Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Services

08/24/2026

Shirley Ann Hegna

Shirley Ann Hegna, age 88, of Wausau, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the Marshfield Medical Center in Weston after a long and courageous battle with many different cancers.

She was born on July 10, 1938, in Wausau, a daughter of Floyd and Isabella (Newman) Hegna. Shirley was very honest, kind, and hard-working. She loved to fish, camp, taking trips up north for the weekends, going to the casino, she enjoyed going out to eat and spending time with her family. Her dogs were a huge part of her life and she really enjoyed cars – she loved her Cadillac. She was a member of Grace United Church of Christ in Wausau.

She is survived by, her brother, James (Anne) Hegna; nieces: Patty (Todd) Hitz, Cathy Smith, Robert Smith; great nieces and nephews, Danielle Hitz, Todd Jr (Janelle) Hitz and Bobby (Hannah) Smith; special friends, Lynn Hanson and Barb Lawson. She is preceded in death by, her parents, Floyd and Isabella Hegna; her sisters, Lorraine and Delores and her brother, Charles.

Shirley’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses of Marshfield Medical Center in Weston that worked around room 155 for the respect and care they provided Shirley in her final days.

Private family services will be held at Helke Funeral Home in Wausau. Shirley was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her.

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08/19/2026

Audrey Luella Bey

Audrey Luella (Leo) Bey, age 103, a.k.a “Jack” of Wausau, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at Northcentral Health Care (Mount View). She was born on July 9, 1923 in Mondovi, WI (Buffalo County) to the late Herman and Minnie (nee Schultz) Leo. Audrey was made a child of God through baptism on July 20, 1923 in Mondovi, and confirmed in her faith at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Modena, WI on July 12, 1937. She attended Griffin Grade School, town of Gilmanton, and attended and graduated from Gilmanton High School in June 1940. Upon graduation she entered the Wisconsin Business University in La Crosse, WI, from which she graduated. Audrey worked for the Postal Telegraph Company in La Crosse, WI, Decatur, IL, and Moline, IL, then transferring to Western Union Telegraph in Moline, working as a relief operator until moving to Wausau, WI after her marriage. She continued working for the telegraph company until the offices were closed in 1971. After that, Audrey was employed in the office of Kraft Foods, Wausau, from 1973 until 1988. In 1994, she was employed by the Wausau Conservatory of Music until June 2012.

On August 11, 1946 Audrey was united in marriage in La Crosse, WI to William A. Bey, who preceded her in death in 1985. Also preceding her in death were her parents, brothers Ralph and Carl, sisters Etta Rieck and Minnie Clark, son William II, son-in-law: Bill Cass, and nieces and nephews. Audrey was a devoted member of Our Savior’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Wausau, where she was active in the Ladies’ Aid, Ladies’ Guild, Bible classes, Friendship Club, and Girl Pioneers for many years. Audrey was also involved in the Tape Ministry, the church newsletter assembly, and OWLS. In later years she worked with Advent by Candle Light.

Survivors include: daughter Barbara (Lyle) Marquis and children Christopher, Gail (William) Laxen and sons Benjamin and Felix, Felicia Kenyon and children Jack and Lyla; daughter Stephanie Cass and son Matthew and children Seraphim and Orion; daughter Christine (Kent) McMullin and children Lance Heser, Heather Heser and son Carter, and Erika Heser and children Kameron and Rose; son Pastor Gregory L. (Connie) Bey and daughters Sena (Brian) Yerges and children Nora, Nadia, and Leo; Emily (Christopher) Linderman and children Maria, Audrey, and David; and Grace (Jeremy) Seeger and daughters Liliana and Aurellia, as well as nieces and nephews.

Audrey is remembered by her family as a strong and forgiving woman. She had an incredible work ethic and took a lot of pride in her work. She also enjoyed sewing and made many pieces for her family, and she would can the vegetables that she reaped from her garden. God and her family were the center of her being.

The funeral service for Audrey will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wausau. Pastor Nathaniel Wranovsky will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the church. Burial at Restlawn Memorial Park in Wausau will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, Audrey would like donations to be directed to the church, as it was very close to her heart and important to her.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Northcentral Health Care for their care and support that was shown to Audrey during her time there.

The following are words from Audrey:

God has given us a legacy of love. He sent His Son to die on the cross for all our sins. I have no doubt about my being saved by Him or my being in heaven. He promised “the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.”

“For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men of their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6: 14-15.

May God grant you all peace, love and harmony with one another as He guides you through this life.

