William 'Bill' Grefe

William ‘Bill’ D. Grefe, age 81, of Merrill, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.  He was born on May 24, 1939 in Merrill, son of the late Howard and Marguerite Grefe.  Bill married his high school sweetheart, Judy Frick, on July 30, 1960 in Merrill.  She survives.  He loved family get-togethers and enjoyed his lifelong career of being “Your Friendly Meat Man”.  Bill loved people and he loved his job. He worked in a variety of grocery stores as a meat cutter and manager, eventually becoming the owner of Carl’s Food Lane, along with his two sons.  Bill also invested in rental properties to eventually supplement his retirement years.

Bill was a hunter and fisherman and enjoyed football and baseball games.  He also enjoyed watching the Nascar races with his family and friends.  Bill looked forward to the lunch meetings with the guys, and always liked spending time with his long-time loyal friend, Bob White.

Bill will be sadly missed by his loving wife: Judy Grefe of Merrill, his sons: Russ (Laurie) Grefe of Merrill and Rich (Brenda) Grefe of Irma, three grandchildren: Shelby (Casey) Penrod of Mosinee, Lucas (Adrianna Gomez) Grefe of Marathon and Collin (Rylee Folz) Grefe of Durand and great granddaughter: Lila Judith Penrod of Mosinee, brother: Dennis (LuAnn) Grefe of Merill and sister-in-law: Mary Grefe of Merrill.  Besides his parents, Bill is preceded in death by brothers: George, Robert and Junior Grefe, infant sister: Lois and sister-in-law: Dorothy Grefe.

Per family request, no services will be held for Bill.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Pine Crest Nursing Home and special nurse, Bette, along with Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.

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.