Wausau area obituaries, Sept 30, 2019

Donald Robert Bric, Rothschild, went home to be with his Savior on Sept. 28, 2019, at the age of 64.

Don was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Aug. 9, 1955, to the late Robert and Gay Bric. He married Pamela Fedie on June 5, 1982, in Eau Galle, Wisconsin.

Don was a very giving, motivated, clever, witty and fun-loving individual. He was proud to run his own IT business, Grandads.com, and share his talents with his customers. He was an active volunteer in the community, serving on the Wausau School Board, with the Boy Scouts of America, and the Boys and Girls Club. He was also a proud member of Wausau Elks Lodge #248. Don always had a joke to share and was keen on diving into extended conversations with just about anyone. He was family focused, teaching his four children how to make the most of life and get the best out of themselves. More importantly, he was a man of strong and deep faith. He loved introducing people to God. He had a personality and presence that could fill a room and will be deeply missed, as will his chess game.

Survivors include his loving wife of 37 years, Pam, Rothschild; daughter Jennifer and husband Tim St. Louis, Campobello, South Carolina; sons Robert, Wausau, Justin, Milwaukee, and Shane, Milwaukee; as well as four grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, at Highland Community Church, 1005 N. 28th Ave., Wausau. Rev. Isaiah DeMoss will officiate. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the church. A Lodge of Sorrow will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the church, performed by Wausau Elks Lodge #248. Interment will be at Maple Grove Cemetery.

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

Joel Kiedrowski

Joel Thomas Kiedrowski, 39, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, as a result of an auto accident in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

Joel was born on Sept. 1, 1980, in Stevens Point. He was the son of Frank Kiedrowski and Karen Palbrach.  Joel attended SPASH and graduated in 1999.

Joel was an avid sports fan, rarely missing games of the Packers, Brewers,  Bucks and Badgers. He enjoyed playing tennis, racquetball, biking and working out. Joel enjoyed spending time in the Wisconsin Northwoods and loved fishing. He had a great passion for being in the kitchen and cooking. He was an aspiring chef.

Joel had a great love of animals and children. He was easy going and loved making conversation with anyone he met. Joel wore a bracelet on his wrist that read “Kindness is in our power even when fondness is not.” It was a true testament to his kind nature. Those who knew him knew he wore his heart on his sleeve.

Joel lived for many years in Madison, Wisconsin, working in the service industry. He returned to Stevens Point in late 2017, working most recently at WISH in Weston, Wisconsin. Joel was loved by so many. His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of all those who loved him.

Joel was preceded in death by his grandparents Chester and Elizabeth Kiedrowski, grandfather Ernest Scheppa, grandmother Marilyn Scheppa, and his uncle Gary Scheppa.

Survivors include his parents Frank Kiedrowski and Karen Palbrach of Stevens Point, brothers Mike (Julie) Kiedrowski of Bozeman, Montana, Jason Kiedrowski of Stevens Point, stepfather Gary Palbrach of Stevens Point, grandmother Betty Scheppa of Plover, stepsiblings Jake Palbrach, Deanna (Dustin Yenter) Palbrach, Todd (Jen) Palbrach all of Stevens Point, nephews Dominick, Drew, Gavin, and Luke, his best friend Rich Lee of Madison, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and his beloved cat Clifford.

Private funeral services will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent by visiting Brainard Funeral Home.

Tracy Grzywacz

Tracy Grzywacz, 53, Merrill passed away Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2019, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

She was born Nov. 7, 1965, in Oconomowoc, daughter of Gloria (Jackson) Lukens, Waupaca and Lee Lukens. Tracy married John Grzywacz in Wausau on Dec. 27, 1992. He survives.

Tracy worked at Kolbe and Kolbe during her younger years. Once she married, she became a stay-at-home mom. She enjoyed decorating on holidays, cooking big family meals, and spending time with her family. She also enjoyed the time spent with her animals.

