Charles J. “Chuck” Lechmaier, 69, of Merrill, formerly of Rib Lake, died Saturday, October 10, 2026 at home while under the care of Aspirus Hospice.

He was born November 8, 1956 to John and Hedwig (Rau) Lechmaier.  He graduated from Rib Lake High School in 1974.

Chuck was married to Yvonne C. “Charlene” Blankenship for 28 years until her passing in 2009.

Following high school, Chuck served in the U.S. Air Force for four years until his honorable discharge. 

He then earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering.  He worked as a maintenance supervisor and manager for many years at different companies, most recently at Harley-Davidson in Tomahawk and then at Marathon Cheese in Medford where he was currently employed at the time of his passing.

He was an outdoor enthusiast and enjoyed spending time in the woods, either on his four-wheeler or on his tractor, cutting wood or just enjoying the outdoors.  His most cherished time was spent with his family and his grandchildren.  He also loved taking trips up north, especially to the Duluth area.

He is survived by his four children, Marie DeCora of California, Natalie Lechmaier, Laura Lechmaier, both of Merrill, Charles “Chuck” Lechmaier Jr. of Mississippi; siblings Patricia House, Daniel Lechmaier, Gene (Cathy) Lechmaier, and John (Barb) Lechmaier; sisters-in-law, Deb and Philomenia Lechmaier; grandchildren. Danny, Joseph, Chloe, Malaika, Lorek, Arliss, Forrest, Garrett, Jada, Steven and Lyric; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Charlene; brothers, Jim and Ron Lechmaier; sisters-in-law, Jeanie Lechmaier and Trish Lechmaier; and brother-in-law, Archie House.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, October 16 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Rib Lake with Fr. Thomas Kanna officiating.  Following the service, burial with military honors will take place at Historic St. Ann’s Cemetery, Rib Lake.

Visitation will be from 9 – 11 a.m., Friday, October 16 at Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home in Medford.  At 11 a.m., we will drive in procession to Good Shepherd Catholic Church for the mass at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may go to the family for later designation.