Genevieve Opichka

Genevieve "Jenny" Anna Opichka was born December 29, 1919 in Poniatowski, WI to the late Bernard and Mary Anna (Springer) Stencil. Early in her life, she worked as an elevator operator for the former Wausau Hotel, meeting many stars and famous people. Raising four children on her own was not always the easiest, but Jenny was no ordinary woman. She provided for her family by working for Connor Forest Industries, always a hard worker and tough as nails. Jenny was also very strong willed and feisty, living life on her terms. For all of her toughness, when it came to her children, Jenny was as protective as a mama bear. She was very proud of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and later great-great-grandchildren, often describing her grandkids as "bootiful" and loving to spend whatever time with them that she could.

Jenny Opichka, 90, Wausau, died Saturday, October 9, 2010 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Jenny is survived by her beloved sons, William (Theresa) Stencil, Glenard (Marlene) Opichka and Bernard "B.J." (Cindy) Opichka; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Josie Opichka and Theresa Gueldner; and many more extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her son, Peter; daughter, Carol (Donald) Hintz; and siblings, Clara Zank, Ann Burke, Marie Konowinski, Francis Leski, Regina Hans, Tony Stencil and Ben Stencil.

A private service will be held for Jenny with burial in Restlawn Memorial Park. You may sign our family guestbook at www.helke.com.