Survivors include her husband, John, Merrill, her mother Gloria Lukens, Waupaca, her children, Dustin, Nicole and Mitchell Grzywacz, all of Merrill, her siblings, Brian Lukens, Wausau, Judy (George) Westveer, Waupaca and Sue Lukens, Waupaca and her in laws, Jake and Donna Grzywacz, Kronenwetter.

Besides her father she was preceded in death by her siblings, Kathy Welter and Mike Lukens.

A Celebration of Tracy’s Life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, at W1454 County Road P, Merrill, Wisconsin 54452.  Friends may visit from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Glenn Urban

Glenn R. Urban, 80 years old, went to be with the Lord on Sept. 26, 2019, after a sudden heart attack.  Glenn was born on June 20, 1939, to the late Dusan and Anne Urban in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated high school in 1957 from Franklin Township High School, Indiana. He pursued further education in New York for Friden, a company that manufactured and serviced mechanical calculators. On Dec. 1, 1962, Glenn married the late Virdella J. Urban in Westmont, Illinois. In 1973, they moved their growing family from the suburbs of Chicago to Edgar, Wisconsin, with hopes to enjoy country living. Glenn was employed by Marathon Electric in Wausau and later worked at Greenheck Fan Corp. in Schofield. In 1986, he began his own business, White Knight Cleaning Services, a residential and commercial carpet cleaning and janitorial service. This small business serviced the central Wisconsin region for 25 years. Glenn and Virdella were married for over 55 years and had four daughters.

Glenn enjoyed farming his small acreage, growing ginseng, lawn care and restoring old tractors. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as Sunday afternoon drives or riding down back-country roads on mini-bikes with various family members. In recent years, Glenn cherished time spent listening to online Bible studies. A longtime grade school friend described Glenn as a ‘straight arrow guy’ after hearing of his passing.

Glenn is survived by their four daughters, Kathy (Robert) Ross of Edgar, Kristine (Jeffrey) Leitzke of Weston, Karen (Joel) Rossman of Omaha, Nebraska, and Kimberly (Jason) Peters of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is survived by 12 grandchildren, Andrew (Ruth) Ross, Matthew (Paige) Ross, Emily and Peter Ross, Jason (Megan) Leitzke, Allison (Landyn) Leitzke, Olivia Rossman, Brittany, Wesley, Tiffany, Lindsay and Jack Peters.  Glenn also had four great-granddaughters. He is survived by his brother, Paul (Nancy) Urban of Fair Play, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his sister, Joyce Nelson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, from 5 until 7 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home in Edgar. Visitation will also be on Saturday from 10 until 11 a.m. with an 11 a.m. service to celebrate his life at the Edgar funeral home. Burial will be in the Edgar Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Thru the Bible (www.ttb.org).

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

George Buchberger

George A. Buchberger, 84, of Wausau passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2019, under the care of Aspirus Palliative Care.

He was born Feb. 17, 1935, son of the late Albert and Florence (Matushak) Buchberger. On May 4, 1957, he married Mary Mohelnitzky at St. Anne Catholic Church, Wausau. She survives.

George was employed by James River Corp. He served in the United States Army. He was also a member of the American Legion for over 30 years. George went on the 2013 Never Forgotten Honor Flight.

His many interests were softball, bowling, dartball and he was also an avid golfer. He enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and enjoyed a special trip to Ireland. After retirement, he and Mary enjoyed 22 years wintering in Florida, making many new friends. George was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother and will be deeply missed.

George is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary, one daughter, Lori (Bob) Krismer, Maple Grove, Minnesota, daughter-in-law, Lavinia Buchberger, Altemonte Springs, Florida, grandchildren, Matt (Julie), Trevor, Andrea Buchberger, all of Florida, Andrew, Katie, Jeff Krismer of Minnesota, great grandchildren, Terry and Charlotte Buchberger, brother Ronald “Dick” Buchberger, Florida, sister, Chris (Steve) Smolek, Wisconsin, and sisters-in-law, Marge, Rosie, Sharon and Jan Buchberger.

He was preceded in death by his son Terry, and infant daughter LisaJo, parents Albert and Florence Buchberger, brothers Albert, David, Thomas and Gerald Buchberger and sister Patricia Buchberger.

