Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau, WI (2026)

05/14/2026

Bernard "Bernie" John Richards Jr.

Bernard (Bernie) Richards was a man of few words and a gentle, giving heart; he was as wonderfully set in his ways as he was generous to anyone in need.

Bernie, age 70, passed away on May 11, 2026, in Wausau, following a courageous battle with ALS. He was born to the late Bernard Sr. and Ellen (Huntington) Richards.

On January 25, 1993, Bernie married Susan Richards in Las Vegas. Together, they shared a life of simple Wisconsin pleasures-heading "up north" to the cottage, enjoying Friday night fish fries, and traveling. Susan preceded him in death, but the memories of their time together remained a cornerstone of his life.

A quiet man who expressed his love through actions rather than grand speeches, Bernie was happiest when he was giving to others. He was a devoted fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and cherished the time spent attending and watching games with his son, Reid. He also had a passion for live music and theater, constantly scouting for tickets to concerts and shows just so he could treat his loved ones to an evening out.

In his later years, Bernie found companionship and adventure with Joanne Sullivan. In the time they shared, they saw the world together, traveling to Alaska, Ireland, Florida, Arizona, and across the American West. Throughout his illness, Bernie found constant comfort and support in his beloved cat, Guinness, who rarely left his side.

Bernie is survived by his significant other, Joanne Sullivan, his three children, Amy (Paul) Gasch of Trempealeau, Holly Raasch (Nate Nguyen) of Fridley, MN, and Reid Richards of Wausau; his three granddaughters, Elin and Aria Gasch, and Olivia Nguyen; and his sister, Ann Quaschnick.

He was greeted in heaven by his wife, Susan; his parents, Bernard Sr. and Ellen; and his siblings, Debbie Moeller, Lois Kleiber, and Ronald Richards.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11:00 am at Helke Funeral Home (302 Spruce Street, Wausau, WI 54401 with Deacon Erv Burkhardt officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday May 22, 2026 from 9:30 am until the hour of service at the Helke.

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05/11/2026

Thomas Irving Maltbey

Thomas “Tom” Irving Maltbey took his last breath on May 7, 2026, with his loving wife and daughters by his side.

Thirty-seven years ago, Tom received the incredible gift of a kidney from his brother, Tim, a gift that gave him many more years with the people he loved most. Throughout his life, Tom faced more than his share of health challenges, but he met them with quiet strength, determination, and courage. Until the very end, he did everything he could to stay healthy, heal, and recover. His body had endured so much, and though it could no longer keep up, his spirit never stopped fighting.

Tom was an incredible man, strong, humble, patient, caring, and deeply devoted to his family. He was not a man of many words, but when he spoke, his words came from the heart. His advice was honest, meaningful, and often came with his unmistakable ability to call out the obvious. He was the rock of his family, steady and dependable, and his love was shown through his actions every single day.

Tom was the first All-State football player at Wausau West High School, where he played both sides of the ball. It was also during high school that he met the love of his life, Sharon, at just 16 years old, and, true to Tom’s determined nature, he didn’t take “no” for an answer. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared 50 years of marriage.

Tom worked for Greenheck Fan for more than 30 years before retiring in 2016. Outside of work, he found joy in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing.

As a devoted girl dad, he happily passed those passions on to his daughters, always willing to share his lunch, and, of course, his candy bars. He loved sports, spent time coaching softball, and took great pride in supporting his girls in anything they chose to do.

One of Tom’s greatest joys was being a grandfather. He was extremely proud of his five grandchildren, Cole, Wes, Will, Samantha, and Allie, and rarely missed one of their activities. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, watching from the stands, or simply showing up with quiet pride, his presence meant everything.

Tom also loved riding his Harley, especially alongside his best friend, Larry. Those rides brought him happiness, freedom, and memories he treasured. Tom will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His strength, loyalty, quiet humor, and steady love will live on in the family he cherished so much.

Tom is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 50 years, Sharon; his daughters, Jamie (Jason) Polley and Kendra (Danny) VanSlyke; his grandchildren, Wes and Samantha Polley, and Cole, Will, and Allie VanSlyke; his sister, Vicky Pingel; his brother, Tim (Wendy) Maltbey; brothers-in-law, Ross Wood, Marv Schael, and Bob McCabe; sister-in-law, Jayne Wood; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Victor Maltbey; his in-laws Kenneth and Geraldine Wood; his sisters, Sandy McCabe, Schron Schael, and Marcia Maltbey; and his brothers-in-law, Michael Wood, Jeff Wood and Dick Pingel.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Covenant Community Presbyterian Church, located at 1806 Weston Ave, Schofield, WI 54476. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to UW Health Transplant Center Greatest Needs Fund – 132900506 in Tom’s honor. https://www.uwhealth.org/philanthropy

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05/06/2026

Harold Nestor Peterson

Harold N. Peterson, 92, of Wausau, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau. Arrangements are currently pending through Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Please check back for updated service information and a full obituary.

