Germaine A. Reif, 95, Wausau, formerly of Antigo, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 17, 2023 at Benedictine Living Community, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.
She was born June 23, 1928 in Antigo, daughter of the late George and Mildred (Holup) Schwentner. On July 7, 1964, she married William Reif in Pine City, Minnesota. He preceded her in death on April 20, 2002.
For 43 years, Germaine worked as an operator and clerk for GTE until her retirement in 1990. She was an active member of St. Anne Parish, Wausau where she served at funeral dinners and parish fish fries. She was a member of St. Anne's Fatima Council and attended Bible studies for many years with a special group of friends. Germaine was a very independent and outgoing person. She made friends wherever she went and had a gift that brought laughter to many conversations. She loved all animals, especially her dog Thunder. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Survivors include two step-sons, Ron (Lori) Reif, Minnesota and Bill Jr. (Becky) Reif, Iowa; nieces and nephews, Robert Koskosky Jr., Mary (Dennis) Haub, Margaret (Ken) Stamm, Barbara (Bob) Oseik, Michael (Laurie) Koskosky, Jane (Geoff) Knaflec, Joan (Paul) Engler and many grand nieces and nephews. Germaine was blessed during her lifetime with many loving friends and neighbors, including Sandy and Dennis Gilge, Kathy and Jeff Lenard, and Vickie Richmond-Hawkins.
Besides her parents and husband, William, she was preceded in death by one sister, Mary Jean Koskosky.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 25, 2023 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Tom Lindner will preside. Burial will be in the Queen of Peace Cemetery, Antigo. Visitation will be held on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Anne Catholic Church or the Marathon County Humane Society.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.