George Amelse, age 95, of Merrill passed surrounded by his family on Friday, December 13, 2019 at Pine Crest Nursing Home under Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.  He was born on July 4, 1924 to the late T. Richard & Agnes (Bartels) Amelse of Tomahawk.  George grew up on a farm in the town of King, Lincoln county.  An enormous creek ran through the property & was filled with trout.  He became an avid fisherman.  George would cut a box elder branch & tying a grasshopper on the line he was ready for an afternoon of fishing.  On a balmy summer day, he married Johanna Pintens and enjoyed her companionship for seventy-three years.  He and Johanna were both in love with nature. Their appreciation for the outdoors took them hiking, skiing, snow shoeing & camping through-out Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.  George took a special interest in birds & built several bird houses.  His building of bird houses inspired his passion for carpentry which had him building furniture, doll houses for his daughters & picnic tables.  Gardening was a must in the springtime, he readied a plot & planted every kind of vegetable.  After seven years of cheese making, he worked for Owens Illinois for thirty-six years.  In his last years, he & Johanna spent their time in Bayfield with friends where George helped plant trees.  They also hiked the Prairie Trail in Merrill, where they enjoyed watching the ducks.

Survivors include; his love, Johanna, seven children: Kathleen, Palm Springs, CA; Marcella, Wausau; Suzanne (Warren) Aschbrenner, Wausau; George (Linda), Irma; Leo (Anita), Irma; Sarah (Mike) Simon, Madison; Virginia (Warren) Simon, Merrill; 19 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren.  George was preceded in death by his parents; 4 brothers & 4 sisters.

Funeral service for George will be 11AM on Friday, December 20, 2019 at Waid Funeral Home.  Mary Jo Laabs will be officiating.  Visitation will be from 9AM to 11AM on Friday, December 20, 2019 at Waid Funeral Home.  Burial will be in 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.

The family would like to thank the excellent staff and fellow patients who befriended George during his stay at Pine Crest Nursing Home.  The family would also like to thank Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services along with the chaplain who provided comfort in George’s last hour.

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Frank A. Tiffany, 88, Athens passed away Monday, December 16, 2019 while under the care of St. Croix Hospice at Bedrock Health, Abbotsford.  He was born August 24, 1931 in Tomahawk, son of the late Edgar Tiffany and Zella Fish.  On August 21, 1954 he married Beverly Smith at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill.  She survives.  For many years Frank and Beverly farmed in rural Athens until his retirement.  Frank also drove for Kenosha Auto Transport for many years.  Some of his favorite pastimes included hunting, fishing and spending time with his family; especially his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly Tiffany, Athens, his children, Trina (Peter) Tiffany-Barbella, Athens, Terry (Ann) Tiffany, Merrill, Dorann (Michael) Tiffany-Froh, Lone Rock, James (Connie) Tiffany, Athens and Jeff (Lenore) Tiffany, Athens, 17 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren, two sisters, Joy (Paul) Barker, Tomahawk and VeeVee (George) Van Fossen, Raymond, WA and many nieces and nephews.  Besides his parents he was preceded in death by one son, Frank Andrew Tiffany and many siblings.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 21, 2019 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens.  The Rev. Mark Schwalenberg will officiate.  Burial will be in Merrill Memorial Park, Merrill.  Visitation will be held on Friday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens.  Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

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John “Tiny” C. D. Krueger, 78, Wausau, died Friday, December 13, 2019 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.  

He was born June 28, 1941 in Wausau, son of the late Clarence and Eleanor (Zacher) Krueger.  On September 23, 1967, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” Cisler at St. Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee.  She preceded him in death on May 23, 2011.

Tiny was a former Union Stewart and former Union President at Crestline Windows/SNE Enterprises, Inc. in Mosinee, where he worked until retirement.  He was also a member of the Board of Directors for the Crestline/SNE Credit Union.

Tiny had a larger than life personality and a kind giving heart.  He loved sharing stories and memories with family and friends and those will live in our hearts forever.

