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 f

urniture 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

Lee Edward GilleLee Edward Gille, passed away on April 18, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on August 22, 1937, in Merrill, ...
04/20/2026

Lee Edward Gille

Lee Edward Gille, passed away on April 18, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on August 22, 1937, in Merrill, Wisconsin, Lee was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

Lee married the love of his life, Nancy (Engel) Gille, on September 19, 1959. They were inseparable for 66 years.

Lee had a passion for Harley motorcycles and owned an impressive 23 of them throughout his life. One of his favorite pastimes was hitting the open road, especially on trips to Sturgis, SD, where he could soak in the camaraderie of fellow motorcycle enthusiasts. He also enjoyed riding horses during his younger days and embraced every challenge life threw at him, whether it was on the water skiing or on the road.

In addition to his motorcycle adventures, Lee and his wife, Nancy, cherished their time traveling together in their motor homes, particularly on journeys out west to Montana. They were avid NASCAR fans, making annual trips to Talladega to cheer on their favorite drivers.Lee's love for his family shone through in everything he did; he was always at his sons' and grandsons' motocross events, cheering them on and being there to support them.

With over 40 years of hard work as a truck driver. He was the protector and the reliable rock of his family. He was a man of many talents and cherished every moment spent with his loved ones.

Lee is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy, and their sons: Kery Gille, Darin (Kati) Gille, and Kris (BillieJo) Gille. He also leaves behind grandsons Andrew, Brendan (Morgan), and Justin (Jessica) Gille, and great-grandchildren Carter, Calli, and Charli Gille. He is survived by his sibling, Gay Baumann, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Mabel Gille, his son Dean Gille, and his sisters Joanne and Carol, as well as his brother Edward "Butch."

A special thank you to the staff at Pine Crest, the nurses at Aspirus Wausau Hospice, and the staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital for the care you showed Lee.

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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Carol J. OsnessCarol Jean Osness, 86, of Merrill, passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Aspirus Merrill Hospital surr...
04/18/2026

Carol J. Osness

Carol Jean Osness, 86, of Merrill, passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Aspirus Merrill Hospital surrounded by her family.

Carol was born September 2, 1939, in Lincoln County, WI to Floyd and Selma (Mittlesteadt) Zortman. Carol attended Trinity Lutheran School for eight years and Merrill High School.

In 1956, Carol married the only love in her life, Allen K. Osness. They were married 55 years. Allen passed away on November 19, 2011.

Carol has been a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill all her married life. She taught Sunday School while her children were growing. In 1963, she was a member of the church council, serving as secretary. At that time, she was involved with the building of the existing church on Third and Logan Streets.

Carol worked at various jobs in Merrill. Carol worked as a C.N.A. at the former Holy Cross Convent, Merrill, for over ten years. She then worked at Hurd Millwork in Merrill for many years.

She enjoyed snowmobiling and riding her three motorcycles. In later years, she enjoyed her four-wheeler, her garden, flowers and large yard.

She loved all her family pets - especially her four Doberman dogs whom she enjoyed taking walks with. Her last years were spent with three cats, whom she loved dearly.

Carol’s greatest pleasure in life was her three children, her ten grandchildren and their spouses, and her great grandchildren. Absolutely nothing meant more to her than family. Carol always said, ‘They are my reason for living.”

Carol was co-captain for the ‘Park City Credit Union’ Relay for Life team for nine years. Their team raised more in one year than any team ever in Merrill.

Carol’s best and most important achievement in her life was to marry Al, have our three children, and a houseful of grandkids – “my absolute reason for living.”

Survivors include one daughter, Sue Osness (Mike Tooley) of Black River Falls; two sons, Allen (Julie) Osness, Jr. of Irma and Gary (Bonnie) Osness of Harrison Hills; sister, Bonnie (Gordon) Wiesmann of Merrill; sister-in-law, Nona Zortman of Merrill; brother-in-law, Dale Zuelsdorff; and in-laws, Phyllis Buch, Janet Beyer-Thums, Elaine (Richard) Ollmann, Betty Latzig, and Carol Osness all of Merrill, and Darlene Osness of Wausau.

