Darin James Roth

Darin J. Roth, 58, Wausau, died Monday, January 6, 2025, at the UW Hospital in Madison, after battling cancer.

Darin was born December 10, 1966, in Milwaukee, the son of the late James and Darlene (Schultz) Roth. He spent his early years in Milwaukee and then Merrill before relocating at age 18 to Phoenix, AZ. Later, he returned to central Wisconsin where he received his Associate’s Degree in Business Management from Northcentral Technical College. He also attended the Trans America School of Broadcasting. On February 16, 1996, he married Sheila Thompson in Wausau.

Having inherited a heart condition, Darin battled health challenges for many years before undergoing a life-saving heart transplant in 2005. The transplant extended his life by nearly 20 years, giving him additional precious time to enjoy with loved ones and celebrate important milestones. Throughout his journey, Darin faced his health struggles with remarkable strength and resilience, always determined to live life to the fullest.

Darin was a lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers especially, as he grew up in Milwaukee. As a child he would ride his bike to County Stadium to watch the Brewers play. As an adult he enjoyed watching, going to the games and sitting outside listening to Bob Uecker’s play-by-play commentary on AM radio. Darin shared a special bond with his son over their love of music and live concerts. Some of the most memorable concerts being: Parkway Drive, Rage Against The Machine, Korn and Slipknot. He also enjoyed fireworks, and was an avid movie lover. Some of his favorite films included Soylent Green, Planet of the Apes, and The Blues Brothers.

Darin was a true jack of all trades, with a diverse range of skills and experiences. He worked in broadcasting as a cameraman and video editor, served as a leasing agent for a local realtor, and offered his talents as a handyman for a family friend who owned and managed properties in the area. Darin’s knack for fixing things wasn’t confined to his professional life, he was always eager to take on new challenges around his own home. In his later years, Darin worked as a pizza delivery driver. At Christmas time he would dress up as Santa Claus and give small gifts to the children at their homes he delivered pizza to.

Darin is survived by his loving wife Sheila Roth, son Anthony Roth, of Wausau; Step-daughter Hollie (Laura) Thompson, Madison; step-grandchildren Ilan and Oz Thompson. Siblings Romaine, David and half-sister Rebecca (Ryder Will) Roth. Step-mother Leesa Roth and mother-in-law Norma Thompson. Sisters and brother-in-laws; Steve (Sally) McHenry and David (Lorna) Thompson and 5 nieces and 5 nephews, and extended family and friends.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Daniel, two sisters Renee and Rachel, one nephew Robert and his father-in-law Philip Thompson.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at UW Hospital for their care and compassion for Darin’s health.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau. Visitation will be on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until time of services at 1:00 p.m. Father Marion Talaga will officiate.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com