Bernard "Ben" George Breitenbach

Bernard “Ben” Breitenbach, 84, Rothschild, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Aspirus Hospice House, Wausau.

Ben was born on July 13, 1937, the son of Bernard and Mary Breitenbach. Ben is a graduate of Merrill High School, class of 1956. After graduation, Ben enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Upon return to Merrill, Ben was employed with National Tea Company.

Ben married his bride, Iris, and they would have celebrated 61 years of marriage on October 28th. Ben moved his family to Wausau to start a new career path with Wisconsin Public Service in 1969. He started his work at the Hydro Plant, as an operator, and later made the move to the WPS Weston Power Plant as an operator.

Ben loved his family and the outdoors. Family vacations are recalled with fond memories and a few laughs, as it was always an adventure when the Breitenbachs set out. Ben loved hunting and fishing, and was a true, responsible sportsman, providing an example to his son, son-in-law and grandson. Many will easily picture him with a beagle at his side, and most will readily admit he was the king of calling in a turkey. Ben and Iris instilled a love of nature, not only to their children, but to their grandchildren as well. Long hikes with Dad/Grandpa or floats down the Copper River, which ran through Camp Cranberry, were common events. “Grandpa’s shack” was a haven from everyday life… high school and college exam weeks, or family just needing a port in the storm. You could always count on being fed well! Deer hunting season was a much loved tradition for Ben and Jeff at “the shack”.

Ben is survived by his bride, Iris, his loving children Colleen (Steven) Kemp, Jeffrey (Molly) Breitenbach, his niece Polly (Wayne) Polak and his beloved grandchildren, Keith, Brooklyn, Brynna and Elle; soon to be grandson-in-laws, Jad and Bryton, extended family and friends, and lastly his loved dog, Kelly Morgan.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 11, 2022 at St. Mark Catholic Church, Rothschild.  Rev. Allan Slowiak will preside. Visitation will be on Monday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Burial will be beside his long-time friend and brother-in-law, Butch, at Oak Hill Cemetery, Irma,

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the National Wild Turkey Federation, 4109 Wenonah Drive, Weston, WI  54476 or Aspirus Hospice House, Wausau.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com