Roger F. Davis
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Roger Frank Davis, 85, Wausau, passed at Aspirus Wausau Hospital February 1, 2022, surrounded by his family.
Roger was born March 15, 1936, in Janesville, WI to Frank and Edith (McLaughlin) Davis. He graduated from Janesville High School. He was united in marriage to Ruth “Susie” Rhoads on August 24, 1957. He attended Northwestern College and UW La Crosse where he graduated in 1960. He taught in the Clintonville, Wausau and D.C. Everest school districts, and Bethel College, St. Paul, MN, in the Physical Education/ Athletic Director department. He was the head basketball coach for the Wausau East Lumberjacks 1970-1976, when the team went to the WIAA State Tournament. He found deep joy in being a Youth Pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church and Pastor at Hogarty Community Church.
Roger was a loving and amazing husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He had a deep passion for studying God’s Word, sports, travel and being with friends. He loved kids! He will be remembered as an excellent teacher and youth pastor.
Roger is survived by his wife Sue, children: Richard, Brenda (William) Everson, Renae (Kevin) Bliese, Ann (Matt-Sale) Howell-Davis; grandchildren: Kelley (Alex) Pacheco, Jordan Davis, Kendra (Ryan) Konitzer, Brianna (Jake) Karcz, Dexton Howell-Davis; and five great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his infant son Kevin, and his brother Richard.
A Gospel Life service for Roger will be held Saturday, February 12, 11:00 am at Highland Community Church, 1005 N 28th Ave, Wausau. Visitation will be at 9:30 am. A luncheon will follow at the church. Brainard Funeral Home-Wausau Chapel is assisting the family. Condolences and memories can be shared at brainardfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on behalf of Roger to Samaritans Purse, P.O. Box 300, Boone, NC 28607, https://www.samaritanspurse.org, 828.262.1980.
Live Stream of the service will be available to those that are unable to attend.
Cary J. Lang Jr.
Cary “Care Bear” Joseph Lang Jr, age 34, of Wausau passed following a lengthy illness on February 7, 2022, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
Cary was born on November 22, 1987, in Wausau to Louise (Crawford) McGeshick and Cary Joseph Lang Sr. In his pastime he loved cooking and camping, but most of all, he was a fun-loving father and so kind, caring and so much love for his mom, dad, his two babies’, brother and all his family and friends. Cary was a Green Bay Packers and Bucks fan, who also enjoyed listening to rap music. He was an active Tribal Member of Potawatomi.
Cary is survived by his children: McKayla Gilman of Wausau and Tavien Lang of Edgar, his mother: Louise McGeshick of Wausau, his siblings: Shawn (Tiarra) Lang of Wausau, Miguel Marrero of Wausau, Gregory (Kelsey) Marrero of Wausau, his stepfather: Alfredo Marrero of Wausau, his grandmother: Margaret Shepard of Crandon, his uncles; Howard (Jeanette) Crawford Jr of Wausau and Steve (Beverly) Crawford of Las Vegas, NV, and many other relatives and friends.
Cary is preceded in death by his grandpa: Howard Crawford Sr, his aunt Marian Crawford, his uncle James Crawford Sr., his cousins: Jolene Spaude and Bren Spaude.
A funeral service will be held at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau, Wi on Friday February 11, 2022, at 7:00 pm. A public visitation will take place from 4:00 pm until the time of service on Friday. There will be a burial to take place at 11:00 am on Saturday February 12, at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Wausau.
You may leave messages and condolences for his family at helke.com.
Barbara K. Westerdyk
Barbara K. (Feck) Westerdyk, 64, Wausau passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, February 7, 2022.
She was born April 22, 1957, in Wausau, daughter of the late William and Arlene (Hawley) Feck. On April 9, 1983, she married Jeffrey “Dutch” Westerdyk at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Wausau. He preceded her in death on April 24, 2005.
For over 23 years Barb worked in the Emergency Room as an RN at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. She later held various medical positions throughout the Wausau area until her retirement. Barb was a caring and compassionate nurse and was highly regarded by her co-workers. Some of her favorite pastimes included open water and ice fishing, boating, crossword puzzles, reading and in her younger years she loved spending time with her family up north on the Willow Flowage. Barb and Dutch enjoyed many outdoor activities together, most especially fishing. Barb also loved her four-legged companions unconditionally. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. But we are grateful that she is at peace and free from pain. “Love you to the moon and back Barb.”
