It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of J. Mark “Smokey” Hemer, who passed away on July 8, 2026 at the age of 75.

He was born on May 21, 1951 in Eau Claire, WI to John L. Hemer and Jane E. (Cornwall) Hemer. The family later moved to Mondovi, WI, and in 1958, relocated to Medford.

Smokey was a 1969 Graduate of Medford Senior High School. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire from 1969 - 1972, and Milwaukee Area Technical College - School of Mortuary Science from 1972 - 1974, where he received his Associate of Arts Degree in Funeral Service.

In 1974, Smokey joined the family business at Hemer Funeral Service, Inc. in Medford, as a fourth generation funeral director, and served as President of the firm until his retirement in 2006. He took great pride in his work, and was honored to support numerous Medford area families through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

On April 12, 1979 he married Julie (Schultz) Hemer, and she survives. In their retirement they alternated their time between Medford and Sun Lakes, AZ, and in 2022, relocated their summer residence to Madison, WI.

He is survived by his wife, Julie, his daughters, Amanda (Joseph) Viviani of Madison, WI; Rachel (Angela) Hemer Chambers of Denver, CO; grandsons, Luca Viviani, Dominic Hemer Chambers, Ian & Tristan Kersten; brother, Jeff (Kathy) Hemer of Medford, and beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Jack Ritchie.

The family will hold a private committal service on Friday, August 21, with a public Celebration of Life to follow at the Medford VFW. Friends may call any time between 2:00-6:00pm. Attendees are encouraged to share their stories and favorite memories of Smokey.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Taylor County Humane Society or the Cardiovascular Research Center at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the time we shared with him. His love, strength, and legacy will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Robert L. “Bob” Baker, age 78, of Gilman, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the Homeplace of Stanley.

He was born on September 1, 1947, to the late Edward and Margaret (Avelsgaard) Baker. Bob grew up on the family farm and graduated from Gilman High School.

On June 24, 1967, he was united in marriage to Sharon Pancyrz. Together they settled on a farm in the Town of Ford, where they worked side by side for many years. Bob enjoyed snowmobiling with friends, riding side by sides, and traveling. He was also an avid cribbage player—always seeming to have a “3” up his sleeve. One of his greatest joys was hunting season, when nephews, his grandsons, and friends gathered for the nine day tradition. Many memorable and laughter filled nights were spent at the hunting shack.

He served the Town of Ford as chairman for more than 30 years and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church.

Bob is survived by his children: Joanne Mast of Dorchester; Don (Susan) Baker of Mazeppa, MN; Ken (Cheryl) Baker of Chippewa Falls; and Kristine Baker of Moore, OK; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; his sister, Eleanor Warner; and his brother, Russ (Bev) Baker, both of Gilman.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sharon (2025); his granddaughter, Meghan Kaiser (2024); his brother, Tom; and his sisters, Patty Jackson and Karen Jones.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, August 22, at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Gilman, with Father Joseph Stefancin officiating. Burial will follow in Meadowbrook Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00–7:00 PM on Friday at the Gilman Funeral Home, with a 7:00 PM Knights of Columbus Rosary. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the Mass on Saturday at the church.

Patricia Margaret Mertens (Lauer), age 92, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 14, 2026 at Aspirus Hospital in Medford, surrounded by family.

A memorial service for Patricia will take place at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 24, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Monday, August 24, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

Patricia was born on May 4, 1934, to the late William and Rose (Jansen) Lauer. She was united in marriage to Henry “Hank” Mertens on October 19, 1957, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Marshfield.

Patricia dedicated over 40 years of her life to nursing, working as a registered nurse from 1954 until her retirement in 1997. She began her career at Marshfield Hospital and later continued her nursing career at Medford Memorial Hospital. She dedicated her life to being a fantastic nurse and wonderful mother.

Following her retirement, Patricia remained active in her church and community. She volunteered with numerous church committees and faithfully served communion. She also volunteered with Hope Hospice for many years, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for and supporting others. She  enjoyed curling, golfing, and playing cards with family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Hank Mertens; her son, Mark Mertens; her in laws, Albert and Sylvia Mertens; her brothers, Bill Lauer and Gene Lauer.

She is survived by her loving children, Ann (Duke) Hartmann; Kathy (Ken) Wegerer; Kim Mertens; her six grandchildren, Travis Wegerer, Teri Wegerer, Maggie (Erik) Westberg, Benjamin (Jess) Hartman, Maxwell (Lydia) Hartman, Samuel Hartman, and 4 beautiful great-grandchildren, Dawson Webb, Lela Westberg, Reese Hartman, and Beau Hartman. She is further survived by her sister, Bertie Becher and many other family and friends.

Pat also leaves behind a special group of women with whom she shared church, coffee, sweet treats and cards almost every Sunday. 

Blessings to all Pat’s wonderful and family and friends. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Medford Food Pantry in Pat Mertens name.