Mary A. Holmes, age 85 of Medford, passed away on May 10, 2026 at the Waterford of Colby, where she resided since November 2023.

A memorial service for Mary will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the church on Tuesday from 9:00am until the time of service at 11:00am.

Mary was born on July 30, 1940 to Norbert and Inez (Steinbach) Egle. She was raised on the family dairy farm and sawmill in the Town of Molitor. After graduating from Medford High School in 1958, Mary’s first job was at the Medford ASCS office. She married Ken Holmes on August 29, 1959 with the wedding held at the Egle farm. In 1966, they started the Holmes Mink Ranch which they operated for 45 years. They opened Ken’s Bait Shop in 1972, which was the local hotspot until it closed in the late 90s. Along with raising two children, working on the ranch, and scooping minnows, Mary also worked at Production Credit Association in Medford for several years. In the late 80s, they began growing ginseng in the rolling hills of Perkinstown. 

Mary will be remembered for her kind heart, vibrant spirit, and unwavering optimism. No matter what life brought her way, she always found gratitude and perspective. She had a true gift for making things grow — especially her beloved flowers. Spring was her favorite season, eagerly anticipated each year as she prepared her gardens and visited her favorite local greenhouses. Mary loved being outdoors and embraced every season to the fullest. She enjoyed downhill skiing, snowmobiling, biking, fishing, picnics at the cabin, sharing tours of her beautiful flower gardens, and taking part in the Perkinstown Snowshoe Race. More than anything, Mary had a remarkable ability to connect with people. Her warmth, positivity, and genuine friendship left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Survivors include her daughter Paula Liske; daughter-in-law Jane Holmes; grandchildren Heidi (Jason) Thomas, Holly (George) Korir, and Jack, Grace and Lily Holmes; great grandchildren Brecken, Parker and Max Thomas, and Kibet and Chebaibai Korir; siblings Ben (Jean) Egle and Joan Oullette; sisters-in-law Shirley Poyda, Mary Egle, and Bernice Holmes; and brother-in-law Gary (Diane) Holmes, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son Tom in 2020, her husband Ken in 2021, and her brother Chuck Egle in 2023.

Mary’s family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Waterford of Colby for the compassionate and attentive care she received over the past two and a half years. A special thank you goes to Erin Martin, Life Enrichment and Activities Director, for bringing so much joy and activity to Mary’s days — especially the Friday fish fry outings that she so looked forward to and truly enjoyed. The family also extends their sincere appreciation to the dedicated team at Heartland Hospice for their exceptional care and support.

A memorial fund is being established for Mary and will be decided by the family at a later date.

Ramon E. “Ray” Parks, 90, of Rib Lake, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026, at his home while under the care of Hope Hospice. 

Ray was born March 18, 1936, in Marion, Wisconsin to Reynold and Evelyn (Wimme) Parks.  He graduated from Marion High School in 1954, where he was active in band, choir and drama, and he played baseball, basketball and ran track, and was a member of the National Honor Society.  He was also on the Marion City basketball and baseball teams.  

Following high school, Ray continued his education at UW-Stevens Point, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education, then went on to NW Oklahoma State University and finished his Master’s Degree in School Administration at UW-Superior.

On March 18, 1956, he married his high school sweetheart Marion L. Sanders.  They resided in Rib Lake where, over his 37 year career, Ray was a math teacher, principal and the School Administrator for the Rib Lake School District.  Over the years, Ray served on many professional organizations including AWSA - serving on the small schools committee, the Marawood Conference Administrators - where he served as both president and past president, and the Marawood Conference Principals - serving as secretary and athletic scheduler. 

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cheering on the Packers, the Cubs and the Brewers, watching TV, going to the casino, and he especially enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He was an active member of the Rib Lake United Methodist Church, former member of the Medford Masonic Lodge, and bowled on the local Men’s Bowling League - where he also was secretary for both the American and National Leagues. 

