Nancy Lynn Podgorski, age 59, of the town of Texas, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital. She was born on July 10, 1960 to Ronald and Connie (Burgener) Beyer in Merrill. Nancy attended and graduated from Merrill High School and went to work for Northern Wire in Merrill for a short time. She met Sigmund Podgorski Jr. and the two fell in love and exchanged marriage vows on May 3, 1980 in Merrill. He survives. Nancy, Sigmund and their children ran the family dairy farm from 1980 until 2012. Nancy was very involved with the farming duties and made sure that the farm ran smoothly. She was actively involved with the 4-H organization for many years and would show rabbits and chickens at the Lincoln County Fair, winning many trophies and ribbons. At home, she had a hobby farm for many years, which consisted of rabbits, chickens, goats, sheep, dogs, cats, birds, along with raising Collies. Nancy collected peacock items, liked to watch her hummingbirds, enjoyed painting ceramics and doing crafts. She loved her animals and even helped her daughters with their horse shows. Although she was not a hunter, she looked forward to family hunting gatherings and would go shed hunting in the Spring. Nancy had a strong work ethic, which she instilled in her children, and was very dedicated to her family. She will be remembered for her love of laughter and her kind spirit.
Nancy is survived by her parents: Ronald (Darlene) Beyer and Connie (LeRoy) Fischer, both of Merrill, husband: Sigmund Podgorski Jr. of the town of Texas, children: Melissa (Brent) Kriewaldt, Scott Podgorski and Rachel Podgorski, all of Wausau, 2 grandchildren: Keenan and Kinley Kriewaldt, sister: Sherry Henrich of Wausau, brothers: Larry (Lori) Beyer of Alaska, Mike (Denise) Beyer and Pat (Laura) Beyer, both of Gleason and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her nephew: Michael Zuelsdorff.
The funeral service for Nancy will be held on Friday, January 10, 2020 at 11am at Waid Funeral Home. The Rev. Gregory Laska will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2020 from 4pm-7pm and again on Friday, January 10, 2020 from 10am until the time of the service, all at the funeral home. Burial at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service. In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in Nancy’s memory may be directed to the Lincoln County Humane Society, because of her deep love and affection for all animals. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.