She is further survived by her grandchildren, Lisa Lemon (Rich Bridenhagen) of De Pere, Laura (Jason) Reinders of Emmetsburg, IA, Mike (Emily) Osness of Merrill, Lana (Bill) Plant of Elkhorn, WI, Tim Osness of Merrill, Leah (David) Reist of Merrill, Lacy (Jeremy) Zimmerman of Baraboo, Dan (Courtney) Osness of Merrill, Justin (Laura) Osness of Madison, and Ben (Imogen) Osness of Wausau; and great grandchildren, Hannah, Andrew, Bailey, Cole, Jayden, Billy, Cayden, Jesse, Lucas, Jack, Miranda, Christian, Landon, Zoey, Carter, Anna, and Paxton.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Allen K. Osness, Sr.; parents, Floyd and Selma Zortman; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Oscar and Lucinda Osness; sister, Patricia ‘Pat’ Zuelsdorff; brother, William ‘Bill’ Zortman; special nieces, Marie Wiesmann, Jody Zuelsdorff, and Amy Tomczik; and several in-laws.

The Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, April 24, 2026, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill. Rev. Justin Smoot will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Friday at the church. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.

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

Miss Me But Let Me Go by Christina Rossetti

When I come to the end of the road, And the sun has set for me. I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little - but not too long And not with your head bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared, Miss me but let me go.

For this is a journey that we all must take, And each must go alone. It's all a part of the Master's plan, A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart, Go to the friends we know And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds.

Miss me but let me go.

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

04/17/2026

Ethel R. Tritten

Ethel R. Tritten, 84, of the Town of Pine River, Lincoln County, passed away Sunday, April 12, 2026, at her home under the care of her family and hospice services.

Ethel was born on January 28, 1942 in Wausau, daughter of the late Carl and Dorena (Jaeger) Dittmar. She married Harry 'Hans' Tritten on July 11, 1959. He preceded her in death on February 16, 2018. Ethel and Harry ran a dairy farm in the Town of Pine River for twenty years. In the 1950’s, Ethel and Hans started a sugar shack in Pine River. In 1979, Hans and Ethel sold their dairy farm. Hans went to work at the Woodchip Corporation while Ethel tended to their homestead. She had an enormous garden and loved working with the tomato plants and strawberry and raspberry patches. She also enjoyed canning all of the delicious vegetables and fruits she grew. Ethel worked a few local trade shows for Merrill Distributing and worked at Block’s Mink Farm seasonally for a couple years.

Ethel spent many long weekends camping and fishing with Hans. She also enjoyed deer hunting and shot her last buck in 2024. She loved watching the wildlife in her backyard and four wheeling around the property.

Ethel’s hobbies included quilting, crocheting, hunting, fishing and spending time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved making afghans and donated them to multiple charities including the Badger State games. Many of her children and grandchildren have had mittens and potholders gifted to them by Ethel.

Survivors include her daughters, Cindy Krause (Dennis Goetsch) and Gail (Rob) Daley; grandsons, Anthony (Becky) Renken and Matthew (Ashley) Renken; great-grandchildren, Hunter and Harley Renken; step grandchildren, Joshua Daley, Nikole (Troy) Knight, Amy Krause, and Lori (Kurt) Wendt; step great-grandchildren, Elijah and Delilah Daley, Sawyer Knight, and Emily Wendt; sister Dory Madden; sister-in-law, Carol Dittmar; and many nieces and nephews. Ethel was preceded in death by her husband, Hans Tritten; parents, Carl and Dorena Dittmar; son-in-law, Larry Krause; and siblings, Donald ‘Fuzzy’ Dittmar, Gerald Dittmar, Edward Dittmar, Shirley Dittmar, Earl Dittmar, Marjorie Tritten, and Janice (Milton) Gibbens; and brother-in-laws, Ray Madden and Frank Tritten.

The family would like to thank Aspirus at Home Hospice staff and the Aspirus Wausau Hospital I.C.U. for the kindness and support given to Ethel and her family.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Bethany Lutheran Church – 174071 Church Rd., Aniwa, WI 54408. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Saturday at the church.

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

Mary Ann AbrahamMary Ann Abraham passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at the age of 85. Mary Ann was born on May 16...
04/14/2026

Mary Ann Abraham

Mary Ann Abraham passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at the age of 85. Mary Ann was born on May 16, 1940, in Jennings, Wisconsin, to Fred and Elfreida (Matzke) Meister. She graduated from Wausau Senior High in 1958 and went on to lead a life filled with love, laughter, and a passion for serving others.

Mary Ann spent over 20 years in the jewelry department at Walmart, where she was known for her friendly smile and excellent customer service. Many will remember her from her time as a waitress at Henrich's Club fish fries, where she served her community for more than 25 years.

