a phlebotomist and more recently at JCPenney before she retired from Wal Mart where she managed the jewelry department. Mary Ann had a great love for animals. She loved to socialize with her neighbors and enjoyed spending time with the group of friends she made at Wal Mart. Mary Ann adored her grandchildren and was very proud of them. She loved to go shopping, especially for jewelry!
Survivors include her daughter: Teresa (Frank) Saal, Merrill; and two grandchildren: Sarah (Kyle) Hughes, Austin, TX, and Franklin Saal, Merrill. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Don See.
A time of visitation for Mary Ann will be from 9AM-12PM on October 29, 2015 at Waid Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Mary Ann DuFrame, age 84, died on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at the Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, WI. She was born on October 14, 1931 to the late George and Mary (Walker) Jankowsky in Merrill, WI. Mary attended Merrill High School. She met Harry DuFrame and the couple wed on September 2, 1951 in Merrill, WI. He preceded her in death in April 2000.
Mary was employed at Weinbrenner Shoe Factory in Merrill for over 30 years, where she was a line operator sewing shoes. Mary was always on the go – always traveling somewhere. She was known to keep a clean house and enjoyed redecorating the interior rooms, often repainting the walls. Even though she wanted things in order and clean – she was an easy-going lady that loved playing with her great grandchildren. When Mary was not traveling – she would enjoy some quiet time at home watching her game shows on the television or going outside to tend to her rose bushes. She enjoyed having flowers around – she loved all types. Mary was an avid Cubs and Brewers fan and would cheer them on every chance she had. She was loved by all and had many good friends, whom she enjoyed playing cards with. Mary was a member at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill, WI.
Mary is survived by her son: Timothy (Debra) DuFrame of Merrill and her daughter: Holly (Clarence “Moose”) Miller of Machesney Park, Illinois, grandson: Chad DuFrame, granddaughters: Stephanie (Nate) Elliot, Katie (Josh) Maines, Molly (Jason) Norton and Mary (Richie) Hockison, granddaughter-in-law: Elizabeth “Liz” Miller, great grandchildren: Evan, Addelyn, Norah, Makayla, Megan, Max, Brady, Abram, Elsie Mae, Garrett, Ryan, Hannah and George, sister: Connie Duframe, nephews: Mike, Steve, Butch and Jerry, nieces: Kelly, Becky, Tina, Gail and Kathy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband: Harry DuFrame, grandson: Joshua Miller, brother: Joseph Jankowsky and sister: Georgine Krembs.
In lieu of flowers, Mary would like memorials sent to her brave granddaughter, Stephanie Elliot, who is battling cancer. Memorials may be sent to Waid Funeral Home, c/o Stephanie Elliot, 301 Eagle Drive, Merrill, WI 54452.
A Funeral Service for Mary will be held Saturday, October 31, 2015 at 12noon at the Waid Funeral Home in Merrill, WI. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2015 from 10am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Snow Hill Cemetery in the town of Scott.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Kara Sal Gruetzmacher, a beautiful 1 lb 2.3 oz baby girl, was born on Saturday, October 24, 2015 in Rockford, Illinois to Theodore and Tangerine (Kratochvil) Gruetzmacher. She died on Sunday, October 25, 2015. Kara was a strong fighter, and her mommy and daddy sweetly called her their “Super Girl.” Kara was born into a big and loving family, and her parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins were all so very excited for her arrival. From the moment they found out they were pregnant, Kara brought great joy to her parents. Her heartbeat was always strong, and her kicks made her mama very happy. We are so proud that Kara was sent to us to love even though our time together was far too brief. We will hold her in our hearts and minds forever.

Survivors include her mommy and daddy, Ted and Tangerine of Janesville; her paternal grandpa, Gene Gruetzmacher of Merrill; her maternal grandma, Tana Kratochvil of Mountain Grove, MO; her maternal great-grandma, Coletta Schroeder of Wausau; her aunts and uncles: Eric (Amy) Gruetzmacher, Molly (Kurt) Stehr, Betsy (Greg) Sommer, Barbara Gruetzmacher, Andrew (Cristina Camacho) Gruetzmacher, Krista (Pete DeForrest) Gruetzmacher, Tanner (Katie Millenbah) Kratochvil, Toby (Tracey) Kratochvil, Tessa (Lorin) Kaney, Treasure (Dylan) Raney, Robin Kratochvil; her cousins: Isaac, Levi, David, Nora, Wyatt, Carson, Abigail, Austin, Bailee, Elizabeth, Rose, Gage, Logan, Chance, Jonah, Sophia, Bailey, Ella, Amelia; church family in both Merrill and Janesville, and other loving family members too numerous to mention.

