10 May 2023

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Richard (Dick) David Grinker

Richard (Dick) David Grinker


1948-2023 Richard (Dick) David Grinker, age 75 of Dorchester, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2023. Born March 30, 1948 in the Township of Little Black, to Charles and Clara Grinker; the baby of their ten children. Richard grew up on his parents’ dairy farm graduating from Medford High School in 1966. He joined the Navy out of high school and served as a barber and ran the laundry aboard the USS Hancock during the Vietnam War. He spent time in Japan and Alaska as part of his military service. After leaving the navy and returning to Wisconsin, Richard worked with his brothers, Bob and Don, repairing small engines. In 1969, he moved to Milwaukee and worked at Oak Creek Motorsports. He especially enjoyed repairing and riding motorcycles. Richard married his loving wife of nearly 49 years, Jackie Grinker (nee. Berkowitz) in 1974. He adopted their son, Greg Grinker shortly after. Their daughter, Jenny Cameron (nee. Grinker) was born two years later. Richard earned several associates degrees in HVAC. He worked for a private HVAC company for several years then moved onto working for the City of Milwaukee Housing Authority, moving his way up to a supervisory position. Richard also worked as the Supervisor of Maintenance for the Milwaukee Police Department, retiring in 2009. After retirement, he wanted to return to where he was born and raised. He and Jackie made a home in Dorchester. Richard had endless hobbies including woodworking, wine making, beer crafting, soap making, gardening, and he earned his Extra Class Ham Radio license (KB9BPL). He was a member of the Black River Amateur Radio Association, which held a special place in his heart. He is survived by his wife, Jackie Grinker; his son, Greg (Renee) Grinker; his daughter, Jenny (Brock) Cameron; his grandchildren, Brittany (Zak) Krueger, Andrew Linstedt, Leia Cameron, Luke Cameron; and his great-granddaughter, Zoey Hardesty. Also survived by two brothers; one sister; one brother-in-law; three sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers; and one sister. As per Richard’s request, he was given a simple cremation, no funeral or services will be held. Paid Obituary 136382

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Rose M. Themar

Rose M. Themar


1931-2023 Rose M. Themar, 91, of Medford passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023 at her home, surrounded by family, under the care of Hope Hospice. A memorial mass for Rose will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:30 a.m. Rose was born on Nov. 14, 1931 to Charles and Rose (Deml) Hoffman in Cudahy. The family moved to Medford when Rose was 14 and she attended Medford High School. She married Peter Themar on July 7, 1951 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church and they were married for nearly 70 years; he preceded her in death in 2021. Together they raised their children and operated a mink ranch and sheep farm. They also hosted a prolife garage sale for many years, until it outgrew their property and were involved in many church activities. They also enjoyed traveling together. Rose loved celebrating and hosting birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas Eve. She also loved getting together for family outings and picnics. She was also an avid gardener and enjoyed growing flowers and vegetables. Rose is survived by her children, Therese (Jack) Freudenthal, Carol Jahsman, Marilyn (Larry) Matyka, all of Medford; grandchildren, Jim (Jenny) Freudenthal, Laura (Mitch) Peters, Jerry Freudenthal, Joe (Katie) Freudenthal, Jeremiah (Marie) Jahsman, Jennifer (Taka) Kuvaoga, and Matthew and Sarah Matyka; step-grandson, Jason Jahsman; and 11 greatgrandchildren. Rose was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Yvonne Themar; siblings, Dolores Goerg, Charles Hoffman, and George Hoffman. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Rose’s name may be given to either Holy Rosary School or Abiding Care. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice. com. Paid Obituary 136383

