Gerald 'Jerry' Plautz

Gerald R. ‘Jerry’ Plautz, 78, of Merrill, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 19, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Jerry was born on August 10, 1940 in Merrill, son of the late Gerald F. ’Bimp’ Plautz and Millie (Kuntz) Plautz. He married Carol Wendorf on December 20, 1963 in Wausau. She survives. After graduating from Merrill Senior High School in 1958, Jerry proudly and honorably served in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1962. He then returned to Merrill and worked at Wisconsin Public Service for 34 years, retiring in 1999. Jerry enjoyed many years of hunting with the Ripley Creek Club, fishing, and playing softball until he was 55 years of age. Jerry was an avid Badger, Packer, and Brewers fan, and enjoyed watching each game with family and friends. His greatest joys were his children and grandchildren. He was their biggest fan attending all of their sporting, dance, and academic events. Jerry was an awesome cook and baker. His pea and vegetable soups, chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate chip banana bread will be missed by many. Jerry is survived by his loving wife Carol Plautz, Merrill; his children Sue (Dave) Pyan, Merrill, Wendy Plautz, Sheboygan, and Beaver (Heather) Plautz, Merrill; six grandchildren Bradley and Justin Pyan, Zakary Plautz, Josh Plautz (with Abbey Kremsreiter), and Piper and Paige Plautz; brother in law Norman (Alice) Ziemke, Merrill; and sister in law, Shirley Ziemke, Merrill. Besides his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his brother, David Plautz; and his in laws, Sonny and Holly Ziemke, Frank Ziemke, Clarence and Eleanor Wendorf, Arnold and Aurlie Hass, Darlene Garrett, and Susan Kruse. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Ascension Good Samaritan Hospital, Ascension Hospice, and Aspirus Cancer Center. Visitation for family and friends will be from 9:00 AM until 12 noon on Saturday, October 27, 2018 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home. Graveside services will follow at Merrill Memorial Park Mausoleum. The Rev. Kyle Carnes will officiate. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.