Ellen Mae Fochs

Ellen Mae Fochs 92, Marathon, died Saturday, January 16, 2010 under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Marywood Convelescent Center, Wausau. She was born August 14, 1917 in Halder, daughter of the late Anthony and Anna (Lang) Schilling. On October 17, 1939 she married Francis "Bud" Fochs in Halder. He survives. Ellen was a member of St. Patrick's Altar Society, loved to sing in St. Mary's church choir and was a perfectionist when it came to her sewing, gardening, cooking and baking. She took first place, winning two blue ribbons at the Milwaukee State Fair for her sweet rolls and rhubarb pie. For many years she farmed the Fochs Granite Hills Farm, playing a major role in the operation alongside her husband and children. She enjoyed embroidering, playing cards, and hunting for unique treasures at second hand stores. She dearly loved the farm animals, especially the family dogs. Survivors include her husband of 70 years, Francis "Bud", Wausau; her 10 children, Doris (Ray) Meyer, Florida, Don (Audrey) Fochs, Scandinavia, Ann Tambornino, Wausau, Mary (Fidelis) Ceranski, Marathon, Kay (Robert) Krause, Edgar, Jean (John) Westfall, Marathon, Charles (Nancy) Fochs, Lyndon Station, Grace (James) Gumz, Athens, James (Janelle) Fochs, Marathon and Robert (Mary) Fochs, Mosinee; 24 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, all her brothers and sisters and her son-in-law, Orv Tews. The funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 23, 2010 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. The Rev. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Marathon at a later date. Friends may call Friday from 4-8 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Ave, Wausau and again on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at the church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com