Survivors include, sisters, Lucy (Dave) Tiry, Ripon and Margaret Barber (David Treichel), Stevens Point; brother, Joe Krueger, Wausau; brothers-in-law, Ervin Jr. (Carla) Cisler, Mosinee and Bill Nechuta, Mosinee; sister-in-law, Pamela (Gene) Thanig, Mosinee; Special cousins, Gary Krueger, Donald & Mary Krueger, Ronald Krueger; Special friends, Verlin & Kathy Oelke, Dennis & Mary Blaschka,  17 nieces and nephews that loved him dearly; and numerous other cousins further survive.

Besides his parents and wife, Pat, he was preceded in death by nephew, Matthew Cisler; infant sister, Mary Ann; and sister-in-law, Nancy Nechuta.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau.  Rev. Samuel Martin will preside.  Visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Interment will be in the St. Paul Cemetery, Mosinee.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

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Earl D. Dittmar, 86, of the Town of Pine River, Lincoln County, passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2019 at his home under the care of his family and hospice.  Earl was born June 4, 1933, in Wausau, son of the late Carl and Dorena (Jaeger) Dittmar.  He married Esther Henkelman in December of 1953.  They later divorced but remained good friends throughout the rest of their lives.  Earl dairy farmed in the Town of Pine River, did logging, and had been a mechanic. Earl’s hobbies included deer hunting, fishing, trapping, listening to polka music, Oliver tractors, and attending auctions. Earl honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956, and was stationed in Texas.

Earl is survived by three daughters, Dawn Mathis (Roger Williams), Diane Dittmar, and Darlene Mattson all of Merrill; three sons, Dean Dittmar, Merrill, Doug Dittmar, Weston, and Dale (Lynette) Dittmar, Merrill; ten grandchildren, Arnie (Jennie) Mathis, Robert Mathis, Heidi Mathis, Kip (Sarah) Kreager, Kyle (Keith) Kreager, Brad Dittmar, Christy (Christian) Lopez, Brandon Clark, Brittany Dittmar (Tyler Grams), and Mitchell Dittmar; eleven great-grandchildren, Devon, Casius, Finn, Malakai, Callum, Gabriella, Alexia, Declan, Sequoyia, MaKenna, and Kelsy; one brother, Donald ‘Fuzzy’ Dittmar, Merrill; two sisters, Doris Madden, Wausau, and Ethel Tritten, Merrill; and his dear friend, Albert Herdt, Merrill. Besides his parents, Earl is preceded in death by a son in law, Phillip Mattson; two brothers, Edward and Gerald; three sisters, Janice, Marjorie, and Shirley; his in laws, Raymond Madden, and Harry and Frank Tritten; and dear friend, Dawn Herdt.

The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM Monday, December 23, 2019 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. Greg Laska will officiate. Burial will follow in Springbrook Cemetery, Town of Pine River with graveside military rites conducted by the Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM on Sunday and again after 9:30 AM Monday all at the funeral home. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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Renee C. McCormick, 62, of Merrill passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2019 while an inpatient at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.  Renee was born February 11, 1957 in Fargo, North Dakota daughter of Avis Pratt and the late Irving Pratt. She married Glenn R. McCormick in 1980 in Illinois. He survives. Renee, now retired, had most recently worked in the office at East Bay in Wausau. She was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan. Renee was very proud of her Norwegian heritage and collected trolls from Norway. Her favorite music was from Elton John. Renee’s life revolved around her grandchildren.

Renee is survived by her husband Glenn R. McCormick, Merrill; her mother, Avis Pratt, Reno, Nevada; two daughters, Rachelle McCormick, Merrill, and Heather (William) Register, Waupaca; two step daughters, Mollie (Robert) Thompson, Phoenix, Arizona, and Kimberly (Chris) Brunsvold, Reno, Nevada; 13 grandchildren, ‘T.J.’, Alyssa, Carter, Faith, Josh, Liam, Connor, Holden, Ava, Sterling, Drake, Dylan, and McKenzie; and one sister, Teresa Pratt, Reno, Nevada.

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

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James E. Byer, 79, of Merrill passed away on December 26, 2019.  There will be no services.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

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Herman A. Liebers, 84, of the Town of Harding, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2019 at Ascension St. Clare’s Hospital, Weston.  Herman was born December 7, 1935 in Wausau, son of the late Alfred and Irene Liebers. He married Janet Graap on July 12, 1958 in Merrill. She preceded him in death on May 13, 2001. Herman had been a heavy equipment operator with road construction. In his younger years he enjoyed deer hunting. More recently he enjoyed taking care of his lawn, gardening, canning, and cooking for his family.

