Obituaries are a service of Brainard Funeral Home, with locations in Wausau and Weston.
Hedwig Yaeger
Hedwig Teckla Weisser Yaeger, 98, lifelong resident of the town of Weston and matriarch of the Yaeger family, died on Tuesday, May 26, 2020.
Hedwig was born on Jan. 7, 1922, in Weston to the late August and Mary (Mader) Weisser.
With a love for learning encouraged by her father, Hedy graduated from Wausau High School in 1940 when that was not the norm for women. She worked for her room and board while attending school. Throughout her life she continued with a wide spectrum of personal enrichment classes at the UW Marathon.
She married William Yaeger in 1946. He preceded her in death in 1989. Together they had eight children.
In 1965, Bill and Hedy established Yaeger Auto Salvage in Weston where Hedy took on an active role as bookkeeper and chief security officer.
Hedy always arose to the challenge to whatever life brought her way with no complaints.
She was always on the go, whether volunteering with her many clubs or being the No. 1 sports fan for the family. She was a leader for the Weston 3 Corners 4-H Club for over 50 years. She participated in the Wisconsin Valley Fair every year. She enjoyed the social aspect of playing sheepshead with her special group of card players up until the end. She was known for her French twist hair do.
Hedy could always be found with dirt under her fingernails as gardening was on the top of her list- rain or shine- growing most of her plants from seeds she collected from year to year
Hedy was involved in St. Therese Catholic Church, Marathon County HCE, Morality in Media and Head Start program for children.
Hedy’s joy of life will live on in her surviving family: her children Richard Yaeger, Tom (Nancy) Yaeger, Sue (Tom) Loka, Jeff (Nancy) Yaeger, Julie Lambert, Mark (Rita) Yaeger and Mary (Ross Woods) Yaeger, sisters Margie Artus and Emma (Dale) Lamphere; 11 grand children, 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; infant daughter Jamie; siblings Rita(Raymond) Habeck, Cecilia (Joe) Kozlowski, Conrad Weisser, Mildred Weisser, and Mary Ann Weisser; sons in-in-law George Lambert and Paul Locher; daughter-in-law Sherry Yaeger and brother-in law Mike Artus.
Funeral Mass for Hedy will be held at St. Therese Catholic Church, 113, Kort St., Rothschild on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at 11 a.m. Rev. Joseph Albert will officiate. Inurnment will take place in Gate of Heaven Cemetery immediately following the Mass. In addition, the service will be live streamed for those who are unable to attend, which can be accessed the at www.brainardfuneral.com. Visitation will take place Saturday from 9 a.m. to time of service at 11 a.m. Because we care about family and friends, social distancing will be observed.
A memorial to honor their Mother has been established by the family.
Patricia “Pat” Tallmadge
Patricia “Pat” Tallmadge, née McSweeney, 86, Wausau, formerly of Wayne, Michigan, died peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital
She was born April 30, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Louis J. and Lucy (Hicks) McSweeney.
Pat, a resident of the Detroit area for 63 years, attended Detroit Public schools and graduated from Northwestern High School, June 1952. Following graduation, Pat worked at Burroughs Adding Machine Co., Import – Export Division, Detroit until her marriage to Walter H. Tallmadge on March 22, 1957.
Pat is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, and their two daughters, Mary Louise Allen, and Julia Ann Tallmadge. Other losses include five half-brothers, two half-sisters, a nephew, and her special friend and companion of 10 years, Earl W. Chrudimsky, formerly of Aniwa and Eland, Wisconsin. Earl passed away at their home on Feb. 9, 2010.
While raising her family in Wayne, Michigan, Pat enjoyed homemaking, the PTO, being a leader in Girl Scouts, golfing with her husband, and socializing with family and friends. She worked at Nankin Hospital, Carpenter Hospital, Eudaly and Weston Insurance Agency, all located in the Wayne area; but her real calling was politics. In the early 1960s, after being involved in a Teamster sponsored educational program D.R.I.V.E. (Democratic Republican Independent Voters Education), Pat spent the next 30 years working and managing the District Operations of U.S. Representative William D. Ford (D – Taylor, Michigan), retired and deceased. While serving Congressman Ford, Pat was a charter member and officer of the 15th Congressional District Democratic Org., the Wayne Democratic Party, and the Michigan Democratic Party. She proudly served as Delegate and Alternate to several National Democratic party conventions.