Mary Ann was a true green thumb, finding joy and solace in her garden. She cherished her time playing cards with the Hand and Foot card group and was an active member of the Trappe River Homemakers Club in the Town of Texas. Her faith was important to her, and she participated in a Bible study group at St. John's in Merrill, where she forged meaningful connections and friendships.

Mary Ann leaves behind her children, Sherry Matsche and Lance (Jenny) Abraham, along with her cherished grandchildren, Leah (Tyler) Fandrey and Skyler Matsche, and her great-grandchildren, Kelsey and Linzie Pankow. She also leaves her sister, Ruthie Crandall, and several nieces and nephews who will always hold her memory in their hearts.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her beloved parents and siblings, Louise, Gloria, Raymond, and infant brother, Norman, as well as her aunts and uncles.

The family will hold a memorial service to celebrate Mary Ann’s life on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, Wisconsin, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be from 9:00 - 11:00 am.

Thank you to the Aspirus Hospice nurses and staff at Pine Crest Health and Memory Care in Merrill for the excellent care they gave our mom.

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 Mary Ann Abraham's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Kenneth John BehrendKenneth John Behrend, 88, passed away peacefully in Merrill, Wisconsin on Thursday, April 2, 2026, a...
04/09/2026

Kenneth John Behrend

Kenneth John Behrend, 88, passed away peacefully in Merrill, Wisconsin on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Woodland Court Elder Services under the compassionate care of Aspirus Hospice Services and Woodland Court Staff.

Kenneth was born on June 15, 1937 in Wisconsin Rapids to Louwin and Elsie Behrend. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids. He obtained his diploma for Clinical Laboratory Technique from the Northwest Institute of Medical Technology in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1957. Kenneth worked much of his career in the medical laboratory/blood bank of various healthcare settings. He retired from Holy Cross Good Samaritan Hospital in Merrill in 1999 as Director of the blood bank.

Ken found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He participated in the community theater in his younger years and enjoyed music, watching movies, traveling, and visiting casinos.

Survivors include his first cousin, Kathleen (Behrend) Kopacz, her husband, Victor, and family of Wisconsin Rapids, first cousin, Jack Behrend and his wife, Shirley of Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gerald Behrend.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Woodland Court Elder Services for care and support provided to Ken the past seven years. A special thank you to Judy Wery for your years of friendship and support attending to Ken’s financial and personal matters.

Services will be held at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, Wisconsin on April 23, 2026 at 11:00 am. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation.

Burial will take place on April 24, 2026, at 10:00am, at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.

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 Kenneth John Behrend's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Gary S. RauenGary Sylvester Rauen was baptized into Christian faith on May 11, 1947, at Holy Family Church in Willard, W...
04/07/2026

Gary S. Rauen

Gary Sylvester Rauen was baptized into Christian faith on May 11, 1947, at Holy Family Church in Willard, WI.

Gary S. Rauen, age 78, of Merrill, Wisconsin, passed away on April 5, 2026, while under the hospice care, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 22, 1947, in Neillsville to George and Mabel Rauen, Gary was a man of strong faith, deep dedication, and quiet strength. He lived with humor, with grit, with heart. He loved deeply and in his own unmistakable style. Gary graduated from Edgar High School, Class of 1965, before proudly serving his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 during the Vietnam War.

Following his military service, Gary devoted 38 years to the United States Postal Service. He retired as Postmaster in Athens, Wisconsin, after more than 18 years in that role, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, reliability, and commitment to his community.

Gary found great joy in the outdoors; it was his sanctuary. Whether he was out deer hunting, making the best maple syrup, making firewood, or packing up for the annual Big Lake camping trip, he was in his element. Those trips weren’t just vacations – they were rituals, memories stitched into the fabric of our family. The kind of moments that become stories, and the stories become legacy. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Gary mentioned that these times spent outdoors were missed the most.

A devoted Catholic, he carried his faith with him throughout his life.

Gary married Holly Strozewski on January 4, 2002, and they shared many years together building a life centered on family and compassion.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Holly; his daughters, Michele Borski and her children, Ahlyana and Dreyden; Saundra (John) Balbach and their children, Johann and Winston; and Jessica (Jeremy) Reece and their children, Ashton and Sienna.

He is also survived by his stepchildren, Glenn (Kristina) Strozewski and their son, Parker; and Amy (Chad) Hoernke and their children, Chad Jr ‘CJ’ (Alyssa) and their daughter, Raelynn, and Tatiana and her daughter, Olivia.

