Wilfred "Bill" Stai

Wilfred G. Stai, Jr., 81, of Chippewa Falls, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Gundersen Tri County Hospital in Whitehall, WI.

Bill was born to Wilfred and Alta (Hutchinson) Stai on February 3, 1943. He served his country with the US Army from September 1968 until his Honorable Discharge in April 1970.

He enjoyed playing cards, especially cribbage, collecting antiques racing, being outside and could not resist a “scratch off,” but most of all, he enjoyed fishing and hunting. All who knew Bill, know his stories were exciting to hear. With his white full beard, he was known as “Papa Smurf.”

Bill is survived by his sons, Jake (Amy Knutson) Stai and Jason Stai of New Auburn; siblings, Vicki Brunken of Boise, ID, and Wayne Stai of Forest Ranch, CA; along with many other loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Anita Saling, Lyle Stai, Theresa Voldness, and Jolene Peyton.

The interment with Military Honors will be at 12 noon on Friday, July 19, in the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Spooner, WI.