Richard J. Byron

Richard J. Byron 71, died Monday, May 24, 2010 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Richard was born September 4, 1938 to Joseph and Pearl (Brown) Byron of Milwaukee. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol M. (Vandewalle) Byron (February 22, 2004) and his parents. Richard and Carol met in 1957 and were married at St. Mary Catholic Church on June 10, 1961 in DePere. Richard was a graduate of St. Norbert's College and the University of Wisconsin Law School. During law school Carol worked at the UW and Richard worked nights. In 1970 the Byron's moved to Wausau. The move was fortunate; a beautiful town to pursue their interests-reading, gardening, golf, gourmet cooking, and to raise their family among new friends and associates. Carol was a consummate homemaker; she took great joy and pride in her family, and was an avid flower gardener and creative cook. Her skill and grace made each guest feel welcome and special. She was active in church choir and the meals on wheels program. Times with her grandchildren were a special treasure. Richard began a 25-year law career at Wausau Insurance Companies He was proud to learn, teach and grow skills with his co-workers in H.O. Legal and throughout the company. At retirement he was Vice President, Associate General Counsel, and secretary. Since 1985, Richard served as a Board member of the Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company (WILMIC). He took pride and pleasure in WILMIC's growth and success. He loved to read and golf with his grandchildren. Survivors include three sons, Bill (Becky) Byron, Onalaska, Paul (Jane) Byron and their children, Katie and Charlie, River Falls and Richard Byron II, Wausau. He is also survived by a brother, Michael (Helen) Byron, Beloit and a sister, Patricia Pirus, Sheboygan. Carol's sisters Judy Twomey, Jean Rentmeester and Betty Ernst, and brother Tom Vandewalle of DePere and Green Bay survive. Her parents Urban and Margaret Vandewalle and brothers Dick and Glen are deceased. A funeral Mass for Richard and Carol Byron will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 28, 2010 at the Church of St. Anne. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, gifts to the Salvation Army or the Marathon County Public Library are appreciated. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 6th Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.