Perry D. Barthels

Perry D. Barthels, 90, of Wausau passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 27, 2021.

He was born September 13, 1931, in Wausau, son of the late John and Ella (Hafeman) Barthels. He married Barbara, his wife of 56 years, on April 24, 1965 in a private ceremony at Zion Lutheran Church, Wausau.

After graduating from Wausau High in 1948, he continued his education at the UW Extension until enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. He actively served from 1952-1954 during the Korean War. Upon returning from military service, he began his career with Brown and Williamson Tobacco Corporation as a sales representative where he remained until his retirement in 1990.

Perry especially enjoyed spending time at his cottage in Conover where he pursued his love of hunting and fishing. He was an avid gardener, bird watcher, and general lover of nature. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and played an integral part in the upbringing of his five grandchildren. His grandchildren’s fondest memories include taking endless walks around the block, playing competitive wiffle ball games in the backyard, learning valuable life skills, and his unconditional love.

Perry and Barbara are blessed to have forged and maintained many lifelong friendships. These lasting bonds are a testament to the character of everyone who has been a part of their circle. On behalf of Perry, the rest of the family would like to thank those friends for the pleasure and joy you brought to his life.

For those who knew him, he will be remembered for his good nature, sense of humor, kind heart, integrity, and enduring patience.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara (Smith) Barthels, Wausau, his children; Rick (Jennifer) Barthels, Wausau, David Barthels, Wausau, and Joni (John) Young, Reedsburg, five grandchildren; Nate, Luke, Elizabeth, Jack, and Sam, one brother; Jon “Jack” (Mary Pregont) Barthels and a sister-in-law and brother-in-law; Joan and Roger Pospychala, and his nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Perry’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2022 at Doepke Recreational Park, 2200 South Mountain Road, Wausau, WI  54401. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Perry’s name. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com