Herman is survived by his son, Paul (Julie) Liebers, Town of Harding; two grandsons, Dustin (Tara) Liebers and Travis Liebers, both of the Merrill area; one sister, Arlene Krueger, Wausau; and one brother, Dennis (Jane) Liebers, Appleton. Besides his parents and wife, Herman is preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Liebers; a brother in law, Ronald Krueger; and a sister in law, Karen Graap.

A visitation for family and friends was held at 9:30 AM on Saturday, December 28, 2019 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. At 12 Noon family and friends proceeded to St. Paul’s Cemetery, Town of Corning for a graveside service. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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Chad E. Blake, age 44 unexpectedly passed away of natural causes going to his heavenly home on December 16, 2019, in Hendersonville, TN. Chad was born on June 23, 1975, to Dennis and Dolores (Freund) Blake.  Chad grew up in Merrill and was a graduate of Merrill High School. Following graduation, he traveled to California and then began to move east; Colorado, South Dakota and then Nashville, TN which allowed him to pursue his passion for music. Chad loved to play piano, guitar and was an accomplished drummer. His love of the outdoors led him to enjoy boating, skiing, snowmobiling, BMX and dirt bike riding, hiking and panning for gold. He was a mechanic by trade and had his own shop. Chad was known for his adventuresome spirit and his generous heart. Family and friends were very important to him and his strong faith kept him centered. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church.

Chad is survived by his parents, Dennis and Dolores Blake; his brother, Ryan (Theresa) Blake, niece Adalyn, nephew Bentley, many other relatives and friends and two companions that held a special place in Chad’s heart, his faithful dogs, Rocky and Lexi.  Chad was preceded in death by grandparents: Helen & Ervin Freund, Eleda & Emmett Blake, cousins Mark Vaningan and Shannon Blake, uncles Duane, Gerald and Douglas Freund and Joe Vaningan, aunt Judith Jones.

Celebration of life for Chad will be 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill. Pastor Pat Schutz will officiate. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 AM until time of service at church with a lunch to follow.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill Community Homeless Center or Lincoln County Humane Society.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

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Steven Mark Luterbach, age 61 of Albuquerque, New Mexico died unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 26 2019.  Steven was born on July 4, 1958 in Lawton, Oklahoma, the son of William and Mary Luterbach.  He was a 1976 graduate of Merrill High School and proudly a member of the Silver M Football Club. Steve continued his education at NTC in the Tool and Die program. After graduation, it didn’t take long for Steve to seek new adventures, traveling the country on his motorcycle. He took residence in Albuquerque where he would spend the remainder of his life creating many more memories and friendships. He worked for General Electric for many years and prior to his passing, he worked for Red Hawk Industries installing ATM’s, vault doors, teller lines and eventually security systems for banks in New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona.

On the day of his death, the University of New Mexico Hospital staff as well as family and friends of Steve participated in an Organ Donor Walk of Honor as an act of kindness and respect to honor Steve, who in losing his life, gave life to others through his organ donation.

Steve was preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul and Mary Schupp and Paul and Leona Luterbach. Steve is survived by his fiance, Danielle Paques, his parents, William and Mary Luterbach, his siblings, Jeffery (Deb) Luterbach, Russell (Brenda) Luterbach, Renee (Tabb) Benzinger and Joan (Pete) Tabor. His three sons, Keith (Sarah) Ralph, Rene Luterbach, Zachary Luterbach and a daughter Tory (Jim) Smith as well as six grandchildren.

Steve is well-known for his jokester personality and his willingness to help out a friend, neighbor, or anyone he met along the way. Friends and family from Merrill to Albuquerque have graciously shared their memories of Steve and describe him as a good friend, a Packer lover, the best hugger, an amazing soul, hardworking, respected, teacher, motivator, care-giver, faithful Christian and thankful patriotic man.

A celebration of his life was held on December 15, 2019 in Albuquerque, NM. Steve’s cremains came back to Wisconsin to be near his family. A funeral service will be held at St. Francis Xavier Church in Merrill on Monday, December 30, 2019. Visitation will be at the church beginning at 10:00am with the mass beginning at 11:00am. Steve will be buried at the St Francis Xavier Cemetery in Merrill, WI following the mass.

