Lynn Jon Henrich

Lynn J. Henrich, of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly, Saturday, November 30, 2024, while filling his bird feeders, something he took great pleasure in. Lynn was born, March 29, 1949, to the late Gerald C. and Harriett M. (Dahm) in Merrill.

 Lynn graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1967. As a recipient of the Anson Memorial Scholarship, he completed his education at the University of Notre Dame, graduating in 1971. He was a gifted and dedicated multisport athlete in High School. As a Senior, he led the Wisconsin Valley Conference in passing completions, yards and touchdowns…..and also interceptions!

 After his divorce, Lynn‘s focus became his sons, who survive him; Tom (Dawn) Henrich of Merrill, Ben (Carrie) Henrich of River Falls, and Jason Henrich of Wausau, grandchildren Jordyn, Kaiden, Breanna, Payton, Addyson and Ewan. Also surviving are sister Holly Henrich of Merrill and brother Jerry (Andrea) Henrich of Sun Prairie, nephews Christopher (Debbie) Henrich and Jeremy (Debra) Henrich. He was preceded in death by his parents.

 Lynn was employed by the J.C. Penney Co., until his retirement in 2012. He traveled extensively, managing the completion and remodeling of J.C. Penney stores across the country. Lynn enjoyed hunting and fishing, an annual trip to Canada for walleyes and northerns. He particularly enjoyed time socializing at “the Shack”, whether fishing for trout or hosting the Prairie River Gang every November for the annual gun deer hunt.

 As his grandchildren grew, he delighted in watching their sporting events and enthusiastically supported Merrill sports. He was a formidable sheepshead player, remembering every card played, usually anticipating his opponent’s next card. He also dabbled in bridge, poker and excelled at the daily crossword. Lynn had a knack for remembering every birthday and anniversary of relatives and friends with a special, and usually humorous, card. He unobtrusively listened to comments made by family members, and shopped throughout the year for the items mentioned, surprising them with their special gift at Christmas.Lynn was a collector of many things, including road maps, hunting/fishing regulations, stamps and beer cans to mention a few.

 Lynn, along with his best friend and soul mate of over 30 years, Carol Mroczenski, traveled to Alaska, Mexico and Jamaica, the western U.S., as well as various casinos. He was a member of St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Lincoln County Sports Club, Merrill Silver M Club, and Carpenters Local 310.

 Lynn’s passing will leave a void, but his contemplative, thoughtful nature, and proclivity to be fashionably late, will be greatly missed.

 A funeral service for Lynn will be held Monday, December 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. Stephens United Church of Christ in Merrill. A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill, as well as one hour before the funeral service at St. Stephens.

 In lieu of flowers, family members request memorials be made to St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Lincoln County Sports Club, or the Silver M Scholarship Fund.

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