In Remembrance

Joan Lynn Gehrke, affectionately known as “Joanie” to all who loved her,

peacefully passed away on Thursday, April 11, just a few days short of her 72nd Birthday.

Joanie was a resident of Eagle River, Wisconsin, for 10 y ears. She was born

and raised in New Berlin, Wisconsin, graduating from New Berlin West High School

with the class of 1970. Joan played clarinet and held the 1st chair in the high school band.

Many were unaware that she also played the accordion beautifully. Her mother always

loved hearing her play “Spanish Eyes.’

In her professional career, Joanie pursued nursing, graduating as an LPN from

Waukesha Technical College. She enjoyed a long and fulfilling career working at

Elmbrook Hospital (Brookfield, WI), Waukesha Memorial Hospital (Waukesha, WI),

Bannor Baywood Hospital (Mesa, AZ), and Milestone Nursing Home (Eagle River, WI).

Throughout the years, Joanie developed close friendships with her coworkers,

cherishing countless adventure and shared memories. She often referred to these

women as her family, holding them dear in her heart.

Joanie also had a profound love for animals, particularly her Labrador retrievers.

She relished the outdoors, spending time running with her dogs and feeding the deer.

Joan is preceded in death by her husband, Richard J Gehrke (2014), and her

loving parents, Pearl Florence (Yanske) and Max Dillon Darnell.  She is survived by

her devoted sister, Jean Darnell; her beautiful daughter, Amy, Lee; her two lovely

granddaughters, Maran and Abigail; her partner, David Hapka; leaves behind extended

family including many loving cousins and close friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate and skilled staff of

St. Luke’s Hospital, Duluth, MN Hospice for her end of life care.

In accordance with Joan’s wishes, a private celebration will be held with

immediate family and close friends. Memorial donations may be made to your

local animal shelter in memory of Joan L Gehrke.