Carl and Darlene Slagle, of Birnamwood, were welcomed into the arms of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Inseparable in life, Carl and Darlene entered their heavenly home in the same manner. They were beside one another with hands held as each crossed the threshold into eternity at Aspirus Hospital Wausau. Family was their “world,” so it seemed fitting that their final breaths were taken in the midst of their dearly loved daughters, grandchildren and those grafted into the tight-knit circle through marriage.
Carl Henry Slagle was born July 20, 1945, in Park Falls, the son of Guyrus and Clara (Sonto) Slagle. Carl graduated from Park Falls High School in 1963 and later from Northcentral Technical College in 1965, with an associate’s degree in mechanical design.
After graduating from NTC, Carl was drafted into the U.S. Army and proudly served during the Vietnam conflict as a pharmacy specialist. Shortly after the conclusion of military service, Carl returned home to marry the love of his life, Darlene Seehafer, on Feb. 16, 1968.
Although Carl made a living in the industrial field and later by operating his own home inspection service, he made a life through his commitment to faith and family. He devoted his years to serving others through his steadfast faith. In his early years, he taught Sunday school and volunteered as a youth group leader at his church. In his later years, he encouraged his children and grandchildren in their walks of faith.
Carl enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening, often sharing these activities with those he loved most. Carl was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa and friend to many. His kind and gentle spirit reflected the love of Christ in all his relationships.
Darlene Ruth Slagle was born Dec. 28, 1948, in Wausau, the daughter of William and Loretta (Hintz) Seehafer. Darlene graduated from Wausau East High in 1967. She met her lifelong love, Carl, at the age of 15 after spotting him strolling downtown Wausau and following him back to his apartment. Since that first meeting, Carl and Darlene were inseparable.
Darlene longingly waited for Carl to return from military service before joining him in marriage soon after Valentine’s Day in 1968. Two daughters – the result of their love story – followed shortly after. Darlene devoted her years to her home, husband and children before entering the retail work world.
With Carl’s support, she operated Once and Again Consignments in Birnamwood for over 24 years. Darlene loved the consignment world, working closely with her vendors and enjoying those who frequented the shop. She considered them all her friends and took immense joy in the conversations she had with each. Darlene enjoyed decorating, thrifting, and crafting, but her Savior Jesus was nearest to her heart. Like Carl, she too loved her God and family fiercely.
Carl and Darlene are survived by their daughters, Tammy (Jeremy) Strassburger and Tina (Mario) Meverden; their grandchildren, Jacob (Taneal) Strassburger, Tiffany (Larry) Daffinson, Zachary (Jessica) Strassburger, Sawyer Meverden, Hudson (Kristi) Meverden and Lincoln (Anna) Meverden; their great-grandchildren, Noelle Strassburger, Elora Strassburger, Loretta Strassburger, Porter Daffinson, Clara Daffinson, Oliver Daffinson, Ivory Strassburger, Luke Strassburger, Laine Meverden and Maisie Meverden; brothers and sisters, Shirley Erickson, Helen Dezotell, Gary (Sandy) Slagle, Mary Literski, Doris Springer and John Seehafer; sister-in-law, Molly Seehafer; and many nieces and nephews.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Larry Erickson.
Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Gerald Seehafer and James Seehafer; brothers-in-law, George Literski and Rick Springer; and sister-in-law, Elaine Seehafer.
A celebration of Carl and Darlene’s life will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Lisa’s at Lakeside, 214857 County Road Y, Hatley, WI 54440. The memorial service will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a luncheon to conclude at 3 p.m.
Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at www.ascendweston.org.
