Ann "Annie" Adams Obituary

Ann "Annie" Adams, 86, of Wausau, died Aug. 4, 2025, at home after a brief illness, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born Sept. 24, 1938, in Iola, Wisconsin, to Walter and Geneva Adams. She spent much of her childhood in Big Falls and Three Lakes, and graduated from Marion High School before moving to Milwaukee, where she spent her entire career working at Allen-Bradley. In a time when women rarely worked on the factory floor, Annie not only succeeded but advanced to become a floor forewoman, earning the respect of her colleagues. After retirement, she moved first to Clintonville and then to Wausau to be closer to her family.

Annie's life was defined by creativity, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to the people and animals she loved. A gifted artist, she was known for her intricate wood carvings and vibrant paintings, many of which she gave as treasured gifts to family and friends. She was active in the local art community, winning several awards for her work, and she encouraged others to pursue their own creative paths. She was also musically talented, playing the ukulele and singing beautiful alto harmonies with her sister, Patricia. Together, the two often performed as children onstage at Marty's Show Boat at the Northernaire, much to the delight of the resort's summer residents.

She was a lifelong sports enthusiast, playing on numerous women's softball teams in Milwaukee, beginning with Allen-Bradley's team and continuing with other local teams. Her skill on the field and her camaraderie with teammates forged friendships that endured for decades. Later, she took up golf and enjoyed the game for many years and could often be found spending her mornings on the links at the Rib Mountain Golf Course. She mowed her lawn, shoveled her walk and stacked her own wood well into her 80s, and found great joy in her garden.

Annie's compassion extended to animals of all kinds. She cared for countless pets throughout her life - dogs Kelly, Luke (Bear) and Kori, and cats Heidi, Precious, Sydney, Kali and Kallie among them - and always made sure the neighborhood's stray cats had food. Her home was a haven for animals and a welcoming place for family and friends alike.

Those who knew her say that once Annie was your friend, she was your friend for life. She accepted people exactly as they were, without question or judgment, and her deep sense of loyalty left a lasting mark on everyone she knew.

She was preceded in death by her sister Patricia (Skola) Metter; brother-in-law William Metter; former brother-in-law Frank Skola; and niece Krista (Skola) Salas.

Survivors include her son, Scott Reuss (Andrew Brenan) of Sacramento, California; nephew David Skola (Lori Napstad) of Wausau; nieces Wendy Skola (Dave Ermeling) of Big Falls and Shereen Siewert (Darren Siewert) of Wausau; extended family Rowan Flynn, Devon Flynn (Linda) and Franklin Flynn, Megan Hibbard (Dan Castro,) and Aidyn Dorzok; and many friends and neighbors.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Compassus Hospice and Cornerstone Caregiving for their exceptional care and attention during Annie's final days.

As she wished, no funeral will be held. A private family burial will take place at a later date, with her cremains laid to rest at Peaceful Pines alongside her beloved animals.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to the Adams County Humane Society.

Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society is currently assisting the family. Online condolences can be made at MWCS.WS.