Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral and Cremation

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral and Cremation In 1888, A.H. Schram began the business. The first business locations were at the present “Book World” and “Miller Home Furnishings” buildings in Merrill. Mr.

At Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral and Cremation, we believe it is our first priority to provide the best professional service.

3rd Street Location: 903 E 3rd St, Merrill, WI 54452
Eagle Drive Location: 301 South Eagle Drive Merrill, WI 54452 In those early years visitations or “wakes” were held in the home of the deceased. Emblaming was often done at the home. The Schrams also owned and operated two furniture stores. This was very common in those days. As time progressed funeral services became more and more specialized. Schram’s sons, Alfred, Clarence and Gustav, eventually joined the business and in 1939 they purchased and converted the Rectory of the Episcopalian Church, 212 Pier St., into a Funeral Home. Eventually the furniture and funeral home businesses became separate entities. In the 1950’s, a son-in-law of one of the Schram boys, Joe Johanson, took over the business and operated it until the late 1960’s. In 1976, Alan, Dean and Paul Waid purchased the funeral home which was known as the Schram-Waid Funeral Home. Due to space, parking and handicap accessibility issues, the Waids decided to build a new facility. In April of 1994 they moved into the new funeral home at 301 Eagle Dr. and changed the name to Waid Funeral Home. The Waid Family has been serving the Merrill Area Community now for over 3 decades. On July 1, 2008 the Waid’s sold part of their interest in the business to the Vertin Family of Minnesota. Alan retired in March of 2009 and Paul continues to serve families in the Merrill Area as a funeral director, manager and part owner. We are very proud of our legacy in funeral service. We are now celebrating 124 years of compassionate and caring service to Merrill Area Families and rest assured we will be here for many more years to come. Paul Waid – Owner/Director

Barbara A. GolischBarbara A. Golisch, age 82, passed away peacefully at Pine Crest Nursing Home on Wednesday, November 2...
12/01/2025

Barbara A. Golisch

Barbara A. Golisch, age 82, passed away peacefully at Pine Crest Nursing Home on Wednesday, November 25, 2025. She battled dementia and Alzheimer’s disease for the last four years.

Barb was born in Merrill to Charles Graap Sr. and Dorothy (Mittag) Graap. On November 9, 1963, she married Kermit Golisch. Their union lasted 42+ years until his death on June 6, 2006. Barb worked picking beans as a youth and as a carhop at the Pink Top. As an adult, she worked at the Hanson Glove Factory. She also worked at Merrill Manufacturing and sold Sarah Coventry jewelry on evenings and weekends. Barb was an outstanding saleswoman. She earned several trips due to her excellent sales record. In addition, she worked as a server at area restaurants. Barb retired early due to an injury. She worked as a demonstrator at several different grocery stores. She was proud of the job she did at these locations. She typically sold out all of that product.

Barb was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She was very involved with her children and grandchildren’s activities. Dad and Mom drove baseball players during the legion season to area cities for baseball games. Her injuries from her accident made it difficult to sit or stand for a long time but when it was too hard to walk, she would watch games from her van.

Barb worked hard her whole life. This was a trait she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She was known to do anything for her children and grandchildren. Barb was very involved in our church, St. Stephens United Church of Christ. She received a lifetime Faith Award for her devotion and dedication. Her children and grandchildren continue to be active at St. Stephens United Church of Christ.

Barb leaves behind her children, Clint (Melanie) Golisch, Kevin (Jodi) Golisch, Kyle Golisch, Heidi (Chris) Stevenson, and Kenyon Golisch, all five of Merrill; grandchildren, Michael Golisch of Wausau, Luke (Jess) Golisch of Merrill, Hope (Jake Cooper) Golisch of Wausau, Ryan (MaKayla) Golisch of Merrill, Bailee (Cody) Dobson of Green Bay, Emma Golisch of Merrill, David Golisch of Merrill, and Ryleigh Golisch of Merrill; great-grandchildren, Nora, Isla, Ruby, Jameson, Rayla, Whitley, Mailey Cooper, Bailey and Cole Stevenson with two on the way; and sisters, Eunice Schubert of Merrill and Virginia McElhaney of Wausau.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kermit Golisch; brothers, Charles Graap Jr., Kenneth Graap, and Dennis Graap; sisters, Audrey (Vernon) Heuser and Lucille Graap; brothers-in-law, Kenwood Schubert and Marvin McElhaney; and sister-in-law, Kathleen Graap.

