Herbert J. Schrankel

Herbert J. Schrankel, age 79, of Shell Lake, Wisconsin, passed away surrounded by love on Friday, April 3, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota. Herb, as he was fondly known to family and friends, was born on January 31, 1947, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, to Reinhold and Mabel Schrankel. He grew up in Shell Lake, attending local schools and graduating in 1965. After studying at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls for two and a half years, Herb returned home to help care for his father and continue the family farming tradition. His dedication and strong work ethic were evident from a young age, whether working on the farm, earning his cheesemaker license, or assisting the Wisconsin Department of Resources during his high school summers. On June 15, 1974, Herb married his beloved Linda (Soholt) at Lake Park Alliance Church in Shell Lake. Together, they built a life full of love, faith, and family. They were blessed with three sons, who brought joy, laughter, and purpose to their lives. In 1979, Herb purchased the family farm, continuing the work he loved and sharing it with those closest to him. Herb cherished time spent with his sons Todd and Chad, whether hunting, restoring tractors and trucks, or simply enjoying everyday moments together. The cattle had no fixed milking schedule, giving him the freedom to attend and fully support their football, baseball, and basketball games. Nine grandchildren brought him immense pride and delight—he loved teasing them, sharing outdoor adventures, and celebrating their achievements. Beyond his family, Herb found joy in his community and the friendships it brought. He loved visiting farm auctions, restoring John Deere tractors of all kinds, and making lasting connections with friends. Sports were a big part of his life—he played baseball, basketball, and football in high school, and continued playing city league baseball, men’s league basketball, and church softball as an adult. He was also a huge fan, always cheering for the Shell Lake Lakers, UW-Badgers, Green Bay Packers, and Milwaukee Brewers. Herb’s faith was important to him, and he was an active member of the Spooner Wesleyan Church, sharing his kindness and caring deeply for those around him. Herb’s life was one of love, laughter, hard work, and devotion to family and community. He will be remembered with gratitude, warmth, and joy by all who knew him. Herb is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Linda; his beloved sons Todd of Shell Lake and Chad (Katie) of Barronett; and his cherished grandchildren Conner, Kasey, Cole, Colby, Tatum, Jessica, Kylie, Tara, and Caleb. He also leaves behind brothers-in-law Jerry (Deb) Soholt of Sioux Falls, SD, and Jeff (Paula) Soholt of Plymouth, MN; brother Kenneth (Dawn) Schrankel of Bella Vista, AK; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his precious son, Travis John Schrankel; his parents, Mabel and Reinhold Schrankel; mother- and father-in-law, Joyce and Del Soholt; sister Bernice Fischer; and nephew Stephan Schrankel. Family and friends are invited to honor Herb’s life at the Spooner Wesleyan Church, with visitation on Friday, April 17, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, April 18, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. Pastor Ron Gormong will officiate. Pallbearers are Chad Schrankel, Todd Schrankel, Aaron Hubin, Josh Hubin, Taylor Hall, and Jack Harrington. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brately-Nelson Funeral Home, Spooner, Wisconsin.

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