Following her retirement from federal service, and the untimely death of her husband in 1993, Pat began a seven-year hitch volunteering as parish secretary at St. Mary’s of Wayne Catholic Church. In late October 2000, Pat moved to Wisconsin to be near her daughter and grandchildren. It was there she met Earl and they soon began their life together. Summers were spent traveling around Wisconsin and winters were spent enjoying the Gulf of Mexico near their home in Donna, Texas. She also found time to enjoy the slots and casinos as they traveled around the country.
Pat is survived by her son-in-law, Elmer R. Allen, Wausau; granddaughter, Jennifer (Dennis) Mark, Pensacola, Florida; and grandson, Jason (Jennifer) Howells, Wausau. She is also the proud great-grandmother of Cailee Anne, Carter Mitchell and Chloe Michelle Howells, and Ayla Reneé Mark. In the Detroit area, she leaves many nieces and one nephew, Gary M. Scott, Washington, Michigan.
Private family services are being held at a later time. Pat will be laid to rest at Glenwood Cemetery in the City of Wayne, Michigan. Brainard Funeral Home and Cremation Center is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.brainardfuneral.com.
Duane Peterson
Duane Peterson departed this world and joined his Lord and Savior May 25, 2020. Duane was born on April 10, 1931, in Wausau, Wisconsin, son of the late Herman and Cora Peterson. Duane lost the love of his life, Shirley, when she preceded him in death in May 2019. He is survived by his two children and four grandchildren, son Dion Peterson and his children Katie and Tom, and daughter Sheryl (Craig) Kuhary and their children Christopher and Kendall. He is also survived by his siblings Eugene (Patricia) Peterson and Marlene (William) Olson and in-laws Marlene & Russell Noren. He was a loving husband, dear father, grandfather and brother, and a special friend.
As a young man, Duane was an active Boy Scout leader and he enjoyed canoeing, participating in roller skating competitions, and biking. Skiing was a favorite winter activity and one he enjoyed with his lovely bride Shirley during their courtship and early years of marriage. His passion for biking continued well into his 80’s and included numerous 25-100 mile organized rides throughout Wisconsin. Camping and traveling were favorite family activities. He and Shirley visited the 50 states, all the National Parks, Canada and Mexico, and took cruises to several Caribbean islands. Upon retirement they wintered in Florida – where sightseeing, shelling and flea marketing were favorite pastimes. They shared a passion for lighthouses and toured as many as they could find all across the US.
Duane began his working career shortly after high school in the office at Marathon Millwork in Wausau and later in the data processing department. He was also an Army Reservist for 12 years. His career took him to Wausau City Hall where he was the manager of the data processing unit. He witnessed the early use of computers in a municipal setting when punch cards still were high tech and computers weren’t for desk tops, they were the size of desks. Probably his most enjoyable job was as a travel consultant at AAA in Wausau. It was a natural fit for him with his love of travel and practical knowledge of many areas of the US.
He and Shirley treasured their family and provided so many wonderful memories of the times spent with them. Duane, like Shirley, enjoyed photography and various collections of items they found on their many and varied vacations. They loved their church family at Zion Lutheran and participated in the Church’s many worthy groups and activities. They now have forever together to reminisce and remember.
On Tuesday June 2, 2020, a public visitation will take place at Brainard Funeral Home – Everest Chapel, 5712 Memorial Court, Weston, Wisconsin. For the safety and health of everyone involved face masks are recommended, we will also be monitoring the number of people allowed in the funeral home at one time, as well as safe social distancing within the funeral home. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., at which time the public will be asked to depart as the family remains for a private service. Those unable to attend but wishing to participate in the service are invited to watch the live streamed service which will be available at www.brainardfuneral.com. Rev. Dr. Steven K. Gjerde from Zion Lutheran Church will officiate. Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park. Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.brainardfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Duane’s name can be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Sherry Gayken
Sherry L. Gayken, 70, Weston, formerly of Edgar, passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
She was born April 25, 1950, in the town of Hamburg, daughter of the late Walter and Hilma (Hardt) Thurs. On May 22, 1971, she married Keith Gayken in Athens. He survives.
