Mary Jane Opper

Mary Jane Opper of Wausau, passed away on June 15th, 2024, in the care of Compassus Hospice and surrounded by Family and people whom loved her dearly. She was born on February 25, 1947, in Birnamwood, WI. Daughter of Martha and Lawrence Miller. On November 26, 1964, she married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, David Opper at St. Florian's Catholic Church in Hatley, WI. Together they had one son, Tracy Opper, who proceeded her death on December 5, 1988. 

Mary Jane and David owned and operated "Cheers Bar" on Thomas St. in Wausau, from 1987 until 2019 when it was demolished by the city with a road project. Mary Jane will be remembered for her lively and tenacious spirit, sparkling eyes, flashy smile, her love for people, flowers, animals, rip tickets, and a cold Bud Light. Mary Jane was truly one of a kind. Anyone that knew her, knew that she could take anything, make it her own and shine. Even her Goodwill and antique finds. She will also be remembered for her kind and giving nature. 

Survivors include her two grandchildren, Ashley (Mike Lewitzke), Wausau and Tabatha (Jacob Wright), Wausau, Her sister Minnie Miller, Birnamwood, along with six great grandchildren, Ethan, Evan, Lucas Lewizke, Keeton Opper, Brayson and Bryar Wright, of Wausau. 

Funeral Service will be held on Thursday June 20, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Helke Funeral Home (302 Spruce Street, Wausau WI 54401). Fr. Samuel Martin will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday June 20, 2024, from 10:00 AM until the hour of service at Helke Funeral Home. Entombment will be held at Restlawn Memorial Park at 1:00 PM.

A Special Thank You to the staff at Compassus Hospice and a dearly loved family friend Tammie Gordon for their comfort and care of Mary Jane.