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Robert Gruetzmacher, Chief Warrant Officer Four (Ret.), age 90, formerly of Merrill, passed away on December 26, 2019, in Sun Prairie.  He was born on December 17, 1929, the son of George and Edna (Kuether). As a youth he was a Boy Scout, and worked in the family School Supply Store.  After graduating from Lincoln high school, he was a photographer, a Radio and TV repairman, and a Broadcast Radio Engineer for WOSA & WLIN.  In 1950 he entered military service with the Wisconsin National Guard, starting as a Tank-Turret Radio Mechanic. In 1959 he shifted his career into the Nike Missile Systems, both Ajax and Hercules in Milwaukee and Waukesha. When the Nike Sites were phased out he went to work in the Technician (Civilian) Personnel Office of the Wisconsin Guard in Madison, retiring in 1989. In retirement, he worked in the archives office at the United Methodist Conference Center in Sun Prairie, and spent many hours with his wife exploring family genealogy.

He is survived by his son George (Julia “Jill”) Gruetzmacher, son-in-law Kevin Schartz, three grandchildren, Emily Schartz, Garrett Gruetzmacher, and Avery Schartz, niece Georgia (Luther “Marty”) Martinson, great niece Kari (Mathew) Saarloos, and great-great niece Ava Rose Saarloos.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Joan, daughter Helen Schartz, and sister, Dorothy Radke.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2020   at Sun Prairie United Methodist Church, 702 North St., with Pastor Jenny Arneson presiding. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Mosinee on Monday January 6, 2020. A visitation will be held from 5 to7 p.m. Friday, January 3 at Tuschen-Newcomer Funeral Home, 302 Columbus St., in Sun Prairie and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Saturday. Memorials can be directed to the United Methodist Church in Sun Prairie or Sun Prairie BSA Scout Troop 47. The family would like to thank the staff of Hyland Crossings and Heartland Hospice for the wonderful care they gave Robert during the past six weeks.  Tuschen-Newcomer Funeral Home, Sun Prairie, WI 608-837-5400  www.newcomerfh.com

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Emery H. Kufahl, 77, of Merrill passed away on Friday, December 27, 2019 at U.W. Hospital, Madison.  Emery was born April 21, 1942 in Merrill, son of the late Herbert and Elaine Kufahl. He married Geraldine ‘Gerri’ Sczygelski on June 17, 1961. She preceded him in death on May 11, 2012. He then married Mary Ann Schwab on June 28, 2014. She survives. Emery had been a welder/fabricator at PDM Bridge in Wausau for 37 years. He was an avid Packer and Brewers fan. Emery enjoyed being in the woods, deer hunting, feeding the birds, gardening, and traveling. Emery had been a member of the Wisconsin National Guard ‘Red Arrow Division’, and had been called to active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis in the early 1960’s. Emery was a life member of Am Vets. He was also a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill.

Emery is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Kufahl, Merrill; five children, Sherrie (James) Zortman and Terri (Kim) Kriewald, both of Merrill, Allan (Dawn) Kufahl of Eau Claire, Jeremy (Therese) Kufahl of Merrill, and Katie (John) Matyasz of Wausau; twelve grandchildren, Jamie (Rick) Seliger, Alex Zortman, Becca Christiansen, Stacy (Steve) Morin, Samantha Kufahl, Leia Kufahl (with, Korbyn Knipfer), Alissa, Kurtis, and Tyler Kufahl, and Nolan, Emmett, and Dominic Matyasz; eight great grandchildren, Cadence and Jackson Seliger, Aubrie Zortman, Jesse, Presley, and Vivian Morin, Kayden Knipfer, and Asher Kufahl; two step children, Deb (Todd) Berndt and Tim (Mary) Moyer, both of Merrill; five step grandchildren, Christa (Kyle) Christiansen, Megan ((Travis) Kleinschmidt, and Phillip, Andrew, and Catherine Moyer; two step great grandchildren, Garrison Christiansen and Adalyn Kleinschmidt; and two siblings, Karolyn (Darwin) Haufe and Eldred (Mary) Kufahl, both of Merrill.

A Memorial Service for Emery H. Kufahl will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, January 3, 2020 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Immediately following the service military rites will be conducted outside the church by the Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638 Honor Guard.  Inurnment will take place at a later date in Merrill Memorial Park Columbarium. Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Thursday, January 2^nd at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and again after 9:30 AM Friday at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill is assisting the family.