Gary is further survived by his brothers, Norbert (fiancée Nancy), Bill (Sharon), and Dale (Kathy); his brother-in-law, Clifford ‘Junior’ Pfingsten; as well as many nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mabel Rauen; his brother, Donnie; and his sister-in-law, Melody Pfingsten.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, April 25, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Bloomville. Father John Long will preside. A visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Friday, April 24, 2026, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 903 E. Third St. Merrill, WI.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be directed to the Veteran’s Honor Flight or St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Merrill, in Gary’s memory.

The family would like to thank Aspirus Merrill Hospital and Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services for their compassionate care.

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

View Gary S. Rauen's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Carol J. CortrightCarol J. Cortright, 59, of Merrill, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, at her home under the care of h...
04/07/2026

Carol J. Cortright

Carol J. Cortright, 59, of Merrill, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, at her home under the care of her family and Interim Hospice.

Carol was born December 16, 1966, in Chicago, daughter of Donald and Sherida ‘Jean’ (Ward) Franzen. She graduated from Merrill High School with the Class of 1985. Carol married Gerald ‘Jerry’ Cortright on July 7, 2001, in Merrill. He survives. Carol worked for many years at Lincoln Industries as a caretaker.

Carol will be remembered as selfless, caring, witty and strong. She loved her grandkids. Carol volunteered with the Special Olympics for many years. She was a member of Merrill Eagle’s Auxiliary and helped cook at the Eagle’s Club. Carol enjoyed being outdoors, camping, and swimming. She also enjoyed hosting family dinners, listening to music, and collecting angels.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry Cortright of Merrill; daughters, Loniann Young, Stephanie Young, and Tammera Graap all of Merrill, and Kenna Smith of Schofield; grandchildren, Jordan Erickson, Violet Weiss, Jenna Weiss, Destiny Weiss, Aceson Graap, Emilee Woodard, Shylynn Williams, and D’Andre Williams; great grandson, Holden Weiss; brothers, Roger (Linda) Franzen of Merrill, Scott (Dawn) Franzen of Albertville, MN, Larry Scolley of Red Wing, MN, and Dennis (Heather) Scolley of Berlin, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Sherida ‘Jean’ Franzen; and brother, Thomas Franzen.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 12:00 P.M., Noon, Friday, April 17, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Bloomville. Father John Long will preside. A visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. Friday, April 17, 2026, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, WI.

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

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

Easter offers a moment of renewal, reflection, and the celebration of enduring hope. We extend our warmest wishes for a ...
04/05/2026

Easter offers a moment of renewal, reflection, and the celebration of enduring hope. We extend our warmest wishes for a joyful and peaceful day to all who observe.

Jean K. HowickJean K. Howick, 91, of Merrill passed peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, following a very courageous ...
04/03/2026

Jean K. Howick

Jean K. Howick, 91, of Merrill passed peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, following a very courageous battle with cancer.

Jean was born in London, England to Charles and Edna ‘Kathy’ Howick. She came to the United States in the early 50’s and settled in the Minneapolis area. In the early 70’s, the family relocated to Merrill.

Jean spent her Merrill career at M.A.P.S. as secretary to the superintendent. It was a position she enjoyed and while there made many life-long friends.

Jean enjoyed world travel and, on many occasions, encouraged friends to join in the adventures. She also enjoyed traveling the U.S. Many stateside adventures were with her English cousins Ian and Jill Simmons, who visit Merrill regularly.

Jean enjoyed bridge club, Red Hats, and sorority get-togethers. She was a hospital volunteer and also lead water aerobics classes. She volunteered her time with Park City Gardens as well.

She was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill.

Jean is survived by her daughter, Karen (Jim) Schooley; grandchildren, Colin (Jillian) Schooley and Sarah (Mike) Van Der Geest; great grandchildren, Adalyn and Beckett Schooley, and Essa and Noah Van Der Geest; as well as grandson, Justin Foehringer. She is further survived by Ian, Jill, and other cousins in the U.K. Jean was preceded in death by her son, Mark Foehringer.

The family would like to thank her amazing friends who, when she was no longer up for phone calls or visits, sent prayers, cards, notes, and flowers, especially Marla for coming to our house for one last “best day of the month” massage.

We would also like to thank Compassus Hospice whose kind and knowledgeable staff enabled the family to keep Mom with us for the last month of her life.

