Wausau – Delmar Michlig, 78. Wausau, died Sunday, November 29 at Wausau’s Aspirus Hospital. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Phyllis, and his children John (Jackie), JoAnn, and Jim (Laura). Delmar was Grandpa to Aaron, Alexandra, Zoey, Nadine, Ben, and Brittney.

Born on August 30th, 1942, Delmar was one of seven children, and the last of his siblings to be born at the residence of his parents, Alex and Dorothy. The extended Michlig family enjoys a close relationship; Delmar is survived by his brothers Alan and Ronald, and will be missed by many nephews and nieces.

He attended St. Michael’s grade school, followed by Wausau High School. Del enjoyed sports, batting left and throwing right on Wausau’s city softball team. Later, he was a member of the St. Michael’s dartball team.

Delmar got his driver’s license in a Canteen Vending truck, working for the company (later called G&B Vending) until his retirement in 2007. The businesses on “The Route” got to know Del very well, as he was generous with a candy bar and/or soda – as well as a smile and conversation – for anyone he met while doing his rounds and keeping Wausau’s vending machines full. In fact, upon his retirement Kolbe and Kolbe Millwork, one of Del’s regular stops on “The Route,” threw a celebration for him as though he was one of their own.

Del was a friend to many, with an easy smile and the ability to maintain perspective regardless of circumstances. He cherished time with his children and grandchildren; they are blessed forever with a fantastic role model for his humble demeanor, positive outlook, and incredible work ethic.

Memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association in Delmar’s name are appreciated.

The funeral service will be livestreamed on the PetersonKraemer Facebook page at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 or available to view on the funeral home website.   While we mark Delmar’s passing via the internet in response to the current health crisis, friends can be assured that an in-person gathering and celebration of Delmar’s life will occur once the current pandemic passes.