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

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Eldina A. Kienbaum, 87, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2019 at Ascension St. Clare’s Hospital, Weston.  Eldina was born September 5, 1932 daughter of the late Eldor and Alvera Klebenow. She married Henry E. Kienbaum, Jr. on September 17, 1949 in the Town of Corning. He preceded her in death on December 26, 2018. Eldina was a homemaker and farm wife. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting and quilting, gardening and canning, humming birds, square dancing, and snowmobiling. Eldina also enjoyed polka music and along with her sister in law, Joyce, hosted a food wagon at various polka festivals. Most of all Eldina enjoyed spending time with her family; especially during holidays were her homemade cookies and candies were a treat for everyone. Eldina enjoyed music and played the saxophone in the Merrill City Band and played both the piano and organ at home for her family. Besides working on the farm alongside of her husband, Eldina sold Avon products, made wedding cakes for many family members and friends, and served with the Town of Corning Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

Eldina is survived by three daughters, Julie (Rick) Guzinski, Antigo, and Janella (Dennis) Rice and Jill (Jeff) Hanson, both of Merrill; one son, Javis (Sue) Kienbaum, Merrill; eight grandchildren, John, Sheila, Carmen, Nicole, Jason, Shannon, Carly, and Michaela; seven great-grandchildren, Alexis, Kieara, Karson, Logan, Mason, Samantha, and Allison, and one on the way in May that will be named Baby Kennedy Lynn; one great-great-grandchild, Oaklynn, and one on the way in August that will be named Baby Magray-Yost.; one brother, Melvin (Joyce) Klebenow, Merrill; and one sister-in-law, Darlene Klebenow-Kniess, Gleason. Besides her parents and husband, Eldina in preceded in death by one brother, Kenneth Klebenow; and a granddaughter-in-law, Erin Kienbaum.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. A private family graveside service will be held. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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Karen L. Krueger, 71, of Merrill, passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2020 at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill.  Karen was born October 27, 1948, in Merrill, daughter of the late Lloyd and Mary Ann (Halder) Jacobson.  She married Michael J. Krueger on December 18, 1976, in Merrill.  He survives.  In 1996, Karen and her husband, Mike, started Krueger Plumbing, LLC, where she actively worked in the office until a few years ago.  Karen enjoyed cooking, gardening, working on arts and crafts, and sewing.  Karen especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, Gabrielle and Joseph.

Survivors include her husband, Michael J. Krueger of Merrill; son, Eric (Jennifer) Krueger of Merrill; two grandchildren, Gabrielle and Joseph Krueger of Merrill; mother-in-law, Anna ‘Ann’ Krueger of Merrill; brother, Keith Jacobson of Merrill; and brother-in-law, Jeff (Sandy) Krueger of Athens.  Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Mary Ann Jacobson; and father-in-law, Ernest Krueger.

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

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Marguerite Stevens, age 96, passed away Monday, December 30, 2019 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill. She was born April 2, 1923 in Oconomowoc to the late Rudolph & Leila (Rhadans) Lange.   Marguerite worked many years as a secretary for General Telephone.  She was a member of the Women’s Church Group at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church.  Marguerite had a passion for sewing, especially making children’s clothes.  She will be dearly missed.

Survivors include her daughter: Carol (Steve) Christensen; son: Ken Maule; grandchildren: Erin (Keith) Perkins, Stephen Christiansen, Ken (Mona) Reitz, Carson (Steph) Maule, Geneva Maule and Katie Maule; great-grandchildren: Dalton, Corrine and Renee Perkins, Ana, Josh and Joey Reitz; Sister: Carol Schultz, brother: Johnny (Maureen) Lange; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her parents, her first husband Don Maule, second husband Fred Stevens, daughter Donna, son-in-law, Bob Reitz, and sisters, Nancy and Marian.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be scheduled in the spring to accommodate those traveling from the south.  The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff at Pine Crest Nursing Home, and specifically the Special Care Unit for their kind and excellent care of Marguerite, for the past 2 ½ years.  Waid Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

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Jessica Rae Skolaski “Jess”, age 39, passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2020 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.  Jessica was born on May 22, 1980 in San Antonio, Texas to Steve and Mary (Calk) Davis.  Jessica married Robby Skolaski on March 16, 2016.  He survives.  Jessica grew up in Texas. She was a double certified medical assistant and mostly worked in dermatology.  She joined the United States Army in 2003 doing basics at Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri.  Jess loved to travel and had visited many states and had lived in Texas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Alaska, Hawaii, Missouri, Louisiana and California. She loved the ocean.

