Wayne A. Johnson
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Wayne Alan Johnson who passed away on March 22, 2023 at age 70. He leaves behind a life full of love, radiant joy, and an unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and the greater community.
Born on March 21, 1954 to Willard and Mavis Johnson in Whitehall, Wisconsin, Wayne was a friend to all whom he met and those friends became family. As a young man he grew up on a dairy farm, showing Brown Swiss cattle, serving on a judging team and much involvement in 4-H programming. As an adult, Wayne shared his deep respect and love for the farming profession. He was a longtime employee at Wausau Insurance/Nationwide/Liberty Mutual before retiring after 41 years of service, a 43-year member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church and involved in various volunteer and service roles, including youth sports coaching, the Jaycees, church leadership, Badger State Games, Special Olympics, Neighbors Place, and numerous other community functions in the greater Wausau area. He enjoyed playing softball, volleyball, golfing with his friends, running many miles over the years, skiing, morning bible study with the Sunrisers, as well as traveling and enjoying the outdoors. He was a devoted Wisconsin sports fan, following the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Wisconsin Badgers.
He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Kathleen. Wayne will be deeply missed by his children Sara (Charles) Smith and Ben (fiancé Kaylee Kauffman) Johnson who carry his deep love in their hearts. In addition to his wife and children, Wayne leaves behind his adoring grandchildren, Charles Benjamin and Wayne Douglas Smith. He is also survived by three sisters and one brother. His memory will forever be cherished by his extended family, friends, and colleagues whose lives were touched by his genuine kindness and love. Wayne was also a tissue donor giving life and healing to many other individuals and families.
In memory of Wayne, let us remember the invaluable lessons he taught us: to love boldly, to laugh daily, to live a life of faith, and cherish every moment with one another.
A special thank you to the Granite Peak ski patrol and the Marathon County Sheriff’s Department for their response and care.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made directly to St. Andrews Lutheran Church, Rib Mountain.
A celebration of life will be held on April 20, 2024 at 12:00 noon at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, Rib Mountain. A visitation will take place at 9:00 am until the time of service at the church, with a fellowship lunch to follow.
Geraldine I. Filipiak
Geraldine Filipiak, age 89, passed away on March 22, 2024.
Geraldine was born in Tigerton, WI to Myron Pike and Ruth Pike on August 26th,1934. Geraldine married Chester Filipiak of Mosinee on January 1st,1955 At Holy Name Catholic Church in Wittenberg.
She was preceded in death by her husband Chester Filipiak; parents Myron Pike and Ruth Milanowski; three sisters, Donna Mae Pike, Mary Jane Nankervis, Roberta Heindl; three brothers, Leo, Lyle and David Pike and son-in law Jim Bohn.
She is survived by four sons Chuck (Joni), Dale, Joe (Julie) and Carl Filipiak; three daughters Debbie Wanta (Chris), Terrie Bohn and Lorrie Meurette; brothers Lawrence (Janice) and Arlie (Mona) Pike; sisters Carolyn Thiel and Karen (Lee) Sickler. She is further survived by many grand and great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 to the time of service at St Agnes Parish.
Services for Geraldine Filipiak will be held on Monday, April 8th at 11:00 am at St Agnes Parish with Fr. Jerome Patric officiating. Burial to follow at St Agnes Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to St Judes Childrens Research Hospital.
Merlin “Butch” Skinner
Merlin “Butch” Skinner 83, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday March 27, 2024, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
Butch was born November 23, 1941, in Milwaukee to the late Merlin Sr. and Leone (Hermance) Skinner. He grew up in the Lake Geneva area and was a graduate of Badger High School, class of 1960.
Following graduation, Butch worked for Standard Theatres as a manager until 1963, when he joined the Lake Geneva Police Department. In 1977 Butch left the police department and moved his family to Wausau having purchased Norbie’s Bar and renaming it “The Cop Shop”. After leaving the Cop Shop in 1979, he bartended at several area taverns, before purchasing the “5 & 10” Bar also here in Wausau. Butch sold that establishment in 1987 and to keep himself busy, began working as a maintenance man for the Wausau Club until his retirement in 2003.
Among his favorite pastimes, he enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and extended family. He also enjoyed camping, spending winters on South Padre Island, Texas with his wife, Mary and was an avid Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers fan.
In 1984, he married Mary Gatske Skinner who survives; along with his two children, Bart Skinner and Heather (Joe) Matter; and grandchildren, Ryan and Maegan Matter.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, John Skinner, Elsa Skinner and Patsy Eschenfeldt.
A celebration of Butch’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau. Rev. Joy Nelson-Jeffers will officiate. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Jane M. Knauf
Jane Marie Knauf, a beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on April 2, 2024 at the age of 62. She faced a 22-month battle with glioblastoma with unwavering courage and strength, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her Sun Prairie, WI home.
