helke/brainard
Obituaries are a community service courtesy of Helke and Brainard Funeral Homes.

Lisa K. Radke

Lisa K. Radke, 60, of Mosinee passed away on Sunday February 11th, 2024.

She was born on October 15th, 1963, to the late Leonard and Lorraine [Adamski] Mohr. Lisa worked for Abbey Cafe, 29 Super Foods and Kohls. Her most loved job was raising her grandchildren from when they were born until the time they started school. Lisa enjoyed going to the casino, shopping, going to her grandkids activities, and spending time with her friends and family.

Lisa wanted everyone to know especially her husband, two sons and grandchildren along with her close friends that they were her world and she loved they all very much.

Survivors include her Husband Randy, Sons Dean, Matthew [Jody] Radke. Grandchildren Spencer, Ella, Gavin and Zoey. Siblings Joanne Landwehr, Carrie Mohr, Lavonne [Greg] Roe, Ronald [Diane], William [Jean], Richard [ Ruth], John Mohr, Leonard [Fran] Mohr Jr, along with many nieces, nephews and close friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Rita, brother Roger and grandson Ethan.

Funeral will be held at Helke Funeral home February 22nd, 2024. Visitation is from 9:30 to 11:00, service at 11:00 followed by burial and luncheon at Stettin Christian Cemetery


Tod W. Roush

Tod Wayne Roush passed away at his home on January 22, 2024.  He was born on March 19, 1950, to Donald and Helen (nee McBeth) Roush.  He grew up in the Cincinnati, Ohio area.

He had a lifelong love of geology as evidenced by collecting and cataloging rocks and fossils with his father from an early age, graduating from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in geology and receiving a master’s degree in geology from the University of Texas at Arlington.  He worked for several oil companies in Texas before moving to Wausau, WI in 1992 to work as a hydrogeologist.   After retirement, Tod remained active in regional geology and groundwater groups.  He shared his knowledge of local geology by leading field trips for local groups.

Tod’s other passion was building Appalachian (Mountain) dulcimers.  He combined his outstanding woodworking skills with his love of folk music to hand craft dulcimers and other musical instruments.  His booth was an anticipated feature each year at the Shawano Folk Music Festival and the Black Hawk Folk Society Festival.

He enjoyed working out at the YMCA, camping, playing the guitar and dulcimer, and working in his woodshop.

Tod was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Wendy Ferguson.  He is survived by a niece Dawn Ferguson, an Aunt Muriel McBeth, cousins, and a special friend Phyllis Christensen.  A celebration of life will be held in the Cincinnati area at a later date.

Memorials may be made in Tod’s name to the Shawano Folk Music Festival (PO Box 213, Shawano, WI  54166) or a charity of your choice.


Elaine J. Mueller

Elaine J. Mueller, 78, died Monday, February 12, 2024 under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Wausau Manor.

She was born July 12, 1945 in Wausau, daughter of the late Edward and Alice (Burow) Nagel.  On July 24, 1965 she married Glenn Mueller at St. John Lutheran Church, town of Wien, and he preceded her in death on May 4, 1997.

Elaine farmed with her husband but also held several other jobs including secretary at Edgar High School, long time employee at the Edgar Corner Mart, local Avon lady, and worked in the medical records department at Marshfield Clinic.  She was very active in her church and taught Sunday school for over 25 years.  Some of her hobbies included embroidering, paint by number and putting together jigsaw puzzles. 

Survivors include her children, LeAnn (Bernie) Stankowski, Duane (Audrey) Mueller and Daryl (Beth) Mueller; grandchildren, Connor Stankowski, Casey (Kaitlin) Stankowski, Cadin Stankowski, Emily (finance Andrew Vehlow) Mueller, Anya Mueller, McKenzie Mueller, Clayton Mueller and Sawyer Mueller; sister, Jean (Larry) Hoppenworth and Sarah (Chris) Lemmer; sister-in-law, Elaine Mielke; many cousins, nieces and nephews along with her special pet cat, Gracie.

Besides her parents and husband, Glenn, she was preceded in death by a son, Durand and sister, Joyce LeVoy.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 19, 2024 at Hope Lutheran Church, 224556 State Highway 97, Edgar.  Rev. Scott Miller will officiate.  Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery, town of Wien.  Visitation will be Sunday, February 18, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and again on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service all at Hope Lutheran Church.

