New update from bike shop - while getting ready to replace the spoke they noticed some of the eyelets on the rim pulling through... however, they have a NOS Wolber Super Champion 27" 40 hole rim in stock, so they're going to rebuild the wheel with new (straight 14ga) spokes and new rim.
So it's going to be new rim, new spokes, and new freewheel! Whew. At this point I really hope the hub is going to last!
(and yes, it's a rebuild with 27", but since they have a nice NOS rim for a reasonable price on hand, and the front will remain 27", I figured it made sense to go with that. Also I ordered a pair of 27" tires last night, so I'm somewhat committed to that diameter for now!!!)