Darrell Natzke

Obituary:

Darrell J. Natzke, 91 of Stanley, died Monday, February 16, 2026. He was born on September 20, 1934 at the Merrill hospital to the late Arthur and Laura (Kufahl) Natzke. His family moved to the Town of Thorp when he was a young man and he graduated from Thorp High School. Darrell went on to UW-Eau Claire and graduated with a degree in History.

Darrell worked for the family cheese factory as a licensed cheese maker: the Wild Cherry for many years and also helped his brother Clifford in the Refrigeration Business. He enjoyed talking about history and politics, and playing chess.

He is survived by his sister, Florence Kott of Stanley, sister in law, Ruth (Russ) Isenberger, favorite cousins, Steve Barlau and Doris Natzke and many nieces and nephews. Darrell is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Clifford, Allan, and Edward and sister, Betty Trenkle.

A memorial service will take place at 11AM on Friday, March 6, 2026 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church-Thorp with Pastor Phil Beukema officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at church. Inurnment will take place at the Restlawn Memorial Park-Wausau.