Donald "Don" F. Menzner

Donald F. Menzner, 89, a lifelong resident of Marathon, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, in hospice care at Wood Aven (formerly Benedictine) in Wausau.

Don was born on December 30, 1934, to Fred and Catherine Menzner in Marathon—the only son in a family of four children. He was extremely grateful for the blessing of his wonderful upbringing and family.

Don enlisted and served in the Army Medical Corps from 1955-1957. When Don returned to Marathon, he started his career. He was most proud of the time he worked at Marathon Cheese Corporation. Don began working there in 1960 and held various roles retiring in 2001 as CEO. During his time with Marathon Cheese, he created numerous business relationships, many of which turned into lifelong friendships. He also won several dairy industry awards.

He married Rita Seubert on September 8, 1956, at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. After her death on July 13, 2016, he longed to be by her side once again.

Don had a deep appreciation for nature and spent a lot of time walking or cross country skiing through the woods, hunting, and fishing. He also had a love of people. Don enjoyed conversing with others and learning about them while also sharing stories of his own. His love of God, family, and all of God’s creation was central to who he was and was reflected in his decisions throughout his lifetime.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Rita; his grandsons, Alexander and Matthew Menzner, and Gunnar Zemski; his parents; two sisters, Kathleen McCurdy and Henrietta “Boots” Hansen; and many other much loved family members.

He is survived by his son, Steven (Jean) Menzner, Hayward, WI; daughter, Ann (Lee) Zemski, Chandler, AZ; grandson, Nicholas Menzner, Eagan, MN; his twin sister, Dorothy (Vandy) Nachazel, Appleton, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday from 10:00 a. m. until the time of services at the church.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, Marathon, a place Don loved.

A special thank you to Gary Becker and Linda Spindler from TLC Home Care, Wood Aven Health and Rehabilitation Center, Heartland Hospice, and Aspirus Wausau Hospital for their care and help.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com