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05/04/2026

Virginia Ann Otto

Virginia A. Otto, 87, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.A full obituary and service details are pending. Please check back for updated information

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04/28/2026

Ronald Loel Westcott

Ronald (Ron) L. Westcott, 88, of Edgar, WI, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Ron was born on July 11, 1937 in Wausau, to the late Daniel and Veronica Westcott. Ron served in the US Navy and Naval Reserves for 8 years and was a Gunner's Mate, Third Class, stationed on the U.S.S. Helena and served in the Korean War. He participated in the Honor Flight in 2022.

Ron worked as a union plumber and pipefitter and has been a proud member of UA Local 434 for over 65 years. He worked on many large-scale projects across Wisconsin. Ron was a dedicated, hard worker and made lifelong friends during his career.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann (Heldt); his beloved children, Tracey, Troy (Renee), Trent (Sheila), Travis, and Tammy, whom he shared with his first wife Joan Fearson, half sibling to Ron's children, Karlan (Dana) Dietsche, and step children, Tammy (Russell) Westfall and Ricky (Troy Moore) Heldt; grandchildren, Julien, Chelsea (Greg), Abbi (Zach), Eli (Journey), Christopher (Ali), and Allen; great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews, and siblings Patricia Suman and Tim (Clarice). Ron was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Nora, nephew Logan, his parents, and cherished siblings Mike (Karla), Jaqueline Hustedt, and Richard (Darlene).

Ron and Mary Ann were married December 19, 1992 and enjoyed over 33 years of marriage. They met at the Labor Temple, where Mary Ann was the secretary for the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. He asked her out for a drink and the rest is history. They traveled extensively after their retirements and visited England, France, and many areas in the U.S. Ron and Mary Ann spent wonderful times together, spending time with family and friends and later spending quiet evenings at home playing rummy. They shared a bottle of champagne on every holiday.

Ron loved and valued his family more than anything. He was an excellent host and loved to entertain, everyone was always welcome. Ron's family have wonderful memories of holidays at his house. His 4th of July celebrations were legendary with huge firework displays, great food, friends, and of course, family. He was an intelligent and charismatic man, who had the best laugh. Ron recently said, "I probably ate too much, drank too much, and smoked too much, but I've had a hell of a good time".

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and wood working. He just completed 9 birdhouses for a park in Milwaukee. Ron loved to read, particularity westerns by Louis L'Amour, a fire in the backyard, and his nightly Kessler's and water.

Ron was a devoted father, grandfather, husband, brother, and uncle, who will be dearly missed. In honor of him, love your family, host over the top holiday celebrations, and always remember to have a good time.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 2, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Ave., Wausau. Visitation will be from 10 am-11am with a service at 11 am. Lunch to follow the service. Burial will take place at Zion Lutheran (St. John's) Cemetery, Little Chicago.

Helke Funeral Home is assisting the family at this time. You may sign our family guest book at www.helke.com

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04/28/2026

Joe Horban

Joseph “Joe” Michael Horban, age 72, of Schofield, WI, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Pine Meadows Assisted Living in Schofield, while under the care of Compassus Hospice. He was born on October 29, 1953 in Chicago, IL and was the son to the late John C. and Patricia E. (Pappas) Horban. He married Bonnie Gorichs on June 24, 1978 in Medford, WI. She survives.

When he was younger, Joe enjoyed going fishing and for bike rides. He was a collector of various knick knacks and loved being around dogs and horses! He was a talented musician with the concertina and the accordion. Joe had a heart of gold and enjoyed helping people in his community, especially the elderly, and he loved making people laugh. He was a kind-hearted man that will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Joe leaves behind his wife, Bonnie, brother: John (Diane) Horban Jr. and sister: Renee Zeske. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother: Jonathan Horban and sister: Sandra Horban.

The memorial service for Joe will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau, WI 54401. Pastor Rebecca Borke will officiate. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.

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

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04/27/2026

Donald Reno Marten

Donald Marten, aged 86, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Pine Meadows Assisted Living. He was born on July 21, 1939, in Ringle, Wisconsin, to Reno and Eva (Merriam) Marten.

