Obit: Gehrke, Julius E. (1923 - 2013)

Contact: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org
 
Surnames: Gehrke, Holcombe, Tuthill, Wright, Wigstadt

----Source: Marshfield News Herald (Marshfield, WI) 06 May 2013

Gehrke, Julius E. (8 AUG 1923 - 3 MAY 2013)

Julius "Bud" E. Gehrke, age 89 of Colby, passed away Friday, May 3, 2013 at Clark County Health Care Center, Owen. A memorial service will be held 1 PM Wednesday, May 8, 2013 at the Maurina Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford. A visitation will be held Tuesday, May 7, 2013 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and from 11:30 AM Wednesday until the time of services at the funeral home in Abbotsford. Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery, Withee.

Bud was born August 8, 1923 to Ernest and Ruby (Holcombe) Gehrke in Longwood. He received his education at Longwood, Chili, and Hancock country schools. Bud served his country in the Army during World War II. Under General Patton's direction he fought in the European Theater and African Theater. Bud earned a purple heart, two bronze stars, and many more awards during his service.

Bud and Opal "Carlene" Tuthill were joined in marriage on June 28, 1951 in Kenosha, WI. He worked in a factory and drove forklift in Kenosha and later drove truck. After moving to Colby he farmed and was a janitor for 15 years at Abby High School. After retiring he delivered parts for Ron Lindgren Auto Repair.

Bud enjoyed playing cards, pitching horseshoes, rolling dice, bingo, listening to polka, hunting, and tinkering in his garage. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family especially his grandchildren.

Bud is survived by his wife, Opal, his daughters: Julia Wright of Marshfield, Deborah Chandler of Madison, and Donna (Daniel) Wigstadt of Dorchester; his 11 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and one great great-grandchild. Bud is further survived by his brothers, Alfred Gehrke of Owen and Allen Gehrke of Fort Meyer, FL.

Bud is preceded in death by his parents, his son, Russell Gehrke, his grandson, Matthew Thomas, his sisters: Alice Gehrke, Julia Gehrke, Margaret Holmes, and Grace Boyles; and his brothers: Lewis Gehrke, Paul Gehrke, Russell Gehrke, and Donald Gehrke.

Maurina Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences can be made to www.maurinaschilling.com