Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral and Cremation

11/03/2025

Joseph Charles Zimmerman

Joseph “Joe” Charles Zimmerman, 68, of Merrill, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025.

Joe was born in Merrill, Wisconsin on February 17, 1957, to Victor and Charlotte (Schotz) Zimmerman. A lifelong resident of the Merrill area, Joe grew up with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the simple joys of the Wisconsin life.

He earned his associate's degree in journalism. Joe dedicated more than 20 years as a youth counselor at Lincoln Hills Boys School.

Outside of work, Joe found his greatest peace in nature. He was an avid fisherman – both open waters and frozen lakes – and loved taking extended weekend camping and fishing trips with his grandsons. Joe also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, who were his loyal companions through every season of life.

A man of deep faith, Joe was an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bloomville, where he served his parish family with a quiet generosity and steadfast belief.

Joe is survived by his son, Steve (Rebecca) Zimmerman; Grandsons, Cole (McKenzie) Zimmerman, Rylan Zimmerman, and Blake Zimmerman; siblings, Don (Sally) Zimmerman, Marian (Mike) Rickert, Betty (Clark) Ambrose, Therese (Victor) Kanitz, Rita (Mike) Walker, and Jim (Julie Jonas) Zimmerman.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Dave Zimmerman and Barb Zimmerman.

There will be a small gathering and burial at a later date.

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.

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11/01/2025

This November, we honor the incredible work of home care and hospice professionals. Your compassion and dedication bring comfort and dignity to families during challenging times. Thank you for the care and support you provide every day.

10/31/2025

Boo! Did we scare you? 👻

We hope you have a wonderful day filled with lots of treats, smiles, and fun times. Happy Halloween!

10/29/2025

Joanne M. Myszka

Joanne Margaret (Mosser) Myszka, age 88, of Merrill, Wisconsin, passed away on October 23, 2025. She was born on January 31, 1937 to William and Lena (Beyer) Mosser in Merrill, Wisconsin.

Joanne showed a love for people and a passion for learning. She attended cosmetology school in Lacrosse, Wisconsin and enjoyed using her talents in the following years. She later found a love for cooking and pursued a career as a cook at Taverns restaurant for 25 years.

She was the mother of three children, whom she loved. Joanne later married David Myszka on December 29, 1990. Together they shared many years filled with faith, laughter, and companionship.

Joanne dedicated 35 years of her life to teaching Catechist and serving her faith at St. Francis Catholic Church, where she was also a devoted communion minister. Her deep faith guided her every day, and she found joy in helping others grow in theirs.

A true people person, Joanne never met a stranger. She loved to talk, laugh, and make others feel welcome. Her friendly spirit made her a beloved friend to many.

Joanne is survived by her children, Mary (Brian) Hofele, Amy (Josh) Trantow, and William ‘Bill’ Baumann; grandchildren, Amber (Ryan) Rice, Ashley Baumann, Samantha Jo (Collin) Zoellner, and Hildie Jo Baumann; Great grandchildren, Reegan Rice and Rhett Zoellner; sisters, Sharon (John) Madden and Patty Mosser.

Preceding her in death, her parents; husband, David Myszka; siblings, Leona (Jeff) Doering, Alvina (Emil) Folta, Dorothy Carl Boquist, Mildred (Alfred ‘Butch’) Roman, Walter Mosser, and William Mosser Jr.

Joanne’s legacy is one of kindness, faith, and service. She will be deeply missed by her three children, her sisters, her extended family, her church community, and many friends whose lives she touched throughout the years.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, N4887 State Road 17, Gleason, WI 54435, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be held at 9:30 am at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services, 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, WI 54452.

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

View Joanne M. Myszka's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/24/2025

Beverly "Bev" M. Pophal

Beverly “Bev” M. Pophal, age 88, of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Woodland Court Elder Services in Merrill. She was born on November 29, 1936, to the late George and Edith (Sparr) Brown in Merrill. Bev attended Merrill High School and graduated with the class of 1954. She married the love of her life, Wallace “Wally” Pophal on June 17, 1955, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill, a union lasting 63 years. Wally passed away on October 18, 2018.