Jess is survived by her loving husband; Robby, parents: Steve Davis, Boerne, TX, and Mary (Jeffrey) Abrahamson, Diboll, TX, step-children: Paige (John) Schowalter, Wausau, Moriah Skolaski, Aubendale, step-great grandchildren: Miaya, Arie, Zoey, brother; John Landon Davis (Angel), TX, step-brothers: Kenneth Abrahamson, Timothy Abrahamson, step-sister: Lauren Abrahamson, niece: Betty Comfort, TX many other relatives and friends.  Jess was preceded in death by grandparents: E.W. (Martha) Calk of Lytle, TX and John (Mary) Davis of Nixon, TX.

Gathering of Remembrance will be from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Waid Funeral Home, Merrill.  In lieu of flowers memorials preferred.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

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Harvey J. Wydeven, age 81, of Irma, passed away on January 2, 2020 surrounded by his family at his home under the care of Aspirus Hospice.  Harvey was born on February 5, 1938 in Rudolph, WI to John & Mayme (Wynberg) Wydeven. Harvey was a 1957 graduate of Tomahawk High School. He was married to Charlene Searl in March of 1961. Together, they had two children. Harvey was a dairy farmer for many years. He also worked at Green Giant in Rosendale, he sold real estate as Wydeven Real Estate & Auction, and also had Wydeven Tours for many years leading tours of old country music towns like Branson, Nashville & Dollywood.

Harvey is survived by his two daughters – Sheryl Desotelle & Kim (Jeff) Bowers; 5 grandchildren – Jonathan Wydeven, Kristen Desotelle, Samantha (Josh Holzhizer) Desotelle, Dylon (Autumn) Lyons & Lukas Lyons; and 3 great grandchildren with the fourth due in May – Jonathon Wydeven, Jr., Alexander Wydeven & Dominic Cruz. He is further survived by his sisters – Myra Coombs, Louise Dunow & Alice May Harris. Harvey is preceded in death by his parents, wife – Charlene, brother – Jul, grandson – Jimmy, nephews – Marcus & Don & sister – Margaret.

The Funeral Service for Harvey Wydeven will take place at 11:00AM on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at Krueger Family Funeral Home. The visitation will take place on Monday, January 6, 2020 from 4:00PM until 7:00PM. Visitation will continue from 10:00AM until the time of service at 11:00AM. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Skanawan.  The family would like to especially thank Dr. Peterson and his staff and Harvey’s caregivers – Lynn Archer & Sue Doucette for all their wonderful care.  Krueger Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. You may view the full obituary and service times at www.kruegerfamilyfuneral.com

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Sandra K. Schmidt, 65, of Merrill, passed away Friday, January 3, 2020, at her home under the care of her loved ones and hospice.  Sandy was born May 11, 1954, in Merrill, daughter of Ada (Paul) Schulz Doering and the late Lylas Schulz.  She worked at Lincoln Wood Products for over 43 years and retired as a machine operator.  Sandy enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers and other sports as well.  She also enjoyed golfing and bowling and was a member of the Merrill Bowling Hall of Fame.  Sandy liked taking trips to the casino and watching cooking shows on television.  Sandy belonged to United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners – Local 1488 and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill.

Survivors include her lifelong partner, Gale Wolff of Merrill; mother, Ada Doering of Merrill; brother, Brian (Wendy) Schulz of Lynn Haven, Florida; nieces and nephews, Jessica (Daniel) Forchini of Switzerland, Holly (Paul) Maron of Merrill, Heidi (Rudy) Jonas of Medford, Paco Schulz of Lynn Haven, Florida and Brandi Glassgow of Lake Charles, Louisiana; great nieces and nephew, Laura, Sara, Brittney, Crystal and Colton; Gale’s siblings, Kathy Curtis of Merrill, Dale (Beth) Jankowsky of Merrill and Jerry Jankowsky of Wausau; a special godson, Mark (Kari) Plautz of Stevens Point;  and many aunt, uncles, and cousins.  Sandy was preceded in death by her father, Lylas Schulz; step-father, Reid Doering; and siblings, Robert Schulz, baby Tim Schulz and baby Girl Schulz.

