The family of Georgia Ann (Shearier) Kniess, age 81, of Merrill is saddened to announce her passing. She died peacefully on Wednesday, June 12th, at Aspirus Hospital in Merrill.
Georgia was born on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 1942, the daughter of James and Mildred (Maluegge) Shearier. Georgia grew up in the 6th Ward and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. She was in the 1961 graduating class at Merrill High School.
Georgia had four children. Michelle (David) Klecka, Craig (Amy) Geiss, Shawn Geiss, and Heather (Mark) Bogner. Georgia was the proud Grandmother to seven Grandchildren: Ryan Klecka, Hanna Klecka, Elle (Klecka) Grahn, Alex Bogner, Ian Bogner, Nate Geiss and Sidney Geiss.
On August 27, 2005, Georgia and Dennis H. Kniess married at a small ceremony at The Rock of Ages Lutheran Church in Minocqua. Pastor Kenneth Albers officiated.
Georgia was a dedicated worker and held many and various positions throughout her life. She met new people wherever she went from her various jobs including Merrill Wire Products, Thelma’s Department Store, Pine Crest Nursing Home and Club Modern Supper Club. Georgia was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and also a Foster Grandparent at the Boy’s School in Irma. Georgia had many friends and wherever she went in Merrill there was always a fond story or memory. If there was someone in need, Georgia was among the 1st to drop off a casserole.
Georgia was a proud grandparent and enjoyed visiting them. She also enjoyed some travel throughout her life. She and Denny enjoyed trips to Branson and their camper in Minocqua. Georgia also traveled to the Caribbean, Hawaii and New York City.
Georgia and Denny enjoyed time with friends and friends. They enjoyed time in their patio garden, along with cheering on the Packers & Badgers. Georgia loved flowers, angels, birds and wind chimes. She found peace there.
Georgia is survived by her loving husband of nearly twenty years, Dennis H. Kniess and her children: Michelle (David) Klecka, Craig (Amy) Geiss, Shawn Geiss and Heather (Mark) Bogner. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren and sisters: Suzanne Hiter and Julie (Scott) Benzinger and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and aunts. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Mildred Shearier.
The visitation and funeral service for Georgia will be held on Monday, July 1st, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill. Visitation will be from 9-11 and the service will be directly following. Reverend Scott Gustafson will officiate.
The family would like to give special thanks to Debbie Kufahl and the staff at Woodland Court Elder Services in Merrill. We appreciate all you did to make Georgia feel comfortable and cared for. We would also like to thank the staff at Aspirus Hospital for helping her in her final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Georgia’s name may be directed to Trinity Lutheran School or Church.
Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.