Carol F. Gehrke, age 85, a Two Rives resident, died unexpectedly on Sunday morning, January 24, 2016 at Holy Family Memorial Medical Center, Manitowoc. She was born on November 6, 1930 in Oconto, daughter of the late Gustave and Zetta (DeHut) Ruelle. Carol was a graduate of Oconto High School with the class of 1949. On October 7, 1950 she married Clement J. Gehrke at St. Lukes Catholic Church , Two Rivers. Carol was employed with Paragon Electric as an assembler until her retirement in 1992. She volunteered at St. Vincent DePaul, Two Rivers and Meals on Wheels. Carol was a member of St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church. She was a greeter for many years, was a member of the Ladies Society and worked for funeral luncheons. Carol was also a member of the VFW. She loved animals. Especially birds, specifically cardinals and hummingbirds. She treasured her time spent with her great-granddaughter, who was the light of her life. Carol looked forward to decorating for Christmas every year. Survivors include her husband: Clement Gehrke, Manitowoc, one daughter: Sandra Fonda, Manitowoc; two granddaughters: Jennifer (Christopher) Cole, West Charlton, NY, Maribeth Fonda, Brattleboro, VT; one great-granddaughter: Kelsea Cole; one brother-in-law: Victor Taddy, Two Rivers; cousin and best friend: Marian Hearley, Two Rivers. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. She was also preceded in death by her parents: Gustave and Zetta Ruelle; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Clement and Evelyn Gehrke; two infant children: Lynn Marie and John Gehrke; one brother and sister-in-law: Lawrence and Eleanore Ruelle; one brother-in-law and two sisters-in-law: Frank and Nancy Gehrke, Sylvia Taddy; Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday morning, February 1, 2016 at The Klein and Stangel Funeral Home, Two Rivers. Officiating at the service will be Rev. William O'Brien with burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Two Rivers.

Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter Jan 27 2016