Galen O. Schlais

1925-2022

Galen O. Schlais, 96, of the township of Bern, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022 at Aspirus Medford Hospital.

Galen was born on April 19, 1925 to Lawrence Sr. and Ella (Busche) Schlais in Medford. He graduated from Medford High School. He then attended UWMadison for 1 year before being drafted into the Navy during WW2. He served in the South Pacific Theater from June 29, 1944 until May 2, 1946. He returned home and met the love of his life Grace Kuchenbecker at a dance at the Pine Tree Pavilion in 1949. After 4 years of courtship they were married on June 20, 1953. In 1960 he purchased the Gad Tavern and Store from his father and was owner/operator until his retirement in 2007. He enjoyed serving his customers and patrons. He also owned and operated a farm for many years.

He was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He was also a member of the Stetsonville American Legion. He was president for the Dairyland Baseball League for many years.

In his retirement he enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Galen is survived by his wife of 68 years, Grace Schlais; children, Gail (Bruce) Johnson of Minocqua, Kathy Albrecht of Medford, Sandy (Greg) Plummer of Hatley, and Terry (Cynthia) Schlais of the town of Sullivan; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and sister, Jean (Merlin) Kobs of Spencer. Galen is further survived by other family and friends.

Galen was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Diane; granddaughter, Deanna; siblings, Harold, Lawrence Jr., Glen, and Patricia.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to the family for use at a later designation.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice. com.

A funeral service for Galen will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022 at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Daniel Iwinski officiating. Burial will follow at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II. Visitation will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Saturday, Jan. 15 from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. Stetsonville Honors Team will be performing military honors following the service. The use of masks and social distancing is appreciated.

Paid Obituary 115552