WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — Former coworkers of Neena Pacholke have started a GoFundMe account to help cover her final expenses following her death last weekend.
The fundraiser blew by its initial goal of $5,000 in the first few hours, and since Tuesday morning has grown to over $11,000. Former WAOW anchor and reporter Aly Peters organized the fundraiser, who was a close friend of Pacholke during her time at the station. She says after final expenses are paid, any extra funds will go towards mental health resources in the area.
Peters described her as “a force of kindness, and her laughter and smile were contagious. She was a beloved morning news anchor at WAOW in Wausau, Wisconsin and inspired her community with her storytelling and positivity.”
Those who wish to donate can click here.
Pacholke was the anchor for WAOW TV’s Wake Up Wisconsin and had served the station as a reporter and fill-in anchor as well. Family members say she died unexpectedly Saturday morning at the age of 27.
Funeral arrangements are pending. Pacholke leaves behind her parents, one sister, and fiance in addition to thousands of viewers across Central Wisconsin.
WAOW TV is planning more stories on the life and legacy of Pacholke later this week.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please utilize the numerous resources that are available in Central Wisconsin. WAOW TV has compiled a list of those here.
