Luellen L. Benzinger, age 91, of Merrill, passed away Thursday, June 28, 2018. She was born January 23, 1927 in Merrill to the late Otto and Martha (Saeger) Utecht. Luellen and David “Knocky” Benzinger were united in marriage on June 18, 1950 in Merrill. He preceded her in death October 25, 1992.
Luellen attended Trinity school in Merrill. After graduating high school, she worked Merrill Veterinary Clinic and at Weinbrenner Shoe Company. Luellen was also a homemaker and mother for many years, as well as a devoted grandmother. Family was very important to her, and she cherished her time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Later on, Luellen worked at IGA as a clerk. She enjoyed bowling, golfing, card club and gambling. Luellen was a proud Avon Representative for over 12 years and loved getting to know her customers. She was a member of the Mission Circle at Trinity as well as the Ladies Aid in addition to her other volunteer work at the church. Luellen enjoyed volunteering her time at Bethesda in Wausau and the Merrill Food Pantry.
Survivors include her two children: Terry Benzinger and Barry (Patty) Benzinger, both of Merrill, four grandchildren: Jenny (Joe) Benzinger, Irma, Amy (Tim) Mielke, Wausau, Brad Benzinger and Greg (Tiffany) Benzinger and 8 great grandchildren: Cassie Blaubach, Mason and Tyler Mielke, Damien, Owen, Brett, Taylor and Daxton Benzinger. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband “Knocky”, daughter, Lynda Benzinger, sisters, Mildred Borchardt and Grace Lau and brother, Lester Voight.
Funeral services for Luellen will be held at 11 Am Monday, July 2, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM Sunday, July 1, at Waid Funeral Home and again from 10 AM until the time of service at the church, on Monday. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Luellen’s name to the Trinity Lutheran Church or School. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.
Family wishes to thank Dr. Wheat for the wonderful care he provided grandma over the years, nurse Pam, CNA’S, Kyle and Linda and her special friend, Jo.