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Darrel “Wayne” Burton

Darrel “Wayne” Burton


1966-2023 Darrel “Wayne” Burton, 57, of Wausau and formerly of Medford, passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, after a four-year battle with colon cancer. Wayne was born on April 17, 1966, in Norton, Va. to the late Darrel and Bobbie (Davidson) Burton. As a child Wayne’s family lived in Virginia and Kansas, with most of that time spent in Kansas. In the 1990’s Wayne moved to Wisconsin and decided to put down roots. Wayne worked at Black River Industries in Medford for over 10 years and was the Transportation Supervisor when he quit and moved to Wausau. He became employed at Menzner Lumber and Supply in Marathon City, working there for over 5 years. On July 1, 2017, Wayne was united in marriage to his best friend and the love of his life, Angela Baumann. Over the years Wayne was active in the Stratford Horseshoe League and several bowling, dart, and pool leagues and always enjoyed a good game of cards, especially with his brothers. He was active in Taylor County Special Olympics, having served as the Agency Manager for over 10 years, receiving Agency Manager of the Year Award in 2008. He loved his Special Olympics family and always held a special place in his heart for them. Wayne is survived by his wife, Angela; a son, Dionsius “DJ” Johnson; two daughters, Faith (Jered) Farris, and Kaisha Scharrschmidt, all of Wisconsin. He is also survived by three brothers, Robert Burton, Steven (Samantha) Burton, and Tim (Kayla) Burton; one sister, Jessie (Eric) Goodyear, all of Kansas; four grandchildren, Hailey Johnson, Jacob Mock, Kaena Farris, and Liam Johnson; with his first greatgrandchild expected next year. Other survivors include several nieces, nephews, numerous cousins, two aunts and an uncle, Debbi Davidson and Dorothy (Jimmy) Qualls all of Virginia; close family friend, Mike Nielsen; and longtime best friend, Shawn Pearson, both of Kansas. Wayne is survived by his in-laws, Eunice and Elgart Baumann, Jr.; a brotherin- law Tim (Beverly) Baumann; sister-in-law, Brenda Baumann. A precious god-daughter, Raven Denzin, also survives. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; two aunts, Tommie Harding, and Linda Huff; and one uncle, Thomas “Peegib” Davidson, all of Virginia. Wayne knew the importance of family and always put them before anything else. Hanging out with his grandchildren was one of his favorite things to do. He loved attending their sporting events and concerts, always beaming with pride. Wayne was blessed to have spent some special time with his brothers on several fishing trips and a wild boar hunt in Oklahoma. Funeral Services for Wayne will be at 12 p.m., Saturday, May 13 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Avenue, Wausau, Wis. with Rev. James L. Mayland officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 12 Noon at the church. Burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery, Merrill, Wisconsin. He was a gentle giant, a teddy bear, an advocate for the most vulnerable of our population, well respected, intelligent, compassionate, kind, opinionated, and always fair. The absence of his presence will be felt by many. Wayne’s family would like to thank Dr. Chris Peterson, Dr. Clarissa Renken, Dr. Dustin Deming, the entire staff of the Aspirus Regional Cancer Center, and UW-Carbone Cancer Center in Madison, for the thorough, diligent, and compassionate care he received. Paid Obituary 136285

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David Joseph Bates

David Joseph Bates


1954-2023 David Joseph Bates, age 69, of Faribault, Minn. passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Church of St. Patrick, Shieldville, Minn. at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Interment will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Shieldsville. Dave was born on May 2, 1954, in Milwaukee, to Lawrence “Larry” and Mary (Borhrer). He was raised in Medford, and graduated from Medford High School in 1972. He received his bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Stout with vocational engineering. He worked at Northwest Airlines as a fleet manager and Ford as heavy truck sales representative for 16 years. Dave loved to fly, he was a private pilot and loved to restore planes, including restoring a 1941 Stearman and won an antique customize champion award at the Oshkosh airshow. In addition to restoring planes, he loved to refurnish old cars, including Ford model A’s. He loved to travel with Paola, history, a great storyteller, always kept busy, but always was generous with his time. He is survived by his wife, Paola Sandroni; children, David (Meghan) Bates and John (Tara Madson) Bates and Anne Bates; grandchildren, Maverikk and James Bates; sister, Barb (Tom) Voegele; brother, Mike (Patty) Bates; mother of the children, Peggy Weaver; and many nieces and nephews. David was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Mary Bates and brother, Steven Bates. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to University of Wisconsin-Stout or Church of St. Patrick, Shieldsville, Minn. Visit boldtfuneralhome.com for information and guest book. Paid Obituary 136228

