John W. Bliss

John W. Bliss, affectionately known as the “aging boy wonder” whose lifelong motto was “You can never have too much fun,” was joyfully reunited with the love of his life, Karen, on August 1, 2025.

Born in Rhinelander, on July 21, 1936, John graduated from Rhinelander High School with the Class of 1954. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959 at Fort Bliss, where he was twice honored as Soldier of the Month.

After returning to Rhinelander, John married Karen Soderlund and began an accomplished career in sales, starting with St. Regis Paper Company in 1969 and retiring from Georgia-Pacific in 1996. In retirement, he and Karen moved to Arizona, where they thrived through community service and deepened their shared passion for volunteerism.

John worked tirelessly for the Lions Foundation, serving for many years as president, and was a faithful and joyful bell-ringer for the Salvation Army each Christmas with his local Lions Club — always dressed in festive attire and ready with a smile.

John will be remembered as a people person, a lover of laughter, and above all, a devoted family man. He cherished his daughters, Kelly (Brad) Grant and Katerri (Will) Walters, who in turn blessed him with four beloved grandchildren: Erik (Lainey) Walters, Hunter (Jackie) Grant, Spencer (Liana Greene) Walters, and Colleen (Joe) Duda. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Logan, Liam, and Levi Grant. He is survived by his brother-in-law Greg (Mary) Soderlund, his sister-in-laws Jan (Keith) Gretenhart and Pamela Soderlund, and many loving nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John D. Bliss and Addie Straight Bliss Miller; his stepfather Jacob Miller; his in-laws Clarence and Doris Soderlund; his sisters Genevieve (Lawrence) Miller and Shirley (Joe) Miller; his brother-in-law David Soderlund; and 13 Miller step-siblings.

A lifelong, dyed-in-the-wool Green Bay Packers fan, John proudly became a season ticket holder in 1995 after nearly 20 years on the waiting list.

He lived a long, full life marked by humor, kindness, and an unwavering loving spirit — right up until the very end.

The family deeply appreciates your love, support, and memories shared in his honor. In lieu of flowers, consider giving your time, your laughter, or your heart to someone in need — just as John always did.

A private celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date with close family and friends. You may leave your private condolences for the Bliss family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home, 715-369-1414, is handling the arrangements for the family.