Michael "Mikee" Lee Kunkel

Michael “Mikee” L. Kunkel, age 75, lifelong resident of Merrill, went to be with his Lord on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital, with his family by his side. He was born in Merrill on January 10, 1951, and was the son to the late Edward A. and Mildred L. (Gremler) Kunkel. Mike attended and graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1969. He joined the United States Navy and proudly served his country from 1969 until his honorable discharge in 1973. He was a tug boat operator in San Diego and the Philippines, and was also a BM3 with the Seabees. Mike met the love of his life and best friend, Sue Fehlberg, and the two were united in marriage on November 15, 1975, in Merrill, a union lasting over 50 years. She survives.

Mike served his community as a police officer in Merrill from 1976 until his retirement in 2003. He was a beloved member of the community, his church and his family and friends. He was very active in many aspects, including being a past president of the Sick & Social, helping with scholarships, and was a past president of the church and a member of the choir. Mike was an incredible help and support for Sue and her involvement with the community, often working together to accomplish as much as possible, especially when it came to the Lincoln County Fair. Mike was a well-liked by all who knew him. His family was first and foremost in his life, and he was proud to be “grandpa daycare” and to do his “happy dance” for his beloved grandkids. Mike had a quick wit and a fun sense of humor. Mike’s departure has left a void in many people’s lives and he will be missed dearly.

Mike leaves behind his wife: Sue Kunkel of Merrill, daughter: Tricia S. (Luke) Lazare of Merrill, son: William E. Kunkel of Bremerton, WA, grandchildren: Amara Sue Lazare, Leo Michael Lazare and Lilly Sue Kunkel. He is further survived by his siblings: Kathy (Jack) Frederick of Wausau, Mary Pike (Mike’s twin) of Merrill and Betty (Richard) Ollhoff of Tomahawk, sister-in-law: Gloria Kunkel of Tomahawk and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnephews and grandnieces, along with many good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter: Laura Ann Kunkel, brothers: Roger (Nancy) and Robert Kunkel, sister: Carol Ann (Roger) Krause and brother-in-law: Robert Pike.

The funeral service for Mike will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill. Pastor Mike Southcombe will officiate. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home, 301 Eagle Drive, Merrill, and again on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, at the church. Burial will immediately take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery following the service. Military honors will be conducted by the Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638 at the cemetery.

For those unable to attend the service in person, it will be live streamed and available for viewing on the funeral home website under his obituary, and will be posted as a recording for future viewing.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Aspirus ICU in Woodruff and Wausau, for their care for Mike and his family. They also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Pastor Mike Southcombe for his visits and support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Mike’s name to St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ.

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