The funeral service for Barb will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, December 12, 2025, at St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Merrill. Rev. Michael Southcombe will officiate. Burial will take place in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. The visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 903 E. Third St., Merrill, and again after 10:00 A.M., Friday, December 12, 2025, 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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Steven J. WestfallSteven J. Westfall, 73, of Gleason, passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his home under the car...
11/30/2025

Steven J. Westfall

Steven J. Westfall, 73, of Gleason, passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his home under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

Steve was born October 29, 1952, in Merrill, son of Harland ‘Harley’ and Dores (Henneman) Westfall. He graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1972. Steve served his country with the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany. Steve married Sherryl Bruns in 1997. She preceded him in death on November 28, 2024. Steve worked in maintenance at ROW Windows in Merrill and Hurd Millwork in Merrill and Medford.

Steve belonged to the Nite Riders Motorcycle Club in Merrill. He loved riding his Harley and enjoyed riding with Sherryl. Steve also enjoyed fishing and especially loved trout fishing in Lincoln County and Marathon County. Steve was a Green Bay Packers fan. He loved spending time with his great grandkids.

Steve is survived by his siblings, Julie (Dean) Tousignant, Lori (Dave) Zielazowski, Marsha Puphal, and Clark (Teresa) Westfall, all of Merrill; half-sister, Diane Johnstone of California; bonus mom, Geraldine ‘Geri’ (Ozzy Karlen) Westfall Karlen of Athens; six nieces and two nephews; stepchildren, David Randall of Irma, Gary ‘Tookey’ (Mindy) Randall of Merrill, Angela Dupke of Wausau, and Charity Dupke of Merrill; eleven step grandchildren including his special step grandson, Devin (Tasia) Dupke of Gleason; nine step great grandchildren; and his favorite caregiver, Tierra ‘Punkin’ West of Elcho.

Steve was preceded in death by his wife, Sherryl Westfall; father, Harland ‘Harley’ Westfall; mother, Dores Westfall; brother-in-law, Jim Puphal; and half brother-in-law, Kirk Johnstone.

The memorial service will take place at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 903 E. Third St., Merrill. Rev. Joe Bridger will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the funeral home.

There will also be a celebration of life with a motorcycle ride next year. Please look for details to be shared in the future.

The family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful care they provided Steve.

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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Jerome A.J. MontiIt is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jerome August Joseph Monti, a beloved father, g...
11/29/2025

Jerome A.J. Monti

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jerome August Joseph Monti, a beloved father, grandfather, and cherished friend, who departed this life on November 25, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on July 21, 1938, in Merrill, Wisconsin. Jerome was the son of Joseph L. Monti (Alva) and Laona (Kleinschmidt) Kawalic (Frank). He lived a life filled with love, pride, and dedication to his family and country.

Jerome will forever be remembered for his kindhearted nature, stubborn spirit, and punctuality. He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, having served for 20 years, achieving the rank of Technical Sergeant. His commitment to service was a testament to his character, and he took great pride in sharing stories from his time in the military, as well as his years as a hardworking truck driver.

A devoted family man, Jerome cherished watching his children—Delores "De" Haizel, Angela Monti, Anthony "Tony" Monti, and Rennie "Rena" Reissmann—grow and flourish. He found immense joy in his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather, proudly supporting the next generation with love and wisdom. Jerome’s passions included fishing, enjoying ice cream, and the simple pleasure of watching birds, alongside his faithful companion, Poofie.

