Donna Rae Block

We bid farewell to Donna R. Block of Merrill, Wisconsin, whose journey of life gracefully concluded on January 8, 2026, at the age of 89. Donna touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts.

Donna was born on April 25, 1936, in Merrill, WI, to George and Beryl (Wiley) Neubauer. Donna was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved spending time with her family sitting around the table telling stories and reminiscing. She enjoyed playing cards and cooking meals for family gatherings. She was an avid Packers fan and was known for her dancing back in the day by the nickname given to her by her classmates, Boogie Beat Block. She loved playing softball and held her own against the boys at Franklin School. She also enjoyed archery competitions shooting her Staghorn Bow with her dad's homemade arrows.

She married Gene Block on July 30, 1955, at Trinity Church in Merrill. She was a graduate of Merrill High School and graduated from the Lincoln County Teacher's College with a degree in elementary education in May of 1957 with additional extension classes in Stevens Point, WI. She taught in a one room schoolhouse in the town of Berlin at Jackson and Adams Schools from 1958 to 1962 with children ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade. Students were still visiting her right up to her passing. She continued to substitute in the Merrill School District for many years after.

Donna was one of the founders of the Flower Club of Merrill. She was a 4-H leader for several years, and part of the Red Hatters Club. She participated in the choir at Trinity Church for many years. She enjoyed playing bridge every week with her dear friends, spending time in her flower garden, and making plentiful meals for her family and for dessert, her famous buster bar. Christmas was her favorite time of year because the entire family would gather together to celebrate. She loved a brandy old fashion with good old-fashioned syrup so she could still taste the brandy. Donna was known for her unwavering faith and for being the life of the party.

In the hush of twilight, as the stars twinkle in silent homage, we reflect on the legacy Donna leaves behind and her impact on the lives of her loved ones. Though Donna may no longer walk among us, her spirit lives on in the memories held dear by her family and friends, a guiding light that illuminates their paths in times of darkness.

Donna was preceded in death by her loving husband, Eugene Block, of 64 years, her parents, George and Beryl (Wiley) Neubauer, her brother, Philip Neubauer.

Donna is survived by her three children, Debra (Les) Weber of New Richmond, WI, Vicki Bach of Green Bay, and Randee Block of Brokaw, WI; Grandchildren, Julie Lynch of Minneapolis, Laurie (Bob Fulkerson) Lynch of San Diego, CA, Katie Lynch of Forest Lake, MN, Dustin Bach of Indianapolis, IN, Eric (Lauren) Bach of Mount Pleasant, SC, Molly (Sam) Powers of Mondovi, WI and Casey (Alex) Burmeister of Weston, WI; Great-grandchildren Marleyna, Jackson, Owen, Scarlett, Alysia, Howard, Wallace, Ruby, Jackson, William, Zoey, Autumn, Crew, Raegan, Alice, and Damon.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 P.M on January 15, 2026, at the Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home at 301 Eagle Drive. The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on January 16, 2026, at Taylor-Stein-Waid Funeral Home at 301 Eagle Drive in Merrill, WI. Burial will take place right after at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.

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