Doralene M. Zunker

Doralene Mildred Zunker, age 83, of Wausau, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Wellington Place in Wausau, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. She was born on February 6, 1943, to the late Ewald and Laura (Dehnel) Raddatz, in Wausau. Doralene attended and graduated from Wausau High School. She met the love of her life, Roger Zunker, and the two lovingly exchanged marriage vows on October 22, 1966 in Wausau. Sadly, he preceded her in death on February 22, 2003.

Doralene worked as a teletype operator with Wausau Insurance for many years, until her retirement. In her younger years, she looked forward to getting outside and go fishing, and canning some of her homegrown vegetables. Doralene enjoyed being out in her flower gardens and keeping her yard tidy. She also would go and help her son, Todd with his bloodhounds from time to time. Doralene was honored to participate in her husbands Veterans Honor Flight ceremony. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed hosting gatherings with family and friends. Doralene loved shopping, and would go to as many farmers markets as she could! Going to the grocery store was also a favorite of hers. Doralene had a strong faith in God and was dedicated member of her church. She was a silly, funny and witty lady that will be missed dearly by her friends and family.

Doralene leaves behind her son: Todd (Cherie) Zunker of Wausau, grandson: Zachariah Zunker (Anna Schmelling) of DeForest, WI, with 2 great granddaughters: Kayleigh and Addison Zunker. She is further survived by her sister: Joann Schleif of Merrill and nephew: Darren (Chelsey) Schleif of Merrill. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Roger Zunker, infant brother: Kenneth Raddatz, nephew: Dwight Schleif and brother-in-law: Dennis Schleif.

The funeral service for Doralene will be held on Friday, October 13, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wausau. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the church. Burial at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service.

The family would like to express a sincere thank you to the wonderful and caring staff with Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services and Wellington Place, as well as the support from the Trinity Lutheran Church clergy.

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