The family would like to thank the Aspirus Palliative Care staff and especially the Aspirus visiting nurses, Brittany, Lynn, Linda and Chris and Dr. Michael Umland for their compassionate care.  And also, the many friends and neighbors who so graciously offered assistance during his lengthy illness.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Noon, Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, at The Church of St. Anne, Wausau. The Rev. Tom Lindner will preside. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau, where full military honors will be conducted by Montgomery Plant Dudley Post #10, Wausau. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of services all at church.  Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.

Mary Kay McCallum

Mary Kay McCallum, 74, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, under the care of her family and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at her home. She was born Aug. 18, 1945, in Wausau, daughter of the late Arnold and Loretta (Ritger) Blume. On Jan. 4, 1969, she married Denny McCallum at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon. He preceded her in death in 1994.

Mary Kay worked various jobs before being the executive secretary at Marathon Cheese for over 26 years.  She enjoyed bowling, playing Sheepshead, listening to music and dancing to polkas with any willing family member or friend. Mary Kay was proud to be a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and loved her church community.

Survivors include her sons, David (Jannel) McCallum, Wausau and Terry (Mary Lee) McCallum, Milwaukee; grandchildren, Drew, Katherine, Ryan and Tenley; godchildren, Michelle Scheiderer, David Weber and Jayci Blume; siblings, Carol (Rich) Massop, Colby, Joan (Robert) Plant, Roseanne (Ed) Buchberger, Jim Blume, Larry (Betty) Blume, John (Claire) Blume, Jerome (Tina) Blume, Marilyn (Mike) Hall and Robert “Bobby” (Kelley) Blume, all of Marathon; brother-in-law, Tom (Kirstin) McCallum.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister-in-law, Sharon Borjesson and brother-in-law, Stan Borjesson.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon. Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, Oct. 3 from 4-8 p.m. and Friday, Oct. 4, from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon.

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

Marilyn Braunel

Marilyn J. Braunel, 88, Wausau, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at Aspirus Hospice House.

She was born Dec. 28, 1930, in Wausau, daughter of the late Frank and Ella (Baguhn) Wokatsch. On Oct. 14, 1950, she married Merlyn E. Braunel at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau. He preceded her in death on March 11, 1993.

Marilyn was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 469, Marathon and served as past Unit Treasurer. She was also a lifetime member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau.

Survivors include, two children, Maxine Braunel and Scott (Linda) Braunel, both of Wausau; two grandchildren, Jesse (Ashley Janicki) Braunel, Marathon and Stephanie (Chad) Vander Zanden, South Milwaukee; and four sisters-in-law, Dawn Mae Burish, Marathon, Jane Ross, Edgar, Lorraine Braunel, Wausau and Carol (Ernest) Blaubach, Weston.

Besides her parents and husband, Merlyn, she was preceded in death by her son, Thomas Braunel.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Ave., Wausau. Rev. Zach Holdorf will officiate. Burial will be in the Pine Grove Cemetery, Wausau.  Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to the Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

Violet Cherek

Violet M. Cherek, 81, Wausau, died Thursday, Sept. 26, 2019, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

She was born July 5, 1938, in Wausau, daughter of the late Anton Pestka and Dora (Czech) Pozorski. Violet attended St. Michael Grade School and graduated from Newman High School. On May 24, 1958, she married Daniel E. Cherek at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent.  He preceded her in death Aug. 29, 2001.

The Cherek’s owned and operated a neighborhood grocery store on the west side of Wausau until the 1970s and later operated a ceramic tile business until retiring in the 1990s.  Violet enjoyed working at Sam’s Club in the years after retirement. Among her favorite things to do were spending time with family and friends, going for drives, attending church picnics, dancing and polka music. She was a longtime member of St. Catherine Council at Holy Name Parish.