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William Michael Zirngibl

William Michael Zirngibl


1957-2023 William Michael Zirngibl (Bill), 65, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023. He was surrounded by loved ones. Bill was born on March 28, 1957 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the third of five children of Ray and Carol (Kreger) Zirngibl. Bill loved spending time at his grandpa’s farm in Medford raising chickens, including his favorite, Gertrude. He went on to graduate from Saint Frances de Sales Seminary and later University of Wisconsin. Bill’s love for donuts started early when he was a baker at Mr. Donut. Shortly into his tenure as a baker, he met Susanne Barranco, and they married on March 17, 1979. They went on to welcome four daughters Jean (John) Baker, Therese (Mike) Constable, Gwen Zirngibl (Thomas O’Neil), Michelle (Jason) Taylor, in addition to Sue’s two daughters Laura (John) Emanuelson and Lynn Mautner. After moving to Michigan, Bill spent over 25 years working in the Detroit Public Schools. From a biology teacher to Planetarium Director at the Detroit Children’s Museum, he spent his years passing his love of animals and science onto anyone who would listen. It was in Michigan where he also got his master’s degree from Wayne State University. In 2001, Bill married Dena (Becker) and welcomed another daughter, Ashley (Dan) Raveau into the family. There are no words to describe Bill’s eclectic nature and how much he did in his life. He was an amazing man of many traits. These included building the first family home in Superior, Wisconsin and restoring his grandpa’s tractor. He was always tinkering with something and also spent his days outside, hunting with his siblings, fishing, or camping. He set up a maple syrup operation at his farm in Medford, Wisconsin where the family loved spending weekends tapping trees and laughing around the evaporator. He had a love for the sky, teaching about the stars and later obtaining his pilot’s license to fly on his own. After learning to fly, he taught himself to sail, and eventually sailed solo across Lake Michigan and later down the Mississippi. During a two-year span, he hiked over 2000 miles of the Appalachian Trail from Georgia, making it into Connecticut before a motorcycle injury and Lyme disease moved him to his next adventures. A cross-country trip to Alaska van camping for 8 weeks, 3 weeks traveling across Russia and China on a Trans-Siberian train adventure, and a German countryside road trip were just a few of the experiences he loved to reflect on. Those who most enjoyed hearing about Bill’s adventures were his beloved grandchildren. The favorites, most of which were almost always true, were about bears, deer hunting, fishing, and how nature works. These stories were told over a glass of fruit punch or hot chocolate (with unlimited refills) and many other sugar-filled treats (much to their parents’ chagrin). Bill was always a phone call away to answer questions pertaining to a broken AC, flooded basement, car that wouldn’t start, and was there when you needed his support. We will miss our husband, dad, grandpa, brother, son, and friend more than words can express. Bill was preceded in death by his father Ray, wife Sue and brother David. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 20 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in the town of Little Black, Medford. Following the committal service, please join the family for a luncheon reception & a toast to Bill at High View Inn, W7766 Perkinstown Ave, Medford. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice. com. Paid Obituary 136334
03 May 2023

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Lori Ann Stibbe

Lori Ann Stibbe


1960-2023 Lori Ann Stibbe, age 62, of Oshkosh, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Saturday, April 29, 2023. She was born on Dec. 22, 1960, to the late Alvin and Laura (Petersen) Stibbe in Rib Lake, where she grew up on the farm and was a graduate of Rib Lake High School. Lori lived life to the fullest with a gentle, caring heart and a vibrant, shining spirit. She loved being outside in nature, tending to her flowers and garden, watching hummingbirds, and soaking up the sun. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her cherished grandson Lucas, and granddaughter Kambria, chatting animatedly with her children, siblings, family and friends, and snuggling with her cat, Madilyn. Lori was a great cook, a talented baker with an artistic, creative eye, and most of all, absolutely loved being a mom. Lori is survived by her children, Kirk (Marissa) Schrader, Benjamin (Jackie) Schrader, Danielle (Miles Heisler) Budgin, and Phil (Colleen Chaudoir) Budgin; grandchildren, Lucas Schilleman, Kambria Heisler, Kayden Heisler, and Kalia (Heisler) Pesola; brothers, Mark (Linda) Stibbe, Jeff (Roxy) Stibbe, and Greg (Barb) Stibbe; sister Michelle (Tim) Kulchycki; former spouses and friends, Jim Budgin and Steve Schrader; and numerous nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Alvin and Laura Stibbe; she was preceded in death by a sister, Christie Stibbe; and nephews, Cody Stibbe and Tyler Matthews. A celebration of Lori’s life will be held at Ben Schrader’s home at N8366 Hwy 55, Menasha, WI 54952 from 12 p.m. on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Burial of her cremains will take place with her late parents and sister in Rib Lake. Valley Funeral Home in Appleton, assisted the family with arrangements. Paid Obituary 135967