Love, Audrey

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Wausau is assisting Audrey’s family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.helke.com.

We mourn our loss, but rejoice at her entrance into heaven, where all believers in Christ Jesus will finally be reunited forever in the presence of God.

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08/17/2026

Daniel Mark Johnston

We deeply mourn the passing of Mr. Daniel Mark Johnston, a beloved member of our community who blessed this world with his presence from May 10, 1957, until his untimely departure on August 12, 2026.

He is preceded in death by, his mother, Mary Hurley; father, Lee Johnston; sister, Janice Coile; nephew, Michael Brown, and niece, Lisa Brown. Surviving relatives, sister, Denise French; brother, David Johnston; niece, Lori Brown.

Daniel had a passion for music, especially Merle Haggard and Johnny Cash, among other country music stars. Danny was also an avid antiquarian, deriving immense joy from antiquing and preserving beautiful relics of the past. Special thanks to his Best buddy, Matthew Pijan, who opened up his home, and shared all holidays with Dan, and always had the time to take Dan antiquing. We also wish to thank the caregivers at Pastika Independent Living - especially Jodi Kalinke and Jamie Pastika, among the other caregivers, Jessica, Ginger and Lee, who took great care of Dan for the last 13 yrs. - we will be forever grateful for that.

Danny had a beautiful black cat, Orchid, who was his faithful companion, who rested on his lap for hours at a time, a pure and simple Love. Known for his infectious laughter, Daniel was a jokester at heart, perpetually brightening rooms with his Jokes and his lively spirit. He adored laughter, and his wit was as sharp as it was warm. His ever-present sense of humor will be sorely missed but remembered fondly. As we remember Daniel, we honor his vibrant life, his enduring legacy, and the laughter and love he shared. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, humor, and living each day fully. He will be deeply missed, but his memory and the positive impact he left on our hearts will live on forever.

08/17/2026

Kathleen M. Zillman

Kathleen Margaret Zillman, 96, of Wausau, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

She was born on April 19, 1930, to the late Christopher and Elvera (Sleeter) O'Driscoll, in Eau Claire, WI.

Kathleen met her future husband, Roger Zillman, while she was in nurses' training in Wausau. They were married on June 21, 1952, at St. James Catholic Church in Eau Claire, and then resided in Wausau.

Kathleen was born at home on the family farm, and attended grade school and high school at St. Patrick's in Eau Claire, graduating in 1948. She received her nursing education and training at St. Mary's School of Nursing in Wausau and graduated with the class of 1951. Early in her career, she worked at both St. Mary's and Memorial hospitals, later as an employee health nurse at Marmet, and she did private duty nursing for a time. She retired from nursing in 1997, after many years at Wausau Medical Center.

Kathleen enjoyed reading, music, playing bridge, sewing, flower gardening, jewelry, fashionable clothes, and her Irishness. She was the organist and pianist at Holy Name for many years, playing for countless masses, weddings, and funerals. She was a loud cheerleader for the Packers and Badgers. She especially loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and they brought her much happiness. She made annual trips to Irish Fest and enjoyed exploring her Irish roots on trips to Ireland.

Kathleen is survived by her daughter; Barbara (Rod) Digman, her grandchildren; Luke (Cheryl) Digman and Amanda (Ben) Shuda, great grandsons; Nolan and Bryce Shuda, brothers; Jim O'Driscoll, Bob O'Driscoll, and Patrick (Sheri) O'Driscoll, sisters; Margaret (Chuck) Thorsen and Judy (Dave) Risch, sister-in-law; Vanessa Zillman, as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She is preceded in death by her husband; Roger Zillman, her two sons; Thomas Zillman and David Zillman, her sister, Delores (Robert) Martinek, and sisters-in-law; Ruth O'Driscoll, Libby O'Driscoll and Viginia Zillman, brothers-in-law, Jim Zillman and Wayne Zillman.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Entombment will be in Restlawn Memorial Chapel Mausoleum, Wausau.

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08/13/2026

William "Bill" H. Johnson

William “Bill” Howard Johnson, age 78, of Wausau, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at the Marshfield Medical Center in Weston, with his family by his side. He was born on Christmas Eve in 1947 in Watertown, WI, and was the son to the late Edwin and Cora (Kienbaum) Johnson. Bill attended and graduated from Wausau High School. He bravely enlisted in the United States Air force and faithfully served his country in the Vietnam War, until he was honorably discharged. Bill met his lovely Rose Ellen Kruit, and the two exchanged marriage vows on October 7, 1966, a union lasting almost 60 years. She survives.