Special thank you to Elaine’s “Guardian Angel,” Brenda Polivka for her selfless gift of a kidney over 24 years ago.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com


James G. Heier

James G. Heier, 79, Athens, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Rib Lake Health Services, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

He was born May 3, 1944 in Wausau, son of the late George and Christina (Bangart) Heier. 

Among his favorite pastimes, James enjoyed fishing and driving around observing others and visiting with folks.

He was a veteran of the United States Navy.

Survivors include, two sons, James Heier, Athens and Mike (Leah) Heier, Two Rivers; two grandchildren, Hailey and Kylie; three brothers, Duane Heier, Joseph Heier and John (Theresa) Heier; two sisters, Mary Jane Rydlewicz and Ann (Leslie) Westfall; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Denny.

Visitation will be Monday, February 19, 2024 from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens.  Burial will be on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Athens with full military honors conducted by the Athens Area Veterans.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com


Carrie A. Koller

Carrie Ann Koller, 50, Edgar, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Marshfield Medical Center, Weston. 

She was born March 23, 1973 in Wausau, the daughter of Kenneth and Belinda (Schoenfuss) Springer.  On January 14, 1994, she married the love of her life, Greg Koller at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar.  He survives.

For over 30 years, Carrie worked for the Marshfield Medical Clinic System and currently was employed as a medical assistant. 

Among her favorite pastimes, she enjoyed flower gardening and taking care of the many birds that played in her yard and would go to her birdfeeders.   Carrie always looked forward to taking walks and spending time by the lake at the family cabin up north, which she referred to as her “Slice of Heaven”.   She loved the sun and spent as much time outside soaking in the rays of sunshine as much as time would allow.  Carried loved music and went to many concerts with family and friends.

Most of all, Carrie will be remembered for always putting others needs before her own, she loved to make people happy and loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include, her husband of 30 years, Greg; two sons, Nathan (fiancée Samantha Collado) Koller and Nicholas Koller; two grandchildren, Jackson and Emma; mother, Belinda (David) Suchomski; paternal grandmother, Lorraine Springer; sister, Heather (Clay) Schulz; and niece, Brianna Schulz.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Springer; paternal grandfather, Edward Springer; maternal grandparents, Charlie and Cecelia Schoenfuss; and her niece, Kylah Schulz.

A private Mass was celebrated at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar.

Carrie absolutely loved all creatures, especially her pets, so in memory of Carrie, please make memorial donations directly to the Marathon County Humane Society.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com


Marie F. Hein

Marie F. Hein, 97, Athens passed away Tuesday, February 13, 2024, while under the care of Interim Hospice Care at Pinecrest Nursing Home, Merrill.

Marie was born December 31, 1926, in Athens, daughter of Rudolph and Helen (Weiler) Schreiner. On October 14, 1947, she married Edward R. Hein at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens.  He preceded her in death August 5, 1991.

After Marie finished school, she worked as a midwife helping deliver babies until she went to work at Marathon Electric Corporation in Wausau.  After her marriage to Edward, she worked with him on the family farm. 

For many years she was a CCD teacher at St. John’s Catholic Church in Wuertzberg. Marie made wedding and church banners. She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and quilting. Marie enjoyed being a Red Hat Angel member and going to the different events and interesting places.

Survivors include her children, Karen Hein, Gresham, Ore., Gayle (John) Humpal, Merrill, Mary (Larry) Guralski, Wausau, Roger (Kris) Hein, Mike Hein, Tim (Renee’) Hein, Allen (Jane) Hein and Brian (Stacey) Hein, daughter-in-law Colleen Hein all of Athens; 26 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren, siblings, Gloria Brodjeski, Cecelia Bartelt, Andrew (Lolly) Schreiner and her sister-in-law, Dolly Schreiner.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Richard Hein, a grandson, Eric Hein, a granddaughter, Daphne Hein, a great grandson, Dylan Auner, sister, Katie Westfall, brother, Frank Schreiner, brother Clarence Schreiner, brother-in-law, Gordy Westfall, brother-in-law, Steve Brodjeski, brother-in-law, Warren Bartelt and sisters-in-law, Joyce Hein and Iris Schreiner.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Noon, (12:00 P.M.) February 19, 2024, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens.  The Rev. George Graham will preside.   Burial in St. John Cemetery, Wuertzberg.  Visitation will be held on Monday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church.  Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens, is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

Marie’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the staff at Interim Hospice, Athenian in Athens and also Pinecrest Nursing Home for the outstanding care and devotion they all shared with Marie during her time with them.  God Bless you all!!


