Penny Hommerding

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Penny Lee Hommerding, age 78, of Merrill, who left us on Monday, May 18, 2026, at her home.

Penny was born April 30, 1948, in Merrill, daughter of Arthur ‘Shorty’ Burrows Jr. and Ramona (Juedes) Burrows. She graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1966. On April 29, 1973, Penny married Michael Hommerding.

Penny was truly the heart of her family, always making it a point to cheer on her kids and grandkids at every sporting event. She even took on the role of coaching Little League softball for several years. Her grandkids and great-grandkids meant the world to her, and she looked forward to bringing them treats every Monday after grocery shopping and sharing Saturday morning breakfasts with the whole family.

A big fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers, Penny also had a soft spot for Elvis. She loved her flower gardens and took pride in making sure they were beautifully decorated. Cooking and hosting holiday gatherings was something she poured her heart into, bringing everyone together.

Penny was a dedicated member of St. Stephens United Church of Christ in Merrill, where she was an active participant in the funeral lunch committee, counted money, and assisted with the monthly services at Jenny Towers. She also lent a helping hand with the free summer lunch program offered by local churches in the area.

Survivors include her husband, Michael Hommerding of Merrill; sons, Robert (Joyce) Hommerding and Christopher Hommerding (Tina) of Merrill; grandchildren, Nathanial, Ethan (Marisa), and Jesse; great-grandchildren, Oaklynn and Hayden; brother, Mike (Joy) Burrows of Merrill; sisters-in-law, Sharon Detert, Sue (Joel) Wendt, and Shirley Gremler all of Merrill; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Penny was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Bill and Dorothy Hommerding, Willie Detert, and Bob Gremler.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, June 5, 2026, at St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Merrill. Rev. Michael Southcombe will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. that day at church. As a true tribute to Penny, please wear your favorite Brewers or Packers apparel to the visitation and funeral.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Penny’s name to St. Stephens United Church of Christ – 903 E. Second St., Merrill, WI 54452.