Bev had worked as a secretary for over 28 years for the Merrill Area Public Schools at the Midway Elementary School in Gleason, WI, until her retirement. She was also a domestic caretaker and had done seasonal work for Badger Evergreen. Bev was a creative and artistic person that enjoyed painting, sewing and designing floral arrangements. She was a social butterfly and looked forward to welcoming people into her home for parties, making meals or just to visit. Bev adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren and would see them every chance she had. She would often take trips with friends and family to various casinos. Bev was a loyal friend to those she loved, and had a witty sense of humor. She had always enjoyed having her little poodles or cats on her lap, keeping her company. Bev was a collector of angels and loved wolves. She was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill. Bev will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.

Bev is survived by her daughter: Cathy (Ronald) Taylor of Belvidere, IL, son: Randy (Kathryn) Pophal of Merrill, WI, grandchildren: Jennifer (Kevin) Swearingen of Aurora, CO, Sarah (Gabriel) Mendez of Machnesney Park, IL, Lynn (Mike) Borkenhagen of Madison, WI, and Lee Pophal in Shanghai, China, great grandchildren: Cameron Swearingen and Taylor, Bryce and Eliana Mendez, brother: George (Mary) Brown of Merrill, WI and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Wallace “Wally” Pophal, and sister: Barbara Lange.

The funeral service for Bev will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home, 903 East 3rd Street, Merrill. Rev. Justin Smoot will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Burial at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service.

The service will be recorded and posted under her obituary on the funeral home’s website for those unable to attend.

The family wishes to extend appreciation to the staff at Woodland Court Elder Services for their care, compassion and support during Bev’s stay there – she truly loved it there.

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

View Beverly "Bev" M. Pophal's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/22/2025

Everett L. Rogers

Everett Leroy ‘Zeb’ Rogers, age 90, passed away October 21, 2025.

Everett was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 24, 1934, the third of five children. Throughout his life, he called many places home – including California, Milwaukee, Merrill, Mosinee, Utah, Harrison Hills, and Gleason – and for the past 15 years, he enjoyed wintering in Tucson, Arizona.

Everett lived a full and adventurous life. He wore many hats over the years – working as a singer and guitarist in several local country bands, a farmer, an over-the-road truck driver, and in various other trades including logging, factory work, and driving school bus.

Everett was a member of the Lincoln County Beef Association and had a well thought out beef herd. He enjoyed deer hunting and was a member of the Grundy Hunters hunting club.

He had a wide range of interests and hobbies, including fishing, gold mining in Arizona, horses, farming (dairy, veal, beef and crops), boating, and camping. Everett enjoyed singing and in his younger days had been a member of the Ranchmen, Drifters, and Loco Weeds bands. He loved country western music and cheering for the Green Bay Packers.

At age 18, Everett married the love of his life, JoAnn, and together they shared 67 wonderful years before her passing in 2020. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great great grandfather– proud of each generation that followed him.

Everett is survived by his daughters, Linda Rogers of Oshkosh, Denise (Gene) Severt Gruetzmacher of Merrill, Gwen (John) Cotter of Gleason, and Gayle (Jeff) Dobson of Gleason; son, Tim (Lisa) Rogers of Merrill; nine grandchildren; twenty-two great grandchildren; eight great great grandchildren; brother, Richard (Linda) Rogers of Milwaukee; sister-in-law, Elly Rogers of Rhinelander; and his brother Herbert’s significant other, Renate Vogelsang of Newport Beach, California. Everett was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn Rogers; father, Casper Rogers; mother and step father, Selma (Harry) Hehling; grandchildren, Sarah Severt, Jered Severt, Darrin Rogers, and Michael Rogers; great grandson, Coltin Nowak; son-in-law, Jim Severt; sister, Donna Zastrow; and brothers, Charles Rogers and Herbert Rogers.