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Rose M. Burzynski 1926-2023

Rose M. Burzynski 1926-2023


Rose M. Burzynski, 96 of Gilman, died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023 at her home with her family and Lucy by her side. A memorial mass will be held on May 13, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church-Gilman. Inurnment will follow in Meadowbrook Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. Saturday morning at church. Plombon Funeral Service is assisting the family. She was born on Oct. 22, 1926 in Polley, to the late Anna (Zwolenski) and John Brandt. Rose enjoyed growing up on the family farm and also helping her dad make cheese. Rose graduated from Gilman High in 1944. Rose and Florian were married on Aug. 19, 1944 at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Gilman. They enjoyed farming and also bought the Bellinger Tavern and in the 50’s the Polley Tavern until 1926-2023 they bought the family farm in the town of Ford where they raised their five children. Florian began the Burzynski Insurance Agency and the Gilman Area Credit Union. Rose was an incredible housewife, gardener and mother who was married to Florian for 65 years. After Florian passed in 2009 Lucy became her partner. Rose loved the Red Hats organization and she was an active member of the Saints Peter & Paul Rosary society. She is survived by her children, Lawrence Burzynski of Escondedo, Calif., Elizabeth (Marshall) Harris of LaQuinta, Calif., Barbara (Randy) Ahlers of Eau Claire, Mary Ann (Arthur) Krull of Utah and John (Jill) Burzynski of Gilman; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Rose was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother, John; and her sister, Alice. A special thank you to Hope Hospice for their outstanding love and service during Mom’s journey. The family would also like to thank ALL of the people in Gilman who have been absolutely wonderful to our mother throughout her years. We will never forget your kindness. Paid Obituary 135984
26 April 2023

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Mary Ann Dassow

Mary Ann Dassow


1929-2023 Mary Ann Dassow, 93, of Medford, died Monday, April 24, 2023 at her home surrounded by family and while under the care of Hope Hospice. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 5, 2023 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church (OLPH) in Whittlesey with Fr. Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial for Mary Ann and her husband Harold will follow the service across the street at OLPH Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Friday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated and may go to OLPH Building Fund. Mary Ann was born April 28, 1929 in Medford to Joseph and Mary (Foremski) Kraemer. On May 10, 1947 she married Harold Dassow Sr. They resided in the town of Medford where they farmed and raised their 12 children. The family often tells the story of how Harold used to help Mary Ann with her arithmetic and taught her that 1+1=12! Mary Ann enjoyed gardening, loved flowers, babies, a cold beer, her cows, and spending time with her family. Her response to almost anything was “Whatever!” So much so that the family had shirts made with “Whatever” printed on them and wore them to her birthday party. Survivors include her children, Joseph (Lynn) Dassow of Phillips, Mary Lou (Duane) Anderson, Judy (Gary) Weir, LeRoy Sr. (Jeanette) Dassow, Ronald (Sharon) Dassow, Mark Dassow, all of Medford, Jane (Hoss) Ostrowski of Kronenwetter, Carol (Tom) Judnic, Lanny (Debra) Dassow, Sara (Todd) Ruesch, all of Medford, Laura (Steve) Larson of Stratford; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Kraemer of Medford, Darlene Draeger of Medford; brothers- in-law, Edward Leader of Birchwood, Arnold Dassow of Medford; 32 grandchildren; 46 greatgrandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Henry Kraemer, Catherine Poehnelt, Edward Kraemer, Agnes Leader, Eileen Rogers, and Tony Fleischman; her son, Harold Jr. “Sonny” (Betty) Dassow; grandson, LeRoy Dassow Jr.; and her husband Harold Sr. on May 25, 2019. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the entire staff at Hope Hospice for their care, kindness and love shown to Mary Ann. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www. hemerfuneralservice.com. Paid Obituary 135657

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Sally Loucks Ketelhut

Sally Loucks Ketelhut


1951-2023 Sally Loucks Ketelhut, 71, of Medford, died Sunday, April 23, 2023 at VitaCare Assisted Living in Medford while under the care of Hope Hospice. Private services will be held at a later date. She was born Dec. 18, 1951 in Hinsdale, Ill. to Scott and Rachel (Musselman) Loucks. She graduated from Hinsdale High School, class of 1970. She continued her education at UW–Eau Claire, earning a B.S. degree in Marketing. On Aug. 3, 1974 Sally married Jack Ketelhut in Clarendon Hills, Ill. They resided in Eau Galle, until 1977, then moved to McFarland, where they resided until 2007 when they moved to Medford. While living in McFarland, Sally worked as a secretary for McFarland Middle School for many years, then worked as an office manager for Allcom Telephone Company, retiring in 2006. Sally enjoyed doing crafts of all kinds and spending time with family at their cottage. Those who knew and loved her will always miss her humor and sass. Survivors include her husband, Jack of Medford; son, Scott (Shelly) Ketelhut of Fond du Lac; daughter, Lori (Brendan) Dwyer of Mechanicsville, Va.; sisters, Pat (Jerry) Kroft of Millbrae, Calif., Jane (John) Grining of Westmont, Ill.; and five grandchildren, Max and Zachary Ketelhut, Finley, Daxton and Piper Dwyer. She was preceded in death by her parents. Memorials in Sally’s honor are appreciated and may go to Hope Hospice, 537 W. Broadway Ave., Medford, WI 54451. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www. hemerfuneralservice.com. Paid Obituary 135561