Survivors include her children, Jeff (Joan) Cherek, Mosinee, Denise (Lawrence) Martino, Wausau, Doreen (Dale) Skrzypchak, Marathon, Cynthia (Gregory) Brinkman, Kronenwetter, Daniel (Kathy) Cherek, Wausau; grandchildren, Steven (Amber) Cherek, Stefanie (Jamont) Fleming and Stacy (Chad) Meyer, Michelle (Matthew) Libre and Michael Martino, Dale (Dana) Skrzypchak and Nicole (Eric) Semling, Ashley and Matthew Brinkman; great grandchildren, Jerry, Eddie, Brayden, Brenden, Emmett, Preston, Hudson, Adeline and Miranda.

Besides her parents and husband, Violet was preceded in death by five sisters, Virginia Pestka, Verna Kasmerchak, Maryann Bluhm, Adeline Merwin and Margie Kiszewski.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, at The Church of the Holy Name of Jesus. Rev. Samuel Martin will preside. Burial will be in St. Michael Cemetery, Wausau. Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at the church.

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

Arthur Wisnewski

Arthur A. Wisnewski, 56, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2019.

He was born Sept. 3, 1963, in Wausau, son of the late Arthur W. and Bernice (Spychalla) Wisnewski. Art grew up on the family farm in Edgar and graduated from Edgar High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Through the years, Art had been employed at a variety of factory positions in the area. He enjoyed fast cars and motorcycles, especially Harleys. His buddy, Turk, was a constant companion and friend. Art was loved by many and was always reminiscing of fun times with friends.

Survivors include Art’s uncles and aunts; Viola Thompson, Wausau, Elmer and Barbara Wisnewski, Rhinelander, and Joanne and Durand Boser, Texas, and many cousins. Special to him were his close friends— Westley Messier and Stefanie Rogers, Mosinee, who was like a brother.

Besides his parents, Arthur was preceded in death by a sister, Lisa Wisnewski.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2019, at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Ave., Wausau, with a memorial service to follow. Rev. Joy Nelson-Jeffers will officiate.  Burial will be at noon on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, at Holy Family Cemetery, Poniatowski. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

Patricia “Patti” Schultz

Patricia “Patti” Schultz, 71, Marathon, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at Copperleaf Memory Care of Schofield under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Patti was born April 8, 1948, in Wausau to the late Robert and Dorothy (Ziegler) O’Neil. She graduated from Wausau East High School and worked for many years performing various administrative duties at Wausau Insurance and later Dr. Meacham’s dental office in Marathon.

On April 26, 1974, Patti married Wayne Schultz at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Wausau. Together they enjoyed snowmobiling, boating, camping and traveling – including several trips to Mexico. Longtime members of Grace United Church of Christ, Patti and Wayne both sang in the church choir for over 40 years and considered their fellow parishioners to be family.

Patti’s many passions included decorating her home for every season, counted cross stitching and sewing. Most of all, Patti loved her flower gardens and her family. She found immense joy working in her gardens, especially when grandchildren were there to “help.” Her love for flowers led to many trips to the Green Bay Botanical Garden where she spent many afternoons in the sunshine surrounded by family.

She adored the many dogs she had throughout the years, but especially loved “Ruby.” Even during her time in the nursing home, she treasured a stuffed animal in Ruby’s likeness who reminded her of this special pet.

Those who knew and loved Patti will always remember her as a kind, loving and giving person. She had a beautiful smile, memorable laugh and a generous heart. Many friends of Patti’s daughter, Nicole, often thought of her as a “second mom.”

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the young age of 60, Patti traveled a long and difficult journey with the disease. Even in the midst of her struggles, her generous and caring nature compelled her to voluntarily enroll in a number of Alzheimer’s research studies through UW Hospitals – Madison. These studies involved time consuming tests and often painful procedures, but she persevered and helped us all move closer to a cure. Even in her death, her care and concern for others shines through.

Survivors include her loving husband, Wayne, her daughter, Nicole (Jason) Schubring, DePere, two grandsons, Grant and Emmett and her extended family, Todd (Jamie) Kurth and their daughters, Brianna and Morgan.

Besides her parents, Patti was preceded in death by one brother.

Funeral services for Patti will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019, at Grace United Church of Christ, 535 S. Third Ave., Wausau. Rev. Julie Goranson will officiate. Friends may call on Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the time of services at the church.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Ave., Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

Lester Gukenberger Jr.