She was born August 1, 1961, in Wausau, WI, daughter of the late James and Ann (Austin) Seubert of Marathon, WI. On May 14th, 1983 Jane joined hands in marriage with her high school sweetheart, Dan Knauf, at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Marathon, WI. Their enduring love and partnership lasted 40 joyous years.
Jane and Dan established their family in Sun Prairie, WI in 1984, where they lovingly raised their three wonderful children. After high school, Jane attended NCTI in Wausau and graduated with a degree in computer programming. In 1981, Jane moved to Madison, WI where she embarked on a remarkable career at American Family Insurance. Her commitment to her work was evident, as she dedicated 41 years to the company, ascending to a managerial role in the IS Department. Jane retired from her fulfilling career in October 2022 due to her battle with cancer.
Jane’s passion for an active lifestyle led her to become an avid runner, maintaining peak physical condition to explore the beauty of nature on mountain trails across Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, as well as her favorite trails in Wisconsin. Beyond her own pursuits, Jane found joy in giving back to her community.
For many years, she dedicated her time to teaching Junior Achievement at Sacred Hearts School. Additionally, her enthusiasm extended to the basketball court, where she lent her support to Dan as he coached girls’ basketball.
Above all, Jane’s heart belonged to her children and grandchildren. She embraced her role as mother and Nana with love and devotion. Her children, Dave (Vanessa), Stefanie (Aaron), and Angela (Nicolas) and her cherished grandchildren, Olivia, Allie, Lucas and Owen, brought immeasurable joy to her life. The annual tradition of Camp Nana became a cherished time for laughter, bonding and making memories. Jane’s warmth and kindness and gentle spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Jane’s memory will forever remain in our hearts.
Survivors include her husband Dan, her children Dave (Vanessa) Knauf, Stefanie (Aaron) Gander, and Angela (Nicolas) Collins, and 4 grandchildren, Olivia Knauf, Allie, Lucas, and Owen Gander.
She is further survived by her father, James “Jim” Seubert, siblings Steven (Pam) Seubert, Karen (Brian) LeBlanc, Susan (David) Mleziva, William (Stasia) Seubert, Carla (Dale Brom) Roth, and Roger (Ann) Seubert, father-in-law Robert Knauf, brothers-in-law , Don (Lori) Knauf and Andy (Susie) Knauf.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Ann M. Seubert, mother-in-law, Virjean Knauf and infant sister Alice Seubert.
Jane’s family wishes to thank the staff at UW Health and Agrace Hospice Care for their exceptional care and support.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Noon, Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. The Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services, all at the church. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Agrace or the National Brain Tumor Society. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Kurt Umnus Jr.
Kurt Umnus Jr., 94, town of Wien passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at Marshfield Medical Center, Marshfield.
He was born July 28, 1929 in Edgar, son of the late Kurt and Evelyn (Warosch) Umnus. On August 4, 1995 he married Beverly Linden at St. John Lutheran Church, ELCA, town of Wien. She survives.
Kurt was a lifelong dairy farmer in the town of Wien. He was a charter member of the North Central WI Antique Steam and Gas Engine Show, charter member of the Fenwood Lions Club and a member of the Central WI Polka Club. Kurt was an avid deer hunter, starting at the age of 14, and was proud of the fact that he never missed a year in 80 years of hunting.
Survivors include his wife, Beverly Umnus, Edgar, his stepchildren, Laura (Al) Pongratz, Lois Schneider, Paul Schneider, Joyce Schneider, Jean Peterson and Sara (Cory) Rilling, four step grandchildren, Christina and Curtis Pongratz, Taylyn Dupee and Izzabella Schneider, two step great grandchildren, Kailey and Kenzie and numerous nieces and nephews. Kurt is further survived by his faithful companion, Smokey.
Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his siblings, Frederick (Lois) Umnus, Dorothy (Al) Biver, Katherine Crabtree and Joyce (David) Proft.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church, ELCA, 120500 County Road N, Edgar, WI, 54426, (Town of Wien). The Rev. Gail Sowell will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Kurt’s name. The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to Chris and all the staff with the Palliative Care Unit at Marshfield Medical Center for the outstanding care given to Kurt and his family while he was in their care. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
James J. Durkee Jr.
James J. “Durk” Durkee Jr, 54, of the town of Cassel, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at his home surrounded by family.
He was born on December 4, 1969 in Wausau to the late James Sr and Ethel (Stange) Durkee. James graduated from Edgar High School in 1988. He later married the love of his life Dorinda Bruner on September 2, 1995 at St. John Lutheran Church – High Steeple.
