Wendy J. Denetz, age 70, of Tomahawk, Wis., passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at her home. Wendy was born in Chicago, Ill., to the late John and Margaret (Lambert) Spleha. She was married to Steven Denetz on June 7, 1975; he survives.
Wendy was a long-time resident of Tomahawk where she was well known as a devoted day care provider, beginning at Huggy Bears and as a preschool teacher with the Tomahawk Child Care for 25 years. Her compassion and dedication to the children in her care left a lasting impact on many families in the area. Because of this, she was awarded the 1999 Jaycees Tomahawk Employee of the Year. Wendy stayed active in the community as an assistant coach with the Basketball Backers and was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church. She later worked as a campground host and volunteer at the Council Ground State Park and most recently, worked side by side with her husband at Cheezes Enterprises and U-Haul.
Survivors include her husband of over 50 years, Steve Denetz, of Tomahawk; her son, Chris Denetz, of Tomahawk; along with her support dog, Moose; her brothers, David (Alexa) Spleha, of Bartlett, Ill., Gary (Delores) Spleha, of Rhinelander, Wis., and Robert (Stacy) Spleha, of Hazelhurst, Wis.; and her sisters, Janice (Robert) Frenkel, of Hortonville, Wis., and Trude Pophal, of Marcel, Minn. She is further survived by many special nieces and nephews and hundreds of children through day care.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Margaret; and her brother-in-law, David Pophal.
A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date and announced at that time.
Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Wendy’s obituary and leave online condolences at www.generationsfuneral.com.
