Doris M. Henke

Doris Henke of Fond du Lac passed away on June 26, 2009. She was 84 years young. On her last days, she still managed to touch the hearts of those who cared for her. The doctors and nurses often remarked on her strength, determination, and her relentless ability to smile. Doris was born on October 4, 1924, the daughter of the late William and Helen Engel. On July 22, 1950, Doris married Leo “Hans” Henke, Sr., and together raised three children, Leo, Jr., Jewel, and Brenda. Doris provided daycare for children in Oakfield and became a “second Mom” to many. It was common for many of them to stay connected with Doris through visits, phone calls, or invitations to celebrate a special day. Doris had many passions. She loved to make dessert bars and cookies; she loved giving them to neighbors and friends even more. She loved to walk and ride her exercise bike. The miles walked on the streets in the neighborhood were countless; the miles on her exercise bike were well over 20,000. Doris also loved spending time with her close friends and sister, Rosie, eating out, shopping and playing cards. If Doris were not involved with any of these passions, odds would have it that she would be reading another book. Doris is survived by her two loving daughters, Jewel Henke of Platteville and Brenda (Steve) Burbach of Plains, MT; a sister, Rosemary Zehren of Fond du Lac; grandchildren: Bronson Burbach, Josh (Danielle) Burbach, Kyle Burbach, Stacy (Scott) Zacharias, Lori Henke, Jim Pionke and Cory (Kelly) Henke; 10 great- grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; special friends: Elaine Schry, Nancy Gage and Evelyn Markhardt; and good neighbors who frequently gave a helping hand, especially Dave Steffens and Dale Nehls. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hans; her son, Leo, Jr.; three sisters: Flora, Angie and Theresa; two brothers: Harold and Elmer; and two great- grandchildren.The visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at Church of Peace United Church of Christ, 158 S. Military Road, Fond du Lac. The funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Church of Peace United Church of Chirst. Burial will be in Ledgeview Memorial Park at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday.

Doris M. Henke

October 4, 1924 - July 1, 2009