Bruce B. Schaefer, age 76, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024, at Woodland Court Elder Services, while surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Interim Hospice. He was born on June 29, 1948, to the late Arthur and Naomi (Henrich) Schaefer in Merrill. He attended and graduated from Merrill High School before going on to take college courses in agriculture. Bruce met Janet Wiesneski, and the two were united in marriage on October 18, 1996 in Merrill.
Bruce grew up on the family dairy farm in Merrill. He eventually took it over and it became a beef farm. He enjoyed working in the fields and spending time logging. Bruce had also worked for Van Der Geest Dairy Farms until his retirement in 2018. He loved being outdoors, whether it was deer or bird hunting or taking a fishing trip to Canada, he looked forward to it. Bruce was very involved with 4-H, especially the market shows and the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo event. He was easy to talk to, and had a heart of gold. Bruce was a kind, strong man who never hesitated to help family and friends. Bruce had a strong faith in God and was active in his church, St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ, where he helped with ushering and the youth group. He is remembered as a steadfast, protective and faithful person that will be sadly missed, but will remain in the hearts and minds of his family and friends.
Bruce is survived by his wife: Janet Schaefer of Merrill, sister: Barbara Schaefer of Kamuela, Hawaii, niece: Bethany Schaefer of Wausau, nephew: Michael (Jill) Schaefer of Grafton, OH, brother-in-law: Paul (Renee) Wiesneski of Merrill and many other beloved extended family members of both Bruce and Janet. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law: Phil and Jean Schaefer and brother-in-law: Mark Wiesenski.
The memorial service for Bruce will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill. Rev. Mike Southcombe will officiate. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the church. A private family inurnment will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, family suggests to direct donations in Bruce’s name to St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ.
Bruce’s family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to niece Spring Wiesneski who gives invaluable help in this time of need and beyond. They would also like to thank Interim Hospice and Woodland Court for the care and compassion they had toward Bruce and his family during his stay there.
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.