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

Jane A. Stotmeister

Jane A. Stotmeister, 74, of Wausau, passed away on friday, March 1, 2024.

She was born in Wausau, WI on June 12, 1949, to the late Melvin and Marion Jacobi.

Jane had many hobbies. She enjoyed crafting, making comfort blankets to give to the local hospitals, was an avid reader and in her younger years loved traveling with her husband Raymond. She was a collector of many things but treasured her doll collection. Her faith and family were very important to her. She always enjoyed spending time with her loves ones talking, laughing and making memories. She also loved her sweets.

She is survived by her husband, Raymond Stotmeister; children, Bob (Anna) Fremming, and Wendy Fremming; grandchildren, Kelsey, Kara, Angel, Brittany, Grason, and Brandon; great grandchildren, Stanley, Natilee, Brynlee, Jr. and Jaxson; sisters, Barb (Lee) Carpenter, and Nancy (Dennis) Turnner; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Marion Jacobi.

Helke funeral home is assisting the family during this time.


Sandra J. McCabe

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sandra Jean McCabe, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born on September 10, 1937, in Wausau, WI, Sandra dedicated her life to her family and her passion for cooking. She peacefully left this world on March 6, 2024, at her home in Wausau, WI, surrounded by her loved ones.
 
 Sandra will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 67 years, Robert McCabe; 6 children, Bob, Bill (Linda), Barb (Jim) Anklam, Bonnie (Pat) Conklin, Brenda (Wayne) Gore, and Brian (Amy). She will also be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Bobbi Jean, Mindy (Dan), Mitch (Candy), Ryan (Jayme), Chris (Aubrey), Dan (Kristen), Mike, Nick (Courtney), Cole, Chloe; 8 great-grandchildren; as well as her siblings Vicky, Tim (Wendy), and Tom (Sharon), and extended family members.

In her passing, Sandra is reunited with her siblings Schron and Marcia, who have gone before her. Her memory will forever remain a treasure in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Known for her love of gambling, movie nights with her sister Vicky, and cherished family traditions such as Wednesday nights out with her siblings, Sandra’s legacy will live on through the memories she created with those she held dear. She found joy in cooking, especially her signature dishes like chili and spaghetti, and cherished the time spent at the family cottage.
 
 A Funeral Service in honor of Sandra Jean McCabe will be held at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St. on March 11, 2024, at 11:00 am. Prior to the service, a visitation will begin at 9:00 am at the funeral home.

Sandra’s family would like to thank Shawn RN from Aspirus Hospice for her compassion and fantastic care shown to Sandra.
 
 May she rest in eternal peace.


David L. Nimz

David Nimz, age 83, passed away surrounded by his family on March 1, 2024 at his home.

David was born in Wausau, WI to George and Alice (Disbrow) Nimz. David married Judith Severt of Wausau, Wisconsin on June 15, 1962 in Wausau WI at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church. He worked at the Wausau Fire Department for 29 years and 1 day. David enjoyed: fishing, hunting, shooting guns and being outdoors. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and will be missed by all that knew him.

He is survived by his wife Judith Nimz of Wausau, WI Son DJ (Kathy ) Nimz of Wausau. Daughter Karen of Wausau. (2) Grandchildren: Matthew (Lindsey Lasecki) Nimz of Wausau and Jon (Alisha) Nimz of Marathon City. Brother-in-law. Robert Severt of Madison

He was preceded in death by his parents. Brother: Carl (Mary) Nimz. Mother and Father-in-law: Grace and Robert Severt. Brother-in-law: Lorin Severt.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday March 11, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Mount Olive Lutheran Church (6205 Alderson St. Weston WI 54476) Pastor Lance Hoelscher will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday March 11, 2024 from 9:00 AM until the hour of service at the church.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the church or the organization of your choosing.


Virginia A. Grasse

Virginia A. Grasse, 82, of Wausau, passed away on Friday, March 1, 2024.

She was born in Wausau, WI, on March 30, 1941, to the late Walter and Alice (Thompson) Kroeplin.

She retired from Northcentral Technical College at 62 years old. During her retirement, she was president of the Shriners and spent a lot of free time at various nursing homes playing her violin and volunteered for several other organizations for many years. She also enjoyed fishing with her husband. Her love of children showed when she read to the kids at the local elementary school. 