For more than 41 years, Sherry worked at the Marathon County Clerk of Courts Office and also served as secretary of St. Stephen Lutheran Church, Edgar, for many years. Some of her favorite pastimes included watching her grandchildren participate in sporting events, following the Brewers and spending time at the lake.
Survivors include her husband, Keith “Skip” Gayken, Weston, her daughters, Sheila (Sean) McCarthy, Wausau, and Sarah (David) Recht, Menomonee Falls; five grandchildren, Joseph, Rhiannon, Declan, Aaron and Grace; two step-sons, Brian (Shelia) Gayken, Texas and Scott (Darlene) Gayken, New York; five step-grandchildren, Harley, Talon, TK, Jessica and Jerrica; and three sisters-in-law, Jean Ann Thurs, Athens, Judy Thurs, Edgar and Bobbi Thomsen, Superior.
Besides her parents, Sherry was preceded in death by her brothers, Ronald Thurs and Delwin Thurs.
Visitation will be on Thursday, June 4, 2020, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at Athens Lutheran Cemetery, Athens. Rev. Gail Sowell will officiate. Everyone is encouraged to bring a lawn chair and practice social distancing.
A memorial service will be held at St. Stephen Lutheran Church, Edgar at a later date when Covid restrictions have been lifted.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Florence Punke
Florence E. Punke, 82, died Wednesday, May 27, 2020, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Mountain Terrace, Wausau.
She was born Aug. 18, 1937, in Wausau, daughter of the late William and Catherine (Riehle) Woellner. On June 16, 1956, she married Donald Punke at Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens. He preceded her in death on Jan. 17, 2019.
Florence and her late husband Donald were dairy and ginseng farmers in the Athens area for many years. Some of her favorite pastimes included tending to her flower gardens, watching the birds, cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers and spending time at the “Hilton.” Family was very important to Florence and she will be deeply missed by her children and grandchildren.
Survivors include her children, Jean (Doug) Krueger, Mike (Cindy) Punke, Ken (Linda) Punke, Laurie (Arnie Sova) Punke, Karen (Rick) Guralski and Mark (Kristi) Punke; 13 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy McKinley and her sisters-in-law, Laura Woellner, Pat Woellner and Carol Pickruhn.
Besides her parents and husband, Donald, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Victor Sr., Phillip and David Woellner.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 5, 2020, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens. Rev. Mark Schwalenberg will officiate. Visitation will be on Friday from 9 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. Social distancing practices will be used during the visitation and funeral. A live stream of the service will be available on the churches Facebook page and also broadcasted on the radio at 106.9 FM.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Gerald Madden
Gerald E. Madden, 87, died Wednesday, May 27, 2020, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at his home.
He was born Nov. 2, 1932, in Wausau, son of the late John and Sophie (Londo) Madden. On April 11, 1959, he married Joan Taylor in Wausau.
Gerald served his country in the United States Army. As a young man he helped out on the family farm and later worked many years for Wisconsin Fuel and Light. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, reading and watching old westerns. He was a man of strong faith, had a huge heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. Above all Gerald cherished time spent with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Joan Madden; children, Kathy Madden, Lori (Doug) Crawford, Brian (Lynn) Madden and Terri Madden; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Donald (Fern “Toby”) Madden, John (Sharon) Madden and Jeanette Goede; sisters-in-law, Barb Madden, Dori Madden and Lorraine Poi.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Eugene, Raymond and Patrick Madden.
The funeral Mass will be 11 a.m. Thursday, June 4, 2020, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Tom Lindner will preside. Visitation will be Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. Social distancing practices will be in place. There will be a live stream of the funeral Mass on the Peterson Kraemer Funeral Home Facebook page at 11 a.m. on Thursday.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth St., Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
William “Bill” Brehmer
William “Bill” C. Brehmer, 89, of Wausau, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at home.
Bill was born on Feb. 9, 1931, in Wausau to the late Frank and Frieda (Grussing) Brehmer. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict in 1952 and 1953. Upon returning home he married Rosalie Fust at St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Wausau. He farmed and was employed by General Feed and Seeds (Northern Milling and Wausau Feeds) for over 50 years.