Timothy J. Hubacek

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Timothy J. Hubacek. After a long battle with cancer, Tim was surrounded by his family as he passed away peacefully in the loving arms of his mother on February 7th at the young age of 37. He is now rejoicing in his eternal home with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Timothy was born on May 30th, 1986, in Germantown, Wisconsin, the son of Rick and Debra Hubacek. After graduating high school in 2004, Tim served in the US Army as a combat engineer of the 397th Charlie Company, where he gained many close brothers-in-arms. After his tour in Iraq, Tim completed his degree in Health and Wellness at UW Stevens Point.

Tim was a gifted musician who loved his drums and keyboard. His beautiful piano playing blessed many people. He also enjoyed weightlifting with his Army brethren, playing tabletop games, and golfing. However, above all, Tim’s greatest joy was his family and his unshakeable faith in Jesus Christ.

Tim is preceded in death by grandparents Roger and Betty Hubacek.

Tim was the beloved son of Rick and Debra Hubacek, cherished brother of Ryan (Dana), Michael (Brooke), and Elyse (Cameron), adoring uncle of Jack, Evelyn, Raelyn, Audrey, and Valerie, and sweet grandson of Frank and Bernice Haupt. Timothy touched the hearts of many with his kindness and compassion, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Tim’s life is to be celebrated by his friends and family on Friday, February 16, 2024 at John J. Buettgen Funeral Home, 948 Grand Ave., Schofield, WI 54476. Visitation will be from 1-3 PM with the honor of a military service to follow.

John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time.  Online condolences may be expressed at HonorOne,com


Jane E. Peterson

Jane Elizabeth (Scribner) Peterson, 90, of Bancroft, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, February 8, 2024, on the same property where she was born.

Jane was born on February 27, 1933, to the late Eli and Martha (Reeves) Scribner, with a family history that can be traced back to the Revolutionary War. They owned a dairy farm created by her grandfather in 1892. While growing up, she helped with many chores including feeding and milking cows, driving a tractor, raising chickens, and harvesting squirrel meat with her father’s .22 rifle.

She attended Keene Elementary School, and graduated from P. J. Jacobs High School in Stevens Point. After working for Sentry Insurance as a secretary, on September 23, 1951 she married Harlow J. Peterson. They continued dairy farming together and later were successful in growing produce for Del Monte Foods.

They remained happily married for 69 years until Harlow died on October 30, 2020, at 95 years of age. They had no children. Jane’s younger brother Philip predeceased her.

Jane and Harlow enjoyed traveling each year to Texas where they would spend their winters. She belonged to the Portage County Homemakers association, the Golden Needle Quilters Guild in Almond, Wisconsin, and was an active member of the Almond Seventh-day Adventist Church. She was a kind friend to many, and will be missed by all who loved her.

Per Jane’s wishes, she will be cremated and laid to rest with Harlow in Liberty Corners Cemetery, Buena Vista Township, Wisconsin.

A memorial service at the Almond Seventh-day Adventist Church is being planned.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time.  Memories and condolences may be shared at mwcs.ws


Donald R. Moore Jr.

Donald R. Moore Jr., 67 of Hatley, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2024, at home, surrounded by his family and under the care of Interim Healthcare.

Don was born on September 4, 1956, in Memphis, TX, the son of Donald R. Moore Sr. and Faye Booth.

On August 13, 1977, Don was united in marriage to Cheryl ‘Sherry’ Slagoski at St. Florian’s Catholic Church, Hatley.

Don worked for over 40 years as a telephone repairman in central and northern Wisconsin and League City, TX.

Don retired in 2017, and spent his free time with family, reading, and enjoying the outdoors. He loved working with wood and made beautiful cutting boards and bird houses, which he gifted to family and friends. As an avid dog lover, he spent much of his spare time with his dogs throughout his lifetime, who always brought him so much joy.

