Nancy L. Litzer
Nancy L. Litzer, 89, of Wausau beloved wife of the late Lyle Litzer, departed this life on Friday, February 16, 2024 at Sylvan Crossing.
Nancy was born on April 21, 1934 in Wausau daughter of the late Reinhold and Tillie (Kleinschmidt) Priebe. She was a graduate of Wausau High School. Nancy retired after a 25 year career as a Payroll Specialist from Kraft Foods. Nancy found great joy in spending time with her family, including Holidays, Birthdays, and even just visiting. She enjoyed the family summer camping trips that took them to many of the states. She enjoyed the outdoors especially, gardening, growing flowers, and even the yard work which all took time to keep up. Nancy completed courses through Herbal Healer Academy becoming a Certified Herbalist. She had a strong faith, was active in local churches and played the organ.
She is survived by four children: Pamela Damm, John Litzer, Scott (Melissa) Litzer, and Keith (Renee) Litzer, along with four grandchildren: Mara (Jesse) Ruttger, Kyle (Chloe) Litzer, Rachel (Will) Landon, Shannen (Ben) Klatt and four great grandchildren: Miles, Oliver, Delilah, and Gemma. Nancy also leaves several nieces, a nephew, and extended family. Nancy is preceded in death by a sister Joyce Whiteside.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 24th from 9 AM – 11 AM at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau. A service celebrating her life will follow at 11 AM. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park.
The Litzer Family would like to say a special thank you to the staff at Sylvan Crossing for the care and compassion they showed Nancy during her stay.
John Giallombardo
In Loving Memory of John Giallombardo
February 5, 1948 – February 17, 2024
John Giallombardo, age 76, passed away peacefully at home in Merrill WI on February 17, 2024 surrounded by his loving family with the support of Aspirus Hospice Care. His family meant everything to him, and he found joy in spending time with them, creating lasting memories that will be treasured forever.
Early in his career, John wore many hats, from a teacher to a restaurant owner of the Giallombardo Downtowner in La Crosse, and even a prison guard for a brief time. He later earned his Master’s Degree in social work and served as a social worker, counselor and adjunct instructor for Viterbo University, Upper Iowa University and North Central Technical College.
A talented artist, John had a passion for painting that he was eager to share with everyone around him. Whether it was to raise funds for charities, such as Pilot Dogs or Lions Club, or to enrich the homes of his friends and family, John enjoyed sharing his paintings at least as much as he enjoyed painting them.
But perhaps John’s greatest gift was his ability to make friends with everyone he met. From forming a friendship with the person in front of him in line to befriending a stranger that had dialed a wrong number, John’s genuine kindness and warmth endeared him to all who knew him.
Whether sharing a joke or offering a listening ear, John had a way of making people feel valued and appreciated. With 7 kids and 12 grandkids, he had plenty of practice at finding humor in challenging situations. His jokes and anecdotes, which you may have heard repeated on occasion, will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John is survived by his wife, Dorothy, his children Rick (Cozette), Laura (Ken), Pat, Ed (Marjorie), Tony (Diana), Dominic (Mary Jane) and Joe (Natalia), his grandchildren Vincent, Vanessa, Valerie, VJ, Tyler, Aiden, Lena, Adelynn, Isabelle, Paulo, Margarette, Andrew and Nathan, his siblings Bob Giallombardo, Connie Nightengale-Phillips, Barb Hoffman, Pam Emge, Jacque Jensen, Cathy Georgeson, Fred Nightengale, Bob Nightengale and many nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents John Giallombardo, Jacqueline and Gene Nightengale and brothers Georgie Giallombardo, Richie Giallombardo and John Nightengale.
Visitation will be held on 3/1/24 at Saint Matthew Catholic Church in Wausau WI starting at 9:30am followed by a funeral Mass at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pilot Dogs (www.pilotdogs.org), Hope Life Center of Wausau, or a charity of your choice in John’s memory.
John leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith. He will be deeply missed by his devoted wife of 50 years, his children, grandchildren, extended family, and many friends. Though John may no longer be with us in person, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Rose M. Przybylski
In Loving Memory of Rose Przybylski,
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rose (Kretlow) Przybylski, a cherished wife, devoted mother, and beloved friend. Rose departed from this world on 2/18/24, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and indelible memories.