He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, love of music, easy conversation, and unwavering devotion to his family Everett’s legacy will live on through the stories, songs, and memories shared by those who love him most.

The celebration of life will be held at 4:00 P.M., Sunday, October 26, 2025, at Bible Presbyterian Church, Merrill. Pastor Steven Tiffany will preside. The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 P.M. at the church.

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

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10/20/2025

Virginia "Ginny" Rammer

Virginia (Ginny) Rammer (Cejka), age 87, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on October 14, 2025, in Albertville, Minnesota. She was born on September 15, 1938, and grew up on a dairy farm in Antigo, WI. She graduated from Antigo High School in 1956, and went on to marry the love of her life, James A. Rammer, in 1961. Together, they built a beautiful life and family, raising four children, Cindy, Bryan, Theresa and Dawn. They lived in Antigo, Wausau, Crooked Lake and Merrill, WI.

She was a dedicated member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Merrill, where she served as a lay minister. She started her career working for Lockwood Graders, where she even earned front cover of a magazine. For 24 years, Ginny worked at Church Mutual Insurance Company as a policyholder clerk before retiring, though retirement didn’t last long. Her husband, Jim, “made her work at the damn stand”, the couple’s beloved concession stand, for many years after.

Ginny loved the ocean, traveling, collecting seashells, being outdoors, cheering on the Packers, and especially the beautiful colors of the fall. She enjoyed playing cards (and a good screwdriver) and time at the family cabin on Grindle Lake. She was famous for her delicious homemade jam and hosting an annual Christmas Eve gathering for all to enjoy a good meal and conversation. Her adventurous spirit was strong, she even climbed a tree at 67 years old!

Known for her contagious laugh and giggle, her quick wit, and her love for a good joke, Ginny brought joy to all who knew her. She was an active member of the Red Hats Society and Stock Club. She cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as hosting gatherings for fellowship and friendship.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Edna Cejka; husband, James Rammer; brother, Norman Cejka; and children, Bryan and Theresa Rammer.

She is survived by her daughters, Cindy (Dave) Bratsch and Dawn (Scott) Franzen; grandchildren, Nick (Kayla), Alexx (Paul), Tyler (Sarah), Logan (Haley), Ryan, Matthew, Eric and Jackson; and great grandchildren, Fawn, Bentley, Gabe, Hazel, Ashlynn, River, Raina, Lorelei, Miles and Finnegan.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bloomville, WI, followed by a funeral Mass.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff at Engel Haus in Albertville, where she resided the last six years, as well as her Trinity Hospice team for their kindness and compassionate care through her transition.

“See you when I see you”, just like her famous goodbye saying. Forever in our hearts, you will live on forever within all of us.

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.

View Virginia "Ginny" Rammer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/20/2025

Had our Fall memory bear workshop this past Saturday, and it was really nice. Wonderful volunteers (as always!) great bears made and a nice way to share memories and reflect on those we have lost. Thank you to all of those that helped and participated ❤️

10/19/2025

Stanley R. Rothmeyer

Stanley Rothmeyer, 87, of Merrill, passed away Friday, October 17, 2025, surrounded by family at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.

Stanley Ruben Rothmeyer was born December 14, 1937, in Merrill, son of Ruben and Stella (Mosser) Rothmeyer. He grew up in the Doering area of Lincoln County. His passion was baseball and he started playing on the Doering team when he was 13. He was a great baseball player and even tried out for the Chicago Cubs. When he came home from tryouts, Stan married Sandra Ingersoll and they started their family in Merrill.

In 1960, while he was in the Army Reserves, Stan was called to Fort Lewis in the state of Washington for training. He moved his then small family of two children and a wife to Washington during the Berlin Crisis. They spent a year in Washington and once the Crisis was resolved, they moved back to Wisconsin. Stan and Sandy had three more children.