Jerome shared his life with Peggy, whom he married at the Bloomville Church on June 23, 1962. Together, they built a life full of laughter, memories, and unwavering love. He enjoyed cheering for his favorite football teams, often sharing the excitement of each game with his family and friends. As we gather to celebrate Jerome’s life and the legacy he leaves behind, we invite all who knew him to join us in honoring a soft-hearted man who touched the lives of many through his kindness, stories, and undying love for his family. May his spirit remain a guiding light in our lives, and may he rest in peace.

He is survived by: his brother, Richard (Judy) Monti; sister, Sue Monti of Milwaukee; sister-in-law, Karen (Joe) Monti; children, Delores "De" (Jim) Haizel of Withee, Angela (Randel Gilray) Monti of Wausau, Anthony "Tony" (Colleen) Monti of Omaha, NE, and Rennie "Rena" (Gary) Reissmann of Gleason; Grandchildren, Ashley (Tom) Austin, Christopher Frick, Bryant (Miranda) Frick, Austin (Cassandra) Reissmann, and Autumn Reissmann; great-grandchildren, Isaac, Mikey, Ivory, Harper, and Cecilia. Jerome was preceded in death by: his parents; wife, Peggy (Leder) Monti; brothers, Joseph and Melvin "Mik" Monti.

In remembrance of Jerome's remarkable life, funeral services will be held on December 5, 2025, beginning with a visitation at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, 301 Eagle Drive, at 9:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bloomville. He will be laid to rest at the family plot located at the Bloomville Cemetery.

“Love you back”

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

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Happy Thanksgiving! Today, we reflect on all we’re grateful for and the loved ones who enrich our lives. We know this da...
11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving! Today, we reflect on all we’re grateful for and the loved ones who enrich our lives. We know this day can be challenging for some, and we want you to know you are supported and your feelings are valid. No matter how you spend the day, we wish you comfort and love.

Charlotte F. RichardsonCharlotte F. Richardson, 87, of Merrill, passed away Friday, November 14, 2025, at Bell Tower Res...
11/24/2025

Charlotte F. Richardson

Charlotte F. Richardson, 87, of Merrill, passed away Friday, November 14, 2025, at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill.

Charlotte was born October 13, 1938, in Edgar, WI, daughter of Anton and Margaret (Lang) Straub. She married David Warosh on August 2, 1958, in Edgar. He preceded her in death on November 12, 1985. Charlotte married Victor Richardson on October 13, 1989, in Merrill. He survives.

Charlotte graduated from Holy Cross High School with the class of 1956. She worked at Employers Mutual until marrying Dave. She then settled into motherhood, and raising a family. Charlotte later returned to school, and, in 1978, she came away with a degree as a registered nurse and a career she loved. For 17 years she worked at Holy Cross Hospital as night supervisor and ER nurse and also Pine Crest Nursing Home for 15 years until she fully retired at the age of 72.

She met and married her beloved Victor in 1989 and moved to Merrill from Wausau to a house and land she loved. Her passion for nature and animals blossomed and she spent her time in her many gardens, raising goats, feeding the wildlife, collecting rocks and spending time at their cabin.

She was a fantastic cook, always improving her food from the actual recipe, much to the chagrin of those who tried to replicate. Char and Vic had so many interests and hobbies. From Vic creating her visions of metal and woodwork, to taking up gold panning, taking a trip to the casino, or just her beating everyone at a game of Boggle.

Char was very well known for her sense of humor and penchant for absolute silliness. She was an A+ grandma who embraced all the chaos of grandchildren and never needed store bought toys to engage a child.

