George W. Heidemann

George Willam "Red" Heidemann passed away on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at Aspirus Hospice House.  George was born on December 20, 1928 to the late William and Emma (Zenk) Heidemann.  George married Ruth Thompson on October 28, 1951, at the Bible Presbyterian Church in Merrill. Together they had three children, Conradine (Connie), Thomas, and Timothy.  

George was a Korean war veteran, serving with the Army Engineers.  George started his work life early, in his teens, he worked on neighboring farms but his love of all things mechanical turned him into a self-taught mechanic.  He was employed by Drott Manufacturing and later at J.I. Case where, as a service representative, he traveled the world representing his company.  Trips included stops in Chile and France.  His work meant some moves for his family, first to Illinois and later, to Virginia.  But once retired, George moved back to his hometown of Wausau.  

George was popular with is co-workers and his head of bright red hair earned him the nickname "Red", which he proudly carried throughout his life. George's mechanical skills had him opening up his own little mechanic shop in his garage where he fixed the cars of friends and neighbors, often receiving payment in unusual ways, including chickens!  George loves cares and motorcycles and was a lifelong Harley Davidson owner.  He raced motorcycles from 1949 - 1951 and even fulfilled a bucket list item early by crossing the U.S. following Route 66 on his Harley.

George was famous (or infamous) for the colorful way he expressed himself.  Anyone who knew him well would, at sometime, be treated to a barrage of language they probably hadn't heard before.  There was even a rumor that he made up some of his words.  It was part of why everyone loved him.

George is survived by his wife of 72 years, Ruth; his children, Connie and Tim (Jaime Grasso); two grandchildren, Jason (Deanna) Gnatz and Jonathan (Haeley) Gnatz; four great-grandchildren, Hunter (Rain) Gnatz, Noah Gnatz, Eleanor Gnatz, and Evelyn Gnatz; as well as two sisters-in-law, Irene Heidemann and Nancy Heidemann.

George was preceded in death by his beloved son, Tom; and his siblings, Barney (Grace) (Ruth) Heidemann, Delores (Bob) Weber, Harvey Heidemann and Ralph Heidemann.  

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 28, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at Helke Funeral Home in Wausau.  A visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.  Military honors will be given following the service.  Burial will take place at a later date.  

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Aspirus Hospice House for the exceptional care they provided to George.