He is survived by his children:  Charles (Debra) Parks of Merrill, Richard (Shari) Parks of Wausau, William (Jody) Parks of Port Edwards, Ronald (Michelle) Parks of Altoona; son-in-law, Dennis Scheithauer of Rib Lake; 14 grandchildren: Craig (Joelle) Scheithauer, Dana Scheithauer, Kyle (Jenilee) Scheithauer, Nathan (Kathy) Parks, Nicki (Travis) Taves, Nina Parks, Allison Michels, Reid Parks (Veda Patil) and Anika Parks, Corey and Carson Parks, Morgan, Riley and Reggie Parks; 14 great-grandchildren: Ciara, Carter, Josie, Brady, Tatum, Donovan, Abbie, Evie, Tobias, Lillian, Layton, Logan, Avery, and Sawyer; and many nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by sister-in-laws Gail Parks and Linda (John) Moscicki, and bother-in-law Tod (Debbie) Sanders. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Marion on October 2, 2023, brother, Donald Parks, son, David Parks, and daughter, Elizabeth Scheithauer. 

A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m., Friday, May 22 at Medford United Methodist Church, 287 E. Allman St., Medford, WI with Rev. Don Drollinger officiating.  He will be laid to rest at a later date at Greenleaf Cemetery in Marion, Wisconsin.

Visitation will be from 4 -7 p.m., Thursday, May 21, and from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 p.m., Friday, all at Medford United Methodist Church.  

Patricia Jane Balko, 88, of Medford, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at her home with her husband by her side.

Patricia “Pat” Balko lived a life woven tightly with love, faith, and an open heart. Born on April 10, 1938, to Margaret & William Anderson in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. Pat received her education from Ladysmith High School. She was a member of the Young People Society with St. Johns Lutheran Church, which is where she met the love of her life, Elmer Balko. They were united in marriage on July 13, 1957 in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. In 1965, they moved to Medford and together they were blessed with a beautiful family of 3 children, 5 grandchildren, & 5 great grandchildren with one on the way.

In her youth, Pat worked at Dairy Queen and as a bookkeeper before dedicating herself to her family. She later crafted custom drapes for Frey Flooring and managed the office for her husband’s business, Aid Association for Lutherans (Thrivent).

Pat was a talented homemaker of quiet strength. Known for her wonderful hosting, loving home, & great cooking. Her baked beans and potato salad were frequently requested by family and friends and were always a treat. Over the years, Pat enjoyed curling, bowling, and golf. Being a little adventurous, she would take her children tubing at Perkinstown, even if it meant driving her stick shift 1963 Chevy Corvair through the toughest winter weather. She loved to travel with her husband to many interesting places around the world, including Europe, Caribbean, Panama, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and many other destinations. 

Pat was an active member of the Red Hats Society, Friend of the Library, and Immanuel’s Ladies Aid group. Above all, she had a strong faith in her Savior and instilled that faith in her children, grandchildren, & great grandchildren. She was dedicated to keeping her family close to Christ, to have faith and continue to follow Him as their guide throughout life.  It was her priority that all three of her children would get a Christian education at Immanuel Lutheran School.  Sunday was always the day to put on your best clothes because we are going to Gods house. 

Pat’s hands were rarely still, her kitchen was never empty, and her heart was always full. Looking back on her beautiful journey, she peacefully shared her own summary: “Other than the loss of my oldest daughter, Tamie, at the age of 23, I had a perfect life.”

Pat is survived by her husband of 68 years, Elmer Balko; her children, Tracy Fuchs (Dan) and Randy Balko (Vicki). Her grandchildren, Sarah Nosbisch (Robert), Lucas Fuchs (Samantha), David Fuchs, Ben Balko, and Blake Balko. Her great-grandchildren, Gannen, Raya, Carson, Jackson, & Tanner. She is further survived by her brother Bill Anderson (Cathy), as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her dear daughter Tamie, her parents, Margaret & William Anderson, and her siblings, Rusty, Vivian, Kenny, Richard, Donald, and Becky.

A memorial service for Pat will take place at 11:00 AM, which will be live streamed, on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, with Pastor David Spaude officiating. Live steam link: https://youtube.com/@ils54451?si=Z8QEmybQFMEmuaTy.

Burial will follow at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II. Visitation will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

A memorial fund is being established for Patricia Balko and will be de decided by her family at a later date.

