Obituaries are a service of Brainard Funeral Home, with locations in Wausau and Weston.
Phyllis Bush
Phyllis R. Bush, 91, of Weston died peacefully on July 14, 2019, at Ascension Saint Clare’s Hospital in Weston, Wisconsin.
Phyllis was born on July 16, 1927, to the late Roy and Grace (Young) Smith. She married William Bush on July 7, 1951. He preceded her in death on Aug. 17, 1987.
Phyllis graduated from nursing school in 1948 and worked as a registered nurse until settling down to become a homemaker and raise a family. It wouldn’t take long until her youngest was in kindergarten for her to return to healthcare as a registered nurse, and work until her retirement in 1991. Once retired from nursing, Phyllis was free and able to pursue her other hobbies and personal interests. She enjoyed quilting and knitting, traveling home and abroad, attending musicals and playing cards with friends. Phyllis was active and involved with her community, but still cherished spending time with family and going out for a Friday night fish fry.
Phyllis is survived by her five children, Linda Abel, Mary Beth (Roger) Esser, Robert (Diane) Bush, Michael (Cheryl) Bush, and Laura (Ron) D’Orio; 12 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. Besides her husband, Phyllis was preceded in death by seven sisters, one brother and her son-in-law Leon Abel.
A memorial service will be on Aug. 3, 2019, at 11 a.m. at Peace United Church of Christ, 1530 Grand Ave., Schofield, Wisconsin. Rev. Gloria VanHouten will officiate. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service, all at the church. Burial will follow at Mosinee Cemetery.
Brainard Funeral Home – Everest Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.brainardfuneral.com.
Jeanette Drumm
Jeanette F. Drumm, 87, of Wausau went to be with her Lord on Saturday, July 13, 2019, at her home.
Jeanette was born March 29, 1932, in Wausau to Carl and Florence (Schulz) Neumann. Jeanette became a child of God through baptism on May 29, 1932, by Pastor Zaremba and was confirmed in the faith March 25, 1945, by Pastor Liesener. In 1952, in the same church, Grace Lutheran, on Aug. 16, 1952, she married her high school sweetheart, Warren L. Drumm. He preceded her in death on March 4, 1995.
Jeanette worked for many years as an interviewer for the University of Wisconsin Survey Research Lab. She also did surveys for the United States Commerce Department and worked as a crew leader for the 1980 Census. In her early years, she worked at the Wausau Public Library in the children’s library. Over the last years, Jeanette really enjoyed buying and selling collectibles and antiques.
Jeanette was active in both local Ys. She loved to treasure hunt, fish, sew clothes, work with her flowers and garden. She volunteered at her church and at local nursing homes through the Stephen Care program. She especially loved helping to make quilts for world relief. Before her husband’s death, they enjoyed wintering at Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and traveling in their motor home across the country.
Jeanette is survived by three sons: Thomas of Hawaii, Robert (Julie) of Oklahoma and Daniel (Jenny) of Eau Claire; six wonderful grandchildren: Evan, Joshua, Ellie, and Benjamin Drumm- of Oklahoma and Maya and Elise Drumm of Eau Claire; sister: Arlene Schield of Merrill; stepsister: Germaine (Leslie) Krause; stepbrothers: DuWayne (Shirley) Marquardt, Vernon (Joan) Marquardt and Clifford (Paula) Marquardt; plus many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. She was truly blessed.
She is preceded in death by her wonderful parents; her dear husband; two great sisters, Alice Hess and Adeline Utech; and three brothers-in-law, Howard Hess, Clarence Utech and Ray Schield.
Jeanette belonged to Trinity Lutheran Church since 1963. She has gone to a beautiful home with her Lord and God. Visitation will be held Thursday, July 18, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Brainard Funeral Home, 522 Adams St., Wausau. A funeral service will be held Friday, July 19, 2019, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Ave., Wausau. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Pastor Zach Holdorf will officiate. She will be laid to rest at Restlawn Memorial Park.
Memorials may be directed to her church and its choir.
Brainard Funeral Home- Wausau Chapel is assisting with arrangements.
Anna Morien
Anna M. (Esker) Morien, 101, of Wausau died peacefully at home on July 14, 2019.
