Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral and Cremation

12/27/2025

Tisha Ament-Hintz

Full obituary is pending. Please check back later.

View Tisha Ament-Hintz's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/27/2025

Millie Ann Wagner-Burnett

Mildred “Millie” Ann Wagner-Burnett, age 87, of Merrill, passed away on Christmas Day, 2025, at her home, while surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. She was born on April 13, 1938, and was the daughter of Elder and Rose (Weiand) Woller. Millie attended and graduated from Holy Cross in Merrill. She met James Donald Burnett, and the two were united in marriage, until her preceded her in death.

Millie wore many hats and was a motivated wife and mother, always doing whatever she needed to do to provide for her family. Her and her husband, James, had Burnett’s Bait Shop, Burnett’s Rubber Stamp and Print Shop and she worked at many local businesses, including Wire Products and Northern Wire. She was well-known for making Raggity Ann and Andy dolls for her friends and family, baking amazing cookies and raising canaries. Millie was not one to be afraid to voice her thoughts and opinions, and had a spunky and feisty spirit! She looked forward to playing cards with family, playing Bingo, going to the casino and working in her flower bed. Millie was a strong-willed woman that will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Millie is survived by her children: Gerald “Jerry” (Shelly) Burnett of Merrill, WI, Sandy (Scott) Harkness of Tomahawk, WI, Joe (Tammy) Burnett of Merrill, WI, Jimmy (Jodi) Burnett of Antigo and Krissy (Asan) Adiloski of Merrill, WI., 20 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, sister: Jeanie Herdt, her dog: Bluey and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband: James Donald Burnett, grandchildren: Jennifer Burnett and Daniel Adoliski, great grandson: Riley Burnett, brothers: Tommy, Ronnie, Donnie, Georgie and Jimmy Woller and brother-in-law: Benjamin “Benji” Herdt.

A celebration of Millie’s life will be held at a later date.

The family wishes to thank Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services for their care and support.

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 Millie Ann Wagner-Burnett's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/26/2025

Robert L. Hodgson

Robert L. “Bob” Hodgson passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, in his childhood hometown of Merrill, Wisconsin, proof that even at the end, he preferred familiar territory.

Born to Harvey and Elizabeth “Betty” Hodgson, Bob was the older brother of Marilyn (Tom) Tewes and grew up on a dairy farm in the Town of Schley outside Merrill. He learned early the value of hard work, responsibility, and how to fix things, all skills that served him well both on the farm and later in life. Bob attended Heller School for grades 1–8 and later graduated from Merrill High School, where he competed in numerous debate tournaments, sharpening the quick wit and sharp mind he would be known for. Armed with a strong work ethic and that famously “big brain,” he went on to become an electrical engineer.

While earning his degree at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Bob met his future wife, Maria Lischalk. Together they raised three sons, Steve (Raina), Scott (Kay), and Dan (Karen), all of whom he was immensely proud of and quick to claim as “excellent,” whether they deserved it or not. Though his marriage later ended, his devotion to his sons never wavered and only grew as his family expanded.

Bob spent many years working as an electrical engineer for Honeywell. Outside of work, he could usually be found fixing something around the house in Barrington, Illinois, loading the family into the car for camping trips, or reminding his kids, often loudly, that he was not afraid to pull over if they didn’t stop arguing. Those same kids later “repaid” him by giving him 7 grandchildren, who brought him more joy than he could ever properly put into words: Paxton, Kasper, Avery, Sean, Ethan, Caden, and Sofie, along with great-grandsons Sterling and Koda. Bob delighted in every opportunity to share his legendary dad jokes and “amazing” sense of humor with them, whether they asked for it or not.

A devoted Green Bay Packers fan, Bob especially enjoyed watching them win—and enjoyed it even more when he could talk a little smack to Dan and Scott, lifelong Bears fans. When he wasn’t cheering on the Pack, Bob spent a lot of his time on coin collecting and learning about new technologies and space exploration (again, “big brain”). He dearly loved his sister Marilyn, her husband Tom, and their children and grandchildren.

Son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor—Bob was many things to many people. No matter the role he played in your life, he was grateful to be part of it and likely left you with a joke, a story, or at least a good eye roll.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to: The Colon Cancer Alliance (https://colorectalcancer.org/get-involved/give/donate-now) or The American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.org).

