Linda Susan Opper, aged 63, died unexpectedly, but peacefully on May 3, 2014 at UW Hospital in Madison, WI.
Linda was born June 8, 1950, in Wausau, the daughter of Delmer E. and Donna J. (Mayer) Whillhite.
Linda was a very social person. She will be remembered for her generosity, quick wit and her hard work. Most importantly, she was a loving and devoted wife and mother. Her daughters were the center of her world and she taught them selflessness, strength and love, along with a strong work ethic. Linda thoroughly enjoyed fishing and the outdoors, along with spending time walking and playing with her dog, Malibu.
On Jan. 15, 2005, she was united in marriage to Clayton E. Opper of Merrill. Clayton, long time millwright for Wausau Papers, now works for Wausau Tile.
Linda owned The Beauty Parlor for over 30 years. She enjoyed her daily, weekly and monthly chats with all of her loyal friends and clients. Each of them made a special impression on her heart. Her co-workers and clients were often included in family celebrations because Linda treated them as if they were truly an extension of her own family.
Linda was a member of Christ United Methodist Church and an active volunteer in the church’s kitchen. She always put others first by donating time, clothing, food and money to those in need.
Linda is survived by her husband, Clayton E. Opper of Merrill; her daughter, Tammy L. Steller (Jeffrey) of Madison; her daughter, Lisa A. Rohde of East Troy; her sister, Diane R. Powell of Wausau; two brothers; two step-sons (Casey Opper, Codey Opper); two nieces; three nephews; two grandsons; and a number of other relatives and close friends.
There was a visitation from 12-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at Helke Funeral Home in Wausau. A Celebration of Life followed. Pastor Angie Steinhauer officiated. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for use towards Malibu’s surgery and the remainder will be donated to the church. You may sign our family guestbook at www.helke.com.