Bill had his dream job of being an over the road truck driver for over 40 years, traveling the country and taking in the scenery. Bill was very proud of his clean record with safe driving and had won numerous safety awards. He retired in 2011. Bill loved fishing, especially with his father-in-law, and taking his family boating and water skiing. He also would enjoy taking in a WWII or Western movie every now and then. Bill was an independent man, that had a very strong-will, but enjoyed people and made friends everywhere he went. He could spin tales with the best of them! Bill loved being around his dog, Rusty, and also enjoyed the family cats. He was a thrill seeker, very adventurous, and had a passion for old muscle cars. Bill had a sweet tooth, especially chocolate, so everyone knew what would make his day! He was so proud of his sons, Todd & Scott, and their accomplishments. Bill was a member of the Wausau V.F.W. and previously attended church at Highland Community Church. He will be missed dearly, but memories of him will never be forgotten.

Bill leaves behind his wife: Rose Johnson, son: Scott (Dawn) Johnson, with their children: Connor (Grace) Mack and Kaveon Staton (JCee), 5 great grandchildren: James, Elijah, Keziah, Baylen and Atlee, daughter-in-law: Lynne Johnson, with children: Nathan (Ally Samuel) and Zachary Johnson, sister-in-law: Barbara Johnson, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, son: Todd Johnson and brother: Donald Johnson.

A Celebration of life for Bill will be held at a later date.

The family wishes to express their thanks and appreciation to the Marshfield Medical Clinic and Hospital in Weston, along with the EMT’s with SAFER FD, as well as the best neighbors anyone could ask for, always there to help and truly a blessing to Bill and his family.

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Wausau is honored to assist Bill’s family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.helke.com.

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08/05/2026

Marion "Mickey" J. Froemming

Marion “Mickey” J. Froemming, age 92, of Wausau, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, while at Country Terrace in Tomahawk, with her family gathered by her side and while under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

Marion was born in Rib Falls, Marathon County, on December 23, 1933, to the late George and Irene (Frank) Schultz. She grew up in Wausau and attended local schools, graduating from Wausau High School in 1952. Marion married the late Donald Froemming on October 6, 1952, in Pine City, Minnesota, and together they enjoyed 63 years of marriage. Donald and Marion made their home in Wausau. Marion was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Wausau. She was employed with the Marathon County Treasurer / Finance Department, where she retired after 26 years of service.

Marion enjoyed spending time with her family and get-togethers at their cottage on Manson Lake. She bowled on the National Bowling League for over 25 years, and on the State Bowling League for over 35 years. Marion was especially fond of the many friends she met through bowling.

Marion will be sadly missed by her children: Daniel (Kathie) Froemming, Michael (Vickie) Froemming and Lisa (Eric) Whitburn. She is further survived by her grandchildren: Elizabeth, Sarah, Jennifer, Christopher, Becky, Natalie, Clinton and Luke, as well as her sister-in-law: Barbara Schultz. She was lovingly called “Granny” by her beloved great grandchildren: Elayne, Jaxson, Benjamin, Walter, Charlie, Vincent, Leonardo and Jane. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband: Donald, brother: Roger Schultz, sisters: Barbara Schultz, Caroline Koehler and Lois Schultz.

The funeral service for Marion will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Avenue, Wausau. The Rev. Paul Sundbom will officiate. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the church. A private burial at Pine Grove Cemetery in Wausau will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations in Marion’s name to either Trinity Lutheran Church or the Ronald McDonald House at www.Rmhc.org, both very close to her heart.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to St. Croix Hospice, especially Holly and Alisa, for all of their support and care, as well as the staff at Country Terrace in Tomahawk for helping Marion and her family adjust to the facility.

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Wausau is honored to assist Marion’s family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.helke.com.

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07/29/2026

Robert L. Rhyner

Robert “Bob” L. Rhyner, age 105, of Wausau, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Mountain Terrace in Wausau. He was the son to the late Louis and Beatrice (Wendorf) Rhyner.

He was born on March 18, 1921, in Schofield, WI. He served in the United States Army in World War II. After returning to Wausau, he worked for the 3M Company for 35 years, until his retirement.

Bob is survived by his two sons: Stephen Rhyner of Wausau and Michael (Alice Kohl) Rhyner of Traverse City, MI.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Victoria.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will take place at Pine Grove Cemetery in Wausau.

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Wausau is honored to assist Bob’s family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.helke.com.