Born 01/22/1957, Rose embraced life with a passion that touched the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was a beacon of love and kindness, radiating a joy and smile that was contagious to everyone around her. Rosie’s infectious laughter and vibrant spirit lit up every room she entered, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy.
First and foremost, Rose was a dedicated and loving mother. Her greatest joy in life was found in the moments spent nurturing, guiding, and creating everlasting memories with her children. She approached motherhood with boundless love, resilience, laughter, and the importance of family bonds.
As a devoted wife, Rose’s commitment to her husband was unwavering. Their love story was one of enduring partnership, built on a foundation of love, loyalty, support, and shared adventures. Rose’s devotion to her family extended beyond her immediate loved ones, encompassing a wide circle of friends who were blessed to experience her genuine friendship.
Rose Przybylski was a social butterfly, and her expansive network of friends is a testament to the warmth and authenticity she brought to every relationship. Her friendships were characterized by loyalty, laughter, porch talks, inspirational posts, and a genuine interest in the lives of those she held dear.
While Rose’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. In celebrating her life, let us remember the joy she brought, the love she shared, and the enduring legacy of kindness that she leaves behind.
May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love that she so freely gave during her time on Earth.
Rose will live on through her husband, Ken Przybylski, son, Christopher Hollander, her 3 daughters, Tina (Kauzlaric) Schiddel, Tanya (Przybylski) Sirianni and Karla Przybylski, her granddaughter, Jacinda Hanke, her grandson, Zander Copenhaver and her loving sisters and brothers.
A celebration of Rose’s life will be held on Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 1:00 until 5:00 p.m. at the 21 Pub, 18 Brown Street, Rothschild, WI 54474.
Rose wants you all to have a good day, because you can.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Thomas G. Braun
Thomas George Braun, age 83, joined his daughter Laura in heaven on Friday, February 16, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield, WI. He was born on August 3, 1940, in Wausau, WI, and was a lifelong resident of Athens, WI.
He received his education at St. Anthony’s Catholic School in Athens, WI, and graduated from St. Norbert’s High School in DePere, WI.
Tom served in the Air Force as a mechanic stationed in Texas from 1960-1965, after which he worked for the Wergin Company, Wausau until his retirement and was a lifelong member of Local Laborers Union # 1359. Tom was known for his kind-hearted nature and enjoyed mowing lawns for the elderly in Athens, WI.
Tom married Beverly (Westfall) Braun on April 26, 1969, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Athens, WI. They were married for 54 years and had two children; a son, Daniel, and a daughter, Laura.
Tom loved spending time with his family at Braun’s Haven on Manson Lake. He was a founding member of Athens Sno Pak, and he especially loved fishing trips to Canada with his sister Judi and her husband Jim. He was a sports enthusiast who cheered for the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. Throughout his life, you could find him deer hunting, musky fishing, throwing horseshoes, water skiing, bowling, and singing in the St. Anthony’s Men’s Choir. One of his greatest pastimes was a quick trip to the casino. Tom had an exceptional sense of humor and cherished being with family and friends.
Tom is survived by his wife Bev, son Daniel and Renee (Hanke) Braun with granddaughters Kennedy and Avery; siblings Joe (Joannie Janke) Braun, Judi (Jim) Hartman, sister-in-law Marion (Peissig) Braun, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Laura Braun; parents Wilfred and Edna (Wendt) Braun; siblings Jean (Bill) Hartman, Joan (William) Smith, Joyce (Wilfred) Riehle, Bill Braun, John Braun and nephew William Smith.
Tom will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens, celebrated by Rev. George Graham. Visitation will begin on Friday, March 1 at 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens, and continue Saturday at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will take place at a later date in Calvary Cemetery, Athens. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Mike Giovanoni
Mike “Jov” Giovanoni, 50, of Schofield, WI, passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital with his big sister holding his hand, while he entered the embrace of his angel mother in heaven, on Saturday, February 17, 2024.
Mike attended Wausau West High School and worked as a jack of all trades. Under his tough exterior he had the biggest heart; his biggest passion was helping people. Mike had a great sense of humor, wise comebacks and knowledge out of this world.
He is survived by his father, Joseph Giovanoni; sister, Gina (Jeremy) Strasser; three nephews who he adored, Christopher (Medgine), Anthony, and Ryan; three step-nephews and nieces, Damian, Desiree, and Sabrina Strasser; Noah Johnson, was like a son to Mike; his best friend, Kaine Kelch who was like a brother to him.
