Kathleen and Lee Wegner

Kathleen Ann Maria (Spangler) Wegner (b. September 3rd, 1945 to Harold John Peter and Regina Sophia (Markofski) Spangler in Berlin, Wisconsin) and her loving husband Lee Gordon Wegner (b. February 19th, 1942 to Raymond and Darlene (Westrick) Wegner in Whitewater, Wisconsin) tragically passed on from this earthly life on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, near their home in Merrill, Wisconsin. They were together, as they had been for the past 59 years of devoted marriage. They were married on May Day, 1965 and have been together every day since.

Their love story fittingly began in a student library on the UW-Oshkosh campus where they both studied. They shared many passions and discovered many truths of life in their relationship together. After studying in Oshkosh, they moved with their daughter Krista to Waupun, Wisconsin. After a job opportunity came up for Lee, they decided to move to Merrill, Wisconsin where they raised their children in the beautiful Northwoods. They spent their summers camping and fishing, their winters skiing, their autumns hunting, and got to their lake cottage as often as they could. She would often paint, draw, write, or create other beauties while Lee went out to the woods. 

They enjoyed a 20-year retirement, during which, life was centered around supporting their grandchildren and spending time in their favorite places. An important part of their journey included annual camping and hiking trips to the Big Horn Mountains, WY and Madeline Island, WI, and wintering in Orange Beach, AL. They faithfully attended sports games, music recitals, art shows, graduations, and so much else. The beginning of their retirement was also spent tirelessly caring for Lee’s parents. More than that, they treasured each individual soul in their care. Together, they gave the best advice and always reminded us to be the best version of ourselves. God entrusted them with the greatest fruits of their life: many children and grandchildren, whom they loved unwaveringly, selflessly, and fiercely. They looked forward to meeting their first great-grandchild, a lovely baby girl due to be born this month. 

Nearing their 60th wedding anniversary, their love was stronger than any of the hardships life threw their way. They loved one another wholeheartedly and devotedly. Together they made a life for their family. From broke college students to building their dream home, they earned everything they had— and they did so together. They opened their home to countless family and friends for beautiful gatherings.

Kathleen valued the ability to learn her entire life, reading, writing, traveling, and teaching. She received a Bachelor’s degree from UW-Oshkosh (Art) and Master’s degrees from UW-Stevens Point (Gifted and Talented Education) and Marian College (Administration). She considered one of her greatest gifts the opportunity to have worked with so many wonderful students and colleagues in her 25-year teaching career, most of which she spent at Merrill High School as an art teacher. The gift of knowledge was exchanged with her students and she always encouraged them to dream and work towards happiness and further their education!

Lee received a Bachelor’s degree from UW-Oshkosh (Sociology). He served his community with a deep social concern in his lifelong career in the justice system, as a social worker at the Waupun prison and a probation parole officer in Lincoln County, WI. He was also invested in many local community organizations: Lincoln County Crime Stoppers, H.A.V.E.N. domestic violence shelter, Merrill school board member, and the Merrill city planning commission. His workdays were punctuated by time spent in nature—hunting, fishing, hiking, kayaking, camping— reading history books, teaching his children and grandchildren the many skills he acquired in his lifetime, and telling stories from the past with impeccable memory. He prioritized the things that meant most to him. He was a steadfast anchor in his family, who’s wisdom was always treasured by those closest to him.

Kathleen’s extensive writings and art works will be given to her family upon her death. Her intention is that they remember her from her observations of life and the lessons and truths she discovered on her journey, and most of all, that all whom she touched will remember to love one another and to be forever grateful for the opportunity to live. Elegance followed her with every step, and beauty flowed from her fingertips. The most beautiful artwork of their lives were their children and their children’s children. Their greatest joy was being surrounded by their grandchildren running around.

They will be remembered for their generous hearts, their free spirits, their beautiful minds, and in every simple joy. Until we meet again, in the house of God, forever.

Their greatest treasure in life was their family. 

Lee and Kathleen are survived by their four children and fourteen grandchildren: Krista Helen (Mark McCaulley) and children Molly Regina and Sadie Annette; Erik Roy (Michelle Busha) and children Emily Kathryn, Sophia Anna (Javon Lombard), Grace Michelle, and Luke Erik; Peter Spangler (Rebecca Prain) and child Kaleb Spangler; Joel Ray (Jodie Hill) and daughter in-law Sarah (Klug), children Ella Rae, Elijah Lee, Evelyn Elizabeth, and Amaryllis Olivia and step-children Jacob Edward, Elizabeth Marie, and Shayna Jean. Kathleen is survived by brother David Duane Spangler, Wausau, WI along with a huge family of relatives and Lee is survived by sister Kathy Rae (David) Wittnebert, Seneca, SC. Kathleen’s beloved grandparents, parents, brother Donald Harold Spangler and sister Elizabeth Jean Reetz preceded her in death. Lee’s loving parents preceded him in death.

Their wishes were to have a private celebration of life at a later date. There will be no public service. 

In lieu of flowers, please spend time with your precious families— give them a hug and speak words of forgiveness. 

If you’d like to make a gift in their honor, consider a donation to Lincoln County Crime Stoppers or to Merrill Food Pantry. 

Checks can be sent to:

Merrill Food Pantry 
503 S Center Ave. | Suite 3 
Merrill WI 54452 

Lincoln County Crime Stoppers
1104 E. First St. 
Merrill, WI 54452

Taylor-Stine Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstine.com