Donald is survived by his wife, Sherry Moore; his daughter, Sarah (Chad Federwitz) Moore; his brother, Bill (Karen) Moore; his brother-in-law, Kurt (Debbie) Slagoski; his sister-in-law, Lori (Rodney) Cherek; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Donald was predeceased by his beloved son, Matthew Moore; his mother, Faye Booth; his father, Donald R. Moore Sr. and his brother-in-law, Mark Slagoski.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 3 PM on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at St. Florian’s Catholic Church, Hatley. Rev. Jerome Patric will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 1 PM until the time of Mass at the church.

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

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Humane Society, in remembrance of Don, would be greatly appreciated.


Randy “Doc” Slavik

Randy “Doc” Slavik, age 63, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024.    Randy was born on October 3 and lived the majority of his life in Kronenwetter, Wisconsin.  Randy is survived by his parents, Thomas and Charlene Slavik, who reside in Waukesha, along with his sister Lori Slavik from Crivitz and sister Cheryl (Jeff) Szalewski from Rochester. He is also survived by five nieces and nephews, five great-nieces and great-nephews, and his faithful companion, Finn.  Finn, along with Randy’s family and friends in Wisconsin, will deeply feel his absence. 

Randy discovered his passion for horticulture early on while relishing in numerous outdoor activities.   This new found passion led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Turf and Grounds Management from the University of Wisconsin Madison. His career then took a pivotal turn when he assumed the role of Superintendent at the Wausau Country Club in 1988. In these formative years, Randy found guidance and inspiration from mentors like “Bubby” and “Nice Pike Mike,” whose influence helped shape his journey over the next three decades.  Although his professional journey led him to Wausau, it was the enduring friendships, mentorship, and camaraderie he acquired through this pivotal move that truly molded him into the person he became.  

Randy’s dedication and expertise in the field were recognized when he became one of the select few Certified Golf Course Superintendents (CGCS) nationwide. While Randy remained modest about his academic achievements, his CGCS designation often came up in conversations with Lizzie.  The importance of continuing education and striving to be number one in their chosen fields consistently served as a shared bond between these two.  Pause and remember – Every single event in your life, especially the difficult lessons, have made you smarter, stronger, and wiser than you were yesterday. Be thankful!

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf stands as an esteemed education and certification initiative, dedicated to assisting golf courses in environmental protection and the preservation of golf’s natural heritage. Randy and the grounds crew at Wausau Country Club have dedicated themselves to this cause over the years, achieving numerous certifications from Audubon International. One notable project that Nice Pike Mike, Randy and Lizzie collaborated on involved working with her local high school technology education department. Together, they worked on designing, building and installing wood duck houses that would be strategically placed throughout the golf course. Wausau Country Club remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing the quality of the land, water, and air, while conserving natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

For more than three decades, Randy served the membership of the Wausau Country Club as their Superintendent. Alongside his loyal coworkers, he cherished the presence of his beloved companions, fondly known as WCC’s canine staff. Among them were KC, Sunny, Lucy, Ruby, and Tucker, with Finn being the latest addition. Despite Finn’s current detainment, there is optimism for her return to Wisconsin, so she can join back in the fun at WCC’s #1 doggie daycare with Scooter, Big Al, and Aaron.

Randy was an avid outdoorsman, eagerly anticipating every deer season with neighbors Jay, Sue, and their daughters Kayla & Jade, sharing countless laughs and stories over the years. Some of the best stories always started with Jay, Sue and Randy…..although many of us have heard those stories more than once, they never get old.

Randy eagerly anticipated going hunting for duck and goose with his tight-knit group of hunting pals. Though they were a small bunch, Randy valued how Matt, Tony, Irene, Drake, Fabel, and Barney made him feel like part of the gang. For those not joining the annual hunting expedition, it’s worth mentioning the gatherings dedicated to celebrating those who were willing to travel with Randy were some of the best ever!

Randy also enjoyed summer fishing adventures on Lake Michigan alongside Lizzie and their fur babies. Under the mentorship of fellow F-dockers like Butch, Blackbeard’s Lady, Suite Comfort and Tin Bender, he honed his skills in this pursuit. Lizzie, too, swiftly developed a deep affection for Lake Michigan, finding solace in the convenience of her short drive after work to prepare the boat for their weekend fishing excursions. Shortly thereafter, Lizzie established the “Blind Man” fishing tournament, aimed at uniting people from various docks and marinas in a shared camaraderie. The tournament’s core concept revolved around the element of surprise, as participants were paired with unexpected fishing partners, often leading to new friendships or “purse” prizes by the end of the day. While Randy occasionally harbored doubts about Lizzie’s social experiments, he consistently participated in the tournament without fail and also brought home bragging rights and a purse a time or two!

