Jay L. Kolbeck

Jay Kolbeck, of Wausau, passed away on March 31, 2026, peacefully in his home after a long battle with cancer. Jay was born on June 8,1957 to Jerry and Joan (Krueger) Kolbeck. He graduated from Wausau East High School in 1975. Jay married Julie Arps on June 2, 1979. Together they raised two wonderful daughters Jessi and Kelli. Jay leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was the kind of person who would drop everything without hesitation to help someone in need. Whether it was a neighbor, a friend, or family member, his instinct was always to lend a hand, offer support, and make life a little easier for others. His selflessness was not something he spoke about—it was simply who he was.

Above all, Jay cherished his family. He was a devoted husband and father who deeply loved his wife, Julie, and their daughters, Jessi and Kelli. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, especially at his favorite place—the cottage up north. He took immense pride in watching them participate in their activities and treasured every moment spent together. Jay also found great happiness in the outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing and sharing those passions with the people he loved most.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Joan Kolbeck, his in-laws Louie and June Arps and brother-in-law Kevin Arps.

He is survived by his wife, Julie Kolbeck; his children, Jessi (Scott) Towle, and Kelli (Willie) Vetter; his grandchildren, Nolan, Connor and Emmett Towle, and Madison, Aria, and Cole Vetter. He is further survived by his 5 siblings Jamie (Neal) Treu, Jill (Randy) Forer, Joy (Steve) Henrich, Jeff (Missy) Kolbeck, John (MaryJo) Kolbeck, two sister-in laws, Debbie Overbeck, Shelley Arps, and brother-in law Greg Arps and many nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his steady presence, and the deep love he had for his family. His impact cannot be measured in words, but in the countless lives he touched through his kindness.

Jay will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his beloved wife, family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. A celebration of Jay’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Jay’s name.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com