I didn’t get in any trouble in high school. With the principal we had, you didn’t act up. He would punch your lights out; that was no lie.

I was born and grew up in Wisconsin Rapids, and I’ve lived there my whole life, except for the four years I was in the U.S. Air Force, when I made Japan my home.

My dad was also Lester. He was a deputy sheriff in Wood County, then later worked in a power plant.  Because of that job, I went my first two years of high school in Baraboo, but the last two in Wisconsin Rapids, where I graduated in 1947.

My mother was Bertha, who was a homemaker. She’s been dead for 19 years. My father died before her. I had one brother, Marcin, who was two years older than me.

After high school, I worked at Preway, a stove company. I was there for three years, running a power break.

Then I joined the Air Force. Basic was at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, and I spent six months there altogether before I was sent to Japan. I was stationed at Johnson Air Force Base, about 15 miles east of Tokyo, then at Troy Air Force Base, which was 15 miles west of Tokyo. I was in Japan three years. I saw a lot of Japan and Tokyo.

I was an assistant architect. I built a $2.5M barracks and operations center, the whole thing. My boss, Colonel Sawyer, was a West Pointer and a good guy to work with. Guess who he put at the top of the promotions list? Me! I made staff sergeant in two years. I was at the right place at the right time. Then I was sent back to Texas, to Kelly Air Force Base, which is right next to Lackland. I was going to re-enlist, but the colonel there and I didn’t see eye to eye.

So, I got out, and came back to Wisconsin and to Preway. I retired from them 40 years later.

I married Caroline in 1957. She passed away 19 years ago. We had two children. The oldest is Leslie. She lives in San Francisco, as far from me as she can get. Our boy, Michael, lives with me. Neither one had any children.

Later, Preway made me a foreman. Then five years later, they made me a supervisor over two departments. I had 60 or 80 men under me.

I retired when Preway locked the doors and sold out to a telephone outfit in California.

I then had a part time job as a deputy sheriff. The sheriff and deputies kind of liked it at our house. So, Tom, the sheriff, said, “Do you want to be a deputy, Les?”

I said, “Why not?” I got to wear a nice brown hat, a nice brown uniform with a stripe on the trousers, and to carry a 357. (Magnum revolver)

The sheriff was a nice guy.  He said, “Your dad died at 62 of a heart attack. That’s the way I want to go.” After 20 years, he said, “That’s enough,” and gave it up. He came down to Madison, went to real estate school, had a heart attack and died.

I didn’t like to fish, but I liked to hunt. I wasn’t much of a fireman and I was a piss poor hunter. I got two bucks in 18 years. My brother owned a garage in Baraboo. He went hunting and the first day got a nice buck, eight or ten points! He and I also went pheasant hunting once in South Dakota. Our German shepherd was as good a retriever as I’ve ever seen.

I’m a 32nd degree mason. I became a mason the year my son was born, so I’ve been one for 42 years. I also like to ready and watch TV.

I came to the VA because I couldn’t breathe. I have a friend from Preway who was in the Army, who has had 19 operations here. I expect to be here just three days.

Usually I go to Tomah, but they were full so I ended up here. I’ve been to Tomah a lot. My care at the VA here and at Tomah has been great.  I want my caregivers to know they’ve all been great.

Arden Fierek

Arden Stanley Fierek, 82, of Elderon, Wisconsin, passed away surrounded by loved ones on the 26th of September in Iola, Wisconsin. He was born on Oct. 29, 1936, in Elderon, Wisconsin, to Stanley Fierek and Victoria (Senoracke) Fierek.

He married Nancy Marie Diestler on Aug. 27, 1960, and celebrated 53 years of marriage. He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy and son Patrick Fierek. Arden began his career in the Marine Corps and was active for six years where he earned the rank of corporal. He was a very proud American and loved being active in politics and his community. He started his own business, Windy’s Service of West Bend in 1982. Alongside work he served in many organizations including the Lions Club, Rotary, and VFW. Notably, as Alderman in West Bend and supervisor of the town of Franzen. He finished his career at the Department of Transportation as fleet manager, retiring in 2003.

