Schoepke, GalenGalen R. Schoepke, 88, Birnamwood, died Sunday, August 27, 2017 at his home under the care of his family and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.He was born on October 16, 1928 in St. Paul, MN, the son of the late Daniel and Elizabeth (Brettin) Schoepke.On January 7, 1967, Galen was united in marriage to Kathleen Vogel at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau. She survives.The couple lived in Wausau until the mid 1990's when they moved to the Birnamwood area. Galen worked at the former Drott JI Case until his retirement in 1990.Galen was a true sportsman and enjoyed fishing and hunting. Known as a jack of all trades, Galen could build just about anything. He enjoyed motorcycles and spending time at Wildlife Campground but most important was the time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.Galen is survived by his wife, Kathy Schoepke of Birnamwood; children, Michael (Linda) Schoepke of Wausau, Randy (fiancé Diane Fandrey) Schoepke of Winter, Todd (Michelle) Schoepke of Birnamwood, Toby Schoepke of Wausau and Forest (special friend Connie Bricco) Schoepke of Birnamwood; 23 grandchildren; many great-grand children and great-great-grandchildren and his special dog, Abby.Galen was preceded in death by his parents; a son Errol; a daughter Linda; two grandchildren, Christie and Jason and two brothers, Clifford and LeRoy.A funeral service will be held at 11AM on Thursday, August 31, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Aniwa. Vicar Betty Wyatt will officiate. Interment will be in Union Cemetery, Aniwa. Visitation will be on Thursday from 9AM until the time of service at the church. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared at schmidtschulta.com and at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home on Facebook.The family would like to thank the nurse's and CNA's at Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice for their genuine care and compassion during Galen's final days.