LaVelle M. Ekholm

Marie LaVelle Markley Ekholm, 86, went to be with Jesus on Tuesday, May 19, 2015. LaVelle was born on November 22, 1928 in Malvern, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Richard Markley III and Bertha (Brinker) Markley. When she was a teenager she was surprised to learn that Jesus was our substitute. He died for our sins. She trusted in Jesus Christ and was given forgiveness and eternal life at that time. Since then God has been her constant companion and the Lord of her life.

Her favorite Bible verses were: Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.”

LaVelle obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1952. She continued her education at UW – Oshkosh where she was certified to teach special education. She taught children with special needs at Plamann School and Appleton East High School.

LaVelle was very involved at her church, Calvary Bible Church, Neenah. She loved attending women's Bible studies. One of her greatest passions was helping children get to know Jesus as their personal Savior. She did this through leading in AWANA Clubs and Christian camps. She helped start four AWANA Clubs throughout the Fox Valley starting in 1962.
LaVelle found great joy in spending time with her family. She will be missed by her children Richard (Lynn) Ekholm and Carol Jeske; grandchildren Bethany (Jeff) Swanstrom, Mark (Alisa) Jeske, Shelly (Andy) Krutz, and David (Jayda) Ekholm and thirteen great-grandchildren.

LaVelle's home was in the woods. She often praised God for the wild animals and the flower gardens in her yard. LaVelle enjoyed camping with all of her family. She was also a member of the Campin' Grannies since 1988.

LaVelle was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter Rebekah Ekholm, and her son-in-law Jim Jeske.

A celebration of LaVelle's life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at CALVARY BIBLE CHURCH, 1450 Oakridge Road in Neenah. Pastor Danny Leavins will officiate. The family will receive relatives and friends from 4:30 p.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established by the family to sponsor children to go to Christian camps and for couples to attend marriage conferences. Online condolences can be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com. It was LaVelle's wish that those attending her memorial service dress in bright colors because it is a celebration of her home going to heaven.

Many thanks to the great-grandchildren who were the encouragement committee while LaVelle was sick. She was also blessed by many dear friends, family members, Thedacare at Home Hospice nurses and Home Instead care givers.