John F. Writz

John Writz, age 95, of Wausau, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, July 15, surrounded by his loving family. They find comfort knowing that he is now at home with his Lord and Savior.

John was born the youngest of 14 children to Frank and Frances (Klovenski) Writz in Athens, WI on October 10, 1929. He attended St. Anthony’s Elementary School, after which he attended Athens High School. After attending high school, he enlisted with the United States Marine Corps and proudly served

his country during the Korean War. During his time in the service, he was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation with One Star, and a Korean Service Medal with Three Stars. John was proud to be a Marine.

On June 25, 1955, he married the love of his life and fishing partner, Marcella Kohn. During their 65 years of marriage, they spent many hours traveling up north to their favorite fishing hole, catching hundreds of bluegills and perch. These were some of John’s most treasured memories of their time together.

John worked for James River Corporation (now Graphic Packaging) as a Machinist, and landscaping on the side until his retirement in 1988 after 35 years. In retirement he kept himself busy with jobs as a delivery driver with Wausau Builders and a contractor with Denfeld Construction.

In his free time, John enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was a dedicated walker who besides walking to work every day you may have seen walking the streets of Wausau with a friendly smile, and wave hello to those he passed by. A long-time member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church, he helped with their Friday Fish Fry. John was also a proud member of the VFW and American Legion. A natural carpenter, he could regularly be found remodeling the family home to meet any needs of their growing family. Baseball was a highlight of John’s life, having played both first and third base on the American Legion and Goodrich teams into his 40’s. He dreamt of being a baseball coach, and spent some time in the 1960’s as a volunteer physical education instructor at St. Anne’s School.

John is survived by his children, Susan Writz and Wayne Writz; grandson John Boeklen; and many nieces, nephews, and beloved family members.

He was preceeded in death by his parents Frank and Frances Writz; his beloved wife Marcella; brothers Jake Writz, Frankie Writz, Cleo Writz, Theodore Writz, Leo Writz, Lawrence Writz, and Joseph Writz, and sisters Marie Nienhaus, Clara Ullenbrock, Sophie Bordeaux, Irene Mueller, Leona Minelli, and Dorothy Carswell.

A mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 24 at St. Anne Parish, 700 W Bridge Street. Father Tom Lindner will officiate. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by visitation from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at the church. Entombment will take place at

Restlawn Memorial Park. Family and friends are asked to go to Helke.com to leave words of remembrances and condolences.

John's family would also like to give thanks to the Aspirus Hospice team who they could not have done without in their care for John in his last few months.