No visitation is planned. A private Celebration of Life for close family will be held in the coming months.

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 Robert L. Hodgson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas! Whether you’re busy celebrating with family and friends or quietly reflecting on cherished memories of those who are no longer with us, we wish you peace and love this holiday season.

12/21/2025

Winter is here! As the shortest day of the year, it’s the perfect time to embrace cozy nights, warm drinks, and the beauty of the season. Here’s to finding joy in winter’s quiet magic.

12/18/2025

Doreen A. Pugh

On December 17, Doreen peacefully went home to meet her Lord and Savior and to be reunited with her beloved parents, whom she missed every day. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion to family that will continue to bless all who knew her.

Doreen was born on December 6, 1945, in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, to Elsie and Clarence Baldwin. She graduated from Merrill High School in 1964 at the top of her class. Following graduation, she moved with her family to Santa Monica, California, where she attended Santa Monica Community College, studying English and Journalism. In 1966, she returned to Wisconsin, where her heart and home would remain.

On June 22, 1968, Doreen married her devoted husband, Wayne Pugh, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. During Wayne’s pastoral ministry, Doreen worked in administrative assistant positions in Ohio and South Dakota, faithfully supporting his calling. In 1971, they returned to Wisconsin to put down roots and raise their family. Doreen worked at Helmstadter’s Jewelry in downtown Merrill before embracing her most cherished role of wife, mother, and homemaker. She was also a frequent and enthusiastic volunteer at Franklin Elementary School while her daughters attended classes there.

Doreen had a deep love for home and community. She enjoyed cooking, crocheting, quilting, crafting, refunding, and couponing. A lifelong volunteer, she served for many years as a Girl Scout leader and founded the long-running Girl Scout service project, Love-a-Pet, benefiting the Lincoln County Humane Society. Her faith guided her life, and she served as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher for many years.

She was known for her love of holiday decorating—especially Halloween—and delighted in hosting trick-or-treaters every October 31. Doreen loved opening her home for holidays, birthday parties, family dinners, and gatherings with friends. She was an avid reader, a lover of dogs, and enjoyed long walks with her husband. She also delighted in collecting teapots, pink Fenton glass, and china. In Doreen’s household, every holiday had its own set of special china!

Doreen was a devoted grandmother who cherished caring for her grandchildren, treasuring time spent taking them on trips and picnics, and attending their concerts, plays, and special school and scouting events.

Doreen was preceded in death by her parents, Elsie and Clarence Baldwin, and her brother, Gary Baldwin.

She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne; her daughters, Amy (Len) Bergmann and Betsy (Brad Sweet) Duginski; four grandchildren, Ariel (Amanda) Bergmann, Michael (Rebecca) Bergmann, Rachel Bergmann, and James (Hannah Marquardt) Duginski; and two great-grandchildren, Nora Bergmann and Samuel Bergmann.

A memorial service will be held Monday, December 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ United Methodist Church in Merrill. Pastor Mike Zahn will officiate. Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the hour of service at the church.

If you wish to honor Doreen’s memory, consider making a memorial donation to the Lincoln County Humane Society or the Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes Council.

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 Doreen A. Pugh's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/16/2025

Wayne L Hamlin

Wayne LeRoy Hamlin, 78, of Merrill, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025. Born on September 6, 1947, at Holy Cross Hospital in Merrill, Wayne was a beloved figure in his community, known for his warmth, humor, and dedication to the education of future generations.

Wayne graduated from Tomahawk High School in 1964 before pursuing a Master's Degree at Steven’s Point College in 1968. After his education, he devoted 34 years of his life to teaching English at Marshfield Schools, where he inspired countless middle and high school students with his passion for literature and learning. Beyond the classroom, Wayne served as a pitching coach for girls’ softball, sharing his love of sports with young athletes.

An avid walker, Wayne enjoyed the serenity of his daily five-mile strolls, reflecting his zest for life and commitment to health, which he maintained throughout his years. His kind nature and infectious sense of humor endeared him to everyone who crossed his path.

Wayne's later years led him to rest in Rhinelander until his diagnosis of dementia necessitated a move to Woodland Court, where he received exceptional care during his time there.

