Jamie Merlin Kraegenbrink

1978-2025

Jamie Merlin Kraegenbrink, 47, of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 21, 2025, in Wausau. Jamie was born to John and Barbara (Piller) Kraegenbrink on July 2, 1978, in Wausau. He attended and graduated from Merrill High School. He had a deep love for photography and a fascination with rocks and agates, which he enjoyed collecting, tumbling, and polishing. He found serenity in nature— fishing, camping under the trees, sitting beside a crackling fire, and gazing at the stars brought him peace. In his younger years, Jamie embraced adventure through snowboarding and rollerblading. He even skydived! He cherished the freedom of the open road with the windows down and music playing loudly. Music held a special place in Jamie’s heart; he listened to all genres, with each song carrying a memory. He was a devoted father and a gentle, patient caretaker to his son, Dylan. Jamie was always ready to help his family, generously offering his time and support whenever it was needed. His selflessness and willingness to lend a hand were true reflections of his kind spirit.

Jamie’s curiosity led him to treasure hunting with his metal detector, rock hunting, and even ghost hunting. He had a mischievous sense of humor that wasn’t for the faint of heart! Jamie will be deeply missed and forever loved—his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Jamie leaves behind the light of his life, his son, Dylan; parents, John and Barb Kraegenbrink; sister, Melody (Bill) Sawyer; brother, John (Kelly) Kraegenbrink with their daughters, Brooklyn and Korina; and numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Merlin and Ruth (Hackbarth) Kraegenbrink, Lawrence Piller and Ruth (Singleton Smith Piller) Thomsen; his beloved-feathered, family member Petey; his uncles, Dale Kraegenbrink, Tom Boor, Bob Gruny, and Steve Tietz; his aunt, Teri Kraegenbrink; and his cherished cousins.

The funeral service for Jamie will be held on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, at 12 p.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home, 301 Eagle Drive, Merrill. Rev. Greg Laska will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and again on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service, everything at the funeral home. Burial will be at Springbrook Cemetery, town of Pine River, immediately following the service.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.

Paid Obituary 172145