Donald served honorably in the United States Army and later worked for Marathon Electric for 42 years before retiring in 2002.

He most enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors cutting wood, he loved listening to old country music, his favorite artist Don Williams on his record players.

He is survived by his children: Jeanine Manthe and Keith (Tracy) Marten. Four grandchildren; Missy (Travis) Olds, Rick (McKenzie) Manthe, Amber Marten (Fiance' Alex Jaeger) and Kyle Marten and three great-grandchildren; Johnny Dunning V, Jack Manthe and Hader Olds.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Reno and Eva Marten and five siblings; Gertrude Marten, Carol Bolzak, Lowell (Willie) Marten and Shirley Schram.

Burial will take place at Forestville Cemetery in Ringle, Wisconsin.

Family and friends may pay their respects during a time of visitation at Helke Funeral Home Thursday, April 30th from 10am to Noon, their will be a short service at Noon and proceed to burial site of Forestville Cemetery in Ringle, WI with Military Honors.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Joleen at Interm Hospice Care and the Pine Meadows Assisted Living for their years of support and care.

Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Care Center (715-842-3993) is honored to be assisting the Marten family with arrangements. For more information or to leave online condolences, please visit www.Helke.com.

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04/22/2026

David Robert Theis

David Robert Theis, age 72, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2026, at his residence. He was born April 2, 1954, to the late Robert and Rose (Stochek) Theis in Wausau, WI. David attended Wausau East High School, graduating with the class of 1974.

David worked for several years at Custom Cleaners and a variety of other jobs in the Wausau area.

David was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Linda Theis Siegmann; and a niece, Elisa Siegmann.

Survivors include his brother-in-law, Paul Siegmann; a nephew, Arick (Pamela) Siegmann; and other friends and relatives.

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04/20/2026

Berdina A. Hilmershausen

Berdina Alma Hilmershausen was born on March 26, 1927, in Wausau to Reinhart and Anna (Kaatz) Hilmershausen. She attended Trinity Lutheran School from grades 1-8th and graduated from Wausau Senior High School in 1945. After graduating High School, she worked at Heigle's Meat Market on Third Avenue right here in Wausau.

In 1948 Berdina joined the Navy. After completing Airman School and Aviation Machinist School, she served as an Aviation Machinist Mate in Pensacola, FL. She left the Navy in late 1952 and went to work for American Can Research and Development Co. in Neenah-Menasha, New York City, and Rothschild.

In her free time, Berdina enjoyed working in her yard and tending to her flowers, singing in the church choir, and listening to Golf and The Brewers on the radio.

She is proceeded in death by her Parents Reinhart and Anna Hilmershausen; Brother Clarence Hilmershausen; Sisters Ardell Huettl, Loretta Erdmann, and Doris Gray-Beilke; and Niece Cheryl Cordeschi.

She is survived by a Niece Judith Gray, and friend Joan Seehafer.

A Funeral Service will take place on April 24th, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church (501 Stewart Avenue, Wausau, WI, 54401) at 11:00 am. Rev. Peter Williamson will be officiating. Visitation will take place from 9:30 am until the time of the service.

Helke Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with Arrangements.

Please leave condolences below.

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04/14/2026

Victor Joseph Richards

Victor J. Richards, 76, of Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026.

Victor was born in Wausau to Edward Sr and Valeria Richards on Sep 28, 1949. He graduated from Wausau High School in 1968. As a scholar-athlete, Vic was a top baseball pitcher, football team captain, and the senior class president. In 1972, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a Bachelor of Arts in comprehensive business management and was a proud member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Giving back to his community was a defining part of Vic's life. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club of Wausau was especially meaningful to him. Vic's efforts to help the community youth were recognized by awards, including the From the Heart Award and Volunteer of the Year. Victor also cared for his mother in her later years, allowing her to remain at home-a reflection of his deep loyalty and compassion.

Victor was a great neighbor, a committed community member, and truly selfless. After every snowstorm, he could be found running his snowblower around the neighborhood block, helping anyone who needed it. Generosity was a constant thread in his life; he would do anything for anybody, often putting others before himself.

Victor is survived by his two sons, Chad (Bentley) Richards and Brian (Andrea) Richards, and his grandchildren Charlotte, Stella, and Carter. He is also survived by his siblings Charles (Nancy) Richards, Edward Jr (Sue) Richards, and Arlene Bube, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Sr and Valeria Richards, and by his brother, Jerry Richards Sr.

