Richard L. Wiessinger, age 81, of Merrill, passed away on Saturday, July 17, 2021, at his home. Richard was born May 12, 1940, in Madison, son of the late Robert and Dorothy (Dennis) Wiessinger. Richard and his family moved up to Eagle River when he was five years old. He graduated from the former Eagle River High School. While in high school, he was involved in football and basketball. Richard worked at the former Bonson’s grocery store in Eagle River as the store manager. He eventually moved to Ripon and took a position at Pick ‘n Save as the produce manager. Later, he moved back to Merrill to be closer to his children. While in Merrill, he worked at Piggly Wiggly until his retirement. Richard loved spending time with his grandchildren; he was affectionately known as ‘Grandpa Yo’. He enjoyed telling corny jokes, sharing funny stories, and speaking Pig Latin. Richard also enjoyed being in nature and watching wildlife, playing cribbage, and watching sports.
Survivors include his daughters, Wendy (Scott) Epping of Benson, Arizona, and Sally (Tim) Hogenmiller of Merrill; son, Robert Wiessinger of Wausau; son-in-law, Daniel Jones of Kaukauna; grandchildren, Robinson Flaig (fiancée Erin Sullivan), Jesse Hogenmiller, Liz Hogenmiller, and Daniel Hogenmiller; his former spouse and the mother of his children, Phyllis Schmidt of Eagle River; and also many cousins. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Dorothy Wiessinger; daughter, Robin Jones; and second wife, Caroline Wiessinger.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2021, in the Community Room at Stonebridge – 307 W. Main St., Merrill. The family will receive friends from 12:00 P.M., Noon,until 3:00 P.M. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lincoln County Humane Society – 310 N. Memorial Dr., Merrill, WI 54452.