Brooke Elizabeth Sholar, age 51, of Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away on October 11, 2026. Born on September 22, 1975, in Wausau, Brooke was a feisty, independent woman who lived life on her own terms.

As Brooke said, "I am in a wheelchair. It is what I have, not who I am." She carried that outlook throughout her life, refusing to let others define what she could accomplish. At just 20 years old, Brooke moved into her own home, arranged her own care, and lived independently for 20 years. She held jobs, found love, enjoyed going out, and took pride in making her own decisions and directing her own care. By all accounts, she lived a very full life.

Brooke had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her beloved dogs, Carrie and Bella. She cherished her time at Camp Wawbeek in Wisconsin Dells and enjoyed painting, attending festivals and concerts, particularly those featuring country rock music. Music was an important part of Brooke's life, and she chose Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" as her love song. She also enjoyed listening to Conway Twitty's "It's Only Make Believe."

Brooke will be remembered for her feisty spirit, her independence, and her determination to live life her way. She leaves behind a lasting reminder that a meaningful life is not defined by what others believe is possible, but by the experiences we embrace, the love we share, and the choices we make along the way.

Brooke is survived by her mother, Arlene Londerville; her stepfather, John Londerville; her sister, Amy Literski; her niece and nephew, Adam (wife Lydia) and Kasey (husband Peter); her sister, Jennifer Saxe (husband Patrick); her aunt, Cathy Wettberg, and her son, Vinny; and her dear friend, Shelly Van Der Weerd.

She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Sholar, and her uncle, Dale Kuivanen.

A small family memorial will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a local humane society in honor of Brooke's love for animals.

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Wausau is honored to assist Brooke's family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.helke.com.