Jack L. Kleinschmidt, age 76, of Merrill, entered his heavenly home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at his home, while surrounded by his beloved family and under the care of Compassus Hospice. Jack was born on April 12, 1949 to the late Leonard and Joyce (Quick) Kleinschmidt in Merrill. He attended and graduated from Merrill High School. Jack bravely enlisted in the United States Army, and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, until his honorable discharge. After his military career, he went on to further his education in law enforcement. Jack was a dedicated police officer for the Merrill area for over 27 years, until his retirement. He married his best friend, the love of his life, Cheryl “Sherry” Eye, on January 22, 1972 in Merrill, a loving union lasting over 53 years. She survives.
After retiring from law enforcement, Jack and Sherry owned and operated The Guy’s Shop & Thelma’s for many years. They truly loved being a part of the Merrill community and created many lasting friendships. Jack then went to work for Waid Funeral Home in Merrill as a funeral assistant, something he was currently still doing until his death. He was a valued friend and employee to his funeral home family, and will be missed dearly. Jack had an unbreakable faith in his Lord, and he was able to witness to not only his family, but to families he served during his work at the funeral home. Jack and Sherry were very active in their church, and also led many Bible studies. Jack had a close relationship with Christ and passed that belief and faith on to his children and grandchildren. He was so proud of his grandchildren and they adored their “Bapa”. Jack looked forward to working on his daylilies with his family; everyone had a part. The whole family owned and operated Barnes Creek Daylilies, and spent many days working in the fields. Jack is remembered as a great leader to his family and community, a kind and generous man that stayed active right up until he couldn’t anymore. He has left a lasting impression on his family, friends and community, and all who he had witnessed to and were touched by him and his love. Now is your time to rest in the Lord, good and faithful servant.
Jack is survived by his loving wife: Sherry Kleinschmidt of Merrill, daughter: Karli (Jess) Severt of Merrill, with their children: Jalie “Bean”, Jazi and Jillian, son: Kory (Ahn Na) Kleinschmidt of Wausau, with their son: Braylon, brother: Leonard “Penny” Kleinschmidt of Marshfield, aunt: Ferne Isaacson and many nieces, nephews and good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister: Roxanne Campbell and sister-in-law: Jayme Kleinschmidt.
The funeral service for Jack will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home at 301 Eagle Drive in Merrill, and again on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, at the church. Entombment and military honors will be conducted at the Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations in Jack’s name to the Trinity Lutheran School in Merrill.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Richard Bailey, Dr. Redmer & Marissa with the Veterans Administration in Wausau, Compassus Hospice nurses, Courtney & Rachel, Dr. Jessica Wernberg – Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, WI, Merrill Fire Department responders, countless family members and friends that supported Jack and Sherry during the last several months.
The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend in person. It can be found under his obituary on the funeral home website, and will start at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.