Survivors include her husband, Victor Richardson of Merrill; children, Katie (John Harrison) of Wausau, Chris Warosh of San Antonio, TX, Kelly Warosh of Tacoma, WA, Dennis (Carrie) Warosh of Minnetonka, MN, and Todd Warosh (Jennifer Rosado) of Fort Meyers, FL; step children, Carrie Radon of Mount Prospect, IL and Ken Richardson of Milwaukee; daughter-in-law, Kim Trudeau of Wausau; grandchildren, Lucas, Ashley, Emily, Eryka, Greg, Rose, Jack, Sam, Ryan, Rachel, Megan, Kelli, Eric, Lizzy, Erin, Stephen, and Kimberly; and many great grandchildren; and sister, Laurinda (Jerome ‘Jerry) Finger of Hortonville.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her first husband, David Warosh; parents, Anton and Margaret Straub; son, Tim Warosh; step son-in-law, Ben Radon; grandson, Ben Sternhagen; and siblings, Miriam ‘Mim’ (Ralph) Pieper, Ronald (Suni Peterson) Straub, Bernice (James) Bolek, Dolores Straub, and Larry Straub.

The memorial service for Charlotte will take place at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill. Rev. Jon Chapa will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Saturday, December 6, 2025, 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.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Bell Tower Residence, Merrill, in memory of Char, at:

https://hosted.usiopay.com/64a9af2f-4b0c-417b-824d-9441cbfbede7

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Mary T. RaduechelWhere does one even begin to put into words the life of our loving mother, cherished grandmother, and d...
11/21/2025

Mary T. Raduechel

Where does one even begin to put into words the life of our loving mother, cherished grandmother, and devoted wife of 50 years? Growing up on the family farm in the Town of Corning as one of nine children, our mother learned early what it meant to love, share, and look after others.

Her life of compassion began in those childhood days, nurtured by the wide fields of home and her beloved horse, named Bob. Even then, her gentle spirit shone through. She had a soft and kind soul, one that seemed to understand people and animals alike, and she carried that gift with her throughout her entire life.

She met the love of her life, Arlen, at a wedding dance in April of 1972, a chance encounter that blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on devotion, laughter, and unwavering loyalty. From that night forward, the two of them shared not only a deep love, but a commitment to facing every joy and every challenge hand in hand.

They were married on August 9th,1973, beginning a life together rooted in love and steady devotion. In December of 1976, they welcomed their son, Aaron, a moment that filled her heart in ways only a mother can understand. The following spring, in 1977, they moved into the home where countless memories would be made—walls that would hear laughter, witness milestones, and shelter a lifetime of family. In April of 1979, she was blessed with her daughter, Loralee, completing the family that meant everything to her.

Over the years, they continued to make that house a home—remodeling, reshaping, and nurturing it just as she nurtured her family. Her flower and vegetable gardens became her pride and joy, blooming under her careful hands. With every season, those gardens stood as a reflection of her spirit: patient, vibrant, and full of quiet beauty.

Not only was she a devoted wife and a loving mother, but she was also a proud grandmother to six beautiful grandchildren: Wyatt, Mackenzie, Carter, Miranda, Emma, and Grace. Her grandchildren were the pride of her life—her greatest joy and her brightest blessing. She loved cheering from the sidelines at Wyatt’s football games, watching Mackenzie shine at dance competitions, and spending time simply hanging out with Carter. She was always there for Miranda and Gracie’s basketball games and celebrated every one of Emma’s soccer matches.

She treasured listening to their stories, gardening with the grand girls, shopping for little surprises, and baking cookies together, filling her home with sweet smells and even sweeter memories. To her, these grandchildren were her shining stars, each one lighting up her world in a way only they could.

Even though cancer has taken her from us far too early, it will never diminish the love she gave or the lives she touched. Her legacy lives on in the stories we share, the lessons she taught, and the quiet strength she instilled in all of us. The memories she created—both big and small—will continue to light our days.

