Jacqueline “Jackie” M. Marheine, age 64, of Merrill, WI, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at the Hospice House in Wausau, WI. Jackie was born on October 2, 1961, in California and later made Wisconsin her home, where she built a life rooted in hard work, creativity, and close family ties. She was married to Philip Marheine on October 10, 1981; he survives.
Jackie attended Lomira High School after moving to Wisconsin. Throughout her life, she was known for her strong work ethic and willingness to help others. She held many roles over the years, including working as a CNA, a school cook, cleaning homes, and most recently as an employee at Northern Wire in Merrill. Outside of work, Jackie found joy in simple and creative things. She loved gardening and had a special talent for basket making, a craft she enjoyed so much that she shared her skills by teaching others how to weave. Jackie also cherished time spent with her sisters, especially their annual sister trips. Traveling together brought her great happiness and were always filled with lasting memories. Jackie will be remembered above all for her deep devotion to her family.
Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Philip Marheine, of Merrill; her children, Leon (Jennifer) Marheine, Jacob Marheine, and Thomas Marheine, all of Merrill; her brothers, Norm (Renee) Petri, Jr., of Mayville, WI, Tom (Lisa) Kriehn, of Florida, and Douglas Kriehn, of Merrill; her sisters, Roxann (Earl) Staley, of Florida, Sheri (Perry) Whitty, of Fond du Lac, WI, Carol Petri, of Knowles, WI, Sally (Raymond) McNeary, of Georgia, Kelly (Terry) Westberg, of Brantwood, WI, Christine (Fred) Jones, of Virgina, and Tracy Hintz, of Merrill. Jackie is further survived by her grandchildren, Tiffany Braunel, Michael Nofsinger, and Henry Marheine; her great-grandson, Isaac Hendry; in addition to several extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Barbara and Eugene Kriehn; and her brothers, Dennis, Brian, and Alex.
Memorial services for Jackie will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Merrill. Rev. Neal Behm will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation from 9:00 AM until the time of services at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations, in Jackie’s memory, be made to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Merrill or Northland Lutheran High School in Kronenwetter. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Jackie’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
