Leona H. Beilke, (nee Hoepner), age 88, of West Bend, passed away on Sunday, March 25, 2007 at the Mayville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Mayville.
She was born on June 20, 1918, in Theresa, to the late John and Alma (nee Wagner) Hoepner. Leona was united in marriage to Gerhardt Beilke on September 5, 1939 in Huelsburg, Wisconsin. He preceded her in death on June 26, 1960. Over the coarse of her life, Leona worked in several cheese factories, and eventually was employed by the West Bend Company where she worked until her retirement. Leona enjoyed fishing, and will always be remembered for all of the wonderful meals she cooked and desserts she baked.
Leona is survived by her three children, Carolyn (Charlie) Schalinske of Iron Ridge, Gilbert (fiancAC.e Kim Bolander) Beilke of West Bend, and Gary Beilke of Iron Ridge; 14 grandchildren, Paul (special friend Kim) Schalinske of Mayville, Donald Schalinske of Mayville, Mary (special friend Mark) Schalinske of Mayville, Debbra Beilke of West Bend, Barbbra (special friend Pat) Beilke of Saukville, Terry (Wendy) Beilke of West Bend, Heather Beilke of West Bend, Richard (Vicki) Landrath of Hustisford, Kim (Gerry) Gremminger of West Bend, Fredrick (Tina) Landrath Jr. of West Bend, Lori (Ron) Shaver of Fond du Lac, Michael (special friend Erica) Landrath of Iron Ridge, Jessica (special friend Howard) Henderson of Michigan, Rebecca (special friend Jack) Edwards of Michigan. She is further survived by two brothers-in-law, Armond Wendegatz of Mayville, and Victor Bennett of Oconomowoc; and many other dear relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughter Joan, eight sisters, and two brothers.
In honor of Leona's wishes, a private family service will be held at a later date.