GRACE OKKERSE

Grace Okkerse, age 86, of Neenah died on Wednesday morning, July 8, 2015 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 1, 1929 in Melville, Saskatchewan, Canada, daughter of the late Theodore J. and Nellie (Pals) Van de Wint. Grace studied in Vancouver, BC; and went on to earn an Associate's Degree in music from Trinity College. In marriage she was blessed with three sons, a daughter, and 60 wonderful years. Music was a great part of Grace's life, she played the organ in many, many churches and taught piano lessons for many years. Grace's love for and faith in The Lord was always demonstrated and evident throughout her life. Her given name "Grace" was an apt description of what she brought to her life and all those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her genuine love and sincere care for others will be forever missed, but never forgotten by her family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth; her children: Mark Van de Wint (Susan Malton) Okkerse, Punta Gorda, FL, Jenelle Alyce Okkerse, Sacramento, CA, Philip James (Corinna Lynn) Okkerse, Sturgeon Bay, Christopher Lawrence (Kristine Marie) Okkerse, Menasha; grandchildren: Peter, Megan, Elliott, Salvatore, Michelle, Christina, Paul, Kenneth, Cara, Holly, Adam, Cassandra, Heather; 17 great grandchildren with one more on the way; sisters: Theresa Wolf, Los Angeles, CA, Alice Van de Wint, Richmond, BC. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Baudina. A Celebration of Grace's life will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Church (226 Washington Street, Menasha) with Fr. Ralph Osborne, Fr. Bill Johnston, and Fr. Ray Ryerson officiating. Friends will be received directly at the church from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of service. She will be inurned in the St. Thomas Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in her name. The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff at Island Shores for your awesome loving care and compassion; and also to the staffs of ThedaCare at Home Hospice and to Lakeland Family Services, thank you.