Kenneth C. Merkes

MERKES, KENNETH C.

Kenneth Merkes, age 84, passed away at his home on Tuesday, February 7, 2006, with his family at his side. Kenneth was born on October 23, 1921, in Appleton, to the late Walter and Della (Nettekoven) Merkes. He entered the United States Army on December 7, 1942, and proudly served his country in Europe in the 94th Division, 301st Field Artillery, Battery A. On November 17, 1943, he was united in marriage to Anna Cappaert at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Kimberly, Wisconsin. Kenneth enjoyed spending time with his family, gardening, playing cards and fishing. He lived his life as an example that his children and grandchildren will try hard to follow. Kenneth worked for George Walter Brewing Company for over 26 years, later at Baer Beverage and retired from Lawrence University in 1983. He was a long-time member of Little Chute Jacob Coppus Post #258 of the American Legion. Ken is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Anna (Cappaert), Grand Chute, and their six children: Jane Gahr, Appleton; Tom (Marilyn) Merkes, Grand Chute; Peg Ulman, Grand Chute; Cindy (Larry) LeClair, Little Chute; Chuck (Kathy) Merkes, Grand Chute; Joe Merkes, Appleton; his nine grandchildren, Scott (Kay) Gahr; Jeff (Anne) Gahr; Dawn (Chad) Hanneman; Jenny (Aaron) Smith; Brian Ulman; Judy (Andy) Hintz; Tyler, Kurt and Kadin Merkes; and his six great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his brothers and sisters, Lilas Van Straten, Appleton; Joyce (Bob) Van Fossen, Appleton; Jim (Mary) Merkes, Grand Chute; and his sister-in-law, Carmen Merkes, Shiocton; and many nieces and nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his in-laws, Albert and Madeline (Van Eynde) Cappaert; his sister, Jane Merkes; his brother, Norbert Merkes; his brother Dick (Carol) Merkes; brother-in-law, Glen Van Straten; his brother-in-law, Joseph (Leone) Cappaert; and son-in-law, Glen Ulman. Ken’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at Fresenius Dialysis Center for their compassionate care during these past five years. The Funeral Liturgy will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 11, 2006, at ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH, 500 West Marquette Street, Appleton, with Fr. Tom Farrell officiating. Friends may call directly at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services. Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Appleton. A memorial has been established in his name.
WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 North Superior Street
Appleton 920-739-1231
www.wichmannfuneralhomes.com

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