Clarence John “Pussy” Priem, 96, passed away peacefully on Feb. 25, 2015.
Clarence was born on March 20, 1918, in Washington Township, the son of John and Elsie Priem. On April 10, 1939, he was united in marriage to Elaine Hicks in the rectory of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano. He later converted to Catholicism and was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Clarence and Elaine shared their love for nature and hunting.
Clarence grew up on his family farm in Washington Township. In 1940, he began to work for Marigold Dairy, where he drove milk trucks for 40 years until his retirement. Clarence took time away from civilian life to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was an active member of Shawano VFW Post 117.
Clarence was an avid sportsman, enjoying both hunting and fishing. He loved his cabin up north on the Pine River, and he could be found there many weekends, enjoying time with his wife and beloved Labradors. Clarence was a member of the Shawano Archery Club and received a special award as an outstanding archer. He was member of Wisconsin Motorcycle Club and enjoyed riding his Harley nearly as much as he enjoyed “shining it up.” Many summer evenings Clarence could be found in the park watching baseball games. He was also an avid stock car racing fan. Nieces and nephews remember the endless teasing of their Uncle Pussy, who liked to smoke big cigars. When visiting the Priems on Sundays, he would often be found in the garage, waxing and shining up his motorcycle or truck. A snack with Uncle Pussy always included cheese and a good venison sausage from one of his many successful hunts. Other Sunday meals at the Priems often included bear, pheasant, partridge or fish from his many successful exploits.
Clarence is survived in death by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Clarence was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine; his parents; two brothers, Benjamin and Harvey; and his sister-in-law, Audrey.
A funeral Mass for Clarence Priem will be celebrated on Monday, March 2, 2015, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Luke Ferris will be the celebrant. Relatives and friends may call at Sacred Heart Catholic Church after 9 a.m. Monday until the hour of Mass. Interment will be at 1 p.m. in the parish cemetery. Shawano VFW Post 117 will conduct full military honors at the church.
Mickelson Funeral Service is assisting the family with the service arrangements.
Online condolences at may be shared www.mickelsonfs.com.
The family is very grateful and wishes to thank Debbie and David for all the attention, compassion and care they gave Clarence.