Lucille J. Buehler, 95, died May 8, 2026, at Aspirus Care and Rehab in Medford where she had resided since 2021.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 14th, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Medford, with Barb Krug, SAM officiating. Visitation from 9am to the time of service at 11am with a luncheon to follow. Burial will take place at 2pm at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II.  Pallbearers are Nicholas Pernsteiner, Phillip Lang, Erich Moretz, Jess Carlson, Phillip Carlson, Paul Lukewich, and Douglas Moretz. Honorary pallbearers are grandson Gunnery Sergeant Jacob Lang, currently on deployment, and prior employees Bob Balciar, Don Zuleger, Rod Balciar, Pete Nowak, John Nowak, Pete Jaslowski, and Charlie Motte. With special memories of Charlie Henke, Warren Block, Norbert Weiler, and Wally Emmerich. Their employees were like family.

Lucille was born February 15, 1931, in Medford to the late Eric and Julia (Olson) Carlson. She attended the Hillside School in the Town of Holway. She graduated from Medford High School in 1949. She graduated from The Taylor County Normal School in 1951.

On June 7, 1952, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in the Town of Holway, she married Armin Buehler, who preceded her in death on February 25, 2009. She taught school at the Redville and Riverside Schools, Maplehurst, and Wayside Schools from 1951 thru 1954 and 1957-1958. In 1966, Armin and Lucille started an excavating business to go along with his trucking business, which they did until retirement in 1997.

She was a member of St. Pauls’ Lutheran Church. She enjoyed gardening, especially growing geraniums and dahlias and African Violets. She collected frogs and loved the saying, “Better to have laugh wrinkles, than worry warts,” which she truly upheld with her love for telling jokes. She loved to bake and cook and share with family and friends. Often calling Susan at work leaving a message for her that she baked her some bars that she could come and pick up. If you stayed overnight and were lucky enough to get her delicious pancakes they would be cut for you as well. Customers coming to the house most likely did not leave without coffee and a bit of dessert.

Survivors include three daughters, Lynette (Gerald) Pernsteiner and Susan (Douglas) Moretz of Medford, and Julie Buehler of, Atlanta, GA; six grandchildren, Nicholas Pernsteiner (Dr. Sarah Schreiner) of Arvada, CO, Lindsay Thacker of Oakwood, GA, Phillip (Kristen) Lang of Muskego, WI, Jacob (Hannah) Lang of Oceanside, CA, and Abigail (Dawson Woller) of Merrill and Erich Moretz (Brenley Beran) of Medford; nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings:  Verna (Harvey Larson) (Tony Stulgo), Donald (Eleanor) Carlson, Harley (Emily) Carlson, Edgar (Viola) Carlson, Richard (Mary) Carlson, James (Carole) Carlson, Ruby (Tony) Stulgo, Lila (Albert) Zirngible, and Marianne (Irving) Schirmer.

The family would like to thank Aspirus Care and Rehab for their compassionate care for the past five years. We would also like to thank Hope Hospice and Palliative Care for their compassionate care.

Memorials in her name may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Medford, WI or Hope Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., Medford, WI.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford assisted the family with arrangements.

Leora “Toots” J. Reynolds, age 93, formerly of Dorchester, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Country Gardens in Medford under the tender care of Hope Hospice of Medford.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Dorchester. Inurnment to follow at Dorchester Memorial Cemetery South. Family and friends are welcome to greet the family from 9:00 a.m. until time of the service Wednesday at the church. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.

Leora was born on August 16, 1932, the daughter of Ambrose Dewey Oehler and Sophie Sarah Jacobs in the Town of Deer Creek, Taylor County, WI. She grew up on the family farm. Leora was united in marriage to James Reynolds on July 1, 1950 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Dorchester. Together they farmed for 30 years in the Town of Holton. He preceded her in death on November 29, 2020.

Leora loved to cook and bake and worked at various establishments as a cook over the years. She was accomplished at sewing, knitting and crocheting, making many of her children’s clothes. Leora was always proud of her gardens and yard. In retirement, she taught herself how to weave and make rag rugs and other items on her large floor weaving loom. Leora also was an avid reader with a stack of books always at the ready near her favorite chair. Jigsaw puzzles were another favorite pastime.

