Janet Marie Dupke, age 60, of Merrill, died on Sunday, June 23, 2019 at her residence, while surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. Janet was born on May 8, 1959 to the late John and Roberta (Hornbeck) Koller in Milwaukee, WI. She attended school in Michigan. On May 13, 2000, Janet exchanged marriage vows with James ‘Jim’ Dupke, a union lasting 19 years. He survives. Janet retired from owning and operating a local bar, as well as many other various jobs. Most recently, she was working for Job Connection, a temp agency that would assist people in finding jobs. Janet was an avid Green Bay Packer fan and cheered on Rusty Wallace in NASCAR races. She would eagerly look forward to her annual trip to Door County in September, as well as traveling to Florida for a few weeks out of the year since 2010. Janet is remembered as an outgoing and strong-willed person, who loved her family. Most recently, she would spend time on the computer, playing games and doing puzzles. She had a passion and love for all types of big and small cats. Janet was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Merrill. She will be sadly missed by family and friends, but never forgotten.
Janet is survived by her husband: James ‘Jim’ Dupke of Merrill, son: Harold White of Michigan, daughters: Christine Tatro of Wausau and Amy (Seth) Stoeckmann of Merrill, step-children: Rebecca (Ken) Kriehn, David (Jessica) Schemehorn and Andrea (Joe) Rohmeyer, grandchildren: Hannah and Blake Wendt and Preston Tatro, along with 12 step grandchildren and 6 step great grandchildren, sisters: Diane (David) Pitt and Tracy (Daniel) Avila and brothers: William, Robert, Anthony and John Koller. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother: James Kenny.
A Memorial Service for Janet will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at 12 noon at Waid Funeral Home. Pastor Jess Wakefield will officiate. Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2019 from 9am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.