John W. Wantlin

John Waldon Wantlin, 80, of Withee, entered his Heavenly home, Friday, August 1, 2025, at Marshfield Medical Center.

John was born April 13, 1945, the son of George and Susan (Schindler) Wantlin in Norfolk, NE. He graduated from Norfolk High School. John was united in marriage to Lovey Anne Young, January 16, 1965, in Norfolk. The couple lived in Arcadia, WI, Fredonia, WI and Curtiss, WI. Lovey Anne passed away in 1999. John then moved to Withee.

John and Lovey Ann shared nearly 34 years of marriage. They owned the Hilltop Bar in Atwood from 1985 – 2001. John worked for Midland Co-Op in Arcadia, Boumatic in Curtiss and drove for Abby Vans of Neillsville for 30 years, retiring in 2022. He especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

John is survived by three children: Tina (Darrell) Erikson of Medford, Terrie Jo Kern (Kurt Marquardt) of Stratford and Tobin Wantlin (Deanna Schmelzer) of Owen; eight grandchildren: Amber, Whitney, Nate, Makayla, Parker, Christian, Evan and Gracie; 11 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his girlfriend, Verlaine Gaede; three sisters-in-law: Janice Utech, Paulette Rippley and Sheila (Mike) Hughes; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and two brothers: William “Bill” Wantlin and George E. Wantlin.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Owen is entrusted with the arrangements.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.