Wayne E. Meier

A live stream of Wayne's Mass of Christian Burial can be viewed at www.geschefh.com beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Wayne Edward Meier, age 92, of Neillsville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Riverside Assisted Living in Neillsville.

Wayne was born on April 13, 1934, in Neillsville, the son of Ed and Marie (Boldt) Meier. He attended St. Mary's Catholic Grade School and graduated from Neillsville High School in 1952.

On October 20, 1956, Wayne was united in marriage to Jean Maureen Pettit at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville. They shared 64 years of marriage together.

Wayne grew up on his grandparents' farm, where he developed a strong work ethic at an early age. For many years, in addition to his regular jobs, he spent long days working alongside his uncle, John Boldt.

Wayne worked in Marshfield at Roddis and Rollohome and enjoyed carpooling to work with friends from Neillsville. On payday Fridays, they would stop in Nasonville for a good burger and a beer. He later worked in Neillsville at the Condensery and the Neillsville Milk Pool. He also worked part-time for George Tibbett, unloading freight from train cars and hauling coal. Wayne eventually began working at Nelson Muffler, where he spent 30 years.

Wayne loved spending time in his workshop and was a talented and creative woodworker. He made many intricate items over the years, generously sharing his creations with family, friends and others throughout the community. Wayne and Maureen spent countless hours together in the shop working on crafts.

Their love of working together extended outdoors as well. Wayne and Maureen were avid gardeners, tending not just one, but two large gardens. Their plentiful harvests kept them busy canning and freezing produce, and they were always happy to share what they grew with others.

Wayne and Maureen also treasured the property they affectionately called "The Land." Together, they spent countless hours planting thousands of pine trees by hand, trees that now tower over the property. They planted apple trees, cared for the grounds and created a pond. Wayne could happily spend hours on his lawn mower, and he enjoyed feeding the fish in the pond and simply relaxing there.

"The Land" became a special gathering place for the family, with many get-togethers were held there. Wayne also enjoyed fishing the Black River and taking trips to Round Lake.

Wayne was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville. His Catholic faith was an important part of his life, and he rarely missed weekly Mass.

Wayne is survived by his children, Debbie (Mike) Schoengarth, Sharon (Bob) Wilsmann of Neillsville and Steve (Lisa) Meier of Marshfield; eight grandchildren, Casey (Kristi) Schoengarth, Katie Elmhorst, Rebecca (Jeff) Ciezki, Timothy (Terrie) Wilsmann, Stephanie (Jordan) Donnerbauer, Alexandra (Ethan) Meier, Katrina Krueger and Nicholas D'Acquisto; 16 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law, John (Jamie) Pettit of Neillsville and Dave (Cindy) Pettit of Morton, Illinois; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Wayne was preceded in death by his loving wife, Maureen; his parents, Ed and Marie Meier; his sister, Arlene Gilinski; his mother- and father-in-law, Norbert and Agnes Pettit; and brothers-in-law, James Pettit and Dick Gilinski.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Wayne will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville. The Celebrant will be Fr. Greg Michaud. Music will be provided by Rebekah Lehn, organist and St. Mary's Choir. Interment, together with his wife, will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 26th at St. Mary's Catholic Church. A livestream of Wayne's funeral services can be viewed at www.geschefh.com beginning at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 26th.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

Gesche Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting Wayne's family with funeral arrangements.