Lenore Rae Barnett

Lenore Rae Barnett, 76, of Wausau, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at Aspirus Hospice House in Wausau. She was born April 20, 1949, in Adams, WI to the late Wilbur and Doris Baughman, one of eight siblings. She graduated from Tri-County High School, Plainfield, WI.

Known for her humor and spirited nature, Lenore brought joy and laughter to all who knew her. Her quick wit and feisty personality, even in her final days, kept those around her captivated and smiling.

She had a passion for life’s simple pleasures: cheeseballs, Pepsi, sweet tea (made just right by her), books by Fern Michaels, Thomas Kinkade's art, and the occasional stint in Facebook jail. Her love for sunflowers and her remarkable talent for nurturing plants and flowers were unmatched, leaving a legacy of beauty in every bloom. Every sunflower will forever remind us of Lenore’s vibrant spirit. She will be deeply missed but eternally remembered by her family and friends.

She is survived by her children: Will Reid of New Prague, MN, Troy (Liz) Barnett of Chicago, IL, Stacey (Sarah) Barnett of Blaine, MN; 11 grandchildren: Kaitlin, Joseph, Noah (Madi), Drew (Liza), Keaton, Ben (Layne), Eloise, Alex, William, Owen, and Maggie; 1 great granddaughter: Ava; as well as 6 brothers and sisters: Jennifer (Greg) Comegys, Leslie (Nickii) Baughman, Kathleen Baughman (Jim McMillan), Leonard (Kathy) Baughman, Louis (Cindy) Baughman, Alicia (Tom) Dolezel; and special friend Dee Helmrick.

She was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather, Frank Voigtlander, daughter, Laurie LaCrosse, and her brother, Wilbur Baughman.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, June 7th, at 3:00 pm, at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St, Wausau, WI 54401. Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm until the time of the service.