She was born in the town of Reid on Sept. 14, 1917, to the late Michael and Anna (Trzebiatowski) Esker. She married Oscar Morien on Nov. 8, 1941, at St. Florian Catholic Church, Hatley. Anna and Oscar farmed in the town of Easton until retiring in 1994 and moving to Wausau.
Anna enjoyed reading, working puzzle books, cards of all kinds, and especially enjoyed baseball, first the Milwaukee Braves and later the Brewers. She was also a Green Bay Packers fan.
Anna is survived by her children, Lyle (Janet) Morien, Neal (Marsha) Morien, Karen (Jim) Nemke, and Kay Morien; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, Cheryl Morency, Krista Morien (Edward Kothe), Lisa (Howard) Clark, Brett (Carrie) Nemke, Heather (Jamie) Arnold, Gillian and Gabrielle Arnold, Rebecca Morency, Jake Nemke, Elizabeth and Aiden Clark. She is also survived by four sisters-in-law, Mae Morien, Mabel Morien, Leona T’Niemi, and Elaine Lampinen, as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar, in 2000 and her parents, brothers and sisters and their spouses, Emily (Steve) Hanson, Frances (Albert) Ostrowski, Stanley (Lillian) Esker, Felix (Katherine) Esker, Martha (Gus) Buss, Delephine (Anton) Morien, Edwin Esker, Dorothy (Lucas) Sherfinski, Sylvester (Lucy) Esker, sister-in-law and husband, Phyllis (Arthur) Tapani, brothers-in-law, Hank Lampinen, William T’Niemi, William Morien, and Joseph Morien.
The funeral Mass will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2019, at 11 a.m. The Rev. James Schaefer will preside. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service all at the church. Entombment will be in Memorial Chapel Mausoleum, Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Resurrection Church, Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice or a charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank both Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice and Applegate Independent Living for their care of our mother.
Patricia Radtke
Patricia Ann (Coushman) Radtke, died peacefully in her home on July 15, 2019.
She was born March 8, 1938, in Wausau to the late Irene (Zweck) Balz and Joseph Coushman. On Aug. 23, 1976, she married Frank C. Radtke.
Patricia enjoyed crocheting, craft shows and her dog, Sam. She was especially proud of her family.
Survivors include her children, Sandra Semore (James Glenn), Cynthia Hassel (Donald Craig), David Zielazowski (Lori), William Zielazowski (Pam) and Daniel Zielazowski; grandchildren, Justin Semore, James Corey Semore, Allison McCaa, Heather Wallace, Nicole LaFave, Justin Zielazowski and Jessica Zielazowski; great-grandchildren, Gavin, Tristen, Ethan, Natalie, Kendra, Kaylee, Aleyah, James Miles, Jakob, Audrey, Morgan, Lincoln, Hunter, Logan, Emma, Anna, Alyssa, Austin, Kyla, Landon, Aidan and Mia; sister, Rosalie Lineweaver; sister-in-law, Eunice Radtke.
Besides her parents and husband, Frank Radtke, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Steven Semore, and a brother, George Coushman.
Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2019, at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth St., Wausau.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Todd Cook
Todd C. Cook, 61, passed away peacefully at his Custer home on Tuesday, July 17, from cancer of the appendix. Todd and his wife, Sally, were married in 1983 and were blessed with four loving children.
After graduating high school in Janesville, Wisconsin, in 1976, Todd attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and graduated with a degree in biology. For most of his professional career, Todd was involved in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, most recently specializing in oncology for Bristol-Myers Squibb. A strong love of the outdoors led to a passion for fishing, hunting and camping that he happily shared with his family. Todd will be lovingly remembered by his family as a deliberate, thoughtful and compassionate father.
Most importantly, Todd developed a relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ following the birth of his eldest child. This was the turning point in his life which provided him with meaning and purpose. As such, Todd has always been actively involved in his church and community.
Todd is survived by his wife, Sally; and his four children: Robert Cook (Amanda), Laura Cook (Jess Palmer), Sam Cook and Bryan Cook. He also leaves behind his mother, Joan Cook; and his sister, Ann Kumm. Todd is preceded in death by his father, Robert O. Cook; and his sister, Jeanne Richie.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 19, from 5-8 p.m. and on Saturday, July 20, from 9-11 a.m. at Nelsonville Lutheran Church. The funeral will be held on Saturday, July 20, at 11 a.m. at the Nelsonville Lutheran Church, with lunch to follow.
