Rosemary Jean (Reinhard) Wetzel

Rosemary Jean Wetzel, devoted wife to husband Lawrence (Larry) H. Wetzel and loving mother of four passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, in the care of Froedtert West Bend and Horizon Hospice staff, with her children by her side.

Rosemary was born in June 1, 1937 to the late Salomea “Selma” and John Reinhard in Wausau, WI, the youngest of six children. She is survived by her sister Phyllis Cooper of Wausau and sister-in-law June Reinhard of Medford, MA. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law on the Wetzel side, Peggy (Jeff) Lindsay of Sun City, AZ and Mary Lee Wetzel of Shelby Township, MI; as well as numerous nieces and nephews on both the Reinhard and Wetzel sides.

In 1958, she met and fell in love with Larry, and on November 22nd of that same year they were united in marriage. They made their home in Milwaukee, eventually moving to West Bend in 1973 where they brought up their family and remain to this day. The family were long time parishioners of Holy Angels, where all four children graduated grade school. The tradition would continue with her youngest grandson, Christopher, also graduating from there this past spring. Despite advancing health issues, she happily attended his graduation and was exceedingly proud of him. Rosemary worked outside the home as well, retiring from West Bend Company in 1999 after 26 years.

She is the cherished Mother to Denise (Neal) Stoffel of Campbellsport, Michael (Julie) of Winneconne, and Scott (Linda) of West Bend. Her youngest son, Chris, preceded her on this journey, passing away July of 2022 after a lengthy illness. She is the much-loved grandma to eight and grandma-great to eleven.

She often enjoyed a Friday afternoon out with the girls or a lunch or visit with longtime friends who started out as neighbors but became near and dear to the heart. She also took pleasure in bingo, puzzles, and a good chat with the ladies of her condominium complex. On her own, Rosemary was an avid Brewers fan, excitedly watching them win this year’s division title, as well as being a voracious reader. Thanks to her son Scott, who taught her how to use an iPad and iPhone, she stayed connected to family members and friends when health issues restricted her outings.

Her passing leaves a hole in many hearts, she will be remembered by each person whose life she touched as a strong, supportive, loving, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, or friend. A celebration of her life will be held on a yet to be determined date.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Rosemary’s arrangements. Additional information and Tribute Wall may be found at myrhum-patten.com.