A Memorial Visitation will take place from 3:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. Thursday, January 9, 2020 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill.   In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Lincoln county Humane Society or the charity of your choice.  Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

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Nancy Lynn Podgorski, age 59, of the town of Texas, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital.  She was born on July 10, 1960 to Ronald and Connie (Burgener) Beyer in Merrill.  Nancy attended and graduated from Merrill High School and went to work for Northern Wire in Merrill for a short time.  She met Sigmund Podgorski Jr. and the two fell in love and exchanged marriage vows on May 3, 1980 in Merrill.  He survives.  Nancy, Sigmund and their children ran the family dairy farm from 1980 until 2012.  Nancy was very involved with the farming duties and made sure that the farm ran smoothly.  She was actively involved with the 4-H organization for many years and would show rabbits and chickens at the Lincoln County Fair, winning many trophies and ribbons.  At home, she had a hobby farm for many years, which consisted of rabbits, chickens, goats, sheep, dogs, cats, birds, along with raising Collies.  Nancy collected peacock items, liked to watch her hummingbirds, enjoyed painting ceramics and doing crafts. She loved her animals and even helped her daughters with their horse shows.  Although she was not a hunter, she looked forward to family hunting gatherings and would go shed hunting in the Spring. Nancy had a strong work ethic, which she instilled in her children, and was very dedicated to her family.    She will be remembered for her love of laughter and her kind spirit.

Nancy is survived by her parents: Ronald (Darlene) Beyer and Connie (LeRoy) Fischer, both of Merrill, husband: Sigmund Podgorski Jr. of the town of Texas, children: Melissa (Brent) Kriewaldt, Scott Podgorski and Rachel Podgorski, all of Wausau, 2 grandchildren: Keenan and Kinley Kriewaldt, sister: Sherry Henrich of Wausau, brothers: Larry (Lori) Beyer of Alaska, Mike (Denise) Beyer and Pat (Laura) Beyer, both of Gleason and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her nephew: Michael Zuelsdorff.

The funeral service for Nancy will be held on Friday, January 10, 2020 at 11am at Waid Funeral Home.  The Rev. Gregory Laska will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2020 from 4pm-7pm and again on Friday, January 10, 2020 from 10am until the time of the service, all at the funeral home.  Burial at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service.  In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in Nancy’s memory may be directed to the Lincoln County Humane Society, because of her deep love and affection for all animals.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

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Myrtle G. Fischer, age 98, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2020 at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, with her family by her side and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.  She was born on September 19, 1921 to the late Gustaf and Stella (Johnson) Englund in Prentice, WI.  Myrtle attended high school in Prentice and Tripoli.  She met her soul mate, Andrew Fischer, and the two exchanged marriage vows on February 28, 1942 in Merrill.  Sadly, Andrew preceded her in death on September 1, 2016.  Myrtle worked in bookkeeping for most of her adult life, first at Weinbrenner Shoe Factory for over 20 years, then at People’s IGA, which she and Andrew owned and operated for many years.  Myrtle was a former secretary for the 6^th Ward Business Association.  When they retired, Myrtle and Andrew would enjoy taking their annual trip to Florida during the winter months, which they did for 25 years.  She was an excellent homemaker, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother, she looked forward to spending time with her family.  Myrtle was a quiet, giving and compassionate woman that always tried to help where she could.  In her spare time, she enjoyed doing needlepoint, especially plastic canvas projects and she liked to help others organize and plan their trips.  Myrtle was a former member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and a current member at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and the Ladies Knights of Columbus.

Myrtle is survived by her son: LeRoy (Connie) Fischer of Merrill, daughter: Kathy (Robert-deceased) Monnot of Merrill, grandchildren: Duane (Lisa) Fischer of Marshfield, Linda (special friend, Duane Moore) Beebe of Pewaukee, LeRoy E. (Carol) Fischer, Scott (Danielle) Monnot, Andrew (Brenda) Monnot and Chad (Lynn) Monnot, all of Merrill, 8 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren and step-grandchildren: Sherry Henrich of Wausau, Larry (Lori) Beyer of Alaska, Mike (Denise) Beyer of Gleason and Pat (Laura) Beyer of Gleason.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Andrew Fischer, daughter: Andrea Fischer, son-in-law: Robert Monnot, step-granddaughter: Nancy Podgorski, sisters: Laura, Mae, Violet, Alice and Delores and brother: Everett.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Myrtle will take place on Thursday, January 9, 2020 at 12:00 noon at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill.  Father Jim Horath will officiate.  Visitation will take place on Thursday, January 9, 2020 from 9:00 am until 11:45 am at Waid Funeral Home.  Burial will take place at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery, immediately following Mass.  In lieu of flowers, family requests that memorials in Myrtle’s name be directed to the St. Francis Xavier Catholic church and school.  Myrtle’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and volunteers at Pine Crest Nursing Home for taking such good care of their mom, and for the love and support shown to her family, especially from the special nurses and friends, Dave and Jeanne.

Notice: LeRoy’s Hair Care Center, 724 E. 2^nd Street, Merrill, will be closed on Thursday, January 9, 2020, so he can attend his mother’s funeral.

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

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Dalton Jay Hipke, age 29, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 3, 2020. He was born on January 23, 1990 to Jon and Bobbie (Warichak) Hipke in Waukesha, WI. Dalton graduated from New Berlin West High School and furthered his education at WCTC.  Dalton was employed as a Production Tech at the Harley-Davidson plant in Tomahawk for over 7 years. Dalton was a sports fanatic. He loved getting together with friends for Packer games and Fantasy Football every year. March Madness was something he always looked forward to with bracket in hand. Summers in Wisconsin meant golf, camping, and Brewers Baseball. Dalton’s passion for golf went as far as creating and playing in a golf tournament with his uncle Kenny and cousin Gage called The Greater Wisconsin Open. Dalton always looked forward to the opening weekend of deer hunting which meant getting together with his friends, family, and cousin Tanner Weston. Dalton especially enjoyed bow hunting with his Dad. Dalton also spent a week every year with his Lake Arrowhead family which meant more golf, tubing, knee boarding, bags & camping. The Arrowhead family loved him as their own. Dalton enjoyed family trips across the U.S. with his Mom and Step-Dad, especially those that included golf in the Arizona desert as well as multiple Canadian fishing trips with his Step-Dad, Uncles, and Cousins. Dalton enjoyed gaming with his brother Justus, and singing along to Blink-182 with his sisters Taylor, Jamie, & Amanda.

Dalton is survived by his parents, Jon & Lisa Hipke of Merrill and Bobbie & Tad Williams of Genesee, WI. Grandfather, Bob Warichak.  Grandmother, Gloria Horswill.  Sisters, Amanda Huenink, Jamie Huenink, and Taylor Hipke (Randy Barkley) along with their children, John, Wesley, Miles, Brady, and Riley.   Brother, Justus Hipke.  Aunts & Uncles, Ken & Tracy, Wendy & Ron, Jay, Matt & Jewleen, Camille, Chrissy & Johnny, Deni & Rick, Grace & Brad, Chris & Cal, and Jessie & Jim. Cousins, Gage, Travis, Tanner (Kayla), Marni (Taylor), Rachael, Reanna, Jayme, Katie (Andy), Kara (James), Lauren (David), Tyler, Amy, Katie, Mahleah, Rafe, Cody, Jason, Justin, Jake, Evan, Trevor, Hillary, Luke, Brandon, Colton, Caden, Caleb, Cali, Blake, Jaiden, & Jazmine, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his Grandparents, Cecil & Bonnie Hipke, Diane Warichak, Herbert Horswill, Lydia Abate. Sister, Jessica Hipke. Uncle, Richard Horswill. Cousin, Turner Zettelmeier.

A Celebration of Dalton’s life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2020, from 12 pm-3 pm, at the home of Ken & Tracy Zettelmeier, W3408 County Highway C in Merrill, WI. Additional parking will be available ¼ mile east at the Hub Inn, N3294 State Highway 17, Merrill, WI. A shuttle will be provided.  Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.  An additional Celebration of Dalton’s life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 12pm-3pm at a place to be determined in the Mukwonago/Genesee area.

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