Survivors include her son, Bren Westerdyk, Wausau, her siblings, Kathy (Al) Kowalchyk, Balsam Lake, Beth (Thomas) Hoss, Kronenwetter, Jeff (Debbie) Feck, Wausau, Pat (Lori) Feck, Merrill and Jami (Bryan) Stuettgen, Plover and many nieces and nephews.
At this time no formal funeral services are planned. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Leona S. Mayer
Leona S. Mayer, 97, Wausau, died Sunday February 6, 2022 at her home.
She was born October 16, 1924, in Shooks, Minnesota, daughter of the late Joseph and Opal (Young) Neft. On May 18, 1943, she married Gustave Mayer in Shooks, Minnesota. He preceded her in death February 20, 2003.
Prior to her retirement, Leona Had been employed in Hospitality Services at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. She had also been a cook at Newman High School and was a pie baker and cook at the former Bill’s Fine Foods in Wausau. Leona was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and St. Catherine Council at Holy Name Parish. She enjoyed sewing and was an excellent seamstress. Through the years, she made quilts for her children and grandchildren, sewed clothing for her children and even sewed wedding dresses. Always generous and giving, Leona was always ready to help anyone in need. She was also an avid bird watcher and flower gardener.
Survivors include her children, Jeanette (David) Goetsch, Weston, Paulette Miller, Rothschild, David (Patricia) Mayer, Wausau, Andrew (Michel) Mayer, Wausau; 21 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; Five great great grandchildren; One sister, Evelyn Leech.
Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Gerald Mayer, an infant grandson, Wade Miller, and nine siblings.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Noon Monday February 14, 2022 at Holy Name Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Samuel Martin will preside. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Kronenwetter. Visitation will be on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. Masks are optional for those in attendance.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
James J. Durkee Sr.
James Jay Durkee Sr., 75, Edgar was called home unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at his home with his family by his side.
He was born May 2, 1946, in Wausau, son of the late Don Durkee and Blanche (Douville) Sandoval.
James was a devoted husband and father. He loved his wife Ethel (Stange) Durkee of 54 years so very much. She survives.
He was the proud father of both his children; James (Dorinda) Durkee Jr. and Ronda (Bryan Kramp) Durkee. He is also survived by his granddaughter, who meant the world to him, Isabelle Kramp. James always enjoyed taking her on a ride with his golf cart whenever he could. He is further survived by his brothers, Ken (Donna) Durkee and Roger (Becky) Durkee and a sister, Joan (Gene) Gilbertson, his brothers-in-law, John (Jessie) Stange, Ken (Mary) Stange and sisters-in-law, Clara Robl and Dorothy (John) Fons and his Grandpups, Max and Buddy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, In-laws, John and Irma (Jacobi) Stange, a brother and sister-in-law, David and Mary Durkee, cousins, Clarence and Darlene Wendtland, Michael and Richard Wendtland, infant niece, Susie Wickman and special foster son Peter Skidmore.
He is also survived by many friends, family, nieces, and nephews, who meant so much to him. Especially Barb and Jesus Celis, Godson Jacob Mueller, Goddaughter, Marion Parker, Lukas Celis (Jennifer), Erik Celis, Paul Reinhardt, Leoy Johnson, Gary Wendtland and the whole Wendtland family.
James was an over the road truck driver for 38 years, this took him to all states from coast to coast, but truly appreciated the time he was home with his family. Family vacations were always memorable. He was taken so unexpectedly but the love he gave to all of us will never leave us. Though we will miss him dearly we know we will be with him again one day. We Love You Daddy and Grandpa!
Memorial Services will be held at St. John Lutheran Church, High Steeple, W1145 Huckleberry Road, Edgar, WI at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 26, 2022. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Sarah A. Matsick
On the evening of February 4th, 2022, Jesus and Michael came to Sarah’s bedside, took her hand and said “come home”. Sarah passed away from a septic infection due to aspiration that developed into pneumonia. Her work here on this Earth was complete.
Sarah was a precious gift delivered to Michael and Kathleen (Sullivan) Matsick on May 10th, 1973. We soon found out our special treasure had a lot of hurdles that we would have to overcome in the years ahead. She truly was an angel unaware. Sarah has touched so many lives since her arrival. She had showed us what has meaning and what does not. What has importance, and what has no importance at all. Sarah had such a beautiful smile and she would give it to anyone that stopped to talk to her, it was her way of saying “hello”.
