On Saturday, April 18, 2020, our dear, sweet, funny, wonderful father, grandfather and great-grandfather left us to join his beloved wife Carole in their heavenly home.
William, “Bill” was born to Albert and Evangeline (Gerard) Lemke at the family farm in Annandale, Minnesota on March 12, 1935. After confirmation and grade school at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Middleville Township, he graduated from Concordia High School in St. Paul. He attended Concordia University where he met and fell in love with Carole Skaar and together they welcomed eight children into the world.
Bill was a story-teller, jokester, teaser, polka dancer, accordion player, and church council member. He worked construction for many years and met many friends wherever he went. He was a hard worker, could fix anything and “retired” three times. Dad enjoyed his family farm, a good hot sauna and a beer with anyone. He looked forward to annual hunting and fishing trips with family and friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Carole, a son, Michael Lee Lemke, his parents and two sisters, Gladeline Goerke and Aljean Fuller.
Bill is survived by children Cindy (Dennis) O’Donovan, Scott (Jeanne) Lemke, Julie (Mike) McMullen, Mary (Tom) Batcher, Dawn Schmidt, Daniel Lemke, Melissa Vaughan, and his brother John (Fay) Lemke. “Papa” was cherished and will be remembered by 17 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
A memorial celebration will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Maple Lake Community Cemetery.
Memorials preferred to Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 5460 63rd St. NW, Maple Lake, MN 55358 or Gable Pines, 1260 East County Road E, Vadnais Heights, Minnesota 55110.
The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo, is serving the family. www.thepetersonchapel.com.
William Lemke
