Herman R. Krueger, age 81, died from injuries as a result from a car accident on May 24, 2014 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.
Herman was born on March 2, 1933 in Merrill. He was the son of Herman and Ida (Prentice) Krueger. He attended and graduated from Merrill high school. Herman fell in love and married Alice Zoellner Hepp on Dec. 7, 1957, in Pine City, MN. She preceded him in death in 2011.
He enlisted in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict and served from 1952-1956, he was also in the Naval Reserve. Herman had a very musical gene, he played many instruments, including the bagpipes. He was always humming along with the tunes and had a dance in his steps. He was a proud co-organizer of the Merrill Glengarry Highlanders and bagpiped in parades in Wisconsin and nearby states. Herman enjoyed dartball, participating in pool leagues and bowling. He was a member of the State Historical Society. Herman was active in the National Wildlife Federation where he received numerous recognitions. Herman was a life member of the local VFW. He enjoyed being outside watching wildlife, traveling around the countryside and birdwatching. Herman would enjoy taking hikes in the Council Grounds State Park. He was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill.
Herman was a dedicated employee for almost 40 years at the Merrill Ace Hardware store. He retired in 1995.
In his later years, his favorite past time was traveling to casinos with his wife and playing slot machines. Herman loved his family and enjoyed spending precious time with them. He will be sadly missed.
Survivors include his son, Harry Hepp, Merrill; his daughters, Stacy (Ron) Gilson, Weston, and Tammy (Timothy) Woller, Merrill; grandchildren, Natasha (Pete) Becker, White Lake, WI, Tanya (Nathan) Fox, Bucyrus, OH, Brandon Woller, Merrill, and Alec Hepp, Merrill; two great-grandchildren; sister, Elaine Mittelsteadt, Merrill; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Alice; daughter Kristie Krueger; brothers, Wilfred Krueger, Richard Krueger, Edgar Krueger and Jack Krueger; and sister Dorothy Degner.
A memorial service will be held at Waid Funeral Home on Thursday, May 29 beginning at 12 p.m. Visitation will also be at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Pastor Maurice Schaus will officiate. Donations may be given in Herman’s name to the local VFW or the Disabled Veterans National Foundation. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.