Leora is survived by her five children: Nancy (Bill) Leichtnam of Nekoosa, Maggie Gebauer (Steve Budzinski), John (Lori Janko) Reynolds, and James (Diann) Reynolds all of Medford and Joseph (Christine) Reynolds of Colby; six grandchildren: OraLee (Mike) Dittrich, Seth (Katie) Gebauer, Jerid Reynolds, Jenna (Nathan) Jakel, Jamie Reynolds and Casey Jo Reynolds; two step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her two brothers: Gary (Paula) Oehler of Pleasant Hill, IA and James Oehler of Colby; a sister-in-law, Mary Ann Meyer of Medford and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, a brother, Harold Oehler; two sisters: Marcella Bredlau and Nelrose Carpenter and her son-in-law, Lex Gebauer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to be given either to St. Louis Catholic Church or Hope Hospice of Medford.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com

Earl F. Wilhelmi, age 87 of Colby, WI, was called to Heaven on April 8, 2026 at House of the Dove in Marshfield, WI.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Zion Lutheran Church in Colby. The Rev. James Groleau will officiate. Please join the family at the church from 9:00 a.m. until time of the service. Military Honors provided by the Dorchester American Legion Post #517. 

He was born on April 18, 1938 in Shawano County, WI, to the late Fred and Emelia (Lindstedt) Wilhelmi. Growing up he worked on area farms, a cheese factory and was the projectionist at the Abby Theatre. He excelled in high school sports and was also the Prom King. He graduated from Abbotsford High School. He enlisted in the US Navy where he served on the aircraft carrier USS Ranger CVA 61, attached to VA-94 “The Mighty Shrikes” fighter squadron. He was a Plane Captain and spent much of his time on the flight deck. He served from 1959-1963 and separated from service with a Rank of Aviation Machinist’s Mate (Jet Engine Mechanic) Petty Officer 2nd Class (ADJ2). Earl received the Good Conduct Medal and was also Honorably Discharged.

Earl was united in marriage to Carol Wiersig on August 8, 1964 at Zion Lutheran Church in Colby, WI. He was employed at Packaging Corporation of America for 37 years and retired in 2001.

Earl loved to be outside tilling and tending their huge garden, mowing lawn, blowing snow and feeding the wild birds. He frequently shared garden goodies with family and friends. He constructed amazing net structures to protect his beautiful blueberry shrubs from the birds. Helping our neighbors collect maple sap brought him immense joy. He also planted trees in another neighbor’s hollow, which they now call Earl’s woods. Sunday was always popcorn night. Earl enjoyed a life-long passion with golf, but insisted on always walking the course. He enjoyed jogging and frequently ran a square mile around the neighborhood and even entered some 5k races.

When his son Eric took on poultry as a 4-H project, Earl became an expert at raising and hatching show birds. He became the Poultry Superintendent at the Wisconsin Valley Fair in Wausau, WI for 10 years. He also became a Poultry Judge at area fairs and enjoyed teaching the 4-H youth. He volunteered at the Central Wisconsin State Fair in Marshfield, WI to help the Poultry Superintendent. Earl earned The American Poultry Association, Inc. Master Exhibitor Award in 2010, which he pursued in honor of his son Eric who passed in 2002. In 2014, he was awarded a plaque for his years of service with the West Central Wisconsin Pigeon and Poultry Club. During those years, he attended numerous Poultry Shows, while winning many trophies and awards, including the Wisconsin International Poultry Club Grand Champion once.

Earl was a huge supporter of the local High School athletes and frequently attended football and basketball games as well as track and cross country events. He was known as the “Grandpa Coach” for the Colby Cross Country Team. He was passionate about helping maintain the cross country trail in the school forest, and also assisted during track and field season. He cherished the friends he made over the years at these events.

Survivors include his wife, Carol and daughter Amy (James Clark) of Colby, WI; and sister, Shirley Luehrs of Plover, WI.

