Joyce W. Sumnicht

Joyce W. Sumnicht, age 92, formerly of Merrill, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Primrose Assisted Living in Wausau, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.  She was born on February 14, 1932 to the late Walter and Judith (Inerson) Glasbrenner in Eau Claire, WI.  Joyce attended and graduated from Memorial High School in Eau Claire, WI.  She met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Sumnicht, and the two lovingly exchanged marriage vows on June 27, 1953 in Eau Claire, WI.  Sadly, Bob passed away on June 11, 2014.

Joyce worked as a secretary for the Merrill Area Public Schools, primarily at Franklin Elementary from 1964 until her retirement in 1989.  After retirement, Joyce enjoyed playing golf.  She enjoyed traveling with Bob to Germany to learn about their ancestors, working in her flower gardens or shopping for some antiques and depression glass.  Joyce was an avid bowler; she was a member of WWBA for 40 years and received membership into Merrill’s Bowling Hall of Fame in 1994.  She would also spend time enjoying nature, watching birds and loved all animals!  Joyce was especially proud of her African violets!  She was a great cook and hosted many family gatherings, especially during the holidays.  Joyce was a charter member of the Merrill Lioness Club and St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill.  She is remembered by family and friends as a very sweet lady, that was always pleasant, caring and had concern for others.  Joyce will be sadly missed, but memories of her will remain.

Joyce is survived by her children: Sarah (Gary) Stroyny of Kronenwetter, WI, George (Sandie) Sumnicht of New Derry, PA and Carol (Bill) Strand of Kronenwetter, WI, grandsons: Steve, Robert (Linsey) and Scott (Anna), step grandsons: Nathan and Jason, great granddaughter: Iris and step great grandson: Evan.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Robert and great grandson: Anderson Strand.

The funeral service for Joyce will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Waid Funeral Home.   Rev. David Szeto will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.   Burial at Merrill Memorial Park will immediately follow the service.

The service will be recorded for those unable to attend in person.  It can be found under her obituary on the funeral home website.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations be directed to the Lincoln County Humane Society or St. John Lutheran Church in memory of Joyce.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Primrose Assisted Living in Wausau for their care and concern and to Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services for their support.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.   Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.