Wilmar Lloyd Hetke

Wilmar Lloyd Hetke was born Oct. 28, 1932, the son of Arnold and Alice (Stevens) Hetke.

Wilmar married Shirley Ann Hentz, daughter of John and Goldie Hentz, June 1, 1951. Together, they raised six children.

He worked at St Regis Paper Mill for many years. Wilmar also farmed and logged throughout his lifetime.

His retirement years were spent in the New Auburn/Bloomer area, although he didn’t really retire until he was 87. His last job was as caretaker of the Bloomer Cemetery.

Dad worked hard all his life, but always took time to spend with his family and we took many memorable vacations. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting with his family.

He had the opportunity of a lifetime, to go to Europe, with Shirley and their siblings. He was very moved that he could visit the gravesites of his uncles, who lost their lives during the Normandy invasion.

Wilmar also was very proud of his four-wheeler, the Gatsby, which he drove around in Bloomer, and much to mom’s disapproval, out of town a little too far.

Dad will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He leaves behind his wife of 73 years; daughters – Judy, Marjorie (Wayne) and Melissa; sons – Bruce (Loretta), Daniel (Sue) and David (Nicole); 14 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law – Karen Hentz; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson – Steven Hurlburt; granddaughter – Skylar Robichaud; his siblings – Vinton (Ruth) Eugene, Doris (Murray), Elberta (Norman) and Donald (Doris); Shirley’s parents; and aunts; uncles; cousins and dear friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to VitaCare in Bloomer, and Mayo Hospice, for the care they have given our father.

Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m., at Bloomer Baptist Church, Saturday, Jan. 18, with the service to follow, at 3 p.m.

Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center in Altoona, is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be expressed at chippewavalleycremation.com.