James Robert Henke, age 79, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026, at his home.

He was born on July 8, 1947, in Wausau, son of Gilbert and Frances (Certano) Henke. He attended Copper River Schools from 1st to 8th grade and graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1965. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam from 1966 - 1968. He was a workaholic up until he wasn’t able to work anymore. He was a superintendent at Boldt construction for over twenty years. He also owned his own logging business and the woods not only supplemented his living, but was also his hobby.

He was a very well respected, honest, hardworking man – a role model to many and was a great father and grandfather to his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed playing billiards pool. On September 10, 1999, he married Marcia Howard, who survives. 

A local businessman raised funds for a new sound system for the VFW to be used during Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, and Graveside services, as a Dedication to Sgt. Jim Henke. The sound system has a plaque dedicated to Jim that reads: "Honoring a silent hero whose voice will never fade."

He is survived by his wife, Marcia; his children, Shawn (Nicole) Henke of Merrill, Travis (Nancy) Henke of Wausau; grandchildren, Ben (Katie), Paige (Tanner), Zach, Jessica; two greatgrandchildren, Carter and Raelynn; stepchildren, Robin Schmidlkofer of Wausau, Renee Schmidlkofer of Merrill; three step grandchildren and 2 step great grandchildren; sister, Marge (Randy) Schultz; nephews, Jeff and Andy Boquist.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Frances.

The funeral service for James will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home at 301 Eagle Drive, Merrill. Visitation will be held on Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Burial will be held in the Corning Methodist Cemetery off Greendale Road immediately following the service. The VFW Post 1638 will perform full Military Honors at the gravesite. Luncheon will follow the burial at the VFW Post 1638 in Merrill. In Lieu of Flowers, please make contributions to VFW Post 1638 in Merrill or St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital.

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. 

Donations to VFW Post 1638 may be sent to: Post 1638 Schmitt-Manecke-Donner Post 601 Johnson St
Merrill, WI 54452-2434