Elroy Mathisen

Elroy Mathisen, age 81, of Antigo died Thursday, February 25, 2021 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Elroy was born September 24, 1939 in Mattoon to the late Chester and Edith (Bortz) Mathisen. On May 25, 1963 he was united in marriage to Fern (Bruening) Bolen. She preceded him in death on August 21, 2009. Elroy was a milk hauler, dairy farmed and was a truck driver for many area companies. For many years, Elroy and Fern hauled and sold Christmas trees in New Orleans for the Gress’s Evergreen Nursery. He served in the Army National Guard. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Polar and then Calvary Lutheran Church in Antigo. Along with other church members, Elroy kept a long-standing tradition of gathering for breakfast at The Farmer’s Home following church services. He served as the sexton for St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery for over 30 years. Elroy was a member of the Benevolent Order of ELKS, enjoyed bowling, and his many circles of friends who he enjoyed getting together with at Reif’s and BB Jacks. He was an avid Green Bay Packer and Milwaukee Brewer fan. His family was most dear to him and he had a knack for remembering everyone’s birthday. Survivors include his significant other, Betty Wolf, his children; Ginanne (Walter) Blanc of Cape Coral, FL, Tina (Floyd) Brandt of Bryant, Penny Bolen (significant other Brian Summ) of Antigo, Chris “Cubby” Bolen (significant other Linda Schulz) of Bryant, Tim (Jean) Bolen of Antigo, Rick (Michele) Bolen of Waupaca, a brother; Harvey (Ellen) Mathisen of Rhinelander, a sister; Merilee (Jerome) Omernick of Auburn, WA, 14 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 9 at 2:00 PM at Calvary Lutheran Church. Vicar Jennifer Sosinski will officiate. Visitation will be prior to the service at the church from 10:00 AM until the service. A celebration of Elroy’s life will be held in the summer along with interment at Polar Cemetery. Memorials in Elroy's name may be directed to the Antigo Food Pantry. https://www.antigofoodpantry.com/.