Earl A. Graveen Sr

Earl A. Graveen Sr. 86, Wausau, died Thursday 14, 2009 at North Central Health Care Facilities, Wausau, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services. He was born September 3, 1922 in Wausau, son of the late Edwin and Isabelle (Sicklinger) Graveen. On April 1, 1950, he married Arleen Schmitz in Michigan. She survives. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Navy. Prior to his retirement, Earl had been employed at the former Drott Manufacturing, Schofield. With his mechanical mind, Earl could dream up and create any type of gadget or machine imaginable. Everyone would marvel at his ability to diagnose and repair any mechanical need. In retirement, the Graveens traveled extensively with his brother and sister-in-law as well as friends. He enjoyed many good times with family and friends at the cottage he built on Crystal Lake in Tomahawk. Survivors include his wife, Arleen (Schmitz) Graveen, Wausau, his children, Suzanne (Gary) Kempf, Rhinelander, Bud (Sue) Graveen, Steve (friend, Mary Jo Helms) Graveen, Jeff (Nancy) Graveen, all of Wausau, ten grandchildren, Kelly (Todd)Amsrud, Tracey Kempf, Brad (Katie) Kempf, Stacey (Stacy) Ness, Jesse (Amy) Graveen, Katie (Shawn) Henrichs, Sarah (Tyler) Swanson, Matthew Graveen, Nathan and Samuel Graveen and ten great grandchildren. Besides his parents, Earl was preceded in death by two sisters and six brothers. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Monday May 18, 2009 at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Robert Thorn will preside. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau, where full Military Honors will be conducted by members of the American Legion Montgomery Plant Post No. 10, Wausau. Friends may call on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of North Central Health Care Facilities Alzheimers C Unit and the staff of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services for the outstanding care given to Earl.