Reinold F. "Reinie" Lenz

Reinold "Reinie" F. Lenz, 85, of Merrill passed away Wednesday, September 11th, 2024, at Woodland Court Elder Services, Merrill, under the care of Aspirus Hospice. Reinie was born September 5th, 1939, in Wausau, WI son of the late William Jr. and Helen (Svehla) Lenz. He graduated from Mosinee High School and then pursued advanced degrees at both UW-Stevens Point and UW-Stout. He married Marlene Parsch, November 5th, 1966, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wausau, WI. He worked in public schools as a teacher then as a guidance counselor and retired from the Merrill Area Public School district after 30+ years. In retirement, he watched countless Brewers games and Packers games, even traveling to numerous stadiums with Marlene to cheer them on. In addition, he gardened, bowled and whitetail deer hunted.
Reinie served in the U.S. Army 1961-1964 and went on the Never Forgotten Honor Flight in 2016. He often told people that this was one of the best experiences of his life. He was a member of the American Legion as adjutant for many years, the seven-gallon blood donor club, and St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill where he volunteered his time to serve the congregation in a number of different roles. He was a proud veteran; proud of his heritage; and of his children and grandchildren.
Reinie is survived by his wife, Marlene Lenz of Merrill; daughter, Brenda (Mark) of Fredonia; son, Brad (Gina) of Wausau; grandchildren, Myla, Cooper, Max, Iyla and Addisyn; and sister Lois Obermeier of Mosinee; sisters-in-laws Eunice Parsch and Gerri Loy; and brother-in-law Lyle Rusch. Reinie was preceded in death by his parents, William Jr. and Helen Lenz; son, Brian; brother, Miram Lenz; brothers-in-law, Vernon Obermeier, Charles Parsch and Larry Parsch; and sisters-in-law, Rita Lenz, Jean Rusch and Gerry Parsch.
A memorial service for Reinold will be held at 2:00PM on Friday, September 20th, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill. The Reverend David Szeto will officiate. Visitation will begin at 1:00PM prior to the service at the church. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill or the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.
Online condolences may be made at: www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com