Darrell L. Nueske

Darrell L. Nueske, age 69, of Eland, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, surrounded by the love and support of his family and the compassionate care of Aspirus Comfort Care Hospice Services.
Born on January 29, 1956, in Appleton to Elmer and Eleanor (Foth) Nueske, Darrell grew up with strong roots in family, faith, and hard work. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, a commitment he carried with honor throughout his life. Darrell was, in every sense, a patriot-steadfast, loyal, and deeply devoted to the values he believed in.
On February 4, 1978, he married the love of his life, Cheryl "Cheri" Laszewski, in Wausau. Their partnership was a beautiful example of love in motion: they raised four children, supported one another through changing careers, and stood side by side through every adventure. Darrell's work as a self-employed semi driver took him across the nation, but no matter where the road led, home was always with Cheri and their family.
Darrell's love of cooking was legendary. A self-proclaimed grill master, he transformed that passion into a shared calling with Cheri, opening Nueske's Café in Birnamwood, Black Jack in Antigo, and later Nueske's at Gulliver's Landing. These restaurants were more than places to eat-they were gathering spaces filled with laughter, stories, Cheri's warmth and Darrell's endless joking.
Darrell's sense of community was ever present in his life. Together, he and Cheri gave countless hours to local events: the Pancake Breakfast for the Birnamwood Fire Department and EMTs, Brunch on the Farm for Langlade and Marathon Counties, the Langlade County Race Track, and so many more. Of all these efforts, the Birnamwood Fireworks held the most special place in his heart. For nearly 20 years, Darrell championed the celebration-organizing fundraisers, rallying support, and ensuring that families could gather each summer beneath a sky lit with color. Through these events and through his catering for weddings, reunions, and community celebrations, Darrell built lifelong connections. He never met a stranger, only friends he hadn't gotten to know yet.
Above all else, Darrell's life centered on faith and family. He and Cheri cherished their time together, especially traveling and making new memories. Darrell lit up when surrounded by his family, and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. His musical spirit-singing, strumming his guitar, filling rooms with song-was a gift he shared freely. A true outdoorsman, he found peace in the quiet moments in the woods, boat rides and casting a line.
Darrell is survived by his mother, Eleanor; his devoted wife, Cheri; his children, Sabrina (Nick) Tews, Angela (Jeremy) Benson, Cassie (Justin) Kressel, and Derek (Ashley) Nueske; and his beloved grandchildren: Riley, Ethan, Liam, Avery, Chloe, Brinley, Brityn, Beau, and Callum. He is further survived by his siblings, Kris (Mark) Neuendorf and Roger (Stacey) Nueske, along with many other relatives and countless friends who were touched by his generous spirit.
He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer, and his in-laws, Clayton Sr. and Evelyn Laszewski.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 PM on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home in Wittenberg. Mr. Brad Stuefen and Ms. Karen Sykes will officiate. Burial will follow at Forest Home Cemetery, Wittenberg, with military rites conducted by the Darling Gunderson American Legion Post #341. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 3 PM to 7 PM, and again on Monday from 11 AM until the time of service at the funeral home.
A special Thank You to Dr. Oliver and the cancer staff at Aspirus Cancer Center, as well as the staff at Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. Memories and messages of support may be shared at www.SchmidtSchulta.com.