Russell Mirek

Russell Elmer Mirek, 84 Wausau passed away Sunday, August 28th, 2022, at Pride TLC, Weston.

Russ was born March 18, 1938, in Wausau, WI to the late Edward and Bernadette (Pregont) Mirek.  He met Anita French in Bedford, England while he was serving his country in the USAF.  The couple were later married on October 27, 1962, in England.  They were blessed with two daughters: Sharon and Theresa.  Upon returning to America and settling in Wausau, Russ began working as a letter carrier for the USPS in which he would retire after 31 years of service.

He very much enjoyed his military career in the Air Force serving in the 6950th USAF Security Squadron as a Radio Operator in which he served from 1956 to 1965 with an Honorable Discharge. His orders to RAF Chicksands England would be some of his fondest memories. He received Good Conduct Medals and would have you know that he was an “Expert” Marksman. Of course, meeting his future bride Anita (of 56 years until her death) and her family was the highlight. Returning to Wausau, he would continue working for the government at the USPS as a letter carrier. There he received many awards to include Expert Driver for 25 years and recognition of exceptional performance. He would be up at dawn with his wheel cap, uniform on, shoes shined and lunch box in hand to deliver mail to the many people he truly enjoyed seeing each day until his retirement. This may be why he knew just about everyone that lived in Wausau.

Russ and Anita especially enjoyed traveling the world together, often visiting Theresa wherever her family was stationed at the time. He enjoyed trains, planes, watching birds, the night sky, gardening and especially going out for breakfast in the morning. His favorite hobby was woodworking in which he would build anything from furniture to birdhouses. He was definitely a “Mr. Fix It.” If it was broken, he could fix it.

Russ is survived by his daughters, Theresa (Sam) Grinder of Cookeville, TN, and Sharon Mirek of Wausau; grandchildren, Haley of San Diego, CA, Amanda (Jay) Morgan of Tampa, FL, Tyler of Wausau, and Melissa of Mosinee; great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Madisyn, and Reegan; and extended family and friends. His is preceded in death by his wife, Anita, sister Jean, and brothers, Don and Bob.

The family has chosen to honor Russ’s final wishes of cremation. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Parish. Fr. Samuel Martin will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at church.  Inurnment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park, Town of Texas. Helke Funeral home is assisting the family with the arrangements.