Carol H. Prochnow
Carol H. Prochnow, 86, of Wausau, peacefully passed away on June 19, 2024, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, with her loving family at her side.
Carol was born on March 5, 1938, in Marathon County, to the late Rudolph Sr. and Helen (Moeck) Kolbe. Carol married Donald Prochnow on December 11, 1954, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in the Town of Stettin. He preceded her in death. Carol was a homemaker and helpmate to her husband while they farmed.
Carol enjoyed crossword puzzles, Sudoku, Word Jumbles, playing games with children and adults, and vegetable gardening. She also enjoyed farming and was an avid Brewer fan. Carol was an active member in St. John Church as a Sunday School Teacher, Bible Study Leader- ELCA Church Women, choir member and quilter for Lutheran World Relief. She was also a charter member of the Friendly 12 Homemakers since 1963. She cherished spending time with her family, friends, and neighbors. She will be missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.
Carol is survived by her children, Roger (Helen) Prochnow of Wausau and Ruthann (Steven) Dahlke of Marathon; grandchildren, Kevin, Joshua (Jessica), Scott (Elizabeth), Benjamin (Lauren), Rebecca, and Christopher; 8 great granddaughters; and 1 great grandson. She is further survived by her sister, Joyce Wendt of Merrill; nieces, nephews, many neighbors and friends. Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Prochnow; parents; and brother, Rudolph A. Kolbe, Jr.
A church service for Carol will be held Friday, June 28, 2024, at 11:00 am at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 5304 North 44th Avenue, Village of Maine, with Rev. Maggie Westaby officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am at the church and continuing until the time of service. Burial will immediately follow at Rib View Cemetery, Town of Stettin, with a fellowship luncheon at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Our family wishes to thank the staff at both Mountain Terrace and Aspirus Hospital for their dedicated care of Carol.
Laura R. Rothmeyer
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Rose Rothmeyer, who left this world on June 16, 2024, at the age of 60, in Wausau, WI. Laura was born on March 18, 1964, and spent her life embracing the simple joys and pleasures that surrounded her.
Laura’s life was one filled with creativity, appreciation for the beauty of nature, and her love for collecting unicorns. She found solace in knitting, crafting, and spending time in her garden, where she cultivated both plants and cherished memories. Her love for music and camping brought her closer to those she held dear, embodying her caring and selfless nature.
A devoted homemaker, Laura dedicated her days to putting others first, always ready to listen and offer sage advice. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will forever be cherished by her children, Rose Rothmeyer (Michael Frank), Tiffany Donahue (Tony Lavake), and Jason Donahue, along with her grandchildren Zyrena, Claire, Faith, and Austin. Laura will also be missed by her siblings Brian and Ronald Hintze, her uncle Gordy Hintze, and her friend and the father of her children Joel Rothmeyer, her long-time partner Mike Kelly, and a multitude of other relatives and friends.
Laura is preceded in death by her parents; Vera and Gerald Hintze; brother Todd Hintze and beloved K-9 companion, Sheba.
In the days to come, Laura’s life will be honored and celebrated in funeral services and ceremonies that will pay tribute to her legacy of warmth, compassion, and unwavering love. She will be remembered not for the void her absence leaves but for the light she brought into the lives of those fortunate enough to have known her.
May Laura Rose Rothmeyer’s spirit find peace, and may her memory continue to inspire acts of kindness and generosity among those who loved her. Her presence will forever be missed and her essence forever cherished.
Anthony J. Thurs
Anthony “Tony” J. Thurs, 82, Edgar passed away peacefully on Monday, June 17, 2024, at Copper Leaf Assisted Living/Memory Care, Marathon.
He was born January 6, 1942, in Edgar, son of the late Anthony and Marcella (Hall) Thurs. On February 10, 1962, he married Janice “Jan” Volhard, the love of his life, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon.
Tony was an excellent baseball and basketball player at Edgar High School. His basketball team was one game short of making it to the state tournament. It was quite the accomplishment because there was only one division back then. After high school Tony attended North Central Technical school. Tony was hired by Hartwig Manufacturing Corporation where he worked as a draftsman designing bridges until retirement. In 1976, Tony and Jan created their own Ginseng business. Tony thoroughly enjoyed his part-time job. No one kept better notes and laid out the gardens with the precision that Tony did. It had to be perfect.
Although Tony was a quiet man, he always had a smile on his face and his easy going personality made him fun to talk with. He loved to laugh with everyone, especially the love of his life, Jan. Being with friends and family made him very happy and he was often the last to go home.