He was preceded in death by his son, Eric Wilhelmi; his parents; brother, Walter Wilhelmi, sister, Arlene Sternhagen; and brother, Kenneth Wilhelmi.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Clark County Humane Society in Neillsville, WI or House of the Dove in Marshfield, WI.

Lyle Wolf, age 61 of Medford/Stetsonville WI, died Saturday, February 21, 2026 with his wife and son by his side.  He will be forever missed by every person that was fortunate enough to know him.

He was born January 3, 1965 to Norman and Monica (Bangart) Wolf and graduated from Loyal High School in 1983.

In November of 1986 he married Julie Schmutzler and a few years later they were blessed with their son Kyle.

Lyle grew up in a family sawmill business working alongside his siblings for their father in Loyal, WI.  In 1990, Lyle partnered with his brother Ed to start Wolf Bros. Sawmill in Stetsonville, WI.  By 1995 he owned the company and operated it with his wife, son, father-in-law Allen and many great employees that became good friends over the years.  He also formed many business relationships that resulted in lifelong friendships.  Kyle joined the business not long after graduation and they enjoyed working together side by side every day.  Lyle was so very proud of his son and the way he took charge and grew the family business.  We are devastated that he will not be able to see the current expansion completed.

In 2018, Lyle and Julie partnered with their son Kyle and his wife Brittny along with Julie’s sister Vicki and her husband Keith Ahles to buy what is currently D Bar & Resort in Holcombe, WI. There he gained a whole new family of friends and made many more precious memories.

Papa Lyle always cherished time with his family and friends, but mostly looked forward to the frequent visits from his three grandchildren that he was so incredibly proud of.  He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, time spent at their cabin, boating, snowmobiling, fast cars, classic cars, UTVs, Harleys, traveling, Country Fest, sheepshead, camping, and the list goes on.

He is survived by his wife of almost 40 years Julie Wolf; son, Kyle(Brittny) Wolf; beloved grandchildren, Kyra, Brylee and Kallen Wolf; father, Norman Wolf; 13 siblings, Joseph (Debi) Wolf, Marlene (John) Holdal, Lorraine (David) Deegan, Edward (Annmarie) Wolf, Theresa (Devery) Hilt, Kay (Keith) Raatz,  Donna (Robert) Olson, Debra (Jody) Brecht, Tina (Mike) Berres, Cindy (Brian) Benz, Daniel (Jessica) Wolf, Barbara (Kevin) Dampier; William Wolf; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Monica and his brother Allan.

A Celebration of Lyle’s life will be held on Saturday, May 9th starting at 1 p.m. at the Centennial Community Center in Stetsonville, WI.

Margaret Ellen Murphy, 87, of Medford, died Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Our House Assisted Living in Medford surrounded by her family and while under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

She was born December 23, 1937 in Medford to Elmer and Grace (Clarkson) Anderson.  Following school, she and her siblings went to Chicago to find work and it was there she met her future husband Frank G. Murphy.

Margaret and Frank were married on August 17, 1957 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford.  They resided in Chicago where Margaret managed a restaurant before moving to Columbus, Wisconsin in 1997.  While living in Columbus, she worked in the laundry department at the hospital.

Family was most important to Margaret, so when she and Frank retired, they moved back to Medford to be close to their grandchildren.  Margaret was so happy to be able to babysit, attend events and cook for the family.  She will be remembered for her fantastic meals, especially her homemade spaghetti and gravy made from scratch!  Each family member was treated with a special birthday meal to celebrate their day.

She will be dearly missed by her three children Jim (Linda) Murphy, Kelly (Todd) Emmerich, Frankie (Cher) Murphy, all of Medford; brothers, Walter (Norma) Anderson of Little Black, Russell (Cheryl) Anderson of Medford; grandchildren, Cullen (Audrey) Murphy of Houston, TX, Shawn (Blair) Meyer of Aniwa, Zach (Linsey) Emmerich of Owen, McKenna Murphy of Medford, Morgan (John) Stiglich) of Minneapolis, MN; step-grandchildren, Aren Kirkeeng of Stetsonville, Ethan Kirkeeng of Medford; great-grandchildren, Izan and Brextyn Aguilera, Murphy Jean Meyer and Ellie Hraby; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Frank on July 6, 2020; brothers, Paul, Carl and Chester Anderson; sisters, Betty Bruton, Ruth Peterson, and Mary Sperl; and a grandson, Nick Murphy.