Mike was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Joyce Giovanoni.
Mike was adopted as a baby and in adulthood was able to find and reconnect with his birth mother, Donna Vetterkind, who survives along with his biological family with whom he formed a very special relationship. His half-siblings, Jay Searles, Kevin and Vince Vetterkind, and Stacy Schepp. Mike was unable to meet his birth father as he had passed away, but Mike was fortunate to meet his two half-brothers, Dustin and Craig, forming a special relationship with Dustin.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Mount Olive Lutheran Church (Alderson Street entrance), 6205 Alderson Street, Schofield. Visitation is 3-4 p.m. with the celebration starting at 4:15 p.m. until 7 p.m. Packer clothes and flannels are highly encouraged. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Marathon County Humane Society (to sponsor pet adoption fees in Mike’s name) or Monk Botanical Gardens. The family is asking that those attending, if they wish, please bring a pet supply to be donated to the Marathon County Humane Society in Mike’s name.
The family would like to extend their thanks to Dr. Clements, Dr. Nichols and Dr Phillipson, nursing staff on IMC at Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Amy Kurth, NP for their passionate and heartfelt care of our son and brother. You gave him what we asked, a fighting chance.
“Mike, we are devastated that you left us this soon as we were not ready to let you go. I have been your big sister for almost all my life, it’s all I have ever known, I do not know how to be an only child and do this without you. I just take comfort that you are with mom. I will see you again, when I see you on the other side, until then, Fly High my brother.” ~Gina
Judith L. LeMoine
Judith “Judy” Lynn LeMoine, 69, of Wausau passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on February 9, 2024. She was born to the late Joseph and Sarah (Imhoff) Kraimer on August 29, 1954.
She is survived by her loving husband Gerald “Jerry” LeMoine who she married on October 13, 1973 at Saint Matthews. They have shared over 50 years together. Daughter Jenny (Steve) Radtke, Frank (Sam Wirkus) Ferlitsch, LaDonna (Nick Tress) Inman, Mike Gosseck, grandchildren; Heaven Haley Drobnick, Kaden (Shailyn Frodl) Radtke, Timoth Tress, Preston Tress, Spencer Tress, Owen Inman, Cataleya Tress, Hunter Radtke, Alexis Radtke, great grandchild Remington Radtke, sister Elaine (Wayne) Skrzypchak, Wausau, Shirley (Phil) Marlotty, Kenosha, Barb (Wayne) Lambrecht, Wausau, brother in law Leon (Sharon Bohnert) Zieglmeier, Schofield, sister in law Nancy Kraimer, Wausau and many nieces and nephews and her beloved furry pal Lindy.
She was preceded in death by her sister Carol Zieglmeier, brother, James Kraimer, brother-in-law Wayne Skrzypchak, brother-in-law Phil Marlotty, in laws Dorothy Clarence LeMoine, and her parents Joseph and Sarah Kraimer.
Judy had many accomplishments. She had a long career of 35 years at Liberty Mutual. In the 80’s she was the first woman to take a boy scout group to Camp Tesomas. Judy and Jerry also opened their home and hearts to over 20 foster children over the years. She shot Skeet at Wausau Skeet and Trap Club. She enjoyed her arts and crafts. She worked hard with the Salvation Army Christmas program. She loved her outdoor sports and was the secretary and treasurer for the Wisconsin Valley Snow Jets Snowmobile Club. Oh, did she enjoy the outdoors and fishing with Jerry. They spent a lot of time at Lake of the Woods cozy in a cabin and fishing. Judy caught her large 34” walleye and then let it go. Go Packers was heard on Sunday afternoons when the games were on.
She was a member of the Catholic Daughters and worked vigorously in multiple capacities. She loved her family and enjoyed their yearly family reunions. Her greatest passion was spending time with her children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all.
Services will be held at Saint Michael Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 for a gathering of friends and family from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial of cremated remains will be held on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 10 a.m. Restlawn Cemetery.
John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at HonorOne.com
David L. Jaeger
David L. Jaeger, 80, Weston, WI entered into God’s Kingdom on Feb 16th, 2024, because he had put his faith and trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. He was born on Feb. 17, 1943 to Ed and Adeline Jaeger.
David leaves behind his wife Peggy of 53 years, daughters Nicole & Shannon (Dustin Hoffman); son Ryan; grandchildren Berkley, Brylie, Milena & Michael; great grandchildren Rilynn & Remington. Dave’s brothers Don (Jan) Jaeger, Ed (Sharon) Jaeger, sisters Carol (Jim) Ruether, Tammy Darnick and many nieces and nephews.