James enjoyed working with his hands and art. That enjoyment led to his career as an assembler of windows for many years and also his love of woodworking. James enjoyed being outside, conversations around a bonfire, good football game, deer hunting, taking the four-wheelers out, and camping with family and friends. He also loved playing card games when he was with family and friends. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and his comments from the “peanut gallery.” He loved all in his life deeply.
Survivors include his wife, Dorinda; sister, Ronda Durkee (Bryan Kramp); nieces, Isabelle Kramp, Tammy (Rory) Volm and Jamie (Jason) Adamski; great-nephews and nieces, Samantha Bruner, Eric Schmidt, Naomi Volm, Mary Volm, Jenna Adamski, and Nicholas Adamski; great-great-niece, Aubree Klimpke, Godmother, Clara Robl; close friends, Larry Block and Tim Manecke; furry friend, Roxy; and many cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr and Ethel; father and mother-in-law, Jack and Neoma (McCarthy) Bruner; maternal grandparents, John and Erma Stange; paternal grandparents, Don Durkee and Blanche Sandoval; brothers-in-laws, James, Michael, and Charles Bruner; sister-in-law, Pam Dhein; Godparents, David and Mary Durkee; cousins, Michael and Richard Wendtland; infant cousin, Susie Wickman and a cousin-in-law, Boyd Parker.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Lincare for all the years of their healthcare service.
A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church – High Steeple, 119415 Huckleberry Road, Edgar, with Rev. Michael Mathey officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will take place at a later date in Mosinee Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Laura L. Thielke
Laura Lee Thielke of Wausau passed away on March 24, 2024 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital surround by her loving family. She was born to Clarence and Thelma (Hotzel) Tice on October 15, 1953.
She married Gordon W. Thielke in 1975 and raised three children but divorced in 1992. Laura worked as a graphic designer at WeatherShield and at the Marshfield News Herald as well as in claims data entry at WPS before she retired.
She enjoyed living at CityWalk Senior Apartments in Wausau WI for many years and was a caring, selfless daughter, mother, sister, neighbor, and friend. Laura sang in the church choir and played poker with her friends on Saturday nights. She loved to read, she had a wonderful sense of humor, and she was a really talented artist.
Throughout her life whenever she could Laura enjoyed planting flowers and vegetables, cooking, and sewing as well as caring for pets and collecting beautiful dishes.
She is survived by her siblings Bruce Tice, Mary Ellen Friday, David Tice, Philip (Kristin) Tice, Elizabeth Cullen, and Raymond (Diane) Tice as well as her children Caryn (Jeff) Henrich, Ian Thielke, Andrew (Joan) Thielke, and grandchildren AJ Thielke and Ava Thielke in addition to many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Robert Tice, sister-in-law Joan Tice, brother-in-law Don Friday, sister-in- law Sherry Tice, and brother-in-law Tom Cullen.
Services will be held at St. Anne Catholic Church on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, with visitation from 9;00 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. officiated by Father Al Sloviak.
A private family burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic cemetery in Medford WI.
John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at HonorOne.com
Debra A. Wilson
Debra A. Wilson, age 69, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, after a short battle with cancer on March 28th, 2024. She was born on March 9th, 1955, to the late Herbert Makarevictz and the late Virginia Austreng.
On June 16th, 1973, she was united in marriage to the late David Wilson in Crandon WI, and shortly after they moved to the Fox Cities.
Debra was a woman of multi-talents, but she mainly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, four-wheeling, and working in the greenhouse with her partner Dave. She was known as crazy grandma to all of her loving grandchildren.
She survived by her partner Dave Jansen; her three children: Diana Jarvis, Virginia Wilson (Jermaine), and Justin (Keely) Wilson; 10 grandchildren: Chloe and Jennifer Jarvis, Nichole (Jay), Alyssa (De’Varrious), Miranda (Colin), Samatha (Steven), Shakria and Lindsay Wilson, Trent (Allyson) and Shaylan Wilson; her three great grandchildren: Hazel, Kayla, and Auroa; two sisters: Linda (Alan) Wissbroecker, Lori (Rick) Guetschow; a brother, Steven Makarevictz. She is further survived by her best friend Peggy (Mark) Casey, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many other special friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, David Wilson, her son-in-law, John Jarvis, and a grandson, Anthony David Jarvis.
A special thank you to her granddaughter Alyssa, and Aspirus Hospice.
A celebration of life will be held in honor of Debra at 11 am on April 8th at Longshots Pearson Smokehouse; N9881 Wi-55 Pearson WI.
Mom, you will be missed but may your soul rest in peace with dad as your earthly battle is now over. Put your feet on every beach there was because it’s 5 O’clock somewhere. Love, your children.
Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS
