Charles E. Hanke, 87, Wausau, died Thursday, Aug. 11, 2011 at Colonial Manor Medical and Rehabilitation Center, Wausau.
Charles was born Dec. 8, 1923 in Marathon, son of the late Charles and Emma (Lenz) Hanke. He married the former Norma Bunge on May 20, 1950 at Zion Lutheran Church, Rib Falls. They later divorced. Norma survives.
His occupation included farming and later becoming a owner/operator of a pest control company. Charles was an avid Green Bay Packer supporter through the good and bad seasons. Other hobbies included the Milwaukee Brewers, dartball, hunting and fishing.
Survivors include his children: Dale ((Debra) Hanke, Athens, Karen (Russell) Faber, Merrill, Karla (John) Dymerski, Two Rivers, David (Mary) Hanke, Edgar, Darrell Hanke, Merrill, and Kathy Myers, Merrill; 18 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Charles is preceded in death by his parents, son Danny; granddaughter Danyelle; and sisters: Ella Bauman, Selma Jehn and Hertha Hanke.
A funeral service was held at Zion Ev. Lutheran Church, Town of Rib Falls, on Monday, Aug. 15. The Rev. Terry Reich presided. Burial followed in the church cemetery.
If desired, memorials are being accepted in Charles’s name to Zion Ev. Lutheran Church.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 6th Street, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.petersonkraemer.com.