Stan worked the majority of his life at Ward Paper Mill in Merrill. He also worked a few odd jobs on the side. When the paper mill closed, he worked several other jobs here and there and was eventually hired as a counselor at Lincoln Hills. He stayed there for several years until his retirement.

In his spare time, he could be found playing ball. When he couldn’t play, he coached his sons. Stan had many passions besides baseball. He always had a beautiful fruitful garden! He could grow anything and it fed the family all summer long. What they didn’t eat, they canned and it fed them all winter long. He enjoyed wine making. Stan loved to fish and hunt as well. His faith was strong and he was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill. Stan was a wonderful husband and father and gave everything for his family.

Stanley is survived by his children, Tammy (Daniel) Pick of Merrill, Shelly Rode of Cadott, and Benji (Christina) Rothmeyer of Merrill; daughter-in-law, Tammie (Brian) Sladek of Merrill; former son-in-law, Paul Rode of Stanley; grandchildren, Kyle (Sarah) Rothmeyer of Merrill, Jared (Erin) Rothmeyer of Shakopee, MN, Morgan Rode (Molly Peck) of Kronenwetter, Sawyer Rode (Rachel Micke) of Green Bay, and Ava Rothmeyer of Merrill; five great-grandchildren, Hattie, Hazel, Hector, Graham and Sutton; brother, Harlan (Kate) Rothmeyer of Sturgeon Bay; sister-in-law, Cindy (Mark) Leubner of Superior; former sister-in-law, Kathy (Bill) Bloczynski of Merrill; nieces and nephews, Jenny (Brian) McKinney, Vicky Leistikow (John Kilgust), Randy (Ann) Leistikow, Shari (Brian) Samuelson, Jeremy (Debbie) Leubner, and Becky Leubner; and several great nieces and great nephews. Stan was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Rothmeyer; parents, Ruben and Stella Rothmeyer; son, Robin Rothmeyer; daughter, Amy Rothmeyer; granddaughter, Anna Marie Schwartz; grandson, Ethaniel Rothmeyer; sister-in-law, Sally (Jerry) Leistikow; and brother-in-law, James Ingersoll.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, October 30, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. Rev. Neely Owen will officiate. Burial will take place in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery with graveside military rites conducted by V.F.W. Post 1638, Merrill. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M., Thursday, October 30, 2025, at church.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill or the Merrill Baseball Association.

View Stanley R. Rothmeyer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

Joellen J. Koehler

Joellen J. Koehler, age 45, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the UW-Madison Hospital, with her loving family at her side. She was born on July 28,1980 to Joel and Carol (Sherman) Lechleitner in Rhinelander, WI. At the age of 15, Joellen underwent a successful and life-saving heart transplant. She attended and graduated from Tomahawk High School, before continuing her education at UW-Eau Claire, earning her bachelor’s degree in accounting. On January 10, 2004, Joellen married Benjamin Koehler, a loving union lasting 21 years. He survives.

Joellen was known for her incredible organization and talent for planning. She loved planning trips, home improvement projects and parties, often earning the title of “family planner.” Joellen enjoyed redecorating her home for a fresh look and was a crafty, creative, and determined “go-getter” who always kept busy. When she did take time to relax, she loved settling in with a good book.

Throughout every medical challenge she faced, Joellen remained strong, resilient, and steadfastly positive, never one to complain. Her strength, creativity, and love for her family will be remembered and cherished always. Joellen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Joellen is survived by her husband: Ben Koehler, son: Bryce Koehler, parents: Joel and Carol Lechleitner, father and mother – in-law: August (Sandy) Koehler, brothers: Jed (Leah) and Tony (Denise) Lechleitner, sisters-in-law: Angela (Richard) Metzler and Wendy Koehler, brother-in-law: Jason (Marcie) Koehler and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter: Aubrey Koehler.

