Oscar A. ‘Ossie’ Wangen, age 75, of Merrill, passed away on Thursday, March 31, 2016, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill, under the care of his family, the nursing home staff, and hospice services.
Ossie was born October 28, 1940, in Merrill, son of the late Oscar and Nellie (Bennett) Wangen. He married Jeanne E. Biggs on February 15, 1969, in Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. She survives. Ossie was employed with the Lincoln County Highway Department as a Grader Operator for 38 years. He then worked for 14 years as a part time Grader Operator for the Town of Scott. Ossie was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. He served with the U.S. Army, stateside, from 1961 until his honorable discharge in 1964. Ossie loved to spend time at his ‘shack’ in the Town of Harding, whether it was hunting or simply being outdoors. Oscar’s lawn was always immaculate. He enjoyed gardening and woodworking. Ossie’s favorite times were spent with his family, especially his grandsons.
Ossie’s five year battle with cancer never slowed him down. His family would like to thank Dr. Islam and his staff at the Ministry Oncology Center in Weston; the Pine Crest Nursing Home staff; Ministry Home Care Hospice; and Trinity Lutheran Church congregation for all their prayers.
Survivors include his wife Jeanne Wangen, Merrill; his daughter, Kathy (Denny) Palazzo, Merrill; his son, Steven (Stephany) Wangen, DeMotte, Indiana; his four grandsons, Josh and Matt Palazzo, and Reece and Cade Wangen; his sister, Halena (Lyle) Anderson, Merrill; and his brother, Ralph Wangen, Merrill. Besides his parents, Ossie is preceded in death by his father and mother in law, Clifford and Esther Biggs; his sister and brother in law, Raynette and Charles Runge; and two sisters in laws, Sue Wangen and Betty Wangen.
The funeral will be at 11:30 AM Tuesday, April 5, 2016, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. R. Brian Stolarczyk will officiate. Burial will follow in Snow Hill Cemetery, Town of Scott, with graveside military rites conducted by the Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Monday at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill, and again after 10:00 AM Tuesday also at the church.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com