Kara was preceded in death by two siblings who died before they were born; her maternal grandpa, John “Jack” Kratochvil; her paternal grandma, Sally Gruetzmacher; and several cousins who died before they were born.

Private family services were held at Park City Baptist Church in Merrill, WI with Pastor Freddy McMillen officiating. Burial was at Saint James Cemetery in Pine River. The Ellestad Camacho Funeral Home, 500 N. 8th Street, Mt. Horeb, WI, is serving the family.

“An angel in the book of life wrote down my baby’s birth. Then whispered as she closed the book “too beautiful for earth.”

Peter J. Hanson, age 76, of Wausau, formerly of Merrill, died Wednesday, October 21, 2015, at his home.
Peter was born June 21, 1939, in Merrill, son of the late Harold and Viorene (Knospe) Hanson. He married Beverly Golisch on August 14, 1988 at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ, Merrill. She survives. Peter enlisted in the United States Navy in 1957, and was honorably discharged in 1987. He served as the Vice President of the church council at the former Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Merrill. Peter enjoyed fishing, gardening, yard work, and watching the Green Bay Packers, war movies, and Fox News. Peter’s family affectionately described him as a “computer nerd.” Peter was also a caregiver for his brother, Halvor.
Survivors include his wife, Beverly Hanson; one daughter, Loretta Hanson; two sons, Brynn Hanson and Harold Hanson; two sisters, Wanda Verbist and Harriet (Joseph) Slaga; two brothers, Halvor Hanson and Clark (Jackie) Hanson; three sisters-in-law, Norma Hanson, Barbara Golisch, and Sandy Sann; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. Peter was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Viorene Hanson; one brother, Carlton Hanson; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Milford and Mildred Golisch; two sisters-in-law, Charlotte Hanson and Norma Schmidt; and three brothers-in-law, Kermit Golisch, Marlin ‘Butch’ Sann, and Gilbert Sann.
The memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 14, 2015, at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ. The Rev. Missy Holdorf will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 A.M. Saturday at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Victor A. Wachsmuth, age 97, formerly of Merrill, died Tuesday, October 27, 2015, in West Bend.
Victor was born September 25, 1918, in Merrill, son of the late Carl and Helen (Emmerich) Wachsmuth. He married Ruth V. Hintze on May 29, 1943. She preceded him in death on October 4, 2011. Victor had been an independent insurance agent. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Survivors include two sons, Donald Wachsmuth, Janesville, and David (wife, Dyan) Wachsmuth, Jackson, Wisconsin; five grandchildren, Ryan, Sara, Heidi, Becky, and Miah Rae; two great grandchildren, Ila and Eli; one sister, Karen (Roger) Schiller, Wisconsin Rapids; and two brothers, Gerald (Barbara) Wachsmuth, Owen, Wisconsin, and Leonard (Marilyn) Wachsmuth, Grays Lake, Illinois. Besides his wife and parents, Victor is preceded in death by his siblings, Doris Hobler, Mildred Weiter, and Wallace Wachsmuth.
The funeral will begin at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, November 3, 2015, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. Joel Hoelter will officiate. Burial will take place in Luther Memorial Lutheran Church Cemetery, Town of Russell. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Tuesday at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Eugene E. Schroeder, age 88, of Merrill, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2015, at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill.
Eugene was born September 23, 1927, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, son of the late Elmer and Esther (Sense) Schroeder. He married Elaine Tewes on September 8, 1951. She survives. Eugene served his country as a Merchant Marine during World War II. He also served with the Wisconsin National Guard. He was recently accepted to the Never Forgotten Honor Flight which was scheduled for the spring of 2016. For 35 years, Eugene drove the garbage truck for the City of Merrill Street Department.
Eugene enjoyed bird watching; hunting; camping at Fox Fire Campground for more than 37 years; and traveling as a “snow bird”, especially to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Eugene also enjoyed fishing in Canada, a tradition that started with his parents taking him and eventually led to trips with his son, Steve and Steve’s children. He always looked forward to family gatherings. Eugene was a master card player and enjoyed playing Cribbage, Sheepshead and UNO. He loved to find bargains and was known for his negotiating tactics. Eugene was also well-known for riding his scooter around town. He was a very generous spirit. Eugene was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill.