On Saturday, April 25, a visitation will open at 11 am with a noon funeral mass at Holy Name Catholic Church. Following the mass, Vic will be interned at Restlawn Cemetery in proximity to his parents. Vic was devoted to his faith and believed in eternal life.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff and loved ones who cared for Victor over the years. He was cherished by many and received exceptional care from Wausau Manor and the Aspirus Hospital staff. Despite challenges, Victor's genuine heart and commitment to his community never wavered. Through decades of volunteering and service, he devoted much of his life to supporting organizations and positively shaping the future of Wausau.

In place of flowers or donations, the family asks that you honor Victor's memory by helping a neighbor or supporting a local organization that aligns with your values-continuing Vic's legacy of making the community a better place for all.

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04/14/2026

Mavis Mae Thurs

Mavis Mae Thurs, age 94, of Weston, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Lili Gardens in Weston, surrounded by her loving family and while under the care of Heartland Hospice. She was born in the town of Berlin on March 14, 1932, and was the daughter to the late Harold & Alice (Pagel) Kriewald. Mavis was baptized into God's family on March 27, 1932 and confirmed into the faith on April 14, 1946. She met the love of her life, Harvey Thurs, at a dance at Schmidt's Ballroom, and the two exchanged marriage vows on September 19, 1953. Sadly, Harvey preceded her in death on March 11, 2023.

Harvey and Mavis ran the family farm until 1965. At that time, they moved to Weston, WI. Mavis worked at Larson's Cleaners, and as an assembler at Hoffer's Glass Company until her retirement. After retiring, she was a beloved lunch lady at D.C. Everest. Mavis had also been a groundskeeper year-round for Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church. First and foremost in her life, was her faith and devotion to her Lord and Savior and her precious family. She and Harvey had built a cottage up north in 1976, and treasured time up there fishing, swimming at Sandy Beach, rollerblading, and having ice cream at The Windmill. Mavis and Harvey also took fishing trips to Canada. Mavis looked forward to trips with Harvey, whether it was to Ireland, Holland, Hawaii, Washington D.C. or traveling to Germany with the Pommerscher Verein German Club. She also enjoyed more local trips, such as going to the Fireside Theatre, as well as attending Brewers and Woodchucks games. Mavis was well-known for her infectious smile, her positive attitude and her strong faith in God. Everyone loved her the moment they met her. Mavis was a social butterfly and enjoyed going on walks, especially with her walking club at Lili Gardens. She was an excellent baker, making many fruit cakes and cut out cookies and treats for family and friends. She enjoyed making cross stitch towels, working on puzzles, playing cards, reading a good book and watching game shows on television. Mavis adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren and would attend their sporting events every chance she had. Mavis loved to watch the birds at her feeders, and would especially enjoy seeing her cardinals coming to visit. She took many trips to the strawberry fields and went cherry picking, and she loved tending to her flower gardens. Mavis will be sadly missed, but her smile and love will last forever in the hearts of her family and friends. Have an ice cream drumstick in memory of Mavis!

Mavis leaves behind her children: Cheryl Utecht, Kim (Jill) Thurs, Char (Jeff) Marcell and Amy (Pete) Jaglinski, her 10 grandchildren: Lucas (Sara) Utecht, Heather (Jared) Grusznski, Mike (Jessica) Thurs, Sarah (Jacob) Bartsch, Nicole (Mike) Riemer, Tara (Garrett) Lancelle, Tanner (Shannon), Bryce (Madison), Seth, and Kyle Jaglinski, her precious 14 great grandchildren: Coen and Anna Utecht, Jude and Adelynn Grusznski, Jacob and Madilyn Thurs, Caleb and Aubrie Riemer, Gavin, Isabelle and Jasper Lancelle, Joseph Bartsch, and Jackson and Samuel Jaglinski, with another great grandchildren due in June, brother: William (Marilyn) Kriewald, brothers-in-law: Elgart Thurs, Harland Schubring and sister-in-law: Anne Kriewald. She is preceded in death by her parents: Harold & Alice Kriewald, husband: Harvey, brother: Gerald Kriewald, sister: JoAnne Schubring, son-in-law: Ken Utecht, in-laws: Gustav & Gertrude Thurs, brothers-in-law: Wilmar (Alladine) Thurs, Norman Thurs and Orville (Iris) Thurs.

The funeral service for Mavis will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Rothschild. Pastor Phyllis Smoot with officiate. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and again on Monday, April 20, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service, all at the church. Entombment at Restlawn Memorial Park will take place.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff members and many friends of Mavis's at Lili Gardens. She loved her time spent there. They also want to thank Heartland Hospice for their care and compassion.

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Wausau is honored to assist the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.helke.com.

View Mavis Mae Thurs's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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