Michael L. Lepinski

Michael L. Lepinski, 79, 509 Ridgeland Avenue, Schofield, died unexpectedly Monday, January 19, 2004 at Community Health Care Wausau Hospital. He was born April 13, 1924 in Junction City, son of the late Nick and Theresa (Pularski) Lepinski. On October 2, 1954 he married Mary Breitenstein at St. Francis Catholic Church, Knowlton. She survives. Michael attended the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point prior to entering the service. He was a veteran of World War II serving in Iran and Japan with the U.S. Army. For 42 years Mike was employed as a telegraph operator with The Milwaukee Road Railroad. From 1952 until 1955, he was City Clerk for Pittsville. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Burns Post No. 388, Wausau; The American Legion, Roy Drew Post No. 492, Rothschild-Schofield-Weston and the Knights of Columbus Sacred Heart Council, Schofield. His great sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew him. Music was a special part of Mike's life; he played in the Benny Gagas Orchestra, volunteered his time playing piano at Kennedy Park Medical & Rehabilitation Center and Cedar Ridge Elder Services and he also composed music, most notably the "Stevens Point Polka" which is still performed today. Michael and his wife, Mary were members of St. Therese Catholic Church, Rothschild. He enjoyed fishing, cards and traveling. Special to him was the time spent with his children and grandchildren. Survivors besides his wife, Mary, include one daughter, Dr. Susan (Scott Murrell) Lepinski, Madison, one son, Dr. Allen (Penny) Lepinski, Hudson; and two grandchildren, Jennifer and Michelle Lepinski. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by one brother Allen Lepinski and one sister, Marion Lepinski. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 23, 2004 at St. Francis Catholic Church, Knowlton. The Rev. Janusz Kowalski will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery where full military honors will be conducted by members of the VFW and American Legion. Friends may call Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau and again Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. There will be a combined parish and Knights of Columbus Rosary service at 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the Sixth Street funeral home. Online condolences at www.petersonkraemer.com