Bill enjoyed traveling to Branson, Missouri, and to area church picnics for polka music.
Survivors include his wife, Rosalie; children, Sandra (David) Baldridge of Appleton and Kenneth (Chris) Brehmer of Wausau; grandchildren, Kimberly Baldridge, Michael Brehmer, and Ryan Brehmer; and sister, Marie Bousley of Neenah.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Frieda.
A funeral service will be at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2020, at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St., Wausau, with Pastor Ken Moberg officiating. Family and friends may call beginning at 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Entombment will be in Restlawn Memorial Chapel Mausoleum, town of Texas. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Montgomery-Plant-Dudley Post #10.
You may sign the family guestbook at www.helke.com.
Because we care about family and friends, face masks will be required and social distancing will be observed. Seating during the service will be limited by household social distancing.
Alvina Lensmire
Alvina Lensmire, 88, of Marathon passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at her home.
She was born June 8, 1931, the daughter of Angeline (Putkamer) and Anton Wenzel in the town of Cassel. Alvina was united in marriage on Dec. 30, 1950, to Calvin Lensmire at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Cassel. They share 59 faithful and devoted years, raising seven children, making memories and enjoying life together. Calvin preceded her in death in 2010.
Alvina’s family and Faith in God were of the utmost importance. She professed vows into the Secular Franciscan Order in 1988 and became a member of St. Anthony’s Secular Fraternity, serving as their minister and secretary. Alvina was an active member of St. Mary’s PCCW and for many years chaired the Country Store. She was a volunteer at St. Anthony’s Spirituality Center for over 35 years. Alvina loved taking walks, playing cards, solving crossword and jigsaw puzzles, reading, especially Gothic and mystery novels, crocheting and quilting. She made a quilt as a wedding present for most of her grandchildren.
Survivors include her five daughters, Linda (Sylvester) Prihoda, Marathon, Patrice (Paul) Gauthier, Broomfield, Colorado, Ann (Tom) Seubert, Rozelville, Louise (Paul) Hornung, Edgar, Cynthia Lensmire, Breckenridge, Colorado, two sons, Michael (Nancy) Lensmire, Mosinee, Matthew (Pat) Lensmire of Lake Mills, 17 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a great granddaughter, Chloe, two brothers, Simon and Clarence and two sisters, Irene Andreshack and Marcella Andraska.
Private family services will be held Monday, June 1, 2020, at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, Marathon. Reverend Monsignor Joseph Diermeier will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. You may sign our family guest book at helke.com.
In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution to the Franciscan Missions at www.franciscanmissions.org.
Dolores Faulks
Dolores R. Faulks, 84, passed away in her home on Tuesday,May 26, 2020. She was born on July 22, 1935, in Green Valley, Wisconsin, to the late Theresa and Fredrick (Jungs) Hoefs. Dolores married her life long partner Eugene Faulks on Nov. 27, 1954, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Stratford. Together they raised two sons Gary and Larry and two daughters Mary and Shari.
Dolores will be remembered for her talent of flower arrangements and crafts. She enjoyed spending her free time embroidering, crocheting, sewing. As well as meeting new people while gambling at the casinos. Mostly, her greatest memories were polka dancing with her love Eugene. Dolores worked for Marathon Rubber for 25 years, Log Cabin for seven years and retired at Schofield Enterprises after 18 years.
Survivors include her daughters Mary (Donald) Dorshak, Schofield, and her daughter Shari (Glenn) Buchberger, Rib Mountain; one Son Gary Faulks of Wausau; 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; two sisters Janice (George) Woods, Texas and Gladys (Philip Jr.) Auburndale.Dolores was proceeded in death by her husband Eugene Faulks (April 14, 1999) and her son Larry Faulks ( Oct. 13, 2011) and her eight sisters; Alverna Poeschel, Violet Carolfi, Marion Carolfi, Alice Petri, Lorraine Sanford, Elizabeth Brockman, Geraldine Erickson, and Mabel Karl.
Memorial services will be held at RestLawn Cemetery on Tuesday, June 10, 2020, from 10 a.m. to noon. The family is asking for this to be a memorial for just the immediate family. Reverend Timothy Swanson will officiate.
