Elmer John Kufahl

Elmer John Kufahl, 84, of Wausau was called to his rest in Jesus' arms on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Elmer was born to John and Martha (Ulrich) Kufahl on August 3, 1940. He was baptized into Christ at the family farm by the Revered Paul Schroeder, and later was confirmed in the faith at St. Peter Lutheran Church in the town of Wausau. In 1944, Elmer was blessed with the responsibility of being a big brother with the birth of his sister Karen (Kromrei), and the two grew up surround by many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Elmer attended the one room Marshall Hill Grade School and in 1958 he graduated from Wausau High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy where he enjoyed the challenge of being an Aviation Technician, and he took great pride in having served on the USS Oriskany, the USS Lexington, and the USS Ranger. Following his service in the Navy, Elmer returned to Wausau and attended Wausau Technical College, graduating with an Associates Degree in Mechanical Design. He began his career with Greenheck, but soon took a job with Monroe System for Business as their service technician for office equipment. Later, he went on to work for Office Solutions and Mall Furniture.

On August 12, 1972, Elmer was united in marriage to Judith Ann Schult at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wausau, after his cousin Charles encouraged him to meet one of the new teachers at his school. Elmer and Judy made their home in the then quiet town of Rib Mountain, along the Wisconsin River. In 1975 they were blessed with the first of their two children: Peter and then Angela in 1978.

Elmer was blessed to see his family grow as in 2000 Angela married Christopher Raasch and in 2009 Peter married Amy Christianson. From these unions, Elmer was excited to add new pictures to his wallet with the births of Samantha, Matthew, Jackson, Adalynn, Colton, Mitchell, and Alayna.

Elmer was a man of few words, but loved them as he was an avid reader of WWII history and the daily comic strips. He was a silent observer of the world around him, but spoke loudly and compassionately through his actions and presence. He worked hard to care for his family and friends, home, church, work, yard and garden. And you can't forget his passion for dartball, old movies and cartoons, technology, popcorn, and of course the Packers.

Through the work of the Holy Spirit, the Lord blessed Elmer with a humble faith lived out in being a servant of his Savior Jesus. His family and friends are forever thankful for the blessing he was and is in our lives. Thaks be to the Lord God for His work done through His child whom He loves, forgives, lived, died, and rose for, that eternal life may be his!

Elmer is survived by his son, Rev. Peter (Amy) Kufahl of Eagle River; his daughter, Angie (Chris) Raasch of Milan, MI; grandchildren: Sam, Jack, Cole, and Mitch Raasch, and Addy and Alayna Kufahl; his sister Karen (Donald - best friend from childhood) Kromrei; his niece Kristine (Jim) Lombardi, and nephew Mark (Tammy) Kromrei; and many beloved cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Judy, and grandson Matthew Raasch.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Ave, Wausau, with the Rev. James Mayland officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Town of Maine with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church or the Never Forgotten Honor Flight are appreciated.