He is preceded in death by his loving parents and siblings, Jim, Joe (Lucy), Reid (Lois), Alice (Jim) O'Day, Esther (Vernon) Wittkop, and Margaret (Tony) Robl.

He is survived by his devoted brothers, Bill (Mary Lou) and Donald (Elizabeth), as well as his cherished sisters, Claudia Roberts, Elaine Schultz, and Eunice Langlois. Wayne will also be lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, who carry his legacy forward. Wayne LeRoy Hamlin's spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to have known him. His laughter, kindness, and dedication to education remain a lasting legacy to all.

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

View Wayne L Hamlin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/16/2025

William "Bill" L. Robl

Full obituary and service details are pending. Please check back later.

View William "Bill" L. Robl's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/09/2025

Sandra M. Annis

Sandra (Taylor) Annis, 84, took her Lord’s hand and entered eternal life on December 8, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. We take comfort in knowing she was welcomed with open arms by the love of her life, Randy, and her beloved son, Donnie.

Sandy was born on August 8, 1941, in Merrill, WI, to the late Donald and Eileen Taylor. She lived the majority of her life in Merrill and always fondly refereed to it as “home”. She also had a deep love for Hawaii, her “second home”.

Family meant the world to Sandy. She especially found joy in her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and one great great grandson.

Throughout her entire life, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with those who surround her.

Sandy is survived by her loving children: Mark (Karin) Leopold, Mike (Sue) Leopold, David (Mary) Leopold, Jennifer (Jeff) Thompson, and Katie (Dave) Annis. She is further survived by her 11 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, one great great grandson, and many nieces, nephews, in-law, and special friends she held dear to her heart. She was preceded in death by her parents Donald and Eileen Taylor; her brother Richard Taylor Sr; her husband Randy Annis, and her eldest son Donald Leopold.

The family would loke to thank Pastor G, Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital, Aspirus Cancer Center, Dr. Asquith, Aspirus Hospice Care, and the many caregivers who have taken care of Sandy this past year.

The funeral service for Sandy will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Burial will take place in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Monday, December 15, 2025, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, and after 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the church.

Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be where I am. John 14:1-3.

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 Sandra M. Annis's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/08/2025

Christine M. Peck

Christine Marie Peck met her loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 3, 2025, at the age of 83, peacefully at home with her family by her side.

She was born on November 24, 1942, in Merrill, Wisconsin, to Lawrence (Larry) and Pearl Schield. Christine was baptized on December 30, 1942, and confirmed on March 25, 1956, at St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill—a church that would remain the cornerstone of her faith and life.

Christine attended Franklin Elementary School and St. John Lutheran School in Merrill, later graduating from Merrill High School, where she excelled in vocal and performance music. Her lifelong dream was to become a teacher. After high school, she graduated from Lincoln County Teacher College and UW–Stevens Point. She also completed professional development coursework through UW–Madison. Christine went on to teach as an elementary school teacher with Special Education certification at Newbold Elementary in Rhinelander WI, and at Lincoln, Washington, and St. John Lutheran Schools in Merrill.

In 1962, Christine married the love of her life, Howard Peck, at St. John Lutheran Church. Together, they raised three children and shared 63 years of love, partnership, and faith. As Howard lovingly writes: “To my lovely Christian wife, best friend, partner, and soulmate for 63 years. Thank you.”

When her children were born, she stepped away from her full-time teaching career to dedicate her time to her family. She was so proud to be a full-time mother. She later returned to the classroom as a substitute teacher—quickly becoming known throughout the Merrill schools as the beloved “Super Sub.” She cherished her students, and they adored her in return.

Christine’s life was built upon her deep faith in Jesus Christ and her devotion to her church community. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She found joy in many things: her family and friends; flowers—especially geraniums and marigolds; making cookies with Howard; eating fresh crappies caught by Howard; fishing with her husband, children, and grandchildren; shopping; family time at Camp Luther; traveling to New York, national parks, Nashville, and Graceland (as she and Howard were lifelong Elvis fans). Their favorite song, Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” was their dance together at Christine’s 70th birthday celebration at their hunting cabin. Christine also delighted in home decorating, polka music and dancing with Howard, and staying connected with family and friends through Facebook.