Survivors include his wife, Elaine Schroeder of Merrill; two daughters, Sandra (Michael) Berndt and Sharon Schubert both of Merrill; one son, Steven (Dianne) Schroeder of West Bend, Wisconsin; six grandchildren, Jennifer (Corey) Meyer of Merrill, John Fleischman of Milwaukee, Jerad (Shari) Schubert of Merrill, Jason Schubert of Wausau, Ryan Schroeder of De Pere, and Captain Kyle Schroeder of Moore, Oklahoma; two step grandchildren, Anne (Jeremy) Peeters of Lake Saint Louis, Missouri, and Christopher Berndt of Wausau; seven great-grandchildren, Christopher, Melanie, Terrin, Cassandra, Kathy, Travis, and Melinda; and four step great-grandchildren, Arianna, Wyatt, Kayla, and Aidan. Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Esther Schroeder; one granddaughter, Kayla Schroeder; one grandson, Jesse Fleischman; and one son-in-law, Jack Schubert.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, November 2, 2015 at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Joel Hoelter will officiate. Burial will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery with graveside military rites conducted by V.F.W. Post 1638, Merrill. The visitation will begin at 9:00 A.M. Monday at church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. John Lutheran Church and School, Merrill.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Judith “Judy” R. Plisch, age 72, of Athens, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2015 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. She was born December 17, 1942 in Hamburg, WI to the late Edlor C. and Verna (Bartelt) Kleinschmidt. On September 23, 1961 Judy married the love of her life, Clarence Anton Plisch in Hamburg, a marriage lasting over 54 years.
Judy attended and graduated from Merrill High School. In her younger years she worked for Fromm Brothers in Hamburg. Judy retired from Brickner’s in Little Chicago after 41 years as office manager. She was known to have a big heart and always put others first. Clarence always said Judy was the kindest woman he ever knew. She enjoyed going fishing in Lake Tomahawk and 4 wheeling for fun. Judy loved to go to Hodag every year. She was known for her wonderful homemade bread and did a lot of other baking for her family. Judy enjoyed caring for her grandchildren who meant the world to her.
She is survived by her husband, Clarence Plisch, Athens; three sons: Ricky Plisch, Terry (Pamela) Plisch, Athens, and Mike (Wanda) Plisch, Merrill; six grandchildren: Tammy Plisch, Travis Plisch, Andrew Plisch, Ashley Plisch, Jamie (Tony) Talerico, and Michael Plisch (Kortni); four great grandchildren: Fletcher, Makayla, Benjamin and Savannah; sister: Shirley (Roger) Voelz; two brothers: Alan (Mary) Kleinschmidt and Perry (Jodi) Kleinschmidt; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edlor and Verna Kleinschmidt.
Funeral services for Judy will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, November 2, 2015 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Hamburg. Rev. Joel Danner will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4-8 PM Sunday, November 1, 2015 at Waid Funeral Home, and again from 10 AM until the time of service at the church on Monday. Rev. Jim Klug will officiate a prayer service Sunday, November 1, 2015 at 8 PM following the evening visitation at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service on Monday in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Hamburg. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Selma Ida Adams, age 96, passed away October 29, 2015 at Pine Crest Nursing Home. She was born May 28, 1919 in the town of Scott to the late Arthur and Martha (Hass) Schmidt. On May 3, 1941 Selma and Ronald Adams were united in marriage in the Town of Scott. He preceded her in death September 4, 1996.
Selma was a homemaker. She also ran and maintained the dairy farm milking 12 cows and in later years raised chickens and beefers. Selma was also a bus driver for Prairie View and Snow Hill Schools. She had worked in the ginseng fields for Fromm Brothers in the town of Hamburg. Selma also tended to the cranberry marsh in the town of Corning. She loved to sew, quilt and embroider. Selma enjoyed her gardens, both flower and vegetable, making sure each and every row was perfect and also kept a large raspberry patch. She then enjoyed canning all her home grown crops. Selma was very meticulous with any of her many outdoor projects, in fact, she enjoyed being outdoors so much, she left the inside chores to her grandchildren. She loved baking sweets for her family to enjoy – her “secret” recipes. One of Selma’s many passions was feeding and watching the variety of birds that traveled into her yard. She was a member of the Ladies Aid at St. Paul Lutheran Church and Immanuel Lutheran Church and was also a member of the homemakers club.