Living his best life in retirement, Tony enjoyed traveling, bowling, golfing, gambling, going to the farm, and watching all the grandkids participate in their sporting events, even if they wore red.
Tony also enjoyed going to the “Shack” on Lake Nokomis, fishing, and camping with family and friends at his favorite place, Rock Dam. Above all Tony absolutely cherished time with his family, especially with his grandchildren.
Survivors include his children, David (Sue) Thurs, Edgar, Connie (Brad) Hanson, St. Mary’s Point, MN, Tammy (Jim) Anderson, Wausau and Jamie (Luke) Koehler, Edgar, his grandchildren, Caley (Jon) Stahel, Tessa Thurs(fiance Joel Biadasz), Hannah Olson, Jaron Olson, Cole and Garrett Hanson, Jacee (Ben) Kellner, Justin (fiance Claire Pody) Anderson and Julia (Caleb) Howland, Malana, Brooks and Taya Koehler and his great grandchildren, Kingstyn, Adley and Mick Stahel, his sisters, Alvina (Ray) Joswiak, Mamie (Jim) Warosh, his brother Wally (Judy) Thurs, sister-in-law Donna (Eugene) Stahel, brother-in-law, Roger Rasmussen and many nieces and nephews.
Tony was preceded in death by his wife, parents, sisters Luella Straub and Jeanie Rasmussen, brother-in-laws, Gerald Straub and Fred Otto.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar. Rev. Alan Wierzba and Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be on Monday from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the church and again on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. There will be a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Monday evening at the church.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Karen H. Mielke
Karen H. Mielke, 81, Wausau, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends on Monday, June 17, 2024.
She was born February 27, 1943 in Wausau, daughter of the late John B. and Helen (Ziebell) Schlaefer. On April 20, 1968, she married Jack J. Mielke in Wausau. He preceded her in death on September 25, 2013.
Karen was a talented Independent Artisan, working with the local art community through Art in the Park and the Talent Shop.
In her younger years, she enjoyed spending time up North at the family cottage, camping, bowling and playing cards with family and friends. Later in life, she enjoyed bird watching, reading and traveling with her friends.
Karen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Survivors include three children, Corey Mielke, Neenah, Katrina (Steve) Kopp, Kronenwetter and Bradley (Jessica) Mielke, Wausau; and five grandchildren, Evelyn Mielke, Kole and Austin Kopp, and Collin and Grace Mielke.
Besides her parents and husband, Jack, she was preceded in death by two brothers, John C. “Jack” Schlaefer and Jim Schlaefer; and her in-laws, Aldon and Evelyn Mielke.
The funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Tom Lindner will preside. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
Dr. Jeffery S. Wierichs
Dr. Jeffery Wierichs LTC (RET) USArmy “Dr. J.” Obituary
“When I lay my head on my pillow at night, I ask myself “Did I do good in the world today?” (Dr. Jeff)
The answer to your question unequivocally Dr. Jeff is “YES! YOU did an ABUNDANCE of good in the world today and EVERY SINGLE DAY!”
While Dr. Jeff had kicked cancer’s %$# since 2015, a freak accident at home over Labor Day weekend significantly impaired his physical being. When asked how he was doing he would respond “I’m still in the fight.” Although he was a warrior, a “force” who optimistically and faithfully fought with dignity and grace, never once complaining, Dr. Jeffery S. Wierichs (LTC (RET) USArmy, passed at the Zablocki VA Hospital after a 9 month complicated, “1 step forward, 2 steps back “ordeal. He left this world with the pride, admiration, love and respect of his family and all who knew him. Jeffery did everything humanly possible to recover, but modern medicine didn’t hold up its end of the deal. Jeffery said “Don’t be sorry for me. I’ve lived a great life and God is in charge. I’m at peace with it and just want my family and those around me to be at peace too.” Still putting others before him until the end.
How does one describe Jeffery’s huge heart, and his large presence which filled a room? You can’t possibly capture it all. Instead, you share an overview of the amazing person he was and trust that those whose lives he positively impacted are changed for the better and will pay it forward and share Jeffery’s legacy so he lives on. We will tell you this: When Jeffery was in a room of people, if you didn’t know him beforehand, you knew who Dr. Jeffery Wierichs was thereafter, because he made you feel like you had known him forever. Jeffery remembered you from that day forward and you too look forward to the day you would see and talk to him again.
