Leonard W. Wanless, 88, of Merrill, passed away Monday, September 5, 2022, at his home under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. Len was born July 10, 1934, in Merrill, son of the late Arthur and Clara (Vogt) Wanless. Len enlisted in the United States Army. He served as a mechanic and was stationed in Alaska for two years. He married Doris Cohrs on June 7, 1958, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. Len had worked as a laborer and carpenter in the construction trades prior to opening Quality Wood Products in Merrill. He owned and operated Quality Wood Products for many years. Len was a jack of all trades. He was talented at wiring, plumbing, automotive, and woodworking. Len handcrafted many beautiful furniture pieces for his family, friends, and church. Len loved camping and sharing stories around a campfire. Many winters were spent snowmobiling at the hunting shack. At retirement, Len and Doris enjoyed wintering in Texas. Len enjoyed a good old fashioned and a juicy prime rib. His Saturday morning polkas were a favorite. He enjoyed the companionship of his two cats, Zeke and Ella, who were always near his side. Above all, he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and cherished his beloved family.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Doris Wanless of Merrill; three daughters, Kathy (Dennis) Ray of Wausau, Debbie (Walter) Hilberg of Fort Atkinson, and Janet (Tim) Schreiber of Merrill; seven grandchildren, Leah (Nathan) Strand, Lisa (Dan) Folta, Dave (Erika) Ray, Nick (Aubrey) Ray, Savannah (Jordan) Roberts, Jen Schreiber, and Amber Schreiber; five great-grandchildren, Trentyn Strand, Tavyn Strand, Nyomie Strand, Danny Folta, and Ainsley Folta; one sister-in-law, Dorothy Wanless, of Merrill; and numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Len was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Clara Wanless; and his siblings, Gertrude (Jacob) Reist, George Wanless, Fred (Esther) Wanless, and twin sister, Leona Wanless.
The memorial service for Len will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Joel Danner will officiate. Visitation will begin at 9:00 A.M. Tuesday at the church. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com