Survivors include her daughter: Faye (James) Rieman, Burnett, WI; son: John (Barbara) Adams, Merrill; 6 grandchildren: Craig (Jan Fox) Polak, Beaver Dam, Shana (Matt) Schultz, Burnett, WI, Ryan Adams, Merrill, Kali (Andrew) Storm, Merrill, Kara Adams, Merrill, and Stacey (Ted) Saxe, Oconomowoc; 7 great-grandchildren: Zachary, Trevor, Baylee, Kyleigh, Daniel, Grace and Eva; and a sister-in-law: Leona Schmidt, Merrill. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Ronald, son, Daniel Adams, six brothers, Fritz, Norman, Elmer, Alfred, Rueben and Arthur, and three sisters, Lillian Zimmerman, Laura Hahn and Elsie Bade.
Funeral services for Selma will be held at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, November 3, 2015 at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Rev. Joel Danner will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM Monday, November 2 at Waid Funeral Home and again from 11 AM until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in St. Paul’s Cemetery, town of Scott. The family wishes to thank Pinecrest Nursing Home staff and Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Service. In lieu of flowers, donations to Immanuel Lutheran for a chair lift would be appreciated. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Julia C. Bergman, age 74, of Merrill, formerly of Gleason and Milwaukee, passed away Saturday, October 31, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home.
Julia was born November 25, 1940, in Merrill, daughter of the late Albert and Ethel (Jones) Bruns. She was the youngest of 12 children. Julia married Otto Bergman on October 5, 1963. He survives. Julia graduated from Merrill High School in 1958. Her employment included Weinbrenner Shoe Company, Hot Point, and Downs’ Collectors Showcase. Julia and Otto moved to Milwaukee in 1964 and resided there for 42 years. In 2006, they moved back to Merrill. She loved camping, traveling, gardening, and spending lots of time with her family. Julia adored her four grandchildren and was very proud of them.
Survivors include her husband, Otto Bergman; her daughters, Lisa (Rich) Cichy and Robbin (Dave) Gigl; her grandchildren, Adam Gigl, Cory Gigl, Kyle Cichy and Taylor Cichy; and her siblings, Lucy Heldt, Connie Hecklinger, Gladys Uryga and Lewis Bruns. Julia was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Ethel Bruns; and her siblings, Bernice Jones, Doris Jaeger, Michael Bruns, Harold Bruns, Vernon Bruns, Charles Bruns and Melvin Bruns.
A private service will be held.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Loretta M. Toschner (Fischer), age 95, died peacefully at home on October 30, 2015, while surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.
Loretta was born on April 14, 1920 in Marathon, WI, to the late Joseph and Anna (Roeder) Fischer. On January 1, 1938 Loretta married Harry Toschner. He preceded her in death in 2002. The couple enjoyed 64 wonderful years together and were blessed with seven children , one of whom died in infancy.
Loretta was a homemaker, and was also employed at the former Hansen Glove plant and at Semco for 15 years before retiring. Loretta enjoyed golfing, gardening, boating, and fishing with her beloved husband. During her golden years, she took up knitting and crocheting. She also loved to read, dance and play crossword puzzles. Loretta was an avid football fan, and loved cheering on the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. Loretta took great pride in her family and they meant everything to her, she always enjoyed the big family “get togethers” and cooking their favorite foods. Loretta was a wonderful person with a calm, gentle soul. She had a great sense of humor and would often be the recipient of many family pranks, but was such a good sport about it! Loretta also had a strong faith in her Lord. She will always be known for her famous liver dumpling soup and potato salad. She will be sadly missed.
