Dennis Schleif, 83, life-long resident of the Town of Pine River, passed away Monday, July 25, 2022, under the care of family and hospice at Pine Crest Nursing Home (Special Care), Merrill. Dennis was born on May 3, 1939, the only son of the late Reinhold and Mildred (Oldenburg) Schleif. He grew up on the family farm and graduated from Merrill High School in 1957. Dennis married Joan Raddatz of Wausau, June 27, 1970, leaving his employment at Marathon Electric and joining his wife in dairy farming for fourteen years. He then worked at Consumers Coop, Wausau Tile, and Wal-Mart maintenance. He also began making maple syrup; a production that kept going for twenty-five years, then transferred to his son. He was hardworking and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Dennis is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Joan, and their son, Darrin (Chelsey) Schleif; four grandchildren, Dante, Lincoln, Mayvree, and McCoy. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Dwight. The family wishes to thank Pine Crest Nursing Home staff and Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services for the care and support shown to Dennis and the family during his last days. The funeral service for Dennis will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, July 27, 2022, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. David Szeto will officiate. Burial will take place in Maple Grove Cemetery, Village of Maine, Marathon County. Visitation will be from 5:30 P.M. until 7:30 P.M. Thursday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and after 9:30 A.M. Friday at the church. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com