Obituaries are a service of Brainard Funeral Home, with locations in Wausau and Weston.

Ronald Tesch

On Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018, Ronald Hilbert Tesch, loving husband and father of two children, passed away at the age of 78.

Ron was born on Sept. 9, 1940, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Hilbert and Pauline (Horkey) Tesch. A 1958 graduate of D.C. Everest High School, Ron then honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1961 through 1965. On Aug. 20, 1966, he married Mary Pamela Charnock. Ron and Pam were truly blessed in building a successful business, Animal House Pet Care Center in Kronenwetter, that allowed the two of them to work hand-in-hand for many years together. They raised two sons, Jeff and Greg.

Ronald Tesch

Ron was a true handyman who was often found tinkering in the garage in pursuit of a fix or solution. He also enjoyed fishing with his sons and built a lifetime of memories at Star Lake. In their retirement years, Ron and Pam enjoyed seasonal trips to their home in Florida.

Ron was preceded in death by his father Hilbert, and his mother, Pauline. He is survived by his wife, Pam, his two children, Jeff (Penny) Tesch, Greg (Jacie) Tesch and four beautiful grandchildren, Grace, Claire, Carson and Vinnie.

A special thank you to Dr. Harish Ahuja, whom not only provided cancer treatment to Ron, but gave comfort, care, confidence and hope throughout his long battle. Additionally, the entire team of caregivers at Aspirus Regional Cancer Center and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Ron’s family.

A memorial service will be held at 3: p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, at Brainard Funeral Home – Everest Chapel, 5712 Memorial Court, Weston. Rev. Wes Jedras will officiate. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Military honors performed by VFW Burns Post 388 and the United States Air Force will follow. The family will greet friends, with a luncheon following the services at Dale’s Weston Lanes.

Online condolences may be shared at www.brainardfuneral.com.


Robert Barnett

Robert Barnett, 68, of Schofield died Nov. 7, 2018, surrounded by his family.

He was born May 26, 1950, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Barney Sr. and Loretta (Pochinski) Barnett. He was a 1968 graduate of D.C. Everest High School. He married Linda Walkowski on Jan. 29, 1972.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves for six years and was honorably discharged. He was owner-operator for over 43 years at Graebel, Allied and United Van Lines. He also leased semis and started many others in the moving business who had successful careers through his mentoring, including his son. He received many awards through the years, including safe driver and driver of the year. He took pride in everything looking polished and perfect on his Peterbilt, his collector cars and everything he owned. His 1969 Z28 Rally Sport always brought a smile to his face.

Bob had many passions; he especially loved spending time with his family; his wife, Linda, his children and his grandkids, who he was always so proud of. He also enjoyed his many trips to Memphis, Tennessee, to visit his dear friends, the Presleys. He loved fall as it brought his favorite pastime – hunting. You could always find Bob on a crisp fall day on his 120 acres waiting for that big buck. On game days he could be found watching the Green Bay Packers or enjoying Nascar on race day.

Bob was also notorious for the outstanding Christmas light displays and Halloween decorations at their home in Schofield; and no Fourth of July was complete without a booming fireworks show put on by Bob himself.

He was very hardworking and always did what he could to make others smile. Those who knew Bob knew he had a heart of gold and he could certainly light up a room. His sense of humor always made everyone laugh.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda; his daughter, Tammy (Steve) Rainville; his sons, Robert E. Barnett and Aaron Barnett; grandchildren, Steven and Dylan Rainville, Natasha, Tristan, and Bryce Barnett. Bob is further survived by his mother, Loretta Barnett; brothers Barney Jr. (Cheryn) and Dale Barnett; and two sisters, Bonita (Gary) Buchberger and Brenda (Leonard) VanVeren; sisters-in-law, Gail Drake and Gloria Easker; brother-in-law Duane Easker; nieces, nephews, and many loved ones and extended family and friends. Bob is also survived by his pitbull, Luxor.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Barney Sr.; his mother and father-in-law, Ervin and Eleanor Walkowski; brother-in-law, Marvin Drake; niece, Melanie Easker; and nephew, Jason Buchberger.

Bob will be greatly missed by all the lives he touched. He will be forever loved, and never forgotten. He was a great husband, father and grandpa. We love you and we will never forget everything you’ve done for us.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at noon on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2018, at Saint Therese Catholic Church, 113 West Kort St., Rothschild, Wisconsin. The Rev. Louis Britto will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Kronenwetter.

Brainard Funeral Home – Everest Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.brainardfuneral.com.