During the winter months, Randy found joy in ice fishing in Wisconsin alongside his friend Jerry, affectionately known as “Teddy.” While many of us mark upcoming vacations on our calendars, these two only had their next fishing spot in mind. Some of our fondest fishing memories with these two characters include the legendary “turbo” button or the rush to the tip downs labeled king coho, magnum shaker, and the salmon slayer. When bad weather conditions or thin ice prevented them from venturing out, Jerry, Randy, and Lizzie would gather in Teddy’s welding shop, where they would craft various versions of 3D metal fish and sunflowers. While Randy was a little skeptical at times they quickly adapted to Teddy’s “artsy fartsy” approach to metal work and embraced his creativity.  This hobby eventually evolved into Jerry’s new business venture, Fusion Art. Unfortunately, Jerry also departed from this world far too soon.

Another interesting tidbit about Randy was his avid love for reading. His hand crafted multi tiered three section bookshelf stood as a constant testament to his passion for physical books, despite a local librarians attempt to sway him towards digital copies. He had a real fondness for reading and appreciated large print in his later years. At one point, his personal collection contained numerous series of books he had read more than once, purely because he adored the stories within them.

Beyond his love for the outdoors, Randy showcased his culinary prowess as a skilled chef, always exploring new recipes sourced initially from a local chef and later from the internet once AOL dial-up became obsolete. Dishes such as pheasant stir-fry, smoked salmon, and roast duck, among others, brought joy to those fortunate enough to savor his creations.

While Randy would never openly admit it, he deeply valued those in attendance at the surprise birthday parties carefully orchestrated by Lizzie. These gatherings offered a special chance for his diverse group of friends and family to come together, interact, and build enduring relationships. Despite Randy’s preference to stay out of the spotlight, Lizzie recognized the importance of these events as essential social opportunities that would connect his different circles of friends prior to his passing. She also saw them as a preview of this final gathering, where all aspects of Randy’s life would intersect for one last time, marking a poignant goodbye.

During numerous conversations with Mike and Lizzie, Randy engaged in deep discussions about his wishes for end-of-life arrangements. He initiated this planning process in the mid-2000s upon learning about his heart condition, aiming to provide specific instructions to alleviate the burden on his loved ones. This became increasingly apparent following the untimely deaths of some of his closest friends, Jay, Mike, and Jerry. While Randy’s recent behavior may have puzzled all of us in his final three years, his desire for a modest farewell is still being respected here in Wisconsin.  While we cannot honor all of his requests at this time, we are hopeful we can in the very near future.  There will be no formal service; instead, a memorial program will be held at 1:15 pm on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Wausau Country Club – 208 Country Club Road – Schofield, WI 54476  Following the memorial, friends and family are encouraged to gather, reminisce, and reflect on the positive impact he had on their lives from 1:45 pm to 4:45 pm. 

Despite Randy’s unique quirks, this gathering stands as a testament to the lasting friendships and treasured memories he leaves behind among his diverse circle of friends and family. While you attend, we encourage you to take a moment to observe, he certainly had an eye for choosing the finest coworkers, canines, friends and family in town!

Taking into account Randy’s typical work attire, below is a suggested dress code for the occasion. Attendees are encouraged, though not obligated, to choose clothing that resonates with Randy’s simple style and comfort. This might entail:

-Opting for a wrinkle-free plaid shirt (also known to Randy as a picnic table look from   Eddie Bauer) or similar casual button-up shirt or flannel

-Selecting blue jeans without any distressing, he was not a fan of holes!

-Choosing brown work boots to complement the overall look

If unable to attend in person, correspondence can be addressed to 

Lizzie Kysely – PO Box 622 – Schofield, WI 54476

And last but not least, if you have digital pictures you would like to share with Randy’s friends and family, they may be submitted by February 19  via the online form  –   https://forms.gle/apDnbnV16nRqsdKF6

We would like to express gratitude to everyone for their encouragement and support during these recent weeks as we work to bring Randy and Finn back to Wisconsin. It truly takes a village to ensure a proper farewell.