She is survived by her husband, Richard Grasse; children, Aaron McKloskey, Sara (Curt) Bode, Scott (Jessie Grasse, and Eric Grasse; grandchildren, Jennifer McKloskey, Kim (Travis) Miller, AJ McKloskey, David (Cody) Beyer, Katie Archambo, Tim Mitchell, Melissa Mitchell, Paul Grasse, David Grasse, and Thomas Grasse; 10 great-grandchildren; siblings, Wayne Kroeplin, Cheryl Millard, Robin West, Ronald Kroeplin, Art Kroeplin, Lori Hansen, and Louis Kroeplin.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Alice Kroeplin; siblings, Patricia Dzanbozoff, Barbara Kroeplin, Rosie Goretae, Don Kroeplin, and Eileen Hesse. 

A private celebration of Virginia’s life will take place at a later date.


Robert D. Junion

Robert “Bob” Junion passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 15, 1931 in Sturgeon Bay, WI to the late Ray and Loretta Junion. The oldest of three siblings, he spent much of his childhood on the family farm. He graduated from Sevastopol High School in 1949 and furthered his education at St. Norbert

College, earning a BS in Biology. He was a member of the 1952 undefeated football team and later inducted into St. Norbert’s Hall of Fame in 2002. Upon graduation, dad coached one year at Central Catholic High School in Green Bay. Dad served in the US Army Infantry where he coached and played baseball through 1956. Upon completion of his service, he attended UW Madison, graduating with an MS in physical education. During his time in Madison, he met his wife of 66 years, the former Veronica Roessler, with whom he was united in marriage on August 17, 1957 in Plain, WI.

Dad’s teaching career started in 1957 as a biology teacher in Tigerton, where he also coached basketball and baseball. In 1959, his coaching duties took him to D.C. Everest High School, where he taught physical education, science, and math. He coached freshman football and varsity basketball.

Dad went to work for Wickfield Homes and sold houses for the House of Merrill. He took a position as a financial advisor for IDS American Express until his retirement in 1999.

During the 70’s, evenings were spent traveling around the state as a WIAA referee for both basketball and football. One of his highlights as a referee was being selected to ref a game in the high school basketball state tournament in Madison.

Dad was a member of the Wausau Elks, where his entire family would frequently gather in the banquet room for Friday Night Fish Fries. He volunteered his time and talents in various capacities for the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of St. Therese Catholic Church for 65 years. When he was no longer able to attend live mass, mom and dad faithfully watched daily mass on T.V.

Dad’s passion was playing cards with mom or hosting his card buddies on Tuesdays. They never missed because mom always had lunch and dessert waiting for them. His card playing took him to many annual tournaments in Texas, Las Vegas, Fond Du Lac, Canada, and Germany. Wherever there was a card game, dad was there either with a hand to play or soliciting advice on how to play your hand.

Dad loved his family. He enjoyed summer trips to Door County to pick cherries and strawberries, trips to the beach and visit family, as well as Madison. Highlights of family vacations were to Florida in which all of the kids flew free and a trip to Mexico with the whole family. He always made it a priority to attend all sporting events in which his children and grandchildren were participating.

Dad is survived by his eight children: Jaci (Doug), Don, Rick (Laurie), Dave, Dianne (Phil), Janine, Lisa (Gary), and Kathy. Ten grandchildren: Amber (Matt), Bryce (Elyse), Luke, Jennifer (Mike), Jordan (Julie), Sydney (Gabe), Caleigh, Joshua, Travis and Mara. Seven great-grandchildren: Brock, Marletta, Kealan, Finola, Gavin, Theodore, and Francis. He is further survived by his brother, Bill, along with many nieces and nephews. The priceless memories, stories and traditions will forever be in our hearts, as their legacy lives on in their family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you take the time to do something special with your family or a donation to the Family Crisis Center (1616 W. River Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54481).

Our sincerest gratitude to his granddaughter, Sydney, the staff at Rennes, and Nurse Jenny, for the care they provided.

Arrangements provided by Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home. Visitation will be held March 15 from 4PM-8PM at Peterson Kraemer (1302 Sixth Street Wausau). Visitation will be held March 16 from 9AM-11AM at St. Therese Catholic Church, Rothschild, with Mass to follow at 11AM.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.


