Joyce G. Pagel

Joyce G. Pagel, 90, of Wausau, entered eternal life on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, while under the compassionate care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at her home.

She was born November 3, 1934, in the town of Berlin, youngest daughter of the late Leonard and Erna (Hanke) Mathwich. On June 9, 1956, she married Gerald “Jerry” Pagel at St. Peters Lutheran Church, town of Hamburg. He preceded her in death on December 24, 2019.

Joyce was a devoted stay-at-home Mom who ran a tight ship, and expertly handled any challenges while Jerry was away for work. Although it was not a title she would own, Joyce was a strong independent woman. Frequently enlisting the help of her kids she could troubleshoot dryer repairs, Christmas tree mishaps, etc., while maintaining an immaculate home, and perfectly manicured lawn. There were always home baked cookies in the coffee can, and time for her to drive for school field trips, sporting events, and the occasional visit with 1 of her 4 to the Emergency Department!

When Todder started middle school, Joyce began her 20+ year career in the Wausau West Library and History Resource Center. Joyce thoroughly enjoyed the students, coaching the Pom Team, and the lifelong friendships she formed with her work family.

In earlier years Joyce and Jerry enjoyed traveling, card club, and every single game and performance of their grandchildren. They frequently packed their lunch to eat while rushing from a dance recital to a hockey game or choral performance; the grandchildren were the center of their lives. More recently, Joyce cherished visits with her family and friends and any opportunity to shower her love on her treasured great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her children, Sue Pagel, Lori and Dan Brandt, Donnell Pagel, her grandchildren, Jessica and Chris Platt, Joshua Pagel (Renee), Jason and Ellen Brandt, Olivia and Adam Grandlic, Heather and Mike Gallenburg, Brec and Rachel Ohrmundt, Nikki and Pete Knutson and Kendra Drews, honorary granddaughter, Malia Langbecker, her great grandchildren, Addison, Boden, Brooklyn, Brynley, Lakelyn, Elise, Ray, Aiden, Levi, Courtney, Tanner, Carter, Bryce, Madison and Phoebe, best friend, Barb Hartwig, Melanie, and many beloved nieces and nephews, (including her favorites, you know who you are). Sister-in-law and brother-in-law Ralph and Linda Nass.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her precious sons Todd and Clark, her siblings, Leon and Marie Mathwich, Vernie and Mae Mathwich, Lollie and Ray Ohrmundt and Ruth and Elroy Plautz. Father-in-law and Mother-in-law, Goldie and Ray Pagel, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Patty and Dennis Bauman.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at First English Lutheran Church, 402 N. 3rd Avenue, Wausau. The Rev. Mary Zupansic will officiate. Burial will be in Zion Lutheran Cemetery, town of Stettin. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service all at the church.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com