A  Celebration of Margaret’s Life will be held from 1 – 7 p.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026 at BS Bar & Catering, W4782 Hwy. 64, Medford.

Gregory H. Jakel, 82 of Stetsonville, passed away Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Aspirus Hospital in Medford due to complications of Covid.

He was born November 1, 1943 in Medford to John and Johanna (Harrington) Jakel.  He grew up on his family’s farm in Stetsonville and graduated from Medford High School in 1962. 

After graduation, Greg became a milk hauler which he enjoyed doing for most of his working life.  Since he never married,  he was a caretaker for his mother until the time of her death in 1999. His nieces and nephews were very close to him because they always got to spend time with him every time they would visit Grandma and the relationships Greg had with them continued all of his life.

Greg enjoyed fishing, pitching horseshoes, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling.  He was always busy outside, planting trees, gardening, working on the pond he had built, mowing and taking care of the property.  Greg loved planning family gatherings at the farm.  When he and his brothers got together, there was always a lot of laughter and fun.

He is survived by a brother, John (Garnet) Jakel of Medford; sister-in-law, Bonnie Jakel of Spencer; many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, James and Vincent Jakel; sister-in-law, Mary Jakel; and a nephew, Jim Jakel Jr.

A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Stetsonville with Fr. Julian Druffner officiating.  Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Stetsonville.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m., Saturday at the church.

Scott Eugene Olson, 60, of Medford, town of Hammel, died Thursday, April 30, 2026 at his home with his family by his side and while under the care of Hope Hospice.

He was born August 29, 1965 in Medford to Eugene “Ole” and Judy (Brink) Olson.  He graduated from Medford High School, class of 1983, where he was a cheerleader and very active in the school choir.

Following high school, Scott was chosen to be a member of People to People, a traveling choir.  He traveled to China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan with the group. He then moved to Florida to obtain his certificate to become a travel agent.  He worked at a travel agency in Wausau for a couple of years, before starting at Weather Shield where he worked until his retirement.

On January 28, 1995, Scott married Elizabeth “Liz” Weatherford. They resided in Medford, where they raised their son, Zach.

Scott enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, bowling, and listening to all types of music.  He also played in dart and pool leagues.  He collected and made knives, selling them and giving many as gifts.

He is survived by his wife, Liz Olson; son, Zachary (Jennifer) Olson; mother, Judy Olson; sister, Robin (Byron) Mallo, all of Medford; his late sister Dawn’s special friend, Jacki Feck of Wausau; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene “Ole” Olson and sister, Dawn Olson.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 15, 2026 at Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home in Medford with Barb Krug, SAM, officiating.  Following the service, please join the family for a lunch at BS Bar, W4782 Hwy 64, Medford.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the service at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Hope Hospice for the wonderful care they provided Scott.

Debra Ann Block, 68, of Medford, town of Little Black, died Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield after a battle with cancer.

She was born October 14, 1957 in Marshfield to Ronald and Shirley (Weiler) Zenner.  She grew up in Athens and graduated from Athens High School in 1975. 

On July 28, 2000, Debbie married Jerry Block in Medford.  They resided in Little Black and had been together for over 15 years before their marriage.

Debbie worked for Mid-State Equipment for over 30 years, retiring in 2022 when she turned 65.  She enjoyed traveling and took many road trips to Wyoming to visit her son, stopping along the way visiting the towns she had come to know.  At home, she liked to watch and feed the cardinals and hummingbirds. 

She will be dearly missed by her husband, Jerry Block of Medford; son, Chad (Jennifer) Kordus of Sheridan, WY; granddaughter, Victoria Rose “Tori”; step-granddaughter, Chloey; siblings, Sandra (Larry) Stafford of Medford, Michael (Karen) Zenner of Loyal, Gerald (Tamey) Zenner and Jeff (Krista) Zenner, all of Athens; many nieces and nephews; and last but not least, her canine pal, Max.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Celebration of Debbie’s life will be held from 12-4 p.m., Saturday, May 9, 2026 at the Northwoods Archers Clubhouse, N2314 Pirus Drive, Withee, WI 54498.

