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Kathleen ‘Sparky’ Mae Graap, 74, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, September 17, 2021, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family and in the care of the Interim Hospice. She was born on February 9, 1947 to the late Hugo and Evelyn (Nienow) Schleif in Merrill. Kathleen attended and graduated from Merrill High School, then went to work for the Weinbrenner Shoe Company in Merrill. She married the love of her life, Dennis ‘Boomer’ Graap on July 2, 1966, in Merrill. Sadly, he predeceased her in death on May 26, 1997.
When Kathleen was younger, she and Boomer were active in the bowling leagues and the Eagles Club. Kathleen retired from Weinbrenner in 2019, after more than 50 years of service! She was also a part-time cashier at the Eagles Club and did so for 27 years. Kathleen was very active in the Eagles Club and would contribute to all of their benefits. She looked forward to playing cards with her friends at Jenny Towers, as well as going to the casino to play slots, cards and bingo. Kathleen was a spirited and fun woman who was always ready to have a good time. Above all, his love for his family was like no other, especially for his beloved grandson, Connor. She couldn’t wait to attend all of his events and activities, and even take a few trips to Disney World and New York. Kathleen was a member of the United Church of Christ St. Stephen in Merrill and was a member of the Eagles Auxiliary for over 45 years. She fought to the end. Kathleen will be missed by all who knew and loved her, but never forgot.
Kathleen is survived by her daughter: Tammy Stender, grandson: Connor Stender, sisters: Phyllis Rhyner, Margie Lange and Dawn Schleif, sisters-in-law: Eunice Schubert, Virginia McElhaney and Barbara Golisch, brother-in-law: Kenneth Graap and de many nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, mother and stepfather: Dorothy and Charles Graap Sr., husband: Dennis Graap, sister-in-law: Audrey Heuser and brother-in-law: Charles Graap Jr.
A funeral service for Kathleen will be held on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at 11 a.m. at the United Church of Christ St. Stephen in Merrill. Pastor Mike Southcombe will officiate. Visitations will be on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Waid Funeral Home, with an Eagles auxiliary service at 6 p.m., and visitation again on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, from 9 a.m. until the time of service, at church. Interment at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service. Kathleen’s family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to the Interim Hospice for taking such good care of her in her final days, especially Roseann Keen and Rachele Greenwood. Merrill’s Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service helps the family with the arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.
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