Arden loved calling Elderon his home, as he retired to the family farm, “Goldenview.” Here he enjoyed many years of retirement and opening his home to family and friends for hunting seasons, holidays and just good cheer.

Arden was an avid sportsman, enjoying hunting on his property with family and friends. You could also find him in the sky, piloting his own plane. He made the best tomato juice and pickles, and loved to serve his family home cooked meals. He had an infectious personality and gave the biggest, warmest hugs.

He is survived by his daughter Michelle (Fierek) Cerniglia and her husband Joseph Cerniglia of Neenah; his two granddaughters Courtney and Carly Cerniglia; his sister Myra (Fierek) Peters and brother-in-law Glenn Peters of West Bend. He was also surrounded by many other loving family members and friends…and of course, his pal Snickers.

Arden’s life will be celebrated on Oct. 2, 2019, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Galloway, Wisconsin, with Mass at 11 a.m. and visitation prior. Father Augustine Bentil will be officiating.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Fluegge family for their help and support.

John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assiting family at this time.

Roy Olson

Roy C. Olson, 86, of Ringle died on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, at Mount View Care Center under Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.

He was born on July 7, 1933, in East Cleveland, Ohio, the son of the late Eric and Vivian Olson. Roy was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during the Korean War. A highlight for Roy was going on the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.

On Aug. 3, 1968, Roy was united in marriage to Sally Olson in Willoughby, Ohio. She preceded him in death on Sept. 14, 2011.

Roy was a former policeman in Milwaukee and later worked at Kodak Co. as a repairman. He was a member of the Covenant Community Presbyterian Church in Schofield and its men’s group. Roy was an avid Green Bay Packers Fan.

Roy is survived by his son, Rick (Sheila) Olson; a granddaughter, Nicole and nephews David, Douglas and Dale Olson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Sally; son Terry; brother Albert and sister Jean.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2019, at Covenant Community Presbyterian Church, Schofield. Rev. Jim Gates will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will take place at 1:30 p.m. in Forestville Cemetery, town of Easton with military rites conducted by the Darling Gunderson American Legion.

Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

Norbert Grabko

Norbert J. Grabko, 83, of Pike Lake, died on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, at his home under the care of his family and Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.

Norbert was born on March 1, 1936, in Hatley, the son of the late Carl & Mattie (Kuklinski) Grabko. On Aug. 16, 1958, Norbert was united in marriage to Dolores Wiza at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Polonia. She survives.

Norbert had worked at Hatley Veneer Mill as a lathe operator and later retired from JI Case of Schofield as an assembler. He loved to play sheepshead cards and to fish and hunt. He was an expert joke teller. You could always catch him listening to polkas or watching the Green Bay Packers or Milwaukee Brewers. He also loved to mow his lawn…the ‘Right’ way!! Family was important to him and he always cherished time spent with them.

Norbert is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dolores Grabko; children, Jerome (Cindy) Grabko, Rodell (Renee) Grabko, Cheryl (Steve) Frank, Dawn (Tim) Kersten and Wayne Grabko; grandchildren, Jake (Colette) Merrill, Sarah (Brian) Londerville, Melissa (Kenny Meverden) Grabko, Justin (Sarah) Grabko, Julia (Phil) Pawelski, Ashley Frank, Jordan Frank, Kyle (Haley) Kersten, Travis (fiancée Kristina Altmann-Drinka) Kersten, Nick (Stephanie) Grabko and Cassie (Brandon) Smith; great-grandchildren, Sam, Lucy, Isla, Brenna, Brogan, Bentley, McKenna, Jameson, Myles, Blake and Mady; siblings, Lorraine Knudson, Marge (Tom) Langston, Frances Ruesch, Walter (Emma) Grabko and Fred Grabko; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Norbert was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Alex, Peter and Theresa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, at St. Florian’s Catholic Church, Hatley. Reverend Gregory Bohren will officiate. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home of Wittenberg is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

Anna Smith

Anna K. Smith, 80, of Wittenberg died on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

She was born on Sept. 14, 1939, in Summerville, New Jersey, the daughter of the late Martin and Anna (Ray) Steinhauer. On Oct. 30, 1970, Anna was united in marriage to Ralph L. Smith in Brandon, Ohio. He preceded her in death on July 9, 2013.

