William "Bill" R. Melanson

William R. "Bill" Melanson, 83, of Wausau passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. 

Bill was born on October 27, 1939 in Wausau, son of the late William and Vesta (Gleis) Melanson. Bill graduated from Wausau High School class of 1958. He was united in marriage to Lorraine Krohn on September 1, 1962 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. Bill and Lorraine recently celebrated 60 years of marriage. 

Early in Bill's career he worked for the Marathon County Sheriffs Department. Bill was also a part time Game Warden serving for 37 years. He was also a truck driver in the Wausau area. In his earlier days he enjoyed playing hockey and softball. 

Bill purchased Keeper Tackle in 1980, which he operated out of his basement spending many hours making fishing tackle. He spent many days on the water as a fishing guide for Keeper Tackle Guide Service. Bill shared his passion of fishing with his family, friends, and clients. He was a member of Bill's Musky Club and the 12 Apostles Musky Club. 

Bill enjoyed his time at the cottage with family and friends, where he continued to share his passion for hunting and trapping. Bill had an infectious smile and loved to share stories. 

Bill's legacy for the outdoors will continue on through his grandson Alex along with many others that he greatly impacted. 

He is survived by his wife of 60 years Lorraine and their children: Roy (Kelly) Melanson, Brenda (Cary) Pellowski. Two grandsons: Alex Pellowski and Ken (Kou) Kroeplin along with great grandchildren: Amelia and Elizabeth Kroeplin. Bill is also survived by numerous extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, along with two sisters: Mary Lewitzke and Birdie Michalski. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 30th from 9 AM - 11 AM at Brainard Funeral Home, 522 Adams Street, Wausau. A funeral service will follow at 11 AM in the funeral home with Pastor Jeff Mahnke officiating. Burial will be in Stettin Christian Cemetery. Bill was not a "get dressed up kinda guy" so please feel free to come casual or wear your hunting attire. 

Bill's family wishes to thank Aspirus Hospice Comfort Care for the wonderful care given to him in his final days.