Louis E. Sawyer

Louis E. Sawyer 96, Wausau, died Saturday, December 19, 2009 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. He was born June 4, 1913 in Fenwood, son of the late Albert and Elizabeth (Nelson) Sawyer. On February 18, 1936 he married Amanda Miller who preceded him in death on March 2, 1990. On January 10, 1991 he married Hilma Manthei in Fairfield, Calif. and on February 10, 1991 the marriage was blessed at the Church of St. Anne, Wausau. She survives. He served his country in the United States Navy during World War II as a merchant marine and on October 14, 1944 was aboard the S.S. Henry St. George Tucker bound South for the equator in South Africa. Louis was extremely proud of his years of service for his country and was a member of the Navy Armed Guard, Knights of Columbus, Thomas Moore Club, Veterans of Foreign War and the American Legion. He was employed at the former James River Corporation for 26 years and was owner and operator of the Diner with his first wife, Amanda. His interests included music, dancing and he participated in league golfing and bowling until age 90. He also enjoyed the Packers and was an avid fan of the Milwaukee Brewers, watching all the games. Another of his enjoyments was trips to Canada to go fishing with friends. Anyone who knew Louie or had the opportunity to have him touch your life knew what a gift he was to all of us. Survivors include his wife, Hilma, Wausau; children, Arlowyn "AJ" (Bob) Krueger, Merrill and Randy (Julie) Sawyer, Wausau; two grandsons, Bill (Sara) Honey, Schofield and Scott Honey (friend Karrie), Merrill; five stepchildren, Grace, Karl, Faye, Alyce and Karla; three step-grandchildren, Mary, Justin and Leah, one brother, George (Vera) Sawyer, Arkansas, one sister, Luella Farrel, Arizona, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Amanda. The funeral Mass will be celebrated 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at the Church of St. Anne, Wausau. The Rev. Steven Brice will preside. Private burial will be Wednesday in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau. Friends may call Tuesday from 2 p.m. until the time of services all at the church. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Marywood Convalescent Center for their compassionate care given to Louie. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Kenya Water Project at the Church of St. Anne, Wausau. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 6th Street, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com