Jeffery had a quick and witty sense of humor, was grateful, optimistic, humble, compassionate, selfless, loyal and of unwavering dedicated service to our country, his patients, community, numerous nonprofit organizations and his friends and family. He was an outstanding provider and protector who loved his son Zachary, and his late wife Dr. Sandra Wierichs.
Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Jeff retired from the US Military after 26 total years of service in both the United States Marine Corps and Army/Army Reserve. He received multiple awards during his military service including, but not limited to The Army Achievement medal and the Army Commendation medal while serving as an Executive Officer. LTC Jeff’s most coveted miliary award however is The de Fleury Award for professional excellence in the Engineer Regiment.
After his miliary retirement, to continue in service to his fellow veterans, Jeffery was instrumental in founding the Fox Valley Veterans Council and the AMVETS Post 1212. He also took an active role in the American Legion, PLAV, (Polish Legion American Vets), as he was of proud Polish decent and the Military Veterans Museum. In addition to his service in veteran organizations, he co-founded the Fox River Lions club with his late big brother Lou. Together they created and organized unique events for fundraising such as the (NCAA) Final Four and (WI) Badger Bash to raise funds for the overall good of the Lions organization which in turn helped others in our community. Jeffery was a longtime supporter of the Greenville Lions and their Catfish Races/Concert Security team during concert festivities. (Although not a member of the Greenville club, they previously recognized his dedicated service with an award) This past year he was asked to introduce the bands during the Catfish Concert kick off. He was honored to do so and even more so when he was able to use the stage to give honor to his son Zachary who was celebrating his 33rd birthday that same day. Jeffery would beam saying he always told Zachary he wanted to throw him a big birthday party and with 10,000 concert goers singing Happy Birthday to his son, Jeffery did just that.
The Fox River Lions annual rose sale was an event Jeffery held near and dear to his heart. He dedicated an incredible amount of time and effort toward its success. One of Jeffery’s most heralded fund raisers, for obvious reasons, was his hosting of The Army/Navy Game fundraising event at the local Legion Club to raise money for Veterans and their families in need. Jeffery was a dedicated servant and relentless Warrior.
While on Active Duty at Fort Leonardwood, Missouri in the United States Army Jeffery also attended National College of Chiropractic in Illinois to pursue his Doctorate of Chiropractic degree before online classes were an option. He was simultaneously dedicated to his full-time military service, full-time chiropractic studies and home life obligations. He would often arise at the crack of dawn to travel 10 hours in a weekend roundtrip to visit his newborn son and wife, his one love Dr. Sandra (Kalies) Wierichs. His perseverance and dedication culminated in yet another achievement and in 1990 Dr. Jeff graduated with honors from National College of Chiropractic, also serving as President of his class and Graduation Speaker. He could add this to his list of educational achievements, which included his Masters of Business Administration degree and also having graduated 2nd in his Army class of Engineers despite having no formal Engineering degree.
Upon his graduation from National College of Chiropractic, Jeffery began Packerland Chiropractic in Green Bay, WI. Because he ideally cared about his patients Dr. Jeff’s practice grew quickly and thrived. Packerland Chiropractic, because of its well known reputation and namesake was even mentioned in an issue of Sports Illustrated when an article about Green Bay and the Packers was published. In later years Jeffery took on an Associate who would subsequently take over Packerland Chiropractic while Jeffery took over Kalies Chiropractic in Brillion, WI.
Dr. Jeff had a brilliant mind that went far beyond his formal fields of studies. His knowledge of real estate, finance, engineering, negotiations, carpentry, construction and mechanical aptitude far exceeded most, and was sought after by many, oftentimes by professionals in any of the given fields. However Jeffery was humble and would only provide input or insight if asked, putting aside whatever he was doing and giving you his full attention, sure to help, advise or even complete a project for you if needed. Even though his full-time career was Chiropractic Dr. Jeff for example, would be frequently negotiating real estate acquisitions, or working hands on remodeling one of the numerous homes he completely remodeled and resold. He was the proverbial “Jack of all Trades.”
Throughout Jeffery’s life he had a love of nature, and the outdoors supporting many wildlife organizations. From a young boy to his mid-adult life he hunted on family property in Eagle River, WI with his Dad, 3 brothers and dear friends who joined in the annual” Deer Camp.” Later years were spent hunting and fishing with his son Zachary and dear friends. Earning his bear tag in recent years Jeffery beamed to have gotten his first bear while hunting with his son. That day was a highlight for them both.
