Marlene D. Heinz, 83, Wausau, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at her home.
She was born October 2, 1942 in Wausau, daughter of the late Aloysius and Anna (Lang) Schilling. On July 7, 1962, she married the love of her life, Milton “Smokey” Heinz in Wausau. He preceded her in death on June 23, 2025.
Marlene’s greatest passion was gardening. She loved tending to her flowers both indoors and outdoors. She liked knitting, crocheting and hosting family gatherings for all holidays, birthdays and family reunions. Marlene was a longtime member of Holy Name Catholic Church and enjoyed donating items for several church events. Her faith was strong and she was always by her husband, Smokey’s side.
Survivors include two special nieces, Lisa (Brian) Buchberger and Chris Wintersteen; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Besides her parents and husband, Smokey, she was preceded in death by six siblings, George Schilling, Armella Bendele, Orville Schilling, Evelyn Winter, twin sister-Darlene Kapitz and Gary Schilling.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau. Rev. Woodrow Pace will officiate. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau. Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com
