Vernon J. Bahr

Vernon J. Bahr, age 89, of Wausau passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, November 23, 2022 under the care of Aspirus Hospice.

Vernon was born on July 11, 1933 to Arthur and Hilda (Zastrow) Bahr. He grew up in the Town of Stettin on his family’s dairy farm. Vernon graduated from Wausau Senior High School and went on to take farming courses from NTC. Vernon was united in marriage to Marlene M. Schuett on October 5, 1957, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Town of Maine, where they remain active members. 

 
Together, Vernon and Marlene took over the family farm, owning and operating it for 36 years until passing ownership down to their son, Shawn.  At which time, he could still be found driving tractor or lending a helping hand in retirement. Vernon was also on the Board of Directors at Equity Stratford Livestock Marketing Cooperative for 20 years. 

Although farming was a huge part of Vernon’s life, he always thought life was a whole lot better with a fishing pole in hand checking out another bend in the river. Some of his favorite fishing memories were numerous trips to Canada and the Boundary Waters.  Deer hunting was also a passion. He enjoyed the camaraderie with his family and neighbors along with the challenge of the sport. Anyone knowing Vernon will remember he always had stories and jokes to share.  

   
Vernon is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Marlene Bahr, Wausau; two daughters, Jodene Kretschmer, Merrill, and Renell Bahr, Raleigh, NC, and one son, Shawn Bahr, Wausau; five grandchildren Heather (Brandon Johnson) Kretschmer, Merrill; Stephanie Kretschmer, Raleigh, NC; Phillip Kretschmer, Merrill; Devin and Caleigh Bahr Wausau; step-grandson Steven Erdmann, Merrill; one great-grandchild Reed Johnson; one great-step grandson James Ryan (JR) Erdmann; and sister, Alice Mootz, Merrill; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents, Vernon was preceded in death by his son-in-law Richard Kretschmer and brother-in-law Franklin Mootz. 

Funeral Service will be held at 2:30 PM on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 5304 44 th  Ave., Wausau.  The Rev. Maggie Westaby will officiate. Visitation will take place from 12:00 PM until the time of the service at the church. The burial will follow at the Town of Berlin Cemetery.