After high school, David joined the United States Air Force and served for 3 years. He met the love of life Peggy in 1969 and were married after just 6 months. In 1973 he started his painting business Du All Painters. Everyone knew him as “Du All Dave”. Years back you would see his big paint trucks running around town. Then later changed the business name to Jaeger Painting.
Dave was best known for all the best jokes. His laugh was infectious, and could change the energy in the room. The last few years, he enjoyed playing cards and dominoes with family and friends. He was a huge Packer fan and loved watching sports.
He built his business, worked tirelessly and provided for his family that loved him dearly. He was a generous man whose passing leaves an unfillable gap in the hearts that all were blessed to know him. The unconditional love he showed to all will be forever ingrained in us.
We want to thank the entire Aspirus Hospice Staff and Care Team and all the others who made the last months as comfortable as possible for David and family.
A celebration of life will take place at Highland Community Church (Weston Campus)
6615 County Rd. J. Schofield, WI 54476
Friday, February 23, 2024
9-11 AM Visitation
11 AM Service followed by a Luncheon.
Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences can be made at MWCS.WS.
Lorraine Theisen
Lorraine Theisen passed peacefully Sunday February 18, 2024, at age 74. She was born July 6, 1949, to Ernest and Apolonia Betker. She was born and raised in Stevens Point. She moved around the state and ended up raising her family in La Crosse, WI. Once she became ill, she was placed at Sylvan Crossing in Stevens Point. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting as well as collecting the supplies for these activities.
She is survived by daughters: Geralyn Brown, Cynthia Lemke, Rebecca (Mike) Fabyan, and Elizabeth (Jason) Okon; Bonus children: Paul (Laurie) Theisen Jr., Charles Theisen, Carla Theisen and Kathi (Steve) Blanchard. Grandchildren: Cassie Brown, Lindsey (David) Bahr, Apolonia (Jason) Speropulos, Steven Brown, Zachary Trzebiatowski, Emma Lemke, Jacob (Shelly) Zoerb, Mariah (Jamie) Hickey, Phoenix, Storm and Hannah Okon, Max and Remi Blanchard and Olivia Theisen; and great grandchildren Julianna Ball, Grayson and Wyatt Bahr, Elaina, Lincoln, and Rory Speropulos, Soraya Lemke, Aubrey and Luke Zoerb. She is survived by siblings Daniel (Rita) Betker, Carol (John) Wojcik, Diane Pliska, and Janice Laskowski. Also, many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by her husband Paul Theisen Sr., her parents, a brother Ronnie, son in law Doug Brown, and brother-in-law Tom Laskowski.
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date this summer.
Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS
Edmund Walters
Edmund Walters, 103 of Wittenberg, died on Saturday, February 17, 2024, after a short stay at Rennes Health and Rehab, under the care of Compassus Hospice.
Edmund was born on February 16, 1921, in the town of Elderon, the son of John and Helen (Wojciechowski) Walters. On September 28, 1946, Edmund was united in marriage to Bernice Ostrowski at Holy Family Catholic Church in Wittenberg. They had been married for 77 years.
Edmund was employed at Wausau Iron Works as a machinist for 38 years until the plant closed. He had a great love for his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He also enjoyed deer and small game hunting, fishing, gardening and logging.
Edmund is survived by his wife, Bernice Walters; three daughters, Pam (Jerome) Strei of Rothschild, Mary (James Rhyner) Walters-Rhyner of Waterloo and Jane (Floyd Branchfield) Walters of Kea’au, HI; three granddaughters, Jennifer Strei of Maplewood, MN, Kristine (DJ) Penza of Rochester, MN and Kelsey (Chris) McIntyre of Arden Hills, MN; great grandchildren, Elizabeth Penza, Lydia Penza and Mason McIntyre as well as foster great grandchildren, Grady and Jordan. Edmund was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Raymond and Arnold.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Holy Family-St. William Catholic Church, Wittenberg. Fr. Matthew Settle will preside. Burial will be in St. Florian’s Catholic Cemetery, Hatley. Visitation will be held at Holy Family-St. William Catholic Church, on Saturday, beginning at 9:00 am until the time of Mass. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the wonderful doctors and nursing staff at Marshfield Medical Center-Weston, as well as the staff at Rennes Health and Rehab and the staff of Compassus Hospice for their compassionate care and treatment.
