Walter 'Wally' Friedenfelt

Walter ‘Wally’ Friedenfelt, 88, Gleason, died Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital, Appleton, Wisconsin.

Although Wally was born in Chicago, Illinois on April 2, 1932, his family roots can be traced back to the late 1800’s in the Gleason area.  He spent his younger years in Chicago where he attended Tilden High School, but eventually transferred to Merrill Senior High, graduating in 1950.  Wally worked on the family farm in Gleason and at the Rhinelander Paper Mill until his retirement from the mill at the age of 65.  He enjoyed playing cards and shaking dice with his family and friends, as well as bowling, fishing and golfing.  Wally loved teaching his great nieces to drive his favorite tractor and shared his deep love of animals with them.

Wally was preceded in death by his father, John Friedenfelt and his mother, Zelma (Seetan Weinberg) Friedenfelt, as well as his brother, John (Sophie Kuncius) Weinberg.  He is survived by nieces, Judith (Jack) Weinberg Buchler, Patricia (the late Robert) Weinberg Ahlm, cousins, the late Robert ‘Butch’ (Char) Seetan, Caroline Seetan Flanigan, Scott Friedenfeld, Barbara (Robert) Friedenfeld Genis, Susan Friedenfeld, the late Richard Friedenfeld, the late James Friedenfeld and Jeff Friedenfeld, who was Wally’s caregiver in his later years.  In addition, Wally will be greatly missed by many nieces and great nieces as well as nephews and great nephews.  He also leaves behind his “family” of precious pets who brought him much joy.

Per Wally’s specific instructions, there will be no wake or funeral at this time.  A family memorial will be held at a future date.

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.