Christine saw the good in everyone and brought light into every room. She had a remarkable gift of empathy, an infectious laugh, and a spirit that encouraged others, even in difficult times. At the end of her journey, her faith remained unwavering. She comforted her family with her joyful confidence in eternal life, saying: “Don’t worry about me. I know I’m going to see Jesus. I’m only changing my address!”

Christine had the rare gift of making every person she knew feel deeply loved. She showed sincere interest in the lives of her family and friends, celebrating their joys, supporting them through challenges, and reminding them of their worth.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Howard Peck of Merrill; her children, Dr. Brad (Lisa) Peck of Wausau, WI, Sarah Koskey of Verona, WI, and Tasha (Troy) Schmidt of Green Bay, WI; grandchildren, Trevor (Megan) Peck of Duluth, MN, Tyler (Anneliese) Koskey of Menomonee Falls, WI, Dr. Molly Peck (fiancé Morgan Rode) of Kronenwetter, WI, Christian Schmidt of Carmel, IN, and Ava Schmidt of Green Bay, WI; great-granddaughter, Aoife Pearl Peck of Duluth, MN; sister, Stephanie (Mark) Cooper of Verona, WI; sister-in-law Janice Peck; brother-in-law Todd (Cheryl) Zimmerman of Merrill, WI; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Pearl Schield; sister, Patricia Krombholz; brother-in-law Roger Peck; grandson, Christopher Koskey; son-in-law Pete Koskey; mother and father-in-law Vera (Peck) and Jack Zimmerman; and grandparents, Herman and Minna Schield and Reinald and Emelia Krause.

Funeral services for Christine will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church. Rev. Neely Owen will officiate. The visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service at Noon. Burial will take place in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Christine’s memory may consider a donation to St. John Lutheran School Library in Merrill, WI.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the doctors and nurses at Aspirus Hospital; Interim Hospice staff and nurses Kelly and Brittany; Goddaughter Miriam Hefty; Polly and Joel Schneider; Cheryl and Todd Zimmerman, and Rev. Neely Owen of St. John Lutheran Church for the incredible compassion and support they provided Christine and her family.

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

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

12/05/2025

Gregory "Grego" Sommer

In the morning hours of Wednesday, December 3, 2025, we said our goodbyes to Gregory H. Sommer “Grego”, our loving husband, dad and brother.

Grego was born on January 30, 1958, in Appleton, WI. He was the devoted son of Harland and Constance (Beusch) Sommer. Grego graduated from Appleton East High School in Appleton, WI in 1976. He bravely enlisted in the United States Army, where he was honorably discharged after 12 years of service. Grego served during the 1st Gulf War and went to Korea twice. He married the love of his life, Mary Lou Sutheimer, on November 1, 1997 in Appleton, WI. She survives. He was a skilled carpenter and was well-known as a Mr. Fix-It! Grego was a friendly man, loved to visit, was outgoing, funny and loved Jesus. Faith was an important part of his life. Grego adored his family, especially his kids and grandkids. He looked forward to a day of ice fishing in the winter, or playing a few rounds of golf in the warmer months, later in his life. He had a passion for golf and practically lived at the X to C Golf Course, enjoying the companionship with all of his pals. Grego was a faithful member of Journey Church in Merrill. All who have been blessed with knowing Grego will be forever touched by his gracious manner, the love he had for his Savior, Jesus Christ, and the love he gave to everyone.

Grego was the loving husband of Mary Lou Sommer, proud dad of Maria, Jennifer and Jordan (McKenzie Clauson) Sommer, loving brother of Cyndi (Dave) Duncan, Debi (Tom) Passehl and Daniel (Becci) Sommer, grandfather to Leo Tesch and Camilla Sommer and uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Linda.

A Celebration of Grego’s life will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Journey Church in Merrill, with a public visitation from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. also at the church. A luncheon will be held at the Eagle’s Club in Merrill immediately following the service.

“I am home in Heaven, dear ones; Oh, so happy and so bright! There is perfect joy and beauty in this everlasting light. All the pain and grief is over, every restless tossing passed; I am now at peace forever, safely home in Heaven at last.”

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.

“Get ‘er done!”

View Gregory "Grego" Sommer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.