Theresa Klimek, 94, of Merrill, passed away Friday, Oct. 25, 2013 at Pine Crest Nursing Home under the care of Dr. Kate Hospice.
She was born Aug. 12, 1919 in Milwaukee to the late Leo and Rose (Pieczynska) Oknewski. She and Harry Klimek were united in marriage at St. Francis Church in Merrill on Oct. 25, 1941. He preceded her in death Feb. 4, 2001.
Theresa attended school in the Town of Pine River. She was a home maker and belonged to the Homemakers Club in Pine River. She also helped on the family dairy farm. Theresa loved to participate in the Lincoln County 4-H Fair, where she brought many antiques and quilting and cross stitch items to display. She loved working in her outdoor flower and vegetable gardens and working with quilting, cross stitching and sewing. Theresa loved going to rummage sales and enjoyed helping with the church rummage sales. She was a devote Catholic and member of St. Francis Church. Theresa enjoyed going on short trips for fish boils or quilting and had been on countless retreats. Laughter was very prevalent in her home.
Survivors include her eight children: Sister (Barbara) Mary Zita, Merrill, Harry Klimek Jr., Merrill, Jerome Klimek, Antigo, Kathleen Czajkowski, Racine, Michael (Jean) Klimek, Merrill, Kristine (Andrew) Ellis, Katy, TX, John (Sandra) Klimek, Waukesha, and Debra (Randy) McMahon, Wind Lake, WI; brother: Bernard Oknewski, Glenmont, NY; sister: Emily (Elroy) Pfingston, Merrill; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Harry Klimek, grandson, Casey Klimek, sisters, Irene Shorey and Dorothy Kanitz, and two brothers, Louis Oknewski and Andrew Oknewski.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, Oct. 29, at St. Francis Catholic Church. Father Mike McLain performed the funeral liturgy. Burial followed the service in St. Francis Cemetery.
Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.