Dennis Lee Krenzke

Dennis L. Krenzke, age 82, of Merrill, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital, while under the care of the staff in palliative care. He was born on February 6, 1943, to the late Wallace and Josephine (Greer) Krenzke Sr. in Milwaukee, WI. Dennis attended and graduated from school in Milwaukee, and went on to bravely serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was then honorably discharged.

Dennis worked with his father at the Koering Company in Milwaukee, dealing with heavy equipment and a production machinist in Wausau before he was a juvenile corrections officer for over 27 years at the Lincoln Hills School, where he wore many hats, being involved with counseling, transporting, security, etc. and known as “Mr. K”. Dennis also worked for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department as a transportation officer, as well as working for Ted’s Lawn Care. In his younger years, he was active in softball, soccer, and coached basketball for Trinity School. Dennis was very athletic and was always tottling around town on his bike! He was a God-fearing man that had an unbreakable faith that he wasn't afraid to share. Dennis was very active in Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill, and was always there for his church family.

Family was a priority in life. He did his best to be a good example for his children and grandchildren as a dad and grandpa that lived out his faith. He is leaving a legacy.

Dennis is survived by his children: Daniel W. Krenzke of Clayton, NC, Rebecca “Beckie” Krenzke of Merrill and Jason P. Krenzke of Merrill, grandchildren: Sam (Dustin) Brown, Starr Krenzke and Kylee Krenzke, great grandsons: Jensen Brown and Daxton Schleifer, siblings: Fred Krenzke of Arizona, Wally (Kathy) Krenzke of Phillips, WI, Claudia Towne of Waukesha, WI and Kenny (Barb) Krenzke of Phillips, WI, along with a step grandson: Jacob Ollhof and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife: Faye.

The funeral service for Dennis will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home, 903 East 3rd Street, Merrill, and again on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service, at the church. Burial and military honors at Snow Hill Cemetery will take place immediately following the service.

The service will be recorded and available for future viewing under his obituary on the funeral home website.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful and caring staff at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital – Palliative Care Unit for providing care and support to their dad.

In lieu of flowers, family encourages donations in Dennis’ name to be directed to the Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.