Veronica M. Junion

Veronica “Ronni” passed away peacefully on February 28, 2024 surrounded by her family. She was born September 14, 1935 in Bear Creek, WI to the late Anthony and Apollonia Roessler. She was the youngest of eight children and grew up on the family farm. Her deep love for animals carried through her entire life and she found great joy when family would bring their dogs over for visits.

Mom graduated high school from Spring Green in 1953 and was named class valedictorian. In 1956 she met dad, and they were united in marriage on August 17, 1957 in Plain, WI. Together they raised eight children. Most of her life was spent as a homemaker. She especially loved cooking and baking: apple and cherry pie, donuts, and cinnamon rolls were just a few of her specialties. She helped grow her family’s love of desserts, especially the angel food cake, that always seemed to disappear before mealtime. She was a skilled seamstress, often sewing clothes for her daughters. Found joy in her flower gardens and numerous craft projects. She never missed making lunch and dessert on Tuesdays for dad and his card buddies. Wednesday mornings she spent down the hill at Coral Lanes Bowling Alley as a member of the Coffee Klatsch League. She would often take her younger children and later her grandchildren to “bowling school” at the bowling alley.

Mom worked outside the home for American Greetings at Shopko in Rothschild for many years. Mom and dad were avid travelers, enjoying many countries and much of America. In 2009 she had a trip of a lifetime when the entire family celebrated Christmas in Mexico. She had a great love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their door at 1413 was always open…whether stopping in for a snack or meal, helping bake deliciousness, grabbing dessert, playing cards, watching a game show or sports game, saying hi or celebrating…it will forever be a special gathering place for family to join together.

Mom was a member of St. Therese Catholic Church for 65 years, participating on the Little Flower Council and neighborhood card club. When she was no longer able to attend, mom and dad faithfully enjoyed daily mass on T.V. Mom enjoyed playing cribbage with dad or whoever stopped by.

Mom is survived by her eight children: Jaci (Doug), Don, Rick (Laurie), Dave, Dianne (Phil), Janine, Lisa (Gary), and Kathy. Ten grandchildren: Amber (Matt), Bryce (Elyse), Luke, Jennifer (Mike), Jordan (Julie), Sydney (Gabe), Caleigh, Joshua, Travis and Mara. Seven great-grandchildren: Brock, Marletta, Kealan, Finola, Gavin, Theodore and Francis. The priceless memories, stories and traditions will forever be in our hearts, as their legacy lives on in their family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you take the time to do something special with your family or a donation to Family Crisis Center (1616 W. River Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54481).

Our sincerest gratitude to her granddaughter, Sydney, Rennes and Nurse Jenny for the care they provided.

Arrangements provided by Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home. Visitation will be held March 15 from 4PM – 8PM at Peterson /Kraemer (1302 Sixth Street Wausau). Visitation will be held March 16 from 9AM – 11AM at St. Therese Catholic Church, Rothschild, with Mass to follow at 11AM.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.


Shirley A. Gutowski

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley A. Gutowski of Wausau, Wisconsin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, who departed this world on March 2, 2024.

Born on June 15, 1937, in Wausau, Wisconsin to Mona Greubel (nee Huehnerfuss) and Harold Saindon. Shirley had one brother, Phillip Saindon (deceased). Shirley attended Wausau East High School, graduating in 1955 and that same year she married Joseph Gutowski (“Joe”).

Shirley gave unwavering love to her family. She was a devoted wife for 68 years to Joseph Gutowski “Joe” through their life, and was an anchor to her family as they navigated military moves to Patuxent River, Maryland, Memphis, Tennessee, Rota, Spain and San Diego, California. She loved San Diego and lived there for twenty years, returning to Wausau, Wisconsin upon Joe’s military retirement.

Shirley was the proud and loving mother of three children: Steven Gutowski (67), Gary Gutowski (62), and Julie Meeks (nee Gutowski) (59). She was a nurturing mother with a fun sense of humor, and she created a home full of warmth, love and laughter.  Shirley was the foundation for her children and grandchildren, especially around the holidays; and her legendary cookies and pies were the centerpiece of every occasion. She was extremely kindhearted, had a great sense of humor, and exhibited such a warmth and joyful presence that made everyone she met gravitate toward her.