The family would like to extend special gratitude to the oncology staff at Marshfield Hospital and Ascension at Home Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to establish a scholarship fund in Todd’s memory.
The Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family. For online condolences, visit www.HonorOne.com.
“All things through grace.”
Robert “Bob” Geier
Robert (Bob) Geier, 84, passed away July 15, 2019, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.
Robert was born on Feb. 23, 1935, to Frank and Clara (Welsh) Geier in Wausau. He attended school in the Wausau area until he was needed by his father in the family business, where he worked selling potato chips and popcorn.
Robert was quite the craftsman and had a hand in building and remodeling many homes and apartments in the Wausau area. In the last five years of his work career he did maintenance at the Wausau School Forest.
Robert was a member of the Merrill Fraternal Order of Eagles since the ‘90s. He was not able to participate as much as he once did but believed wholeheartedly in the good that the organization does.
Robert is married to Lynn Geier (Wittkop), who survives. He has a sister, Dorothy Borth, Wausau, and Charmaine Unertl, Lake Tomahawk; a son, Dillon at home; and a daughter, Debbie Galowski, Weston. Grandchildren: Kelly Gehr, Ray Jr, Troy, Allan, Jesse, Megan and Deanna; and numerous great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ralph; a sister, Clara Ann Pontis; and three sons, Ray Sr, Scott and Chris.
Bob loved to golf, fish, camp, building things and travel. He spent many years in the desert of California, but was happy when he came back to Wausau.
The Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family. For online condolences, please visit www.HonorOne.com.
Robert “Charlie” Petroff
Robert Charles (Charlie) Petroff, 61, passed away July 14, 2019, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, Wisconsin.
Charlie was born July 14, 1958, in Iron River, Michigan, to George and Norma Petroff. He attended West Iron County High School until he enlisted in the United States Army where he served honorably for six years.
Charlie loved the outdoors and his passion in life was fishing. He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers.
Charlie is survived by his brothers, George (Gail) Petroff of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Patrick Petroff of Caledonia, Michigan; and one sister, Mary (Jack) Cerasoli of Neenah, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Norma.
John J. Buettgen Funeral Home/Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society in Wausau, Wisconsin, is assisting the family with services. For online condolences, visit www.HonorOne.com.
A graveside memorial for Charlie will be arranged at a later date.
Florence Schroeder
Florence L. Schroeder, 98, of Wausau died on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at Wausau Manor under the care of Heartland Hospice and her family.
Florence was born on April 25, 1921, in Hogarty, the daughter of the late Charles and Nellie (Thomas) Swanson.
On Nov. 29, 1941, Florence was united in marriage to Herbert Schroeder in Gresham. He preceded her in death on Sept. 23, 1995.
Family was very important to Florence. She loved family get-togethers and attending many of her children’s and grandchildren’s events. Florence also loved listening to country music.
Survivors include her children, Jim Schroeder of Wausau, Jack Schroeder of Harshaw, Jerry Schroeder of Wausau, Jeanne Spiegl of Deerbrook, Jane Homolka of Mosinee and Lori Bryden of Wausau; 20 grandchildren; numerous great and great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Florence was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son, Larry; grandson, Clayton Schroeder; son-in-law, Jack Spiegl; sisters, Clara Dietz, Irene Hitt, Lottie Roberts, Helen Nelson and Lila Barker and brothers, George, Charles Jr., Gordon, Marvin, Eugene and Melvin.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 20, 2019, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood. Burial will be in Hogarty Riverside Cemetery. Visitation will be on Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
Memories and condolences may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
Pearl Linke
Pearl A. Linke, 75, of Wittenberg died on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at Ascension St. Clare’s Hospital, Weston.
Pearl was born on Sept. 7, 1943, in Tigerton, the daughter of the late Olaf and Grace Oxhovd.
Pearl worked in elderly home care for some time. She then baby-sat for many of her grandchildren through the years. Pearl enjoyed reading and loved her dogs.