She will be greatly missed, but her love will always remain. It will carry on in her children, her grandchildren, and everyone blessed enough to have known her. Her presence may no longer be here, but her spirit will forever guide us.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Margaret Laak; her brothers Joe Laak of Burnet, Texas, and Roy Laak of Merrill; and her sisters Vivian (Lawrence) Sczygelski of Merrill and Patty Thorne of Reedsville, Wisconsin.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Arlen Raduechel of Merrill; her brothers Robert Laak of Merrill, Jerry (Debbie) Laak of Merrill, Dan (Jo) Laak of Coconut Creek, Florida; and her sister Sue Laak of Merrill. She is also survived by her two children, Aaron Raduechel of Merrill and Loralee (Jeremy) Geier of Weston.

Mary’s greatest joy was her family, especially her six beautiful grandchildren: Wyatt and Mackenzie Geier, and Carter, Miranda, Emma, and Grace Raduechel. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

A Visitation for Mary will be held on December 2, 2025, at 4:30PM and the Memorial service will follow at 6:30PM at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, WI 54452.

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

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Children’s Grief Awareness Day is a time to support young people navigating the loss of a loved one.  If you know a chil...
11/20/2025

Children’s Grief Awareness Day is a time to support young people navigating the loss of a loved one.

If you know a child struggling with grief, we encourage you to reach out to us. We have resources to support people of all ages on their grief journey.

Terri L. PerryMy dear wife of 30 years ended her long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease on Tuesday, November 11 th . Her s...
11/19/2025

Terri L. Perry

My dear wife of 30 years ended her long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease on Tuesday, November 11 th . Her strong faith in Jesus Christ sustained our family through this journey and made her a blessing to care for. Terri was known for spreading joy and sharing her childlike wonderwith all who knew her.

Terri Lynn Glenn was born on December 26, 1963, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She graduated from Judson College in Elgin, Illinois with a degree in computer science and excelled in mainframe computer networking and softwaresales.

I met Terri at a small group Bible study in Evanston, Illinois, and we married in 1995. After my graduation from seminary, she joined me in the adventure of pastoring congregations in Des Moines, Iowa (where she led women’s Bible studies and an outreach ministry to girls),Minot, North Dakota (where she had her hands full as a busy mom), and Merrill, Wisconsin (where she was cared for after her diagnosis in 2014).

Some of Terri’s special loves included her mother Marilyn and grandmother Stella (both deceased), our sons Carson, Evan, and Ian (deceased), anyone suffering or vulnerable, Karen Carpenter’s voice, and Jesus’ grace.

Though Terri is now gone, she is not forgotten. Her smile and laugh were infectious, and once infected by her effervescent spirit, those who knew her were left changed.

Special thanks go to her team of caregivers atPinecrest Nursing Home, Kindhearted Home Care, and the many friends from church who ministered to her in more ways than I can name.

Terri will be buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in my hometown - Sparta, Wisconsin. A visitation will be held for her on Saturday, November 22nd at Bible Presbyterian Church in Merrill at 10 am. A worship service of remembrance will be held at 11 am and a lunch will follow.

All are welcome. She is worth celebrating!

Memorial donations in Terri’s honor may be made to our church’s Pastoral Apprentice Fund or Hope Life Center at Hopewi.org.

Written by Andy Perry, Pastor of Bible Presbyterian Church and Chaplain for Aspirus Hospital Merrill.

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D'Etta D. KleinschmidtD’Etta D. Kleinschmidt, 84, of the Town of Scott, Lincoln County, passed away Sunday, November 16,...
11/17/2025

D'Etta D. Kleinschmidt

D’Etta D. Kleinschmidt, 84, of the Town of Scott, Lincoln County, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Wausau Manor Health Services.

D’Etta was born June 23, 1941, in Merrill, daughter of Leslie and Loretta (Speas) Krahn. She married Gene Kleinschmidt on September 17, 1960, in Merrill. He preceded her in death on September 28, 2017. D’Etta was a homemaker and worked part-time for Stokely USA.

D’Etta and Gene enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, canning, and making maple syrup together. D’Etta enjoyed embroidery; she made 7-days-a-week towels for all of her children and grandchildren. She also made doilies and dresser scarves. D’Etta was a great baker and always had a cookie jar with M&M cookies waiting for the grandchildren.