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07/27/2026

Ronald W. F***h

Ronald Walter F***h, 80, of Schofield, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at House of the Dove in Marshfield, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family.

Ronnie was born on March 5, 1946, in Merrill, Wisconsin, to Lloyd and Sophie (Raulusonis) F***h. He grew up with a strong work ethic, a generous spirit, and a deep appreciation for family, friends, and community-qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Bev Hunter, Edward F***h, Carl F***h, Lucy Lahr, Elaine Gorski, James F***h, Roger F***h, and Nancy Ringwelski.

Ronnie found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, making firewood, and cooking meals for the people he loved. He never passed up the opportunity to work on a puzzle and especially enjoyed tinkering with projects in his garage, where he could often be found fixing, building, or simply figuring out how something worked.

He also had quite the sweet tooth. Dawn's homemade apple pie was always a favorite, but truthfully, he never turned down a homemade dessert, a candy bar, or a bowl of ice cream. Sharing a treat with family and friends was just another one of the many little joys that made him smile.

Some of Ronnie's happiest times were spent up north with his camping family at Northforest Campground, where he built lifelong friendships over more than 30 years. He had a wonderful sense of humor and genuinely enjoyed being around people. Whether he was people-watching, sharing a story, or making someone laugh, Ronnie had a gift for entertaining those around him. A devoted sports fan, he rarely missed watching a Brewers or Packers game.

Ronnie believed in giving back to his community. He was an active member of the Eastern-Hewitt Wausau Lions Club, where he enjoyed serving others and building lasting friendships. He especially looked forward to the club's annual pancake breakfast, spending the day before peeling and shredding potatoes to help prepare the countless potato pancakes served the next morning.

He was also a faithful member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church, serving on the Properties Committee and generously sharing his time and talents to care for his church home. Ron directed and cooked countless Sunday morning breakfasts at the church, welcoming everyone with good food and fellowship. He cherished the opportunity to bring people together around the table and, of course, never missed coffee hour.

Above all else, Ronnie treasured his family. His greatest happiness came from spending time with those he loved, celebrating life's milestones, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations. His kindness, laughter, unwavering willingness to help others, and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn F***h of Schofield; his children, Kelly (Kurt) Gerrow of Weston, Kim Hanneman (Chris) of Wausau, and Ryan F***h of Merrill, Mandy (Jake) Marcell of Weston, Missy (Mike) Behnke of Weston; his siblings, Marie Valent, Blanche Franks, David F***h, Jean Kuss, Clarence (Maxine) F***h, and Sue (Ron) Krueger; seven grandchildren, Aaron (Randi) F***h, Adam Gerrow, Arik (Shawna) Hanneman, James Hanneman (Sara), David F***h, Sophia Behnke, and Layne Behnke; seven great-grandchildren, Madalyn, William, Isabelle, Lillian, Calvin, Liam, and Jocelynn; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Compassus Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided to Ronnie. Your support, comfort, and guidance brought peace not only to Ronnie but also to our entire family during a difficult time. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 30th, 2026, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Helke Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held 1pm, Friday, July 31st, 2026, at Helke Funeral Home with Pastor Karoline Schwantes officiating. Entombment to follow at Restlawn Cemetery.

07/11/2026

Marilyn Catherine Bins

Marilyn Catherine Bins, age 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 3, 2026, in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Marilyn was born on September 16, 1937, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to Walter and Harriet (Collie) Fabry. She lived a life centered on love, family, and creating cherished memories with those closest to her. Marilyn found great happiness at the family cabin in Three Lakes, Wisconsin, and at their winter home in Ft. Myers Beach, FL; but nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with her family. Whether gathered for holidays, celebrations, or simple visits, Marilyn treasured every moment with the people she loved.

She is lovingly survived by her two sons, Daniel and David; brother Mike (Carol) Fabry; grandchildren Aly (Andy) Stahlman and Andy (Lauren) Johnson; her two great-grandchildren, Margot Stahlman and Beau Johnson; son-in-law Doug (Cheryl) Johnson, as well as other relatives and friends. Her love, kindness, and devotion to her family will be remembered always

She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents; her parents, Walter and Harriet Fabry; her beloved husband, Gerald; and her daughter, Julie Bins Johnson.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Church of the Resurrection. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m., with Father Tom Lindner officiating. Burial will take place after at St. Joseph Cemetery.

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07/04/2026

Happy Fourth of July! As many of us celebrate with family and friends, we're especially grateful to all those who continue caring for others and serving our community throughout the holiday weekend.

From all of us, we wish you a safe and meaningful Independence Day.