Anna was a homemaker and worked the family farm in the town of Almon. She cherished her family and enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren. Anna also had a passion and talent for painting and had several beautiful oil paintings of wildlife. She also enjoyed gardening and was a wonderful cook. No one ever left hungry.

Family was very important to Anna and she loved all animals but especially her dogs and cats.

Anna is survived by three children, Laura (Lee) Slater of Birnamwood, Ralph (LouAnn) Smith and Jennifer (Daniel) Cook, all of Wittenberg; six grandchildren, Brandon and Carly Slater, Nathan (Montana) Smith, Megan Smith and Alexa and Seth Cook; three great-grandchildren, Bennett and Ava Smith and Sophia Cook; sister-in-law, Karen Steinhauer of Mattoon; step siblings, Ann Arnold of Ohio, Bonnie McCormick and James (Amy) Macklin, all of California; siblings-in-law, Sandra (Tom) Williams, Kathryn Smith, George Smith and Barbara Butler; several nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Christian, sister Jean Beucler and brother-in-law John Butler.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, town of Hutchins, Shawano County. Visitation will be held on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

In lieu of flowers, Anna’s family suggests memorials in Anna’s name be made to Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Frank Wierzba Jr.

Frank C. Wierzba Jr., 87, of Shantytown passed away peacefully on Sept. 27, 2019, at Sylvan Crossing Assisted Living and Memory Care in Stevens Point, under Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

Frank was born on Feb. 27, 1932, in the town of Bevent, to the late Frank Sr. and Mary (Zolondz) Wierzba. He attended Polk School. His marriage to Jeanette Bembenek took place at St Adalberts Catholic Church in Rosholt on June 2, 1956. She survives.

Frank worked construction for Ellis Stone and then Consolidated Papers until his retirement. He also worked along side his loving wife and family running the family farm.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanette, four sons: Leroy (aka Kojak) Wierzba, Larry (Gayle) Wierzba and Brian (LeeAnn) Wierzba all of Shantytown, and Paul (Lisa) Wierzba of Wittenberg; three daughters: Shirley (Larry) Weir and Cynthia (Myron) Skierka all of Stevens Point, and Nancy (David) Wojcik of Bevent. Frank was blessed with 16 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by one sister, Mary Ann Singer of Custer and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers; John, Roman and Felix and four sisters; Alvina Kurszewski, Helen Lewandowski, Clara Kurszewski and Pauline Betker.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent with Fr. Augustine Bentil officiating. Burial will be in the Parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church. A Rosary will be prayed at 9. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

Edward Tellock

Edward H. Tellock, 96, of Wittenberg died on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, at the Homme Home of Wittenberg under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.

He was born on July 2, 1923, in Wittenberg, the son of the late Eugene and Minnie (Schenk) Tellock. On Oct. 28, 1950, Edward married Marcia Behm in Birnamwood. The couple later divorced. On March 15, 1976, Edward married Verna (Braun) Gabor in Las Vegas, Nevada. She survives.

