Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Services

03/24/2026

Roger Lee Stasko

Roger Stasko, 68, passed away unexpectedly on March 22, 2026. Roger was born in Stevens Point, WI to the late Roger and Kathryn "Kitty" (Strike) Stasko.

Roger began his career in 1979 with Wausau Insurance, later Liberty Mutual, where he worked as a Software Engineer in the Information Systems Department. Over 40 years, he found his work both challenging and rewarding, with a particular passion for designing and developing software applications. He retired in 2019.

In 1982, he married Lois Edwards after meeting while working on a systems project. Their marriage was defined by enduring love and partnership, and they would have celebrated their 44th anniversary in September 2026.

Roger had a lifelong love of sports. He played football and basketball in high school and college and later enjoyed softball with coworkers in a Wausau Insurance league. He was also an avid cross-country skier and completed the American Birkebeiner twice. An accomplished tennis player, his greatest passion was golf. He enjoyed playing courses throughout the state, was a member of the Stevens Point Country Club, and took memorable golf trips to destinations including Scottsdale, Arizona; Palm Springs, California; Gulf Shores, Alabama; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

He and Lois also shared a love of travel, especially annual spring trips to warm destinations such as Cozumel, Cancun, and Ixtapa, Mexico; Punta Cana; and Puerto Rico. Roger especially valued time spent with close friends, enjoying conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Roger will be remembered for his warmth, wit, and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. He will be deeply missed.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Lois; sister, Donna (Gary) Plahmer, Stevens Point, WI; sister-in-law, Judy (Bobby) Morgan, Reidsville, NC; brother-in-law, Mark (Laine) Edwards, Carrollton, TX; nieces and nephew, Zach (Nataly) Morgan, Deforest, WI, Hannah Morgan, Reidsville, NC, Faith Edwards, The Colony, TX, Karalyn Plahmer, Stevens Point, WI, and many other family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday March 28, 2026, at First English Lutheran Church, 402 N. 3rd Ave, Wausau, WI 54401. Reverend Mary Zupansic will officiate. Visitation will be held at church from 10:00 AM until the time of services. For those unable to attend in person the services will be livestreamed. Helke Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

A special thank you from the family to the staff of Rennes Health and Rehab Clinic for the support and care they displayed to Roger.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to First English Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

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03/24/2026

Jeffrey Vincent Smith

Jeffrey V. Smith, age 91, of Wausau, formerly of the United Kingdom, passed away on March 21, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center in Weston, WI.

Private services will be held at a later date.

The Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Services (715-842-3993) is honored to be assisting the Smith family.

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03/23/2026

John Lewis Rakow

John Rakow, 82, passed away peacefully at home on March 20, 2026.

Born on December 17, 1943, in Wausau, Wisconsin, John was the son of the late Lewis and Ella (Jansean) Rakow. He grew up in Wausau and attended Wausau High School. On September 5, 1969, he married the love of his life, Susan Mildbrandt of Sturgeon Bay, in Madison. They shared 56 years of devoted marriage.

In 1969, following the passing of his father, John took over the family farm-a role that became one of his greatest lifelong passions. After selling his cows in 1993, he spent 14 years driving milk truck for Mullins Cheese until he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. True to his resilient spirit, John fought his illness with determination. Never one to sit still, he later worked for the Village of Maine, handling road maintenance and snow removal. When he wasn't needed by the Village, he could often be found helping neighboring farmers with fieldwork, driving tractor, or mowing yards around the community. Generosity came naturally to John; he was always ready to lend a hand without hesitation or complaint.

John proudly served the Town of Maine Fire Department for more than 40 years. He also groomed trails for the Trailmates Snowmobile Club, where he was a longtime member.

In his free time, John enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, hunting, traveling, restoring model trains, cooking, and spending time with friends and family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose happiest moments were spent gathering loved ones for holidays, birthdays, or any reason he could find to celebrate. Known for his warm laugh, easy conversation, and unmatched old fashioneds, John made everyone feel welcome. After retiring, he especially cherished day trips with friends to fish, snowmobile, or discover new restaurants.

John is survived by his wife, Susan (Mildbrandt) Rakow; his four children, Mike (Shelley) Rakow, Lori Rakow, Debbie (Jamie) Loiz, and Amy Rakow; and his three grandchildren, Alex Rakow, Adysen Loiz, and Skyler Loiz, all of Wausau. He is also survived by a large and loving extended family, including sisters and brothers in law, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Thomas; his sister, Ruth; his niece, Kristin; his brother in law, Jerry; and his sister in law, Sherry.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (5304 N. 44th Avenue, Wausau, WI 54401). Pastor Maggie Westaby will officiate. Visitation will take place at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of service, with lunch to follow. Burial will be held at a later date at Berlin Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated and compassionate staff at Aspirus, and a special thank you to the team at Aspirus At Home - Hospice for their exceptional care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church of Wausau, a charity of your choice, or you may plant a tree in John's memory.

