Herbert L. Warax

Herbert Lee Warax

January 16, 1947 – July 21, 2026

Herbert Lee Warax, age 79, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Herb lived a life defined by service, commitment, hard work, and love. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1969, serving during the Vietnam War. After entering the Army, Herb demonstrated leadership and dedication, serving as a squad leader and ultimately earning the rank of Sergeant. His military service reflected the values he carried throughout his life—honor, courage, responsibility, and commitment to others. His family will always be proud of his service and grateful for the sacrifices he made for our nation.

Following his military service, Herb returned home, where he met the love of his life, Sue. Their relationship grew into a lifelong partnership, following their marriage in 1970. Together, they shared more than four decades of marriage built on love, loyalty, faithfulness, and a commitment to one another through all of life’s joys and challenges.

Herb and Sue made their home in Waupaca, Wisconsin, where they raised their family and created many cherished memories. Herb was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He believed in working hard, keeping his word, and being there for the people he loved.

Herb spent many years working at Waupaca Foundry as a mill cup grinder and forklift driver until his retirement in 2008. He took pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment to providing for his family.

To his children, Herb’s greatest gift was his steady presence. He showed his love through his actions—supporting his family and showing up when he was needed. His quiet strength and dependable nature left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

After Sue’s passing and as Herb’s health began to decline, he moved to the Wisconsin Veterans Home. Although this was a new chapter in his life, Herb found comfort, support, and friendship there. He received exceptional care from the staff, who treated him with compassion, dignity, and kindness. He formed new friendships and found a sense of belonging in his new home.

Even as his health declined, Herb continued to make the people he loved a priority. He stayed closely connected with his family, offering support, encouragement, and friendship. Through conversations and the time, they shared together, he continued to remind his loved ones they mattered to him. His ability to stay connected and care for others, even during difficult times, showed the depth of his love and the strength of his spirit.

Herb is survived by his children and their spouses: Scott Warax (Kathy), Patty Buchholz (Brett), and Casey Warax (Shana); his grandchildren Jakob, Brooklyn, Bailey, Madison, Hunter, Owen, Ava, Michael, Landry, Taylor and Eli; extended family; and many friends who were blessed to know him. He is also survived by his sisters, Barb Koehler (Jerry) and Cathy Mann.

He was welcomed into eternal rest by his beloved wife, Sue Ellen Warax; and his son, Kevin Lee Warax. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eglin Littleton and Goldie Mae Wright along with siblings: Fannie Conley (Marion), Jaunita Warax, Curtis Warax, Marie Rayburn (James), Bert Warax (Jean), Thelma Warax, Edna Lay, and Louis Littleton (Sandy).

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Wisconsin Veterans Home for the exceptional care, compassion, friendship, and support they provided Herb throughout his time there.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Maple Crest Funeral Home in Waupaca on Thursday, July 30, 2026.  A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. following visitation.  Military honors will be rendered at Crystal Lake Cemetery following funeral service.  

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