Keith H. Hackbarth, of Tripoli, passed away Friday, June 24, 2022 at Rib Lake Health Service at the age of 93.
Keith was born April 9, 1929 in Wisconsin Rapids to Harold and Carolyn (Haza) Hackbarth. He grew up in Wisconsin Rapids and graduated from Lincoln High School. He played football and was a left-handed pitcher on the baseball team. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1948, training with the VC4 Nightcappers in Atlantic City, N.J. He served two tours of duty in Korean War, serving on the USS Bon Homme Richard and Leyte. He was an Aviation Electrician Chief and later served at Naval Air Stations in Glenview, Ill., Minnesota, and Olathe, Kan. He retired in October of 1970 after 22 years of Naval service.
Keith was married to Arlene “Pinch” Hackbarth on July 24, 1954 in Wisconsin Rapids. They were blessed with nine children. They moved to the Tripoli area in 1963. Following Navy retirement, Keith attended Nicolet Technical College, drove school bus and milk truck, worked security at Tomahawk Paper Mill, and was a Boy Scout leader. He enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling, Navy reunions, jig w puzzles, and family time.
Surviving Keith Hackbarth are seven children – Keith, Jr. (Pat) of California, William (Jennifer) of Rib Lake, Patty Whisenant of Madison, Claire Bernitt of Spring Valley, Alan (Cheryl) of Madison, Karl (Danette) of Knapp, Wis., and Jane (David) Dettmering of Prentice. He is further survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, a sister – Kay (Bob) Engel, a brother – Michael (Cindy) Hackbarth, and daughter-in-law – Edye Hackbarth.
Keith is preceded in death by his parents, wife – Pinch, daughter – Sandra Statz, son-in-law – Paul Statz, son-in-law – William (95) Whisenant, son – Lee, grand-daughter – Brandy Schafer, and great-granddaughter – Chelsea Statz.
Funeral Service for Keith Hackbarth will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at Krueger Family Funeral Home in Tomahawk. The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home Friday, July 8, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visitation will continue from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Krueger Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements. You may view the obituary and share online condolences at www.kruegerfamilyfuneral.com.