The funeral service for Joellen will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home, 301 Eagle Drive, Merrill, WI. Deacon Dan Towle will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations in Joellen’s name to either the Make A Wish Foundation, https://wish.org/give-hope-granting-life-changing-wishes or the UW Heart Transplant Center, https://give.wiscmedicine.org/give/581551.

The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to the wonderful and caring staff with the UW heart transplant team in Madison.

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.

View Joellen J. Koehler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

Dale A. Kleinschmidt

Dale Allen Kleinschmidt born to Kurt and Dorathea (Schmidt) Kleinschmidt on September 23, 1947, passed away at home on October 13, 2025, from complications of COPD.

A graduate of Merrill Senior High, Dale enlisted in the United States Army on October 26, 1965. He served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged on October 25, 1968. Dairy and beef farming, logging, construction and truck driving filled his work years. Dale retired before he was ready due to his health.

Dale was a founding member of the Town of Corning Volunteer Fire Department and a life member of Mar-Lin VFW Post 10203. In younger years, Dale enjoyed making maple syrup, gun deer hunting with family crew, and playing accordion.

He is survived by wife of almost 56 years, Janet Kleinschmidt of Merrill; son, Jeremy Kleinschmidt, of Merrill; and grandchildren, Devan (Jessica), Cole (Michelle), and Lauryn (Blake Szews) all of Merrill. The sunshine in his last years were his great grandchildren, Willow, Hank, Duke, Harrison, and Archer Kleinschmidt and Aubree and Jesse Szews.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gene Kleinschmidt; nephew, Jason Kleinschmidt; and niece, Melissa Frakes.

We were blessed with many more years than expected, and he’s breathing free again.

The memorial service for Dale will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, October 24, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Town of Corning. Rev. Joel Danner will officiate. The visitation will begin at 9:00 A.M. Friday at church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dale’s name may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.

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

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10/16/2025

John A. Hagedorn

John A. Hagedorn, age 78, passed away on October 14, 2025, at home under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.

John was born December 2, 1946, in Merrill to Hugo O. Hagedorn and Ruffina L. (Fruend) Hagedorn. He was a 1964 graduate of Merrill High School. He also attended UW Madison under a scholarship by the Farm Short Course program.

John married Roselin ‘Rose’ A. Harris on June 21, 1975. They recently celebrated their 50th anniversary.

John and Rose owned and operated Smiling John’s Christmas Trees in the Township of Pine River, Merrill. His passion for his trees showed in his manicured fields and his smile. Creating and celebrating Christmas traditions for families always meant a lot to him.

John worked with his father on the dairy farm for many years. He served under the Army National Guard from 1965 until 1971 as a Track Vehicle Mechanic. He qualified as a Marksman for pistol, Sharp Shooter for rifle, and Expert for rifle.

John was also a home builder for most of his adult life. He was proud to make families’ dreams come true. Building homes, apartment buildings, and offices from Lake Du Bay to the Minocqua area. John also was a real estate broker.

John was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill and served as an Elder for many years.

Survivors include his wife, Rosie; and special girls, Hannah, Ally, Lexi, Maddie, Katie, Sophie, Grace, and Lea. He was known as Papa John to his special grands. John is further survived by his brother, Edward (Polly) Hagedorn of Merrill; sisters, Patricia Hagedorn and Bonnie (Steve) Huth both of Merrill; sister-in-law, Judy Hagedorn of Wausau; brothers-in-law, Ray (Dena) Harris and Dorwin (Sue) Harris both of Merrill; many nieces and nephews; and two great nieces.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Hugo and Ruffina Hagedorn; and brothers, Charles and Doug.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Burial will take place in St. James Cemetery, Town of Pine River, Lincoln County. Family will receive friends from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M., Monday, October 27, 2025 and after 9:30 A.M., Tuesday, October 28, 2025 all at the funeral home.

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

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