She was very loving and would always reach out to hold your hand. Just her touch made your day go better. Having Sarah in our lives definitely made all of us better people just by being around her. Sarah enjoyed music of any kind, especially Disney, car rides. shopping, and long walks with mom.
Survivors include Sarah’s mom Kathleen Ann (Sullivan) Matsick, her brother Brandon Michael Matsick, her sister and brother-in-law Jason Michael and Amy Michelle (Matsick) Biesel, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. Sarah was preceded in death by her father Michael Matsick, paternal grandparents Thomas and Ann Matsick, maternal grandparents David and Jermain Sullivan, her Aunt Barb (Matsick) Gastineau, Aunt Patty (Woller) Sullivan, and her cousins Tina, Christine and Danny.
To my daughter, Sarah: I love you more than I could ever tell you. No words could ever paint that picture, it’s too deep, too high and too wide to express. You were so special to me. Sarah, you have added so much life, love and happiness to myself and your dad, sister and brother. You gave me the chance to see life through different eyes. I thank God for sending you to us. What life lessons you taught all of us. And now, may you find peace and comfort in the arms of Jesus and your dad, until we are all together again.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at Holy Name Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Samuel Martin will preside. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Mosinee. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau and again on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to Circle of Love directors Micki and Todd Duir and Teri and Sharon Pooch, as well as your staff. for the love, support and care you have given Sarah over the years. She could not have been in better hands than she was in your home, and we consider you to be her extended family. You are simply the best. We would also like to thank the Marshfield Medical Center doctors, nurses and staff, including but not limited to Ethan, Brennan, Nai, Ryu, Pam and Rachel.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Otto C. Fitzsimmons
Otto C. Fitzsimmons, 89, Wausau passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 6, 2022, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born March 23, 1932, in Cadott, son of the late John and Ellen (Seichter) Fitzsimmons. On September 14, 1955, he married Delores Draeger in Stanley. She survives.
After Otto was married, he and Delores moved to Chicago where Otto worked on the railroad as a watchman. After three years they moved to Wausau. Otto worked for Beilke Excavating for a number of years. He then worked for Babl Excavating and retired after many years as a heavy machine operator. He enjoyed being an usher during those years at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau.
His pastimes included hunting, fishing, camping, throwing horseshoes and playing card with friends. He also enjoyed feeding and watching the birds in his yard. Otto was a proud husband, father and grandfather and he truly cherished the time spent with his family.
Otto proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954 where he earned the National Defense Service medal.
Survivors include his wife, Delores Fitzsimmons, Wausau, his children, Cheryl (Larry Shikes) Fitzsimmons, Milwaukee, Laura Fitzsimmons, Ringle/Marco Island, FL and Tricia (Mick) Myers, Wausau, his grandchildren, Cameron Shikes Fitzsimmons, Madison Fitzsimmons Trobec, Olivia Fitzsimmons Trobec and Samantha Myers as well as, many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his siblings, Florence, Betty, Cecelia, Jeanette, Mary, Kenny, Leo, Hubert, John and Tony.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 11, 2022, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau. The Rev. Timothy Smith will officiate. Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau where full military honors will be conducted by the American Legion, Montgomery Plant Dudley Post #10, Wausau. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau and again on Friday from Noon until the time of services at the church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Brian S. Howe
Brian Steven Howe, age 67, Wausau, WI passed away surrounded by family at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on February 7, 2022. Brian was born on June 16, 1954, to David and Alene Howe in Wausau, WI.
He had the biggest heart and love for all living things, people, plants, and animals – especially his children, grandchildren, Ma and Pa, and his kitties. His happiest times were spent with his family, sharing stories, and helping others with anything they needed. In his younger years, he hosted rocking parties on the farm, loved his ladies, and rode like the wind on his beloved Harley and muscle cars. Throughout his life, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of making “Howe” venison sausage and maple syrup, gardening, hunting, fishing, watching NASCAR, and visiting with anyone and everyone.
Brian was the second of seven children, becoming the 5th generation on the Howe Family Dairy Farm (homesteaded in 1883, in the Town of Maine). He moved off the farm to work at Case/Drott Equipment as a welder before helping start and co-own Howe Ginseng. His love of growing crops and driving tractor brought him back to his roots. He held various jobs until retiring from Granite Peak Ski Area, where he loved making snow and operating the groomer.