Pamela S. Walkowski
Pamela S. Walkowski, 65 of Birnamwood, died on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
Pam was born on June 30, 1958, in Wausau, the daughter of Jerome ‘Jiggs’ and Marion (Jozwiak) Resch.
Pam and former husband Peter Walkowski had two wonderful children together, Cory and Ryan, whom they adored.
Pam worked for various cleaning companies throughout the years. She was most recently employed at DC Everest School District as a cook, until her retirement. Pam enjoyed listening to polka music, going to the casino, and watching birds. She loved baking, especially banana bread and brownies. Her fudge was a family staple that made every holiday complete. Spending time with her family and friends was important to Pam, especially her neighbors, Ray and Donna Delrow and her cousin, Richie Resch. Pam was a social butterfly and was always reaching out to those she loved. She was always one to check up on her children and their friends to see what kind of mischief they had been up to. Her laugh was infectious and will be remembered fondly.
Pam is survived by her children, Cory Walkowski and Ryan (Katelyn Leher) Walkowski; siblings, Mike (Sue) Resch, Patrick (Julie) Resch and Tamara (Carlos) Quinonez; nieces and nephews, Nicole Keefe and Amanda Resch, Collin (Shauna) Resch and Kyle Resch, Kristin (Sean) Finn, Kayla (Craig) Harrington and Morgan Weiss; great nieces and nephews, Oliver, Everett, Leopold, CJ, Azalea and Ari’Ella, Connor, Cohen, and Lucas, as well as other family and friends.
Pam was preceded in death by her parents and brother, James ‘Jimmy’ Resch.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Philomena Catholic Church, Birnamwood, at a later date. Burial will be held in the parish cemetery.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
Raymond A. Meister
Raymond Anthony Meister, 79, of Birnamwood, Wisconsin, passed away on February 19, 2024, in Weston, Wisconsin.
Born on September 13, 1944, in Madison, Wisconsin, son of Clarence and Doris Meister of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. Ray graduated from Sun Prairie High School in May of 1962, and enlisted in the US Army in June of 1962, working in the Nike Missile System.
In 1963, Ray married his high school sweetheart Shirley (Endres), his partner in life for 52 years. After his honorable discharge in 1965, Ray entered an apprentice electrician job in his hometown of Sun Prairie where he worked and later owned his own business until 1976. Ray relocated to the Hatley, Wisconsin area where he purchased a neighborhood tavern— Hilltop Tavern—which he and his wife ran. In 1980, Ray was hired by the USPS where he worked as a rural mail carrier until he retired in 2000.
Ray loved the outdoors and camping; his specialty being anything on the BBQ grill. Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing, and always had a gorgeous garden. He had a love of animals—especially dogs—always keeping one or two of them underfoot. Ray’s mechanical ability, electrical experience, and perfectionist attitude helped him keep everything around the house, lawn, garden, and the garage up to snuff. Ray’s quick wit and dry sense of humor kept our spirits up and our minds alert.
Ray enjoyed his family, friends, life, and retirement; he will be dearly missed.
Ray is survived by his children: Dawn (Thomas) Vlietstra, Jeffery Meister, and Tammy (Douglas) Lehman; a multitude of grandchildren: Rachel (Dustin) Bauch, Keith (Mandy) Vlietstra, Megan (Garett) LaValley, Molly Vlietstra, Jamie (Matt) Rainville, Eric (Brittany) Meister, Allan (McKenzy) Meister, Tony Meister, Brendan (Samantha) Lehman, Teagon Lehman, and Brogan Lehman; and his great-grandchildren: Jacob, Emerly, Kendyl, Olyvia, Haylie, Krista, Emma, Michael, Hannah, and William.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Doris Meister; his wife, Shirley; sister, Elizabeth Mohring; brother, Rodney Meister; stepsister, Beverly Compose; and daughter-in-law, Lori Meister.
A special thank you to Vicki Jensen and Dawn Merriam for their aid and care; Sharon Bauch and Kim Beran for their wonderful cleaning services and companionship; and all of the doctors, nurses, and other staff of the Marshfield Medical Center-Weston.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at St. Florian Catholic Church, Hatley. Rev. Jerome Patric will officiate. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery. Visitation will be on Saturday, from 9 AM until the time of Mass at the church.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com
