John R. Harter

John R. Harter, 94, of Wausau, passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Applegate Terrace.

He was born on June 15, 1931, in Auburndale to the late Raymond and Cecelia (Pongratz) Harter. John was united in marriage to Lillian Mackowey on May 31, 1954, at St. John Catholic Church in Marshfield. She preceded him in death in 2022.

John graduated from Marshfield High School and later from Marquette University. He worked for many years as a cheesemaker and had clients across the United States. After his many years of hard work in the cheese industry he concluded his career in sales.

Survivors include his children, William Harter and Christine (Milton) Ellison; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, James; and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian; parents, Raymond and Cecelia; and sister, Marian.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 229 South 28th Avenue, Wausau, with Rev. Sebastian Kolodziejczyk presiding. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Auburndale. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.