Donna R. Skrzypchak, age 80, of Weston, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026, while under the compassionate care of Interim Hospice at Primrose Memory Care in Weston. Her passing brings deep sadness to her family and friends, yet they take comfort in knowing she is reunited with loved ones who went before her. Donna lived a life marked by devotion, hard work, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Born on June 20, 1945, in Wausau, Donna was the daughter of the late Delbert and Marion (Gavitt) Sickler. She married the love of her life, David Skrzypchak, on October 2, 1965, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in the town of Cassel. Their marriage was a partnership built on faith, family, and unwavering commitment. David preceded her in death on March 6, 2024, and the family finds solace in knowing they are now together again. Donna devoted her early married years to caring for her home and raising her children, creating a warm and loving foundation that shaped her family for generations.
Donna’s work ethic was one of her defining qualities. After graduating from Wausau High School, she moved to Milwaukee, where she worked in a cookie factory before returning home to raise her family. When her youngest child began school, she reentered the workforce at Tupperware/Lakeland Sales, where she spent 14 dedicated years. Later, she found her true professional home at IGA in Rib Mountain, serving as Assistant Deli Manager for 18 years. Her coworkers and customers alike admired her dependability, kindness, and the pride she took in her work. Donna retired with a legacy of service and community connection that will long be remembered.
Beyond her work, Donna’s heart was always in the kitchen. Cooking brought her immense joy, and she loved preparing meals for family gatherings, holidays, and everyday moments that became cherished memories. She enjoyed bowling with her league, sharing laughter and camaraderie with her closest friends. A proud member of the Red Hat Society, she embraced fun and friendship wherever she went. Casino trips with her sisters and friends were among her favorite adventures, and she never passed up a good shopping trip—especially when she could find a bargain. Donna’s warmth, humor, and love for life made her a joy to be around, and she will be remembered for the happiness she brought to others.
Donna is survived by her daughters, Carla Bertram of Schofield and Candice (Todd) Wetzel of Schofield; her grandchildren, Jacklyn (Peter) VanNortwick, Vince (Amy) Bertram, and Lucas and Olivia Koch; and her great‑grandchildren, Jack and Benjamin Bertram. She is further survived by her sister, Cheryl (Jim) Buttke of Wausau; her brother, Loren Sickler; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, David; her sisters, Merna (Dave) Kleman and Joan (Sid) Hunter; and two sons‑in‑law, Roger Bertram and Todd Koch. Each of these relationships shaped her life in meaningful ways, and her memory will continue to live on through those who loved her.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St. Therese Catholic Church in Rothschild, with Rev. Janusz Kowalski presiding. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Kronenwetter. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is assisting the family with arrangements. Donna’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Primrose Memory Care for the loving, compassionate care they provided over the past three years. Their kindness brought comfort and dignity to Donna’s final chapter, and the family will forever be grateful.