Grace R. Schilling

Grace R. Schilling, 97, Marathon, died peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2015 surrounded by family at Hospice House, Wausau, having never lost her ability to share a smile. She was born April 13, 1918 in Halder, daughter of the late Edward H. and Katherine (Streveler) McHugh. On June 24, 1944 she married Luke Schilling at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Halder. He preceded her in death on April 5, 2010. After graduating from UW-Stevens Point, Grace was a school teacher. She started teaching in a one-room schoolhouse and from there taught at several other schools. After starting a family, she joined her husband Luke as an insurance agent. She also prepared tax returns for many in the area. A role model as a caregiver throughout her life, she cared for many of her relatives, especially her sister Ancilla. Her Catholic faith and her family were the most important aspects of her life. Grace was an active member of St. Mary's parish, offering her talents whatever the need. No one ever doubted her love and devotion to her family. Visits with grandchildren were always a highlight. She was a lifelong learner and enjoyed keeping up on current topics and sports. She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, baking, Scrabble, and annual family vacations at the lake. Her raspberry patch was a true delight to her. She repaid favors with raspberry jam as a token of appreciation. Whether it was through her teaching or her approach to everyday living, Grace left a lasting impression on all of us. Survivors include her children, Kay (Jan) Ugoretz, Sheboygan, Kenneth (Linda) Schilling, Kohler and Karen (Rick) Kuula, Stillwater, Minn.; grandchildren, Kathryn Ugoretz, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Kristen (Jeff) Quast, Fond du Lac, Nathan Ugoretz, Wauwautosa, Justin (Sarah Janes) Ugoretz, Madison, Carla (Brian) Gamet, Highlands Ranch, Colo., Nicole Navigato, Grafton, Jamie (Shane) Lenzner, Antigo, Ryan Kuula, Addison, Tex., and Sarah Kuula, St. Louis Park, Minn., and 10 great-grandchildren. Besides her parents and husband Luke, she was preceded in death by her brother Raymond and her sister Ancilla. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Marathon. Friends may call Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at the church. The family wishes to express its heartfelt thanks to Fr. Joe, Dr. Oswald, and the staff at Hospice House for the loving care and compassion given to Grace. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in Grace's name. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.