GERMAINE KOEPKE
October 18, 1928 - June 28, 2017
Obituary
Germaine Koepke (Balke), 88, died gently in her sleep Tuesday, June 27, 2017. Known throughout her life for her steadfast service to others and her positive can do attitude, she served as an inspiration and guardian angel to those in need and to those less fortunate. Her home, like her heart, was a living expression of love with its ever open doors and nourishment for all who entered. Avid protector of animals, knitter of countless blankets for the newborns and baker extraordinaire, she infused joy and happiness into many lives and her legacy will endure in the memories of all she touched.
Germaine was born in Big Falls, Wisconsin on October 18, 1928, the eighth of ten children of Benjamin and Pearl (McNutt) Balke. Beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and helper to all, she was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Daniel Koepke; her son James; sisters: Loraine, Betty, Mary; and brothers: Ronald and Benjamin. She leaves behind daughters: Marie (James) Walsh, Alice (William) Wylie; and son, Thomas (Linda) Koepke; daughter-in-law, Brenda Koepke; sister, Evelyn (Earl) Luebke; brothers: Roy (Betty), Gene (Elaine), and Donald (Barbara); six grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. All will miss her deeply and cherish her memory.
Germaine worked at Campbell's store in downtown Neenah and later as Welcome Wagon hostess for Neenah-Menasha and surrounding townships. Germaine loved music, having sung barbershop harmony with the Sweet Adelines (Kimberlaires) and with the Martin Luther Church choir for over 50 years. She sang solos for many weddings, funerals, and church services.
The Christian Funeral Service for Germaine will be held on Monday, July 3, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Martin Luther Church in Neenah (436 S. Lake Street) with Pastor Jason Oakland officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. directly at the church. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Oak Hill Cemetery in Neenah immediately following the service.
A lunch and celebration of Germaine's Life will be held at the Best Western Bridgewood Resort, Neenah (100 Cameron Way) at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fox Valley Humane Association.