Clarence John Puza

Clarence John Puza, fondly known as “Buck,” age 74, passed peacefully Friday morning, June 28, 2024 at home by the side of his loving wife Susan Puza. He was born in Laona on May 17, 1950 to Goldie and Albert Puza. Clarence and Susan raised three beautiful daughters Leslie, Laura and Kerry as well as their son, Phillip. 

He was a graduate of Rhinelander High School in 1970.

Following high school Clarence served our country for six years and fought in the Vietnam War as an Air Force Staff Sergeant. Upon his honorable discharge he returned home and became a critical member of the firefighting team at Rhinelander Fire Department for over 31 years. Six of those years as Assistant Fire Chief. Other titles acquired by Clarence included Chief of the Oneida County HazMat Team and Deputy Director of the Oneida County Emergency Management. Clarence has done all with dignity and pride however, his favorite role of all was undeniably the role of being a father and grandfather.

Clarence retired from the Rhinelander Fire Department at age 55. To say that he was an incredible father, grandfather and husband is an understatement. His hobbies followed him throughout his life including woodworking, fishing, hunting and cooking. He was always passionate about giving back to his community and was always the first to sign up or donate for community, church and school activities.

Clarence’s loving spirit is carried on by his soulmate of 53 years Susan Puza, his daughters Leslie Lehrer, Laura (Tom) Boutelle, Kerry (Eric) Hudgens, his 14 beautiful grandchildren Madison, Ashley, Valarie, Jacob, Elizabeth, Tori, Holly, Morgan, Josh, Dylan, Emily, Allie, Eli and Aidin, his sister Linda Meeks, his cousin Roger Puza, other family and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by son Phillip, parents Goldie and Albert Puza and grandparents.

Visitation for Clarence will take place from 10 a.m. to noon, with a Mass of Christian Burial following at noon, on Friday, July 5, 2024, all at the Nativity of our Lord Catholic Church in Rhinelander. Father Chris Kemp will be officiating. Interment will follow in the Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Cemetery. 

You may leave your private condolences for the Puza family at www.carlsonfh.com. 

The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is serving the Puza family.