Vivian R. Jeske

Vivian Jeske, of Marathon, passed away on July 6, 2025, after a life marked by faith, dedication, and quiet service to others.

She was born in Wausau to the late William and Dorothy (Lepak) Lang. As a young woman, Vivian cared for her grandmother for several years, a role she embraced with patience and compassion. She later worked in the kitchen at Wausau South Hospital before moving to Rockford, Illinois, where she was employed at Rockford Photo, developing and enlarging photographs. It was there that she met Howard Jeske, who would become her husband. The two were married on October 31, 1964, and eventually made their home in Marathon, where they raised two sons.

Vivian was a woman of deep Catholic faith and strong values. She was an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church’s choir, sharing her love of music and worship with her community. She worked as a cook at St. Mary’s School, where her children attended, and later served as a nursing assistant, roles that reflected her lifelong instinct to care for others. In addition to her formal work, she also provided childcare for neighborhood children and extended family, always offering a steady hand and a kind heart. She found purpose in being dependable, hardworking, and rooted in service, especially to those closest to her.

She is survived by her husband, Howard Jeske of Marathon; her sons, David (Corey) Jeske and Jeff (Carole) Jeske; her sisters, Pat Nowak of Marathon and Jeannie (Dale) Sauter of Edgar; sisters-in-law, Janice Lang of Wausau, Shirley Lang and Sandy Lang, both of Marathon; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Sylvia Payne, Herbert, Laverne, Wayne, Gary, David, and Bobby Lang.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Marathon, with Rev. Monsignor Joseph Diermeier officiating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. Visitation will take place at the church from 1:00 p.m. until the time of services. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to St. Mary’s or the church of your choice.

Vivian will be remembered for her strong work ethic, deep faith, and the care she gave so freely to others throughout her life.