John Willard Henke passed into Eternal Life with our Lord and Savior on July 17, 2011. He had been under the care of his family, caregivers and Ministry Hospice. He was born in Evanston, IL., on July 22, 1941, a son of the late Willard L. and Edna Margaret (Everson) Henke.
John married his High School sweetheart Marilyn Trzebiatowski on October 7, 1961. John spent many hours building race sleds with his son Steve and Grandson, John. He enjoyed long road trips with the racing team every winter. He also loved watching his granddaughters Ashley and Miranda race go-karts. He enjoyed fishing, construction/service work and helping those in need. John owned and operated Henke Radio & TV in Nelsonville, Pete’s Construction and Energy Wise Insulation. He was member of Highland Church in Plover. John was a former member and Chief of Nelsonville/Town of Amherst Fire Department.
Survivors include his Wife: Marilyn Henke, Stevens Point, WI; Children: John (Eileen) Henke, Austin, TX; Steven (Lisa) Henke, Amherst Jct., WI; Jill (Chris) Gamm, Bonduel, WI; 8 Grandchildren: John, Teressa, Ashley, Miranda, Amanda, Sean, Shelia and Ian. One Great Grandchild, Ace. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial Services will be held at Highland Church, Plover, WI., at 11 am on Friday, July 22nd, 2011, with Rev. Daniel C. Winkelman, officiating. Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4 – 7 pm at Highland Church and on Friday, one hour prior to the service at the church. The Jungers-Holly Funeral Home of Amherst is assisting the family with arrangements.
The family would like to thank his caretakers Laurie, Bonnie, Irene, Jackie and Susie. His Respitory Therapist, Matt and Ministry Hospice for taking such great care of John. Our hope is that in John’s memory, each one of us will use our special gifts to serve others whose need is greater than our own.