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03/20/2026

Spring is here! With blooming flowers and brighter days, it’s the perfect time for new beginnings. Let’s embrace the season and all the beauty it brings!

03/19/2026

Susan Louise Janz

Susan "Sue" Janz of Schofield, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at the age of 73, following a brief illness. Sue's warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Sue spent 25 years at US Bank/Piper Jaffray before her her final 14 years of her career at Marathon County Special Education. She greeted everyone who walked through the front door with a warm smile. Her kindness and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on colleagues and visitors alike.

Sue cherished the simple joys of life, especially the many long walks she shared with her husband, Danny, who preceded her in death in December 2012. At home, she found companionship and comfort in her beloved feline friends, affectionately known as her "girls."

Sue had a special love for summer, particularly in her retirement years, where she spent time tending to her beautiful flower garden. It was a source of pride and joy, not only for her but for all who visited. On sunny days, she enjoyed kayaking and paddle boarding with friends. Sue treasured her close friendships with Pat, Sue, Summer and Sunshine McFaul. Together, they shared countless meals, holidays and antiquing adventures. Their bond remained strong through the years, and they stood by her side with love and support during her final days.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Helke Funeral Home. Services were held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sue's honor may be made to Saving Strayz, to a local animal shelter, or Monk Gardens.

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03/19/2026

Janis Diane Mootz

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03/19/2026

Andrew John Plath

Andrew John Plath, 68, of Wausau, WI, died Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital after a two-year battle with cancer.

Andy, as he was known by most people, was born December 28, 1957, in Wausau, WI, the son of Robert Plath and Marion (Werner) Plath. He graduated from Wausau West High School, then earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, followed by an Associate Degree in Insurance from Northcentral Technical College.

Andrew's willingness to step into leadership roles began in high school, when he was elected President of the Student Council in 1975. He states in one of his blog posts: "My service in the Student Council, particularly as President, taught me many things. For one, if you want change, you must work for it to make that change happen."

He spent his entire career in production with Kolbe Windows & Doors, but outside his career, Andy's passions lay elsewhere. He loved photography, hiking, biking, and his church, Trinity Lutheran. He combined many of his passions. He took photographs primarily of nature, but he also captured photos while hiking and biking to many places.

His passions led him to serve on the bike and pedestrian subcommittee of the Wausau Area Metropolitan Planning Organization and the City of Wausau's Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. He was delighted with the development of the River Edge Walkway. He was active with Wausau Wheelers and enjoyed the camaraderie of riding with fellow bikers. He loved Rib Mountain, the Ice Age Trail, Wausau's riverfront, and Wausau Whitewater.

He spent many years supporting the Wausau Christian Outreach for the Visually Impaired. This ministry provides an opportunity for blind and visually impaired people to experience fellowship and social activities, to network with others and learn about available resources, and to share in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and grow in faith.

Andy also spoke fondly of the Band of Brothers from Trinity, an organization whose goal is to develop, disciple, and mentor men to lead in their families, workplaces, and communities.

He created a blog on Medium: https://andrewplath26.medium.com/, where he wrote on many topics and combined his photos. In one called the River of Life, Andy wrote: "It is a question of age. I look old, but I do not feel old. I still want to look for new possibilities, but time is running out. The biological clock is now at 8:00 pm. The end of life is coming quicker than we could possibly think. In time, God will call me home."

Andy is survived by his sister, Julie, and her two sons, Timothy and Daniel, as well as a great niece, Willow, all in Wausau, and multiple cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother-in-law, as well as numerous other grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service (Celebration of Life) will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Avenue, Wausau, WI, on April 25, tentatively scheduled for 11 am. More details will follow and be updated via Facebook.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wausau Wheelers, Habitat for Humanity, or Trinity Lutheran Church of Wausau.

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03/18/2026

Kathleen Carol Tornow

Kathleen Tornow, age 100, went home to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ on March 13, 2026. Kathleen was born in Neenah, WI to Carroll and Adeline (Fahrenkrug) Rogers.

Kathleen graduated from Neenah High School in 1943. She was part of an all-women's singing group called Chaminade Women's Chorus and took voice lessons at Lawrence University.

She met her future husband, Norman R. Tornow in 1948, after he returned from military service in World War II. They were married on October 8,1949 in Menasha, WI.

She was preceded in death by Carroll Rogers (Father), Adeline (Fahrenkrug) Rogers (Mother), and Norman R. Tornow (Spouse).

Kathleen and Norman had four children, Kristine (Don) Rasmussen-Weston, WI, Gail (Roger) Duck-Abilene, TX, Thomas (AnnaMarie) Tornow-Wisconsin Rapids, WI and Theodore (Ruth) Tornow-Surprise, AZ.

