Beloved Merrill Native Carol Jean Raasch Passes at 74, Leaves Legacy

Sebring, Florida, USA - It is with heartfelt remembrance that we reflect on the life of Carol Jean Raasch, who passed away at the age of 74 on January 27, 2025, in Sebring, Florida. Coincidentally, this was also her birthday, a testament to a life celebrated with vibrance from its very start. Carol was born on January 27, 1951, in Merrill, Wisconsin, to Victor and Dolores Woller. She leaves behind a loving family, including her husband Gary Raasch, who was by her side when she passed, and her son Scott Terrance, along with a multitude of relatives and friends who will remember her fondly.

Carol’s journey through life was marked by many accomplishments and passions. After helping on the family farm during her younger years, she dedicated an impressive 44 years of her life to Wausau/Liberty Insurance before retiring and relocating to Florida. Her competitive spirit shone through in various activities, from softball to pool and darts, earning her reputation as a formidable opponent, often described as „The Polka Queen“ for her lifelong love of polka music.

A Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life is planned for July 12, 2025, at Willow Springs Garden in Wausau, from 9:00-11:00 AM. Friends and family are invited to gather and share their stories, laughter, and memories in honor of Carol’s legacy. Following this gathering, a private entombment service will take place at Merrill Memorial Cemetery, bringing a close to the chapter of a cherished life filled with joy.

Outside of her immediate family, Carol’s compassionate nature was evident in her love for all living things, perhaps reflecting a broader cultural theme where the importance of animal welfare is increasingly recognized. For instance, organizations like the Great Dog Rescue New England are reshaping narratives around dogs in need, as seen in their heartwarming story of a dog named Precious. Once a miserable stray, Precious has transformed into a healthy, happy pup ready for adoption thanks to dedicated foster care. This narrative mirrors the ongoing efforts within the broader dog adoption community, where many animals are given a second chance at life.

Statistics on Dog Adoption

The topic of dog adoption remains salient, particularly in light of the changing landscape of animal shelters across the nation. In the United States, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters in 2025, with approximately 2 million of those finding new homes. This is part of an ongoing effort to mitigate the overpopulation crisis in shelters—a mission that has seen significant progress over the last decade. In fact, the number of dogs euthanized annually has fallen sharply from 2.6 million in 2011 down to about 390,000 today.

The growing commitment to dog adoption is reflected in the heartwarming stories shared through social media, successfully promoting awareness and encouraging potential adopters to think about rescue. Campaigns are in place to combat issues like Black Dog Syndrome, which hinders the adoption of black dogs due to misconceptions. It’s clear that with community support and education, the fate of countless dogs can change for the better.

In Carol’s spirit of generosity and community, supporting local shelters through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word about the importance of pet adoption can make a meaningful difference. After all, nurturing a love for animals embodies values that transcend individual lives, tying us together in shared compassion.

In remembering Carol Jean Raasch, let us celebrate the impact she made during her time and the legacy she leaves behind—one that values family, friendship, and perhaps, most importantly, the love of all creatures great and small.