Survivors include her children Connie (Jeff Fischer) Wells of Grand Prairie, Texas, Todd (Cathy) Linke and Tina Decker, all of Wittenberg; grandchildren, Richard Wells Jr., Amanda Wells, Allycia (Rick) Parker, Brant (Rebecca) Linke, Trevor Linke, Ann Decker, Melinda (Scott Balcerowski) Miller, Ashley (Chris) Malueg and Nicole Miller; great-grandchildren, Deven, Ava and Adelyn Wells, Jasmaine Roehl, Vanessa and Kayden Malueg and Aly Barnett and Pearl’s former husband, Robert (Debbie) Linke.
Pearl was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter Cindy Lee and brother Donald.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, 2019, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg. Rev. Clifford Kessen will officiate. Burial will be in Union Cemetery, Tigerton. Visitation will be on Saturday from noon until the time of service at the funeral home.
Memories and condolences may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
Margaret Diestler
Margaret Appolonia Munhall DeRoos Diestler passed away on July 14, 2019, under the care of LeRoyer Hospice at Homme Home in Wittenberg. She was born May 25, 1921, to James and Rose (Mares) Munhall in the town of Aniwa.
Margaret graduated from Birnamwood High School in 1938. She married Theodore (Dick) DeRoos in Birnamwood on Oct. 16, 1948. They farmed in Birnamwood and had six children together. He preceded her in death on April 16, 1972. On Aug. 24, 1974, she was united in marriage to Arthur Diestler. He preceded her in death on Jan. 23, 1997.
She is survived by five of her six children and four stepchildren: Marie Freitag, Birnamwood, John DeRoos, Wittenberg, Alyce (Marty) Hartleben, Clintonville, Ted DeRoos (Glenda Peterson), Birnamwood, Tom DeRoos, Bowler, Darrell Diestler, Douglas Diestler, James (Sharon) Diestler, and Rosie Hagen. She was blessed with 14 grandchildren: Peggy (Brian) Ranney, Bob Wincentsen, Janelle (Steve) Quade, James DeRoos Jr, Joseph DeRoos, Henry Hartleben, Samantha Hartleben, Bud (Tasha) Krause, Brittney (Justin) Paiser, Cassandra Perez, Theresa DeRoos, Thomas DeRoos Jr, Montana (Steve) Rickert, Winter DeRoos, and Ireland DeRoos. Margaret also had 15 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild along with step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren; and daughter-in-law Jackie DeRoos of Birnamwood. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, and one son James DeRoos.
Margaret and her husband, Dick DeRoos, farmed in Birnamwood until his death in 1972. While farming, they also had a mail route in earlier years. Margaret and Dick also opened their home to a number of foster children while raising their own family. Margaret always said there was room for one more at the table. After her marriage to Arthur Diestler, they owned and operated Diestler Forest Products, running a saw mill and lathe mill. Margaret also was an assessor for local townships for a number of years. Margaret had many interests including gardening, knitting, fishing, reading, quilting, sewing and going to rummage sales; she also loved horses. She loved to travel and one of her favorite trips was to Ireland. Margaret was a hard worker, very proud of her Irish heritage, and was happiest when she had something to do.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 19, 2019, at St. Philomena Catholic Parish, Birnamwood. Rev. Vicente Llagas will officiate. Visitation will be on Friday from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery. There will be a Rosary recited at 9 a.m. at the church.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
An Irish Blessing:
May there always be work for your hands to do.
May your purse always hold a coin or two.
May the sun always shine on your windowpane.
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Doris Laking
Doris J. Laking, 94, of Wittenberg, formerly of Grant Park, Illinois, died on Saturday, July 13, 2019, at Homme Home of Wittenberg under the care of LeRoyer Hospice Service of Antigo.
Doris is survived by her children, Steven (Anita) Laking of Eagle River and Pamela (Blaine Koch) Laking of Wittenberg; eight grandchildren and 11 great granddaughters; daughter-in-law Marsha Laking of Lowell, Illinois, and other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Roland, and son Philip Laking.
A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019, at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, Grant Park, Illinois. Rev. Kyle Timmons will officiate. Burial will take place in Heusing Cemetery, Grant Park, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to honor Doris may be made to St. Peter’s United Church of Christ or Heusing Cemetery, 310 N. Meadows St., Grant Park, IL 60940, Homme Home of Wittenberg, 604 S. Webb St., Wittenberg, WI 54499, or LeRoyer Hospice, 112 E. Fifth Ave., Antigo, WI 54409.