Survivors include two daughters, Carol Kleinschmidt of Palm City, FL and Ann (Randy) Stahnke of the Town of Scott; two sons, Dale (Rhonda) Kleinschmidt of Merrill and Jim (Kristina) Kleinschmidt of Port Orange, Florida; 17 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Joann (Larry) Benzinger of Rothschild and Kathy Hanrahan of Merrill; one brother, Gary Krahn of Merrill; and three sisters-in-law, Darlene (Orville) Schult of Merrill, Joyce ‘Totsy’ Kleinschmidt of Merrill, and Judy Kleinschmidt of the Town of Scott.

D’Etta was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Kleinschmidt; parents, Leslie and Loretta Krahn; grandsons, Trask Stahnke and Robert Kleinschmidt; sisters, Sharon (Gerald ‘Jerry’) Degner and Debra (Terry) Prentice; and brothers, Larry Krahn and Terry Krahn.

The funeral service for D’Etta will be held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, November 24, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 903 E. Third St., Merrill. Rev. Greg Laska will officiate. Burial will take place in the Town of Scott Cemetery, Lincoln County. The visitation will begin at 9:00 A.M., Monday, November 24, 2025, at the funeral home.

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

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Michael G. JanssenMichael G. Janssen, age 70, of Merrill, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, November 12, ...
11/14/2025

Michael G. Janssen

Michael G. Janssen, age 70, of Merrill, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Mike faced a difficult cancer diagnosis, achieving remission twice, and fought with unwavering strength and determination until the very end.

Mike was born on August 22, 1955, in Merrill to Gerhardt and Rose (Duffrin) Janssen. On November 9, 1985, he married the love of his life, Lori Burgener, in Merrill. Together they shared 40 wonderful years of marriage, recently celebrating their milestone anniversary. Mike and Lori were inseparable—true best friends and partners in every sense.

In 1989, Mike founded Janssen Heating & Cooling, Inc., a business that became his pride and joy. His hard work and dedication built a lasting legacy that will continue through his family. Beyond his professional life, Mike had a passion for restoring classic cars, especially his beloved 1955 Chevy Bel Air. He cherished summer grill-outs with family, creating fun for his grandchildren with tents and forts made from furnace boxes. In his younger years, Mike enjoyed camping, boating, swimming, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling. He also had a special bond with his dogs, particularly his loyal companion, Bella.

Mike was known for his unwavering kindness and willingness to help others. Throughout the years of being in business, he quietly extended compassion in countless ways—never hesitating to waive service call fees for those who couldn’t afford them, offering financial breaks so families could have heat in their homes, and making sure no one was left in the cold.

Mike will be remembered for his generosity, authenticity, and honesty—qualities that defined both his life and his business. He spoke his mind, often with a bluntness that was as endearing as it was genuine. Above all, Mike was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose love and laughter will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his wife, Lori Janssen of Merrill; daughters, Mandy (Jimmy) Clark of Merrill and Leigha (Brandon) Graap of Merrill; grandchildren, Alixandra, Adison, Emma, Avery, Bentley, Easton, James, Parker, Alivia, Breigha, and Amelia; brothers, George (Julie) Janssen of Merrill and Paul G. Janssen of Merrill; sisters-in-law, Judy (Lyman) Hatz of Wausau and Kay (Doug) Behnke of Stuart, FL; dog, Bella; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Gerhardt and Rose Janssen; in-laws, Rudy and Rita Burgener; and two infant brothers.

The funeral service for Mike will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 903 E. Third St., Merrill. Rev. Michael Southcombe will officiate. Burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery, Town of Rock Falls, Lincoln County. The family will receive friends from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M on Friday, November 21, 2025., and after 10:00 A.M. Saturday all at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 903 E. Third St., Merrill.

