Russell Norman Ervin Wetterau, age 55, of Athens passed away peacefully Saturday, March 28, 2015 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield, WI surrounded by his family after a long courageous battle with diabetes, heart and kidney failure. He was born November 11, 1959 in Merrill to Norman and Bernice (Luedtke) Wetterau. Russ married Sheri Wendt April 14th, 1983 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill.
Russ attended Merrill Senior High School He completed a 4 year apprenticeship program in Millwright and received a Journeyman. Russ enjoyed being outdoors; fishing, camping, four-wheeling, snowmobiling and mudding. He especially enjoyed running his dogs after coon and bear. Russ also spent a lot of time with his buddies in the woods telling stories and hanging out. He was an all around “Mr. Fix-It” and the “Go To” guy. Russ’ greatest joy was spending time with his granddaughter, Audrey “Baby Girl” and his best friends, Boss, Daisy and Buddy.
Russ worked on several farms including Fromm’s Fox Farms, Londerville and Czech Mink Farm. He worked at Stone Quarry and then went to Hurd Millwork as a maintenance supervisor.
Russ is survived by his wife: Sheri, of Athens; two daughters: Tonya (John) Becker and their daughter, Audrey, and Jessica Wetterau. His mother: Bernice Wetterau; two sisters: Paulette (late Ben) Robinson and Kathleen (Kenneth) Brice; sister-in-laws: Sally (Gary) Severt, Sharon (Guy) Wendt and Sue (Dan Sr.) Hixon; brothers-in-law: John (Teresa) Wendt, Bruce (Linda) Wendt and Larry (Lola) Wendt; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Wetterau, mother and father-in-law: Lawrence and Rose Wendt; along with grandparents and three nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, April 4, 2015 at Waid Funeral Home. Rev. Joel Hoelter will officiate. Visitation will be from 4-8 PM Friday, April 3, and again from 10 AM until the time of service, all at Waid Funeral Home. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, Town of Hamburg. Special thanks to all the doctors and staff at St. Clare’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Davita Dialysis Center and Marshfield Clinic Services. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.