Dennis ‘Denny’ L. Neumann, age 70, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, April 10, 2023, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital, while surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 30, 1952, to the late Ronald and Margaret (Ullmann) Neumann in Merrill. Denny attended and graduated from Merrill High School. He met Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Plautz, and the two were united in marriage on June 15, 1974 in Merrill, a union lasting 48 years. Denny was employed with Merrill Millwork for over 30 years, the last part of it was as a supervisor in shipping and receiving. He retired on January 3, 2023. In his younger years, he also worked for Schultz’s Wrecking. Denny was very proud to be able to fulfill his dream of building a church, and did so in Mosinee for Crossroads Assembly. Denny was also a Royal Rangers teacher for 23 years, and was the leader for the last 5 years. He was the true meaning of handyman, which he passed on to his son. Denny could build a house from the ground up, including all the work inside the house. He was skilled with working on machinery as well, especially vehicles. Denny was an avid hunter and fisherman, always enjoying that time with family and friends. Last Fall, Denny was able to see his grandson harvest his first bear and buck with a rifle that was passed down through generations of family. His faith and family were his priorities and he was a loving and supportive husband, dad, and grandpa. Denny loved children, and looked forward to watching not only his grandson race snowmobiles; but all the youth racers in the WKSRA Club. He is remembered as giving the best hugs and having a heart bigger than him.
Denny is survived by wife: Liz Neumann, daughter: Tara (Paul) Pawleski and son: Rick (Kristy) Neumann, all of Merrill, beloved grandchildren: Alex Neumann and Desi and Claudia Pawleski, along with a special granddaughter: Katelyn Hahn, sisters: Lynn (Neal) Zunker and Darcy Neumann, sister-in-law: Ann Nethery, brothers-in-law: Steve (Deb), Phil (Deb) and Tim (Cheri) Plautz, as well as many nieces, nephews and great friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother: Martha Neumann Leiskau, mother and father-in-law: Marion and Ervin Plautz, brothers-in-law: Larry Nethery and Jerry Plautz and nephew: Michael Plautz.
Family wishes to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and support staff at Aspirus Wausau Medical Surgical / Intensive Care Unit for their care and support shown to Denny and his family during their time there. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Denny’s name to a charity of your choice. Family is hosting a Celebration of Life for Denny on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 11am at Hillside Church, 1501 Pier St, Merrill, WI 54452. Pastor Brandon Wade will officiate. Visitation will be held the same day from 9am until the time of the service, also at the church. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.