Arvilla L. Wendorf

Arvilla L (Raasch) Wendorf passed away December 19, 2015 at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill, WI, with her daughters at her side. Arvilla was born May 31, 1930 in Merrill; the only child of Elmer and Hilda (Woller) Raasch. Arvilla loved music and often sang duets with her father; she would play the piano while he played the accordion. She continued to delight everyone throughout her life when she played her favorite songs from the 40s and 50s. Arvilla graduated from Merrill High School where she served on the Student Council and was on the Homecoming court all four years. She married Marvin Schmitz and moved to Reading, PA while Marvin was in the Air Force. When they returned to Merrill they owned and operated the Club Modern Supper Club along with both their parents. In 1966 she married Clifford Wendorf. Arvilla was a Nurse Aide at St Mary's Hospital, where she was part of the ancillary staff when the first successful open heart surgery was performed in the area. Arvilla and Clifford were part owners of Kelly Athletic Club. The happiest time of Arvilla's life was when they moved to Crescent Lake in Rhinelander. They spent many idyllic days on the lake with their children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors. There was always a big Fourth of July get together with lots of food, fireworks and campfires. Arvilla was an unfailingly loving and kind person. She loved animals, especially her dogs. She had a beautiful welcoming smile, loved people and always saw the best in everyone. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford and one grandson, Scott R. Tooley of Maryland. Survivors include daughters, Diann (Schmitz) Tooley, Wausau, Donna (Jeff) Engman, Weston; step-sons, Greg (Carol) Wendorf, The Villages, FL, Jeff (Barb) Wendorf, Lake DuBay, Todd (Tracy) Wendorf, St Cloud, MN; nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Special thanks to all the staff at Bell Tower Residence, especially Gabby, Dan and Tammy who cared for her like she was their own loved-one. Visitation will be Friday, January 15, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Brainard Funeral Home, 5712 Memorial Court, Weston, WI. There will be a short prayer service at 6:00. Condolences may be given at www.brainardfuneral.com