Florence M. Heinritz

HEINRITZ, FLORENCE M.

Florence Heinritz, of Appleton, age 86 years, died peacefully with her family by her side on Thursday, December 20, 2007 at St. Elizabeth Hospital. She was born October 23, 1921 in Little Chute, Wisconsin, the daughter of the late Patrick and Henrietta (DeBruin) Gerarden, where her father was a lockmaster at Appleton #4 locks and dam. She attended Saint Joseph’s grade school. She attended Appleton High School and graduated from Marinette High School. Florence was a long time member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Ladies of Sacred Heart. She was an advocate for the unborn and believed strongly in a person’s right to life. Florence was a firm believer in the power of prayer, had a strong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and prayed the rosary daily. One of her most rewarding experiences was a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. She retired from H.C. Prange Company after 25 years of service.

Florence is survived by her loving children: Mary Kay (James) Pearson, South Range, WI; Donna Lee Binkowski, Appleton, WI; Gregory J. (partner John) Heinritz, Milwaukee, WI; Donald (Nancy) Heinritz, Jr., Appleton, WI. Her dear grandchildren: Casie (Ryan) Binkwoski-Kraemer; Briana (Greg) Pearson-von Elbe; Michael Binkowski and Tyrus Pearson. Two brothers and sisters-in-law: Tony (Merle) Arlington, VA; Louis (Sally) Appleton, WI; a sister: Mary Stegert, Appleton, WI; a sister in-law: Louise Gerarden, Appleton, WI. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Florence was preceded in death by her husband Donald J. Heinritz, Sr., two brothers, Joseph and Theodore and two half brothers Jack Jansen and Vincent Jansen.

The funeral liturgy for Florence will be held at 11:30 am on Wednesday, December 26, 2007 at SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH, 222 E. Fremont Street, Appleton, WI with Fr. Robert Karuhn officiating. Internment will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. The visitation will be held on Wednesday at the church from 9:00 am until the time of the mass. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in her name.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff at St. Elizabeth Hospital for all of their loving care and concern for Florence while she was ill-especially the nursing staff of the 4 west sub-acute care unit.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
Tri-County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida Street
Appleton, WI 54915