Loyd Ernest William Kleinschmidt

Loyd Ernest William Kleinschmidt, age 98, entered into his eternal home on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Woodland Court Elder Service in Merrill, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services, spending his final hours with his loving wife Joan, and son. He was born on April 26, 1927, to the late Ernest J. and Angela L. (Moehrer) Kleinschmidt in Merrill, WI. Loyd went to the one room Fairview, School and then helped his family by working on the family farm. He met his true love, Ms. Joan Shimel, and the two were united in marriage on June 2, 1951, a loving union lasting over 74 years. She survives.

Loyd had worked many years and was the local union treasurer at Northern Door in Merrill and retired in 1996. He and Joan enjoyed time with friends during their younger years, going out to fish fries or playing cards with the “Birthday Bunch”, and after retirement, enjoyed many trips throughout the United States and abroad. Loyd worked very hard and took good care of his family. He was a crafted woodworker and would make special gifts including toy boxes and jewelry boxes for his loved ones. Loyd enjoyed deer and grouse hunting, fishing, making firewood, spending time in the woods and sweets, especially Joan’s famous monster cookies! Loyd’s faith was very important to him, and he had a strong connection to his Lord and Savior. He was a soft-hearted man that was sentimental and strong-willed. He was a life-long member of Faith Lutheran Church, serving as an elder and choir member during his earlier years and was a member of the “Old Timer’s” group in Merrill. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Loyd is survived by his wife: Joan Kleinschmidt, his children: Stuard (Sue), Linda (Doug) Eskritt, Cindy (Dave Milbrandt) and Kevin (Karen), along with his beloved 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The funeral service for Loyd will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in the town of Maine. Pastor Don Love will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the church. Burial will immediately follow the service and take place at the Faith Lutheran Town of Scott Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, family encourages donations to be made to Faith Lutheran Church in Merrill in Loyd’s name.

A special thank you to the wonderful staff at Woodland Court Elder Services, Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services and Pastor Don Love for their care, support and compassion.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com