He farmed for many years and ran his own lumber mill. Edward was also a heavy equipment operator.
Edward was a town chairman for many years. He enjoyed fishing, deer hunting, coon hunting, playing cards and shooting pool. He also enjoyed traveling, especially to Alaska. The couple enjoyed spending time at the cabin on Crooked Lake in Finland, Minnesota, where they would spend most of their time on the lake fishing. Edward was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wittenberg, and a member of the Wittenberg Fish & Game Club. Family was important to Edward. He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Edward is survived by his wife, Verna; children, Mackey (John) Strange, Eugene H. (Cheryl) Tellock, Donald (Misty) Tellock and James (Renae) Gabor; grandchildren, Nick (special friend Mandy) Tellock, Rebecca (Tim) Heuerman, Heather (Dustin) Schmudlach, Andrew (Special friend Rosemary Hunus) Pingel, Amber Strange, Katie (Nick Gamble) Strange, Jeremy Gabor, Brian (Fiancé Kellie Harer) Gabor; great-grandchildren, Breanna and Lila Schmudlach, Isabelle and Allison Heuerman, Kaine Strange, Zaaron Shirley, and Maren and Bodhi Herndon; former wife Marcia Behm Tellock; sister, Grace Vissers; sister-in-law Jean (Bernie) Bradley; many nieces, nephews, additional family and friends.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, a sister in infancy, siblings Charles (Sadie) Tellock, Chester Tellock, Pearl (Gun) Lueschen, Marilyn (Elroy) Brocker, and brothers-in-law, Robert Vissers, and Eugene Behm.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wittenberg. Rev. Barry Levine will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, and again on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be in Forest Home Cemetery, Wittenberg. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

Phyllis Gipp

Phyllis A. Gipp, 86, of Wittenberg died on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2019, at Marshfield Medical Center.
She was born on Nov. 5, 1932, in Shawano, the daughter of the late Adolph and Anna (Mehlhorn) Raddant.

On Aug. 25, 1951, Phyllis was united in marriage to Robert Gipp at St. James Lutheran Church, Shawano. He preceded her in death on Oct. 2, 2016. After living in Milwaukee for several years, the couple moved to Shawano Lake for five years until building a house on their land in the town of Birnamwood where she currently resided.

Phyllis loved and cared for her family and cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed sewing and needle point. Phyllis supported her husband and was always their working with him with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, the Lutheran Church Extension Fund and Concordia University, Mequon. You could also find her working side by side him with their maple syrup business, tapping thousands of trees.

Survivors include two children, Cynthia (Paul) Lawonn of Brookfield and Kathryn (Gregory) Jasinski of New Berlin; grandchildren, Daniel, Laura, Dr. Andrew and Samantha and great-grandchildren, Anne, Lillian, Selby and Margot. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Bernice Gipp of Crivitz and many nieces and nephews.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Robert and parents, as well as a son, Glenn Gipp and several siblings, Ervin, Earl, Irene, Mabel and Alice.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg. Rev. Clifford Kessen will officiate. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Shawano. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Concordia University, Mequon, to sponsor a nursing student to help with the rural nursing shortage, would be appreciated.

Cheri Glover

Cheri Korise Glover, 46, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2019, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital after a courageous fight with cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones during the days of this final battle.

Cheri was born on Feb. 16, 1973, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of the late Lloyd and Dianne (Konkel) Simonson. She spent much of her youth in the Shawano and Tigerton area. She moved to the Wittenberg area in the late 1990s. Here she met the love of her life, Timothy Glover. The two of them enjoyed 22 years together.

Cheri worked for Bantam Tool in Tigerton and then at Glover’s Manufacturing where she worked first as a machinist and then in the office. She was full of “spunk” … working full time during those first two years of chemo and never missing a day other than her chemo day.

Cheri’s main love was her family. She always had the time and energy to lend a helping hand to whomever needed her, even when she herself was fighting the battle of her lifetime. She loved fishing, camping, sitting in the yard with a good bonfire going, watching her birds, and doing it all with some of her family to share it with. Cheri found her happiness in the people she loved and her home.

Cheri is survived by her husband, Timothy Glover; daughter, Krystal Hickey; stepson, Dillion Glover; grandchildren, Leah, Emiley, McKayla, Sophia, Karter, and Elliot; sisters, Gina (John) Welch, Lisa (Joe) DeGrave, and Charlotte Henke (Special friend, Larry Martin); and brother, David (Stacy) Simonson; mother-in-law, Karen Glover, brothers-in-law, Michael Glover (Special friend, Lisa Hirt) and Ronald (Sharon) Glover, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Diane (Konkel) Simonson; her father-in-law, Tony Glover and her sister-in-law, Carolina Glover.

Private family services will be held at Union Cemetery, Tigerton. Pastor Michael Siehr will officiate.

Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.