Orpha J. Baier
Orpha J. Baier, age 64 of Eau Galle, died Thursday, January 22, 2015 at her home in Eau Galle with her family by her side after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Orpha was born on February 3, 1950 in Black River Falls. She was the daughter of Richard and Jean (Rush) Easterson. Orpha grew up in the Alma Center area and later moved with her family to Augusta where she graduated from Augusta High School. After high school, Orpha graduated from college in LaCrosse to be a dental assistant. Orpha met the love of her life, Roger Baier at the Northern Wisconsin State fair in Chippewa Falls, showing cattle. They were married on June 27, 1970 in Augusta. After marriage, they made their home in Eau Galle where Orpha and Roger farmed and raised their family. Orpha taught First Communion at St. Henry’s for many years. She was also a 4-H Leader for the Missouri Valley 4-H Club for over 15 years. Orpha was an active member of St. Henry’s Catholic Church, serving as the secretary, singing in the choir, Director of Religious Education, and the PCCW. Orpha was the Postmaster in Eau Galle for over 10 years.
Orpha enjoyed bowling, gardening and feeding birds, especially Cardinals. She was the best wife, mom and granny. Orpha had a smile that lit up the room, was always willing to lend a helping hand and always gave the best hugs. Most of all, Orpha loved to spend time with her family and friends, especially her “grandbabies.”
Orpha is survived by her husband of 44 years, Roger; her children, Joe (Becky) of Elmwood; Wendy (Charlie) Gruber and Cindy (Rob) Prissel, both of Eau Galle, 13 grandchildren, Joseph; Reice; Maya; Luke; Izak; Hannah; Regan; Cecelia; Rylan; Gabriella; Gerard; Maria and Vincent, her father, Richard Easterson of Fall Creek; four sisters, Carol (Ron) Strauch of Augusta; Linda Hipkins of Atlanta, GA; Patricia (Larry) Schwoch of Augusta and Marcia (Joe) Bauer of Eau Galle, one brother, John (Jeanne) Easterson of Osseo, mother-in-law, Hester Baier of Eau Galle; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her mother, Jean Easterson; her Godsons, Brian Veenendall and Larry Lee Reckin and her father-in-law, Wayne Baier.
Memorial Services will be 11:00AM Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at St. Henry’s Catholic Church in Eau Galle. Rev. Al Jakubowski will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4-8 PM Monday at the Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand and one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday.
Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.