Patricia A. Kroening, age 85, passed away Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital surrounded by family. She was born on March 6, 1931 to the late William and Vadalias (Bessey) Petterson in Wausau where she was raised. Patricia and Davis Kroening were united in marriage on June 24, 1949 in Wausau, a union lasting over 67 years. He preceded her in death on August 2, 2016.
Patricia attended and graduated from Wausau High School. She went on to earn her license as a certified nursing assistant. Patricia worked as a CNA at Pine Crest for at least 14 years until she retired. She had previously worked at Weinbrenner Shoe Factory and at Merrill Candy. She enjoyed meeting new people when handing out food and working demonstrations at various places. Patricia and Davis enjoyed playing cribbage, pinochle and other card games and also bowled together on a league for over 20 years, starting at Dave’s Bowl-A-Dome and moving over to Les & Jim’s. She loved traveling to Vegas twice a year and enjoyed playing the penny machines at the casino back home. Patricia also enjoyed playing Bingo at Les & Jim’s and QVC shopping. She raised chickens for many years and sold the fresh eggs to many neighbors and friends. Patricia was a passionate knitter and was so good she could knit in her sleep! She was a very caring, funny lady with a big heart who shared many great stories. Patricia loved her family dearly and enjoyed talking about them. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in the town of Pine River.
Patricia is survived by her daughter, Debbie (Dana) Garber, Merrill; son, Mark (Peggy) Kroening, Merrill; grandchildren: Gerald (Lori) Garber, Wausau; Brenda (Lonnie) James, Merrill; Tanya (Matt) Robl, Merrill; Ashley (Mike) Dornstreich, Rothschild; six great-grandchildren and one step great-grandson; three sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Davis Kroening, infant grandson, Todd Kroening and many aunts and uncles.
A Memorial Service for Patricia will be held at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at Waid Funeral Home. The Rev. David Faulkner will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9 AM Saturday until the time of service also at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at 1 PM at St. Paul’s Cemetery in the town of Pine River. Rev. Greg Laska will perform the graveside service. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.