Delores M. Schmidt, 89, of Medford, died Friday, December 26, 2025 at Aspirus Hospital in Medford.

She was born July 22, 1936 in Medford to Herman and Dorothy (Mathias) Hoeve.  She attended Meadow Brook School in the town of Hammel, Brandl School in the town of Medford and graduated from Medford High School.

On September 8, 1956, Delores married Ervin Schmidt at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Medford.  They resided in the town of Hammel where Delores farmed alongside her husband for over 40 years, all while raising their six children. 

She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, where she enjoyed volunteering for both the church and the school, and was a member of the Ladies of Immanuel.  She also enjoyed quilting, dancing, gardening, flowers, spending time with her family and spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Wayne (Kathy McMurry) Schmidt, Debra Schmidt, Gail (David) Faber, Dawn (Patrick) Janko, Darla (Rodney) Mueller, and Melody (Daniel) Kuenne; grandchildren, John Griffiths, Jennifer Rosenburg, Jeremy (Angela) Faber, Corey Faber, April (Greg) Byrd, Jamie Syryczak, Christopher Syryczak, Travis (Sarah) Mueller, Lucas Mueller, Amanda (Alex Lichtl) Meyer, Samantha and Tabitha Kuenne; 16 great-grandchildren and 2 step great-grandchildren; in laws, Roy Schmidt, Christine Schmidt, Louise Pillar, and Gloria Spreen.  Delores is further survived by other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ervin on November 11, 2021; brother, Herbert (Kathy) Hoeve; in-laws, Marvin Schmidt, Arnold (Virgine) Schmidt, Diane Schmidt, Lenora (John) Johnson, and Ruth (Alvin) Schrauth.

A memorial service for Delores will take place at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, with Pastor Daniel Iwinski officiating. Burial will follow at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II. Visitation will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Friday, May 8, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Delores' name may be given to Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Dorothy F. Franz, 98 years young, of Medford, died Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at Aspirus Medford Hospital.

She was born in Medford on July 2, 1927 to William and Freida (Pechstein) Blumenstein. 

On February 16, 1946 she married Melvin J. Franz.  They resided in Medford before moving to the town of Rib Lake and then moved to the town of Greenwood.  Dorothy worked at the Pea Cannery, Ben Franklin, Harvey Co. Screen Factory (now Weather Shield), and finally the shoe factory.  In her retirement, she worked at The Little Store in Medford up until about age 90.

Dorothy enjoyed making crafts and knitting.  She knitted hundreds of baby blankets, sweaters and other keepsakes for her family and friends, and also sold her treasures at The Little Store.  She also enjoyed working in the garden, going on casino trips and playing scratch-offs with her niece.  She cherished time spent with her family and over the years loved babysitting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She was so proud to be a great-great-grandma and enjoyed having the little ones around.

She is survived by her children, Gloria (Jim) Strebig of Rib Lake, Barbara Smart of Medford, Dan (Tammy) Franz of Medford; siblings, Wayne (Betty) Blumenstein, Janet Smola, Donna Mohr; sister-in-law, Sylvia Blumenstein; grandchildren, Lesia (Tom) Fuchs, Jamie Strebig, Paul (Erin) Strebig, Justin (Katelyn) Smart and Nathan (Niki) Franz; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Melvin in 2001; a daughter, Sandy in infancy; son-in-law, Larry Smart; sisters, Flora “Babe” Aselson, Darlene Madison,  Evelyn Blumenstein; brothers, Hartley, Harold “Buddy”, Marvin and Eugene Blumenstein; brothers-in-law, Fred Jr. “Sonny” Mohr, George Smola, Gladwyn "Spud" Aselson and Gordy Madison; and a great-granddaughter, Samantha Fuchs.

As per Dorothy’s wishes, no services will be held.  She will be laid to rest next to her husband Melvin at Lakeview Cemetery in Rib Lake.