Loretta is survived by her daughters: Judi Ruprecht of Merrill, Lorna (Wayne) Pfaff of Merrill, Vicki Venzke (husband, the late William) of Rudolph and Barbara (Aaron) Baumann of Wausau, her grandchildren: Scott (Linda) Doerr, Toni (Max) Peterson, Ryan (Stephanie) Wilding, Alan Ruprecht, Tim(Dawn) Ruprecht, Sara (James) Munro, Eric (Heidi) Ruprecht, Kelly Toschner, Lynn (Tim) Annis, Seth (Barnelda) Toschner, Shem Toschner, Clay (Becky) Toschner, Sweet Toschner, Mary Jo (Scott) Diels, Mark (Raquel) Pfaff, Bruce (Jacki) Pfaff, Lea (Keith) Drapes, Jason (Melissa) Venzke, Nathan Toschner (fiancé, Amanda) and Holly Mecikalski (friend, Mike), 36 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren and her sister: Rosemary Plano of Wausau. She was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph and Anna Fischer, her husband: Harry Toschner, two sons: Bruce and William Toschner; a daughter: Donna Wilding, sister: Lucille Bronsteater and a son-in-law: William Venzke.
Funeral Services for Loretta will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at 11AM at the Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Pastor Missy Holdorf will officiate. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2015 from 4-7PM at the Waid Funeral Home in Merrill and again on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at 10AM until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Entombment will take place at Merrill Memorial Park following the service.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Virginia M. Severt, age 90, of Merrill, passed away peacefully at the home of her son, Bruce (Carol) Severt, on Friday, October 30, 2015 with loving family by her side.
Virginia was born January 11, 1925, in Glandon, Wisconsin, to the late Oscar and Lucinda (Kroeplin) Osness, Sr. The family resided on the family farm in Barnes Creek (Norwegian Road) near Merrill. After graduating from Merrill High School, Virginia was the secretary at the former Ward Paper Mill, Merrill. On September 23, 1944, she married Matt Severt, the boy from the farm next door. Dairy farming soon became Matt and Virginia’s occupation and a great place to raise their children, Sheryl, Gary, Bruce, Steven and James. In 1951, they established their own family farm in the Town of Pine River on County Road G.
Virginia’s faith was always very important and they brought up their children to love the Lord. She was an active member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill. Virginia’s main focus was always around the family. She was active in the school’s P.T.O., and involved in all the 4-H Club’s activities and projects her children were involved in. Having family Christmas gathering with her parents, sibling and their children was always a highlight with happy memories.
The focus and love for the family only grew bigger with having eighteen grandchildren and thirty great-grandchildren. There were birthday parties, kite days, trips to Crystal Lake, Easter egg hunts, Christmas and many more memories to last a lifetime for all the children young and old.
Matt and Virginia enjoyed playing cards and bowling. Retirement found them relaxing in their camper at Crystal Lake during summer months. After being married forty-nine years, Matt passed away October 23, 1993. Virginia moved back to Norwegian Road and lived there for twenty-one years. She enjoyed time with the families of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her sisters and brothers.
Virginia is survived by her daughter, Sheryl (Tom) Knospe; her sons, Gary (Sandy) Severt and Bruce (Carol) Severt; and her daughters-in-law, Karen Severt (wife of Steven) and Denise Severt (wife of Jim). She is further survived by seventeen grandchildren and thirty great-grandchildren: Sue (Daren) Catlin – Tyler and Michael; Kathy (John) Koehler – Andy, Kaitlin and Kristine; Dave (Shelley) Knospe – Arwen and Treg; Jon (Aimee) Knospe – Logan and Landon; Matthew Severt; Amy Severt; Scott (Paulette) Severt – Cole and Sierra; Connie (Dave) Schwandt – Kaden and Jake; Brian (Michelle) Severt; Jenny (Derry) Thorson – Brandon and Brielle; Jesse (Karli) Severt – Jalie, Jazlin and Jillian; Corie (Troy) Madden – Mikayla; Holly Hooyman – Porter and Josslyn; Luke (Trisha) Severt; Jamie (Jim) Johnson – Grace and Samuel; Tricia (Alex) Crockford – Sarah, Leah, James, Bethany and Aaron; and Jered Severt – Ashton and Lincoln. She is also survived by her siblings, Betty Latzig, Raymond (Darlene) Osness, Elayne (Richard) Ollmann, Phyllis (Ralph) Buch and Janet Beyer-Thums; her sisters-in-law, Carol Osness (wife of Dale), Faye Jean Osness (wife of David) and Carol Osness (wife of Allen, Sr.); and many nieces and nephews.
Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Matt; sons, Steve and Jim; granddaughter, Sarah Marie Severt; parents, Oscar and Lucinda, Osness, Sr.; sister, Linda Osness; brothers, Harry (Betty) Osness, Ervin ‘Jack’ Osness, Oscar (Merrill) Osness, Jr., Dale Osness, Allen Osness, Sr. and David Osness; and brother-in-law, Walter Latzig.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at Bible Presbyterian Church, Merrill. Burial will take place in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Tuesday and after 9:00 A.M. Wednesday, all at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

James “Jim” D. Berndt, age 65, died unexpectedly on Monday, November 2, 2015 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Weston, WI.
Jim was born on December 6, 1949 to Carlos and Dorothy (Barz) Berndt in Merrill, WI. He attended and graduated from Merrill High School.
Jim enlisted in the US Air Force, and proudly served his country from 1969-1973. When he returned from the service, he married Carol Westfall on May 4, 1974 at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Merrill, WI, a union lasting for over 40 years.
Before retiring, Jim had worked at the Wausau Post Office as a mail handler for many years. Before taking the job at the post office, he was a purchasing agent for the Wausau Insurance Agency.
Jim was a great dad, always watching and cheering for his children in any sport event that they did, and eventually, doing the same for his grandchildren. He was very proud of them and supported them in their sports activities. He would spend time with his children practicing for the next big game! Family was very important to him, and he very much enjoyed teaching his children, Chris and Missy, how to fish. Jim was an avid deer hunter and cherished all the times that he spent with his family at the shack in New Wood. In his younger years, Jim enjoyed playing dartball, softball and horseshoes for Westfall’s Bar. He loved spending time at the cottage on Island Lake, fishing and 4 wheeling with his family. Jim would also take his children to a Brewers game every chance he had. He was a member at St. Stephens United Church of Christ in Merrill, WI. He was a quiet, caring man and will be sadly missed.
Jim is survived by his parents: Carlos and Dorothy Berndt of Merrill, wife: Carol Berndt of Merrill, son: Chris (Sunshine) Berndt of Merrill, daughter: Missy (Joe) Pregler of Ringle, granddaughters: Kennedy and Liberty Berndt, grandsons: Jordan and Jaxson Pregler, sister: Kathy (the late Charles) Case, brother: Terry Berndt, nephew: Tim Case and daughters Ellen Mondeik and Lauren Case, aunts: Miriam (Elgart) Salefske and Kay (the late David) Barz, brother-in-law: John (Jean) Westfall, sister-in-laws: Judy (Dick) Ashbrenner, Geraldine (Larry) Natzke, Irene (David) Mroczenski, and LuAnn (Mark) Schneider, along with many other great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his uncles: Donald Barz and Lylas (Bernice) Berndt, David Barz and Norm (Adeline) Berndt, aunt: Dolores (Don) Dobson, and his father and mother-in-law: Gordie and Katie Westfall.
Funeral Services for Jim will be held on Friday, November 6, 2015 at 11AM at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill, WI. Rev. Kyle Carnes will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2015 from 5PM-8PM at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill and again on Friday, November 6, 2015 from 10AM until the time of the service, at the church. Burial will be at the St Paul’s Cemetery, Corning following the service. Military honors will be performed by the Merrill VFW Post # 1638.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Carl D. Kuehn, age 49, of Wausau, passed away unexpectedly at Mount View Nursing Home. He was born February 21, 1966 in Merrill to John and Elinor Kuehn.
In his younger years, Carl was a very active little guy, always following his brothers around and spending as much time with them as he could. He had worked at Hurd Millwork, Badger Evergreen and Caribbean Auto Shop & Restoration before working at Northern Valley. Carl loved model airplanes, especially radio controlled models. As he grew older, Carl found enjoyment working on cars. He was a very talented artist and loved to paint with watercolors. Carl also enjoyed music and had played guitar ever since he was young. Carl was very outgoing and had a great sense of humor.
Survivors include his mother: Elinor Kuehn, Owatonna, MN; two brothers: Jon (Beth) Kuehn, Manitowoc, and Michael (Becky) Kuehn, Merrill; uncle: Rich (Shirley) Kuehn, Merrill; cousins: Jim and Tom Kuehn; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, John Kuehn, aunt, Helen Steidmann, Uncle Billy Kuehn and a cousin.
Funeral services for Carl will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at Waid Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 9 AM until the time of service also at the funeral home. The family would like to thank Community Comprehensive Services, a division of North Central Health Care, for their care and compassion for Carl over the past 20 years. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.