Oren Hermel

Oren Hermel, 72, Wausau, passed away on Friday, November 25, 2022 at Primrose Memory Care Center, Weston under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

He was born on June 20, 1950 in Mankato, Minnesota to Elmer and Esther (Meyer) Hermel. On August 28, 1971, he married Cindy Bowe at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin, Minnesota.

Oren graduated from Mankato State College in 1972. He began his 42-year career at Wausau Insurance Company as a systems and programming analyst in 1972. Oren was a part of the establishment of Wausau Benefits in 2000. At the time of his retirement Oren served as CIO for UMR and Specialty Benefits of United Healthcare. Oren enjoyed the challenges of his work and appreciated the many people he worked with throughout his career. Oren had boundless energy and kept his family on the move. He was an avid scuba diver and bicyclist. He enjoyed time at Crescent Lake water skiing, swimming, fishing and captaining the pontoon boat with his family aboard telling stories and checking out his fishing spots. Oren was a devoted dad and spent many hours with his daughters supporting their activities, encouraging them to work hard and celebrating their successes. He shared many hours watching the Chicago Bulls, the Golden State Warriors and the Milwaukee Bucks games with Cindy.

Oren was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Esther Hermel. He is survived by his wife, Cindy; two daughters, Nichol Hermel (Marc Puyleart); Natalie (Corey) Pomranke; grandchildren, Everett and Grey Pomranke; and two brothers, Loel (Betty) Hermel and Scott (Janet) Hermel.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 17, 2022, at 11:00 AM at First English Lutheran Church, 402 N. Third Avenue, Wausau. Visitation will be on Saturday from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to First English Lutheran Church, The Salvation Army 103 S Second Avenue Wausau or a charity of  the donor’s choice.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.