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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Ronald "Ron" PufallRonald Francis (Storm) Pufall, age 83, of Weston, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 10, 20...
11/13/2025

Ronald "Ron" Pufall

Ronald Francis (Storm) Pufall, age 83, of Weston, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 10, 2025. Ron was born on May 22nd, 1942 in Ashland, WI, and was the son of the late Nicholas and Esther (Michalski) Pufall. He was the oldest of three boys. He attended and graduated from high school in Ashland and earned his degree in education at Northland College in Ashland. A lover of both art and learning, he additionally earned his master’s degree from UW La Crosse and enjoyed a long career in education, teaching art, middle school science, and serving as a reading specialist.

Ron was a skilled craftsman and somewhat of a “Macgyver,” able to creatively engineer many things. He renovated, expanded, and even built his family home in 1987.

Ron was blessed to have loved deeply, twice. He married Carmen Jean Roy on June 10, 1967 and built a full life together, primarily in Adams – Friendship, enjoying travel, social, music, and church events at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and the Sand County Players productions. Together, they had a son, Tad, in 1969, and daughter Christie in 1970. He lovingly cared for Carmen through her Stage 4 breast cancer until her passing in 2015.

In 2020 he met Kathryn “Kay” Storm. The two became each other’s partner and best friend and were united in marriage on October 10, 2021, in Wausau. She survives. Ron and Kay continued to enjoy his love of music, travel, and adventure.

He was an incredibly talented musician, being fluent on the keyboard, guitar and piano. Ron spent several years at the Ole Miss Amateur Rag Contest in Oxford, Mississippi, and performed a beloved original, “Kathryn”. He had also attended the Mt. Morris jam sessions. Ron was truly gifted and would write the most heartfelt songs. Ron and Kay would look forward to traveling the country, and going on camping trips together. He was an intelligent, kind and thoughtful man, who was delightfully laid back and easy going. Ron had a love for popcorn, and eating corn on the cob! He enjoyed collecting knives, and enjoyed his days at the YMCA. Ron was a member at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Weston and also active with Covenant Community Presbyterian Church. He was curious and always learning new things. Ron will be missed dearly, but his music and melody will play on with his family and friends. He especially loved the songs "Feeling Groovy” (The 59th Street Bridge Song by Simon and Garfunkel) and “Free Falling” by Tom Petty so think of him the next time you hear either.

He was especially proud of and delighted in visiting his two grandsons, Kellen and Kade Ducklow and being there for numerous visits and their growing up milestones. He treasured memories of special trips including multiple trips to Branson, a twenty-fifth anniversary trip with Carmen to Hawaii, honeymoon trips with Kay to Door County and Tuscany, the Holyland with Tad, and the Badlands and NTC trips with Christie and her family.

Ron is survived by his wife: Kay Storm, son: Tad Pufall, daughter: Christie (Brad) Ducklow, grandsons: Kellen and Kade, step-daughter: Kelly (Scott) Wallace, step-son: Ryan (Penny) Mootz, step-grandchildren: Elizabeth (John) Pagel, with their daughter: Olivia, Alex Wallace, Scotty Wallace, Bekah (Tristan) Carlson and Zach (fiancé, Britt) Mootz and brother: David (Marie) Pufall. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife: Carmen and brother: Dennis Pufall (at age 4).

The Funeral Mass for Ron will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Weston, WI, with time for a family eulogy at 10:30 a.m. Father Robert Thorn will preside. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the eulogy, also at the church.

The eulogy and Mass will be recorded for those unable to attend in person, and can be found under his obituary on the funeral home website.

Ron’s family wishes to thank all of their friends, family and neighbors for their friendship, love and support.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in Ron's name be made to St. Agnes Catholic Church, 6101 Zinser Street, Weston, WI, 54476, Covenant Community Presbyterian Church, 1806 Weston Avenue, Schofield, WI, 54476, The Bridge Street Mission, 325 North 1st Avenue, Wausau, WI, 54401 or a charity of your choice.

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

View Ronald "Ron" Pufall's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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