Athletics and competition were in Jeffery’s blood. He began playing football in Pop Werner, (which his Father Lou Sr. help found in the Fox Cities) and Jeffery continued throughout high school and into college, each season being selected All Conference and even All State, which earned him a college scholarship to play football. Wrestling was a love of Jeffery’s as well, and he also achieved much success on the wrestling mat. He was Nationally ranked in Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling. As an adult he competed in Rugby and supported youth athletics. Yet again Jeffery’s exemplary work ethic and dedication earned him accolades in sports as well as in life.
Dr. Jeff was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years Dr. Sandra, parents Louis J. Wierichs Sr., & Harriet (Czajka) Wierichs, brothers Louis Wierichs Jr. & Thomas Wierichs, father-in-law Ralph Kalies and mother-in-law Elaine, numerous Aunts and Uncles and beloved canines.
Dr. Jeff is survived by his son Zachary Wierichs, (Angie Kleinmann) his brother, Retired USArmy Colonel Daniel Wierichs (Julie), sisters Christina Wierichs-Kimball (Tim), Maria Wierichs (Patti Jorgensen), sister-in-law Terri (Lutz) Wierichs nieces Nichole Meser (Allen), MAJ (RET) USARNG Heather Bearce (Ron), Brogan Kimball, Tessa Wierichs, nephew Cade Kimball and great niece Britnee Bearce. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Ralph and Dr. Terry Kalies, and 2nd son Corey VanderZanden.
Dr. Jeff and family would like to thank Anne Marie, PA, Kay, Nurse (RET) and Rachel, SW at the Appleton VA Clinic, the nursing staff on floor 4C, and therapists Josh, Tyler and Stephanie at the Zablocki Veterans Hospital in Milwaukee and Drs. Ridolphi & Ridolphi, Milwaukee.
In lieu of flowers please feel free to make a monetary donation in Dr. Jeff’s name to one of the following:
AMVETS Post 1212, Appleton, WI
Fox River Lions Club
Fox Valley Veterans Council
American Legion, Appleton WI
PLAV (Polish Legion American Vets), Stevens Point, WI
Military Veterans Museum, Oshkosh
Brenda Burger
Brenda Burger died June 18, 2024 after a long hard fought 7 year battle with cancer.
Brenda was born January 2, 1954 to the late Raymond and Elaine (Stoltenow) Hentz at Hankinson, ND where she lived her childhood and teenage years and graduated high school.
Through the years there are many stories that can be told about Brenda, but the most important one that she hoped to always be remembered was how truly caring & devoted she was to her family and friends. She lived her life for them. She always wanted it to be a day she could be the best that she could be, and especially the days when she was in her race with destiny fighting cancer. She strived to be a loving and devoted wife, the best mother a son could ask for, a sister & sister-in-law who was also a friend & confidant, an aunt who loved them all and a friend who truly cherished times spent together. She was always quick with a smile and tried always to see the best in people. Brenda was truly a people person and enjoyed being with people and loved sharing homemade goodies, especially at Christmas. She was always supportive of our military and veterans and was a very Proud Army Mom especially when her son Nathan was on active duty. She continued that pride and her ongoing support with donations and by displaying a lighted flag and Support Our Troops signage in her home and vehicle. She was proud of her North Dakota heritage, and she was very Proud to be an American.
Brenda is survived by her husband Patrick Burger and her son Nathan Julsrud. Her sister, Jackie (Ron) Lingen. Sisters in-laws and brothers in-laws, Sandra Burger, Barbara (Marshall) Wiedeman, John (Renee) Burger, Ted Jr. (Sheila) Burger, niece, Tana (Paul) Barney and nephews, Brad (Julie) Lingen, Joel (Nicci) Lingen, Tim (Sandy Nelson) Hentz, Nick (Kim) Burger and Zachary Burger. 1 great nephew (Sean) and 3 great nieces, (Alayna, Graysen & Gretchen). She also leaves the many great friends from her years of working at the now BMO Harris Bank. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond & Elaine Hentz, her brother Glenn Hentz, her parents-in-law, Ted Sr.& Jean Burger, and her fur babies, her very special Pugs: Chubby & Pudge.
Brenda’s support of our military can be carried on by memorials being sent to The USO (United Service Organization) or because cancer does not care how old you are, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Both of these organizations were dear to Brenda’s heart.
Brenda taught us the importance of love, gratitude and being humble. She challenged us to find joy in every day and to be grateful for every sunrise. We are extremely proud of her and her impact on our lives will forever be carried with us.
A celebration of life service will be held at Noon on Friday, June 28, 2024 at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau. Visitation will be Friday from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service all at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
