Ronald Kunda
Ron was born on October 15th, 1951, in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Ron grew up in Milwaukee and lived in Boston before settling down in northern Wisconsin.
Ron met his beloved wife, Linda, at the Arthur Murray dance studio where he was a student and she was an instructor. They were married in September of 1985. Their son, Anthony (Tony) was born the following year.
Before his retirement, Ron had fulfilling career in the construction industry. Using the skills he learned from his trade, he built his home from the ground up — a beautiful log cabin that displayed his expert craftsmanship.
Ron also enjoyed working on home, auto, and electronics projects with his son, the highlight of which was a guitar that they built together.
Ron was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing and could often be found on one of the lakes near his home during ice fishing season — often with his father-in-law, Anthony (Red) Vande Logt. In his retirement he enjoyed woodworking, making stained-glass windows, golf, gardening, and making maple syrup.
Ron is survived by his wife Linda, his son Anthony, and his granddaughter Ainsley.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Henrietta Kunda, his stepmother Phyllis Kunda, and his sisters Gloria Jean, and Alice.
In accordance with his wishes, no memorial service will be held. His memory will be forever cherished by those who knew him.
Pearl A. Wallner
Pearl Ann Wallner, 81, peacefully left her family on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024. Pearl was born on February 7th, 1943 to Joseph and Mary (Niziolek) Salzman as one of their thirteen children. Pearl was raised on the family farm in central Wisconsin and loved tending to and raising the family horses.
Pearl raised her family of five children in Wausau. She was a loving and hard working mother who strove to give her children everything they needed. Pearl loved to cook and bake and was legendary not only for her ability to feed an army of hungry kids but also her skill in making some of the best Christmas cookies. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to enjoy the seasons and holidays. Spring would enter with her April’s fools pranks, summer was spent gardening and grilling, fall would bring harvesting and Halloween treats and decorations, and enormous Thanksgiving menus, and winter would bring Christmas presents, cookies and Santas everywhere.
In her later years, Pearl discovered that she was a painter, a poet and a natural at family card games. She made it her mission to share her voice, experiences, and tried to communicate, through her work, to those who had suffered abuse in their lives that they were not alone. She would often write or paint something and give it away to a friend or even an acquaintance in the hopes of bringing them a smile and peace.
Pearl will forever be loved by her children: Brian Stolzman, John Stolzman, Robert Stolzman, Martin Stolzman and Marie Husnick (nee Wallner). Her love touched and shaped her grandchildren (Ashley, Paige, Alex, Lauren, Shante and Anya) and they will always live with her in their hearts.
At Pearl’s request, there will be no funeral. The family will hold a private memorial service and honor her and her love of life, nature, family, laughing and cooking by striving to live their best lives through supporting each other and trying to bring joy and happiness to their communities, as she did.
Kenneth G. Baumann
Kenneth G. Baumann, age 91, of Wausau, WI passed away in the early hours of Monday, April 8th, 2024 at Rennes Health and Rehab Center in Weston, WI under the care of a wonderful hospice team.
Services will be held on Monday, April 15th at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Wausau. A viewing and visitation is scheduled for 9:00 AM, and the funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM.
Ken was born on March 7th, 1933 to Rudolph and Emma (Lemke) Baumann in Wausau. He served in the United States Army from 1957-1961. On October 7th, 1961, he was united in marriage to his wife, Gay (Gille) Baumann at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill. He had several occupations, including work as a long-haul truck driver, union carpenter, and painter. He took pride in his volunteer work at Good Shepherd, assisting with property maintenance.
Ken loved working on his hobby farm, particularly anything that involved working on or driving his 1947 Farmall C tractor. His greatest passion, though, was his music. Throughout his life, he played in a number of bands, including Jerry Starr, Denny Bloom and the Sidemen, and toured with 50’s rockabilly legend Wanda Jackson. He also backed up several traveling artists including Lynn Anderson, Leroy Van Dyke, Charley Pride, and Tammy Wynette. Even in his retirement, “Whistling Kenny” was never without a song; he could always be heard whistling a tune, or playing guitar and singing country classics. His music was infectious and has inspired subsequent generations of Baumann musicians.
Ken is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Gay; three children: Juli-Kay Baumann of Arrington, TN, Steven Baumann (Lina Bravo) of Greely, ON, and Brian (VurChelle) Baumann of Plover; four grandchildren: Kenneth (Courtney) Baumann, Maria Baumann (fiancé, Michael Diamond), Samuel Baumann, and Liam Baumann; and two sisters, Jean (Baumann) Binner and Patricia (Baumann) Rostal.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Jodeen Baumann; his parents, Rudolph and Emma Baumann; and eight siblings: Daniel, Victor, Margaret, Evelyn, Harold, Theodore, Louise, and Rudolph Jr.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The Salvation Army of Wausau (103 S 2nd Avenue Wausau, WI 54401) or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Wausau (930 Edgewood Road Wausau, WI 54403).
Carol Larson
Carol Larson passed away peacefully on April 7, 2024. She spent 96 years on this earth as a mother, daughter, wife, teacher, grandmother, great grandmother, Den Leader for her sons, and Brownie Leader for her daughter. Many friends and family will always remember her through her gifts of cross stitch and knitting. She donated winter caps and mittens to St. Anne School and lap robes to Aspirus Hospice. She volunteered for many years in the gift shop at the Marathon County Health Care Center where she donated small gifts to residents.
Carol had several graduate degrees and taught business education subjects at the North Central Tech, Wausau High School and completed her formal teaching years as the chair of the Business Education Department at Wausau West High School. She was very proud of the Special Cooperative Program she created in the early 1970’s. Students who pursued careers with their cooperative education employers would stop to talk and thank her for the opportunities they had through her cooperative program.
She is survived by two sons: Frank (Linda) Larson and Mark (Lisa) Larson. Carol also leaves a son-in-law Alan Hapke and her beloved grandchildren: Katie (Alex Fish) Burger, Joe (Mary) Burger, Matthew Hapke, Rebecca (Daniel) Kessler, Annalisa (Rusty) Gardner, Catherine (Eric) Hapke, Erica (David) Haug and Michael Larson. She leaves her great grandchildren: Eliza and Thea Burger, Thomas and Timothy Hapke, Madilyn, Jerrod, and Breanna Kessler, Hannah and Dylan Gardner, Elliot Hapke and Charlie Haug. Carol also leaves her extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Henry Larson, and her daughter, Marilyn Hapke.
A private service celebrating Carol’s life was held at Restlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum. Brainard Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in her name. Carol’s family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the staff of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice and Benedictine Rehabilitation for the exceptional care given.
Paula St. Clair
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Paula St. Clair on April 1, 2024. She was born on January 26, 1950, in Medford, WI, and lived most of her life in the Wausau area. We are blessed to know that she is now with her beloved Lord Jesus. In Christ, Paula lives!
Paula was a devoted mother to her children Terra (Steve) Vincent, David St. Clair, and Chris (Hanna) St. Clair, and a loving grandmother to Jackson, Cole, Eli, and Jonathan. She was also survived by her siblings Roxanne Purgett, Jacqueline Suthard, Linda Bruner, Bryon Thorson, Mark Thorson, Rhonda (Duke) Thorson, Brenda Behroyan, Wayne (Jackie) Thorson, Billy (Lena) Thorson, and Susan Thorson, as well as her bonus mom, Delores Habeck and bonus sisters Lynn (Keith) Becken and Jeannie (Mike) Pardo. Paula is preceded in death by her parents Donald and Berdene Thorson, her bonus father Merle Habeck, and sister Merry Beth Moran.
After growing up in Medford, Paula went to school in LaCrosse and then moved to Wausau where she met and married Dave St. Clair. During their 28 year marriage, they raised their 3 children in Kronenwetter. Paula was a constant caregiver. It was her lifestyle. She was always there for her kids growing up and known to be a mom-like figure to their friends too. She loved gathering people around her kitchen table and cookies were her love language. She baked cookies for her kids, her grandkids, and for other people’s kids. If Paula was coming over, her cookies were coming too.
She loved to remind people how much she loved them through letters and cards: birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and just about any occasion. We still hear people say “Paula still sends me a card, even after all these years!”.
In the fall, she would make dozens of apple pies in one day when apples were in season. She was a talented seamstress and made things from costumes to quilts. She loved to grow flowers and vegetables.
Paula also shared her heart for caregiving in her professional roles. She held strong convictions that all people deserved dignity and high-quality care and had a special heart for elderly people and people with disabilities. She was a selfless servant to people who needed someone to stand in the gap for them.
In honoring Paula’s memory and celebrating her remarkable life, there will be a visitation held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1901 Kowalski Rd., Kronenwetter, on April 27 from 9-11am, with a memorial service to follow at 11am.
Alvin A. Kramer
Alvin “Al” Albert Kramer, 86, of Mosinee and formerly of Weston, passed away peacefully, on Saturday, April 6, 2024, surrounded by his family.
He was born on June 16, 1937, in Wausau, WI, son of the late Albert and Marion (Wanta) Kramer. Al was raised on a small farm in the town of Weston, WI. After graduation he entered military service in the Navy in July of 1954. He served in the Navy until June of 1962 when he transferred to serve in the Coast Guard specializing in International Morse Code. He served honorably until his retirement as Chief on October 1, 1974. After his retirement from military service Al married Dawn Woller on July 24, 1976, at First English Lutheran Church in Wausau, she survives. Al had many jobs after his retirement from service, but the job that was most important to him was being a father to his children. Al was a simple, hardworking, humble man that continued to serve by responding to anyone in need with multiple mission trips around the country to help those who had been impacted by natural disaster. Al could be found in his free time lending a helping hand in any way he could at First English Lutheran Church and various other local organizations.
Besides his wife Dawn, he is survived by his children, Jason Kramer (Heidi Kelly), Wausau, Albie (Tina) Kramer, Clemmons, NC, Sarah (Brad) Stroik, Hatley, and Joe Kramer (Amanda Wagner) Weston; grandchildren, Dakota Tesch, Allen and Hallie Kramer, Amber, Allison, Karli and David Kramer, and Teagan Stroik; and great-grandchild, Aubreigh Tesch. Al is further survived by many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends. Besides his parents, Al was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur “Skip” (Helen) Kramer and sister, Gerry (Ronald) Steif.
Funeral Services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at First English Lutheran Church, Wausau. Rev. Barry Levine will officiate. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Military honors will follow the service accorded by V.F.W. Burns Post #388. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Aspirus Palliative Care Unit for their wonderful care and support.
Roger D. Weber
Roger Dale Weber, 71, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 1, 2024.
He was born on July 18, 1952 to Dan and Joyce Weber. Roger graduated from Wausau High School in 1970 and then worked at Kraft Foods and Apogee, a division of Wausau Metals. His pride and joy was being a dairy farmer. In his younger years Roger loved his motorcycles and owned many throughout the years. Roger loved watching MASH and, of course, would enjoy it with a cold Sundrop. He had a very strong faith in God and was an active member of Calvary Lutheran Church in the town of Pine River. Roger loved reading and learning more about God by reading his favorite book, the Bible. He also read old westerns and many magazines. Roger will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Survivors include his brother, Philip Weber (Julianna Zunker); niece, Brittney (Kyle) Kolpacki; many cousins; and his favorite dog, Butch.
A funeral service will be at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 15, 2024 at Calvary Lutheran Church, N365 Cain Creek Road, Merrill (Town of Pine River) with Rev. Jennifer Hoffman officiating. Visitation will begin at 8:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be at a later date in Trinity Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
The family would like to send a special thank you to U.W. – Madison Hospital and Dr. Dey’s wonderful team for everything they did for Roger.
Andrew R. Peterson
Andrew R. Peterson, 75 of the town of Elderon, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 7, 2024.
He was born on June 9, 1948, the son of Elroy and Viola (Hegewald) Peterson.
Andy attended Elderon Elementary, graduated from Wittenberg High School and the University of Wisconsin River Falls, with a degree in Agriculture. He then taught agriculture in Edgar for three years before returning to his first love of farming. Andy was a third generation farmer on the farm he grew up on.
Andy was involved in all things agriculture. He served on the Cloverbelt Co-Op Board of Directors for many years and was an active member of the FFA Alumni. Andy was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wittenberg and formerly served as president of the church council. Andy and three friends started Four-Of-A-Kind Partners, where they raised top notch registered Holstein cattle.
Andy loved deer hunting and fishing with friends. He chaperoned several senior FFA trips to Canada.
Andy is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary (Krause) Peterson; daughter, Tracy (Derek) Dombeck and their children, Makenna, Robbie and Lexi; son, Chad (Shelley) Peterson and their children, Lindsey, Nicole and Hank; sister, Judy Schmidt and her daughter, Jodi and family; daughter-in-law, Barbara Schmidt and family; sister-in-law, Faythe (Dan) Nowitzke and their children, Maxx and Katy and families. He is also survived by many relatives, friends and neighbors, including many special friends in Costa Rica, whom he considered a second family.
Andy was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws; brother in-laws, Roy Schmidt and Ken Krause, and special godson, Lance Schmidt.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1 PM on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wittenberg. Rev. Sharon Fox-Bogen will preside. Burial will be in Evergreen Rest Cemetery, Elderon. Visitation will be on Sunday, from 10:30 AM until the time of service at church.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
