Gerald F. Henke, age 85, passed away on Saturday, January 5, 2019 in Sun City West, Arizona. He was born on August 21, 1933 in Racine. Preceding him in death was his wife, Patricia E. Henke, who passed away in 2014. They both retired to Arizona together in 1998.
Gerald attended Gilbert Knapp Elementary School and graduated from Washington Park High School. He married Patricia on July 9, 1955 in Racine. His early career was spent at Gorton Machine, followed by his shift into another field with his work as a purchasing agent. He later developed a successful sales career with positions at Neenah and Grede Foundries. He was also a member of the Wisconsin National Guard. In his free time, he enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Cubs. But his primary passion was the sport of golf. Also, he was a committed member of several churches, including St. Edwards, St. Mary’s, St. Lucy, and Prince of Peace Catholic Church.
Gerald’s surviving family members include his children, Paul (Lisa) Henke and Kathy Ross; grandchildren, Jake Henke, Sarah Henke, Ryan Sebastian, and Talor Keen; great- grandson, Connor Henke; brother, Ralph (Jackie) Henke of Knoxville, TN; and sisters, Doris LaBrasca and Cheryl King of Racine, WI. Additionally, his nieces, nephews, other relative and friends survive him. Gerald was also preceded in death by his parents Antoinette Henke and Clifford Henke who passed away at the astonishing age of 109; mother-in-law, Ruth Sime; and son-in-law, Brian Ross.
There will be a funeral service on Saturday, January 19, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home. Friends and relatives can meet with the family from 10-11 a.m. Entombment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park.