Melody Ann Pfingsten

Melody Ann Pfingsten, beloved daughter, sister, aunt and friend, passed away unexpectedly at her home on December 31, 2025, at the age of 65. She was born on May 6, 1960, in Merrill, Wisconsin to Clifford Sr. and Shirley Pfingsten. She was baptized into the Christian faith on May 24, 1960, and later confirmed her faith at Trinity Lutheran Church on May 19, 1974.

Melody had the biggest heart, a vibrant spirit and selfless nature. Her family and friends meant everything to her. She especially enjoyed family gatherings at her nephew, Glenn’s, lake house, and bowling events. Melody loved spending time at family gatherings with her dear friends, Kim and Terry, at their family events. She spent special time with her nieces and nephew, great-nieces and nephews, and two great-great-nieces. Melody was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill, being involved in many church events such as the live nativity and trunk-or-treat. Melody was a dedicated long-time volunteer for Relay for Life. Her computer skills shone through by the many fliers and posters she made for church and Relay for Life.

When she was younger, Melody worked at Kozy Korner Restaurant, then at Merrill Hospital in the Central Service Department handling patient supplies. She was trained by her mother as a Unit Clerk on the Medical Inpatient Floor and went on to work in Medical Records. She left Merrill Hospital to work as a receptionist as Aspirus Cancer Center in Wausau for a few years. Melody returned to Merrill Hospital to work in Medical Records as a Health Information Specialist. She retired on May 6, 2025, on her birthday—the same day she was hired at the hospital years ago.

Her passion for life was evident in her love for watching Hallmark movies, creating beautiful diamond artwork and taking care of pets. Her beloved dog, Snowflake, was the love of her life from December 2009 until June 6, 2022, when Snowflake passed away. Melody recently made diamond artwork crosses for her pastor to give to those he though needed them.

Melody is survived by her sister, Holly (Gary) Rauen, her brother, Clifford Pfingsten Jr., niece Amy (Chad Sr.) Hoernke, nephew, Glenn (Kristina) Strozewski Jr., niece, Natasha Pfingsten, as well as her treasured great-niece, Tatiana Hoernke and great-nephews, Chad (Alyssa) Hoernke Jr. and Parker Strozewski. She also leaves behind great-great-nieces, Olivia Cole and Raelynn Hoernke, along with many cousins, extended family, and numerous friends who cherished her presence.

Melody was preceded in death by her loving parents, Clifford Sr. and Shirley Pfingsten, and grandparents, Fred and Esther Pfingsten, and August and Anna Leopold.

A memorial service will be held in her honor on January 17,2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill. Prior to the service, a public visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The family warmly invites all who knew and loved Melody to join them in celebrating her life, sharing memories, and honoring her legacy of kindness and love. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

The memorial service will be recorded for those unable to attend in person and can be found under her obituary on the funeral home website.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Trinity Lutheran Church or Lincoln County Humane Society.

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