John H. Juedes

John H. Juedes, 74, Wausau passed away Saturday, February 24, 2024 at his home.

He was born January 12, 1950, in Wausau, son of the late Hilbert and Doris (Nelson) Juedes.  On December 29, 1973 he married Sue Bickler at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Wausau.  She survives.

John worked as an industrial sales representative for many years. Working for Wisconsin River Supply, Able Distributing, Goodin Company and others, he also took on his own company for a few years, Northland Controls. John enjoyed his work as he was doing what he was good at, talking with and serving his customers who soon became friends. He had many fond memories of times shared with co-workers as well, officially retiring in 2017.

John was a kind man with the biggest heart, always willing to help out his family, friends or neighbors. An avid sportsman, he spent much of his free time fishing and hunting. Many hours in the boat with Luke created some pretty big fish stories that were backed up by the trophies on the wall!  Not to mention the deer mounts alongside of them.  If there is a fishing hole in heaven, he will be there!  In his younger years, John enjoyed playing softball, bowling, curling and snowmobiling. His lifelong love of sports, from the Brewers, Badgers and PACKERS, he was a fan. There was always a game to watch.

Nothing was more important to John than his family. From spending time at the cottage, attending wrestling meets for Luke and now his grandson, Michael, to watching KC play volleyball and basketball, he was always there. He and Ryan traveled to Iola for the annual car shows too.  John’s grandkids were the light of his life. There was nothing “Papa” loved more than spending time with them.

John volunteered time for many years as President of the Wausau West Youth Wrestling Club. Taking kids under his wing, he gave them opportunities to travel to various tournaments throughout the state. He also coached Sue’s softball team just a year or two ago (more like 40). Attending country music concerts with friends was a favorite pastime. While bailing hay for Sue’s horses, John provided much entertainment for the neighbors for many summers. To say John will be missed by many is an understatement. He was quite the character with a big personality, always willing to talk and laugh with anyone.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Juedes, Wausau, his children, Lucas and Ryan Juedes, both of Wausau and KC (Nick) Alft, Wausau, two grandchildren, Michael and Mackenzie Alft, brother-in-law Scott Bickler (Fran), Sun City Center, FL, nephew, Michael Hoffman and niece, Andrea Hoffman Vosberg, Gleason, and other nieces and nephews.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy Hoffman, his mother and father in-law, Claude and Gwen Bickler, and brothers-in-law, William Bickler and Ken Hoffman.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Wausau.  The Rev. Sebastian Kolodziejczyk will preside.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church.  Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com