And grandchildren...Joel (Collette)Duck, John Duck (Karine Trudel), Jason (Ali) Duck, Nathan (Hannah) Duck, Gregory (Amanda) Duck, Anders (Amy) Rasmussen, Kara (George) Willett, Marta (Joshua) Thunder, Zachary (Jessica) Tornow, Krista (Kevin)Lien, Brett Tornow, Lucas Tornow and Steven Pennent. And added to these wonderful grandchildren are her great grands, 23 at this point. She loved them all very much and made sure that each of them received birthday cards and as much love as she could put in one of those cards. Not to mention her prayers for every one of them.

Her nieces and nephews were also well loved and prayed for.

Her walk with the Lord was one of reading Our Daily Bread and her Bible. We all rejoice that she is with her Lord and Savior and in His presence. Funeral Services for Kathleen Tornow will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Wausau Bible Church with visitation at 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and the service starting at 11:00 AM. With Rev. Chris Juvinall officiating.

Burial will be at Appleton Highland Memorial Park in Appleton, Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored to have memorials given in Kathleen's name to.......Our Daily Bread Ministries, PDX Friends of Refugees, and Victory Center, Pastor Ray Gimenez, Clinton, IA, envelopes will be provided, with your choice of ministries.

Our family would like to gratefully acknowledge St. Croix Hospice and their absolutely stellar care and staff. Her nurse Brenda, aide Shynia, Ashley, Denise, Jessica, Pastor Joe and Nell. They are truly gifted caretakers, and they blessed us and our mother every time they were at our home.

Also, to Helke Funeral Home who have worked with us through the years and recently with all the planning of Mom's funeral.

Mom will be missed, but her life was full and she enjoyed all who came across her path. She greeted them all with her sunny smile and her kind words.

The service will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com//streams

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03/17/2026

Janis Dian Mootz

Janis D. Mootz, 84, of Kronenwetter, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at St. Clare's Hospital in Weston, surrounded by her loving family.

Janis was born on May 5, 1941, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to the late James and Leila Mae Jackson. She lived in the Wausau area her entire life and was a 1959 graduate of the former Wausau High School. On September 16, 1961, she married LaVern Mootz, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wausau. With whom she shared 50 years of marriage until his passing on June 26, 2012.

Family was the heart of Janis's life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured every moment spent with her loved ones. She had a passion for sewing, knitting, and crocheting, ensuring that each child, grandchild, and great-grandchild received a handmade Afghan. Janis also enjoyed bargain shopping to find special clothing for her family and cherished monthly lunches with her three childhood friends.

Janis is survived by her children, Steven (Martina) Mootz of Weston, Beth (Calvin) Wong of Elmhurst, Ill, and Jill Krzmarcik of Mosinee; grandchildren, Breanna, Brady, Hannah, Emma, Noah, Megan, Adam, Katelyn, Jessica, and Ben; great-grandchildren, Maxwell, Madilyn, Mia, Myles, Jerrin, Jace, Ellie, Briella, Walter, Ivy, Bentley, and Malakai; brother James and sister Betty; as well as many cousins and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, LaVern; parents; parents-in-law, Harry and Leona (Bahr) Mootz; granddaughter Ashley; sister Lois; nephew James; and her cousins Stretch, Renee, Dave, Darla, and Dana.

Per Janis's wishes, a private graveside committal service will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery, Town of Maine.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and staff at St. Clare's Hospital for the compassionate care they provided to Janis.

Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 715-842-3993, is honored to assist the Mootz family with arrangements. For more information, please visit www.helke.com.

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03/17/2026

Wishing you plenty of luck and just the right touch of green today! May the spirit of the day bring a little extra joy to your heart!

03/12/2026

In Loving Memory Of
Vickie Lynn Ginsburg
September 17, 1951 — March 2, 2026
To read Vickie's obituary and to share memories and condolences with her family, please visit the link below.

Please note, a memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St, Wausau, WI 54401, led by Tyler Smith. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to the time of service at the funeral home.

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03/11/2026

Grant Orin Daniels

Grant "Butch" "Eddie" O. Daniels Jr., age 79, passed away on March 9, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Grant was born in Milwaukee, WI to the late Grant and Dorothy (Arendt) Daniels.

After graduating high school, Grant had a dedicated career to the United States Postal Service and United States Navy. Grant married Debbie Kreager of Wausau, Wisconsin on October 19, 2013, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, in Merrill, WI.

Grant loved to ride his ATV with friends and family or going dancing. He was an avid deer hunter and fisherman, often traveling to go fishing. He enjoyed playing music around local areas of the community. Grant was always there for his family and would find any reason to get together.

Grant is survived by his wife, Debbie Daniels; sister, Nancy Hindal; aunt, Beverly Wiloff; nieces, nephews and many other family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Grant is preceded in death by his brother-in-law Robert Hindal.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:30 PM on Saturday March 21, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, N4887 Hwy 17, Bloomville, WI 54435. Father John Long will officiate. Visitation will be held at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St, Wausau, WI 54401, on Saturday March 21, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Military Honors will conclude visitation and begin promptly at 11:15 AM. Directions will be provided from Helke Funeral Home to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Helke Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

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