Shirley loved helping people and made monthly donations to at least a dozen charities. She was a woman of devout faith, and strongly believed in the promise of the afterlife. Although we are devastated that she is no longer with us, we find solace knowing she is joyfully reunited with her parents and brother in Heaven.

Shirley is survived by her husband Joe, her three children,  five grandchildren Hillary (Steve) Nester (nee Annin), Miles (Sarah) Annin, Gray Clohessy, Hayley Gutowski, and Alex Gutowski. She was also the great-grandmother to Blair Annin, and Emmett and Jack Nester and mother-in law to Mark Meeks, Hiedi Gutowski and Judy Gutowski.

The funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 15, 2024 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau.  Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until the time of service all at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com


Kenneth A. Reuter

Kenneth A. Reuter, 80, passed away February 29th at his home. Born April 17, 1943 to Raymond and Anna (Vogl) Reuter.

Ken was born and raised on the Reuter family farm, in the Town of Rietbrock and later purchased the farm. Ken was a self-employed milk hauler, retiring in 2017. In 1980, he and his brother opened Poniatowski Service, repairing farm machinery for local farmers. He also served as supervisor and later was elected chairman for the Town of Rietbrock and was on the Board of Directors for the Athens Area Credit Union.

Ken had a kind and generous spirit. He was always ready to help anyone that needed assistance in any way he could.

Ken is survived by a sister Doris (Vincent) Folz of Stratford and nephews, Kevin (Amenia) Folz, Todd Folz and Brian Folz. Brother, Marvin (Nancy) Reuter of Athens and niece Amy Jacob and her daughters Brandi and Brooke of Athens. Nephew Paul (Tanya) Reuter of Oshkosh and their children, Dylan Reuter, Matthew Reuter and Mikayla Reuter also of Oshkosh.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Roman and niece Lisa Gungor.

Services will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, 125074 Co. Rd U, Edgar on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, with visitation from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a,m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.


Susan L. Thurston

Susan Lee Thurston, 74, of Mattoon, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at her home.

Susan was born on June 15, 1949, the daughter of Lee and Gloria (Jackson) Lukens.

Susan was a very hard worker, working many waitressing jobs throughout her life, and achieving her CDL and drove truck for a potato farm. She retired as a CNA at Wisconsin Veteran Home at King. In her younger years, Susan was very active in politics and canvased for Reagan. Susan moved to the Mattoon area in 2020 and loved her community. She was very religious and a very giving person and donated monthly to Shepherd’s Watch Christian Academy in Mattoon. Susan enjoyed fishing and watching the Packers. She enjoyed time spent with family.

Susan is survived by her mother, Gloria; four children, Lee (Darci) Krueger, Luke (Suzanne O’Connell) Krueger, Tegan (Noah) Thurston-Rademacher, and Kristian Thurston; 10 grandchildren, Trent (Britt) Krueger, Nick Krueger, Brett (Bailey) Krueger and Kyle Krueger; Lillian Fitzgerald, Lucille Fitzgerald and Liam Fitzgerald, Ruby, Henry and Beatrice Thurston-Rademacher; one great-grandchild, Riley Krueger; long time boyfriend, Horst Mielke; siblings, Judy (George) Westveer and Brian Lukens; friend, Ed Quarna and many other relatives and friends.

Susan was preceded in death by her father and three siblings, Kathy, Mike and Tracy.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Town of Mattoon for welcoming Susan to their community and being such good friends to her, especially Charlotte Horrell, Steve Brennecke, Jodie Henery, and Corey Welch.

Services are pending.

Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood, is assisting the family with arrangements.


Anton J. Knauf

Anton “Tony” J. Knauf, 77, Marathon, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

He was born October 17, 1946, to the late Anton and Mary (Hornung) Knauf.  In 1964 he graduated from Marathon High School and then attended the National School of Meat Cutting in Toledo, Ohio.  In 1966 he entered the United States Marine Corps and served in Vietnam on the DMZ in Gio Linh as a radio relay operator.  He left Vietnam in late 1967 but Vietnam never left him!  He suffered from severe PTSD all of his adult life. 

For over 35 years he worked at 29 Super Market as a meat cutter.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, trap shooting and just being outdoors.

He is survived by his brother, Irvin; sister, Florence; a nephew Bryan Tello and Bryan’s three children, Paige, Owen and Nadia Tello.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Disabled Veteran’s of America or Paralyzed Veteran’s of America.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com