Love and Blessings to you all.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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

View Jean K. Howick's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

April marks National Donate Life Month, a time to honor the families and individuals who have chosen to give the extraor...
04/02/2026

April marks National Donate Life Month, a time to honor the families and individuals who have chosen to give the extraordinary gift of life through organ donation. We are privileged to support many of these families, whose loved ones’ generosity has offered profound hope and healing to those in need. If you are considering becoming a donor, your decision could save lives and change the future for many.

Learn more today: https://hubs.la/Q046qSz60

Theresa Marie RenkenTheresa “Terry” M. Renken (nee Wianecki) was born October 13, 1939 at her parent’s home in the town ...
04/01/2026

Theresa Marie Renken

Theresa “Terry” M. Renken (nee Wianecki) was born October 13, 1939 at her parent’s home in the town of Kronenwetter, Mosinee, Wisconsin to the late Felix and Stella (Ogonowski) Wianecki. She was received into God’s kingdom of grace through the waters of Baptism in 1939 and received Holy Communion in 1952 at St. Paul Catholic Church of Mosinee. Theresa converted to the Lutheran faith and was confirmed in April of 1959.

Theresa graduated from St. Paul Catholic School in 1954 and from Mosinee High School in 1958.

During her high school years, Theresa worked as a “pinboy” at a Mosinee bowling alley, watched children in the summer, and worked the piece line at Rondo cheese factory in Mosinee.

Theresa met David Renken in 1957. On weekends, they would go dancing either at Colonial Ballroom or Schmidt’s Ballroom. They married on October 18, 1958. During the early years of their marriage, Theresa held various jobs including office work at Marathon Electric in Wausau, office work at Livingston’s Department store in Merrill, worker at the Gardners Bakery in Schofield, and as a waitress at Dick’s Riverside Supper Club in Merrill.

On December 26, 1962, Theresa and David bought their farm in the town of Pine River. During their 32 years of farming and raising three children, Theresa worked part-time at Northern Wire pieces/welding lines, Northern Door assembly line, 29 Super Market bakery, Badger Evergreens Farm making Christmas wreaths and garland, John Muir Middle School kitchen, and then she transferred to Maine Elementary School as the night custodian. The farm was sold in April 1995, and Theresa continued working at Maine Elementary School until she retired in July 2011 at the age of 71. Per Theresa, “I loved my job, the staff and all the children. That always made my day.”. After farming and well into retirement, Theresa played a major role in helping raise a grandson and a great-granddaughter.

Theresa enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends. She always made enough food to feed an Army. Theresa enjoyed planting and harvesting her garden, feeding the birds, tending to her indoor plants and outdoor floral gardens, decorating her home for the holidays, crafting, coloring, reading her Portals of Prayer, listening and watching Daniel O’Donnell sing, helping others in need, and spoiling her family with unconditional love. She cherished planning family gatherings, especially during holidays, and was always interested in following the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include children Alan (Doreen) Renken of Merrill and Pam (William ‘Bill’) Switalski of Des Plaines, Illinois; grandchildren, Melissa (Jesse) Tessmer of Milwaukee, Chris (Robyn) Renken of Merrill, Jenna (Zach) Lezotte of Merrill, Anthony (Becky) Renken of Merrill, Matt (Ashley) Renken of Hudson, and Heather Young of Merrill; great-grandchildren, Mason, Caden, Emberly, Keaton, Lexi, Jersey, Braxton, Hunter, Harley, Kira and Erik; sister Rose Windorski of California; sister Pat Lahr of Wausau; brother Ray (Betty) Wianecki of Mosinee; sister-in-law Rosemary Wianecki of Eagle River; Carol Scheel of Wausau; Sharon (Lenny) Koziel of Wausau, and Mae Eckardt of Merrill; brother-in-law Marvin (Donna) Hartwig of Merrill.

Theresa was preceded in death by her husband David; son, Michael Renken; parents, Felix and Stella Wianecki; brothers Joe Wianecki and Stanley Wianecki; in-laws Ray Windorski; Janis and Jim Framke; Joyce and Jack Bitcon; Barbara and John Renken; Lorene Renken and Donald Eckardt; nephews John Wianecki; Rick Renken; and Doug Framke.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Burial will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Friday, April 10, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill and again at the church after 10:00 A.M. Saturday. Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family.

The family requests that any memorials be given to Trinity Lutheran Church in memory of Theresa Renken.

View Theresa Marie Renken's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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Merrill, WI
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