Brian is survived by his 3 children: Catina (Troy) Koenig, Josh (Brooke) Howe, Steven (Jamie) Howe whom he raised with his former wife Joyce; siblings: Rick (Judy), Mark (Kathy), Matt (Beth), Brent (Lori), Kay (Larry) Berens; sister-in-law: Monica Howe; 5 grandchildren: Tavin and Asher Koenig, Draxton and Zayla Howe, Onnika Honeck; significant other Anya Rotter, 3 well-loved kitties, and many nieces and nephews.
Brian is preceded in death by his father David Walter, brother David Allen, and nephew Chase.
There will be a visitation from 11am-1pm with service at 1pm on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at Buettgen Funeral Home, 948 Grand Avenue, Schofield, WI 54476.
*In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to the Marathon County Humane Society http://catsndogs.org/make-a-donation/.
Luella Jozwiak
Luella Jozwiak, 98 of Hatley, died peacefully on February 6th, 2022, at Cloverleaf Terrace in Birnamwood, with her family at her side.
Luella was born on May 11th, 1923, in Shawano County. The daughter of Adolf and Helen (Frederick) Shoenike. On May 25th, 1946, she was united in marriage to
Leonard Jozwiak at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wausau. He preceded her in death on August 20, 2001.
Luella was a stay-at-home mom who enjoyed gardening, sewing, visiting, and being with her children and grandchildren. She was a member of the Elderon Ladies Auxiliary Post #8068, VFW.
Luella is survived by Daniel (Terri) Jozwiak of Three Lakes, Donna (Tom) Ramonette of Las Vegas NV, Madonna (Pawlowski) Jozwiak of Pike Lake, Pamela (Guenther) Jozwiak of Schofield, Tammy (Dennis) Palmberg of Hudson, Timothy Jozwiak of Endeavor, and Terry Lynn (Brian) Gureski of Hatley; 18 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.
Luella was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leonard; two sons, Donald and Thomas Jozwiak; one grandson, Christopher Jozwiak; three brothers and two sisters.
The Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, February 12th, 2022, at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Ringle. Rev. Glenn Seefeldt will officiate. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, town of Norrie, Marathon County.
Visitation will be on Saturday from 11AM until time of service at the church. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11: 25-26.
Wilma E. Witter
Wilma Witter, 94, Village of Maine, passed away peacefully at her home with her family by her side on Wednesday, February 2, 2022.
A celebration of life will be held in the Spring of 2022. Date and time will be announced. A complete obituary will follow at a later date.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Dean H. Lausche
Dean Howard Lausche, 81, of Wausau went to be with His Lord on February 2, 2022. Dean was born on September 26, 1940, in Highland Park, Ill to Howard and Marie (Bulens) Lausche. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1959, and later received a technical degree from DeVry Institute of Technology in Chicago. Part of his college experience also included traveling the world for a year on a ship with the University of the Seven Seas. Dean worked at a variety of technical jobs during his life, including GTE of Wausau.
Dean married Marilyn Esther Meyer on June 30, 1974 in Manitowoc, WI. They built a house in Wausau, WI and lived there for 43 years. They had three children, and also owned a wide range of pets and rescued animals over the years, including several cherished Labrador retrievers.
As a boy, Dean was an avid Boy Scout and Eagle Scout, and loved his dog, Skipper. In his adult years, he was a rifleman, gun collector, motorcycle enthusiast, and devoted patriot. Dean loved his country and was vocal about his freedom. He had every tool and gadget imaginable, and was willing to have a conversation with anyone he met. He instilled in his children a love of travel, animals, and politics. Dean was a committed and loved member of his church, Northside Baptist Church in Wausau.
Dean is survived by his wife, Marilyn, his three children, Dawn Lausche, Weston; Cheryl (Rob) Wernette, Milwaukee; Christopher Lausche, Atlanta, GA; and four beloved granddaughters: Esther, Amaya, Adalene, and Anita.
The family would like to thank those who have helped to care for him, and Pastor Weng Liew and the members of Northside Baptist Church for their many years of love and kindness to him.
There will be a visitation at 1:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 19th, 2022 at Northside Baptist Church, 1719 N 3rd Ave, Wausau.
Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MidWisconsinCremationSociety.com
