Richard Gehrke's Obituary
Richard “Leadhead” Gehrke, age 69, passed away peacefully after a long battle with COPD and CHF on September 6, 2021 at Cherry Meadows in Appleton. He was born in Oshkosh on July 28, 1952 the son of the late Robert and Crystal Abraham Gehrke.
He lived his life his way. before graduating from high school, he joined the U S Navy. On his first leave he came home and married his school sweetheart , Shirley Howe on November 18, 1972. They were together twenty-nine years when Shirley passed away. Rick and Shirley had two children, Kristen (Chris) Tuttle, Eric (Des Rae) Gehrke. Kristen gave them two granddaughters; Desi Rae, and Cheyanne. Desi Rae gave Rick a great-grandson; Alexander James. Eric gave his Dad two grandchildren; Briahana and Braeden. Rick is also survived by one sister; Sandy (Mike) Polishinski, and many nieces nephews, other relatives and friends.
Rick married the second love of his life Cindy Langlitz, on December 2, 2005. They created their home in Oshkosh with their many rescued furry kids. He also inherited a new “Ma” Ferne Langwitz.
He and Cindy enjoyed fishing, being home bodies and going out for a few brews with friends.
He worked thirty-one years at Oshkosh Defense retiring in 2013.
Rick was an avid fisherman, hunter, and Packer Fan. Rick was known as “Leadhead” due to the many lures he made.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, one brother; Steve Gehrke, and one sister; Shirley Bunker.
Funeral services for Rick will be held on Saturday September 11, at 12:30 PM in Poklasny Funeral Home (870 W South Park). Burial will follow in Peace Lutheran Cemetery with full military honors. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 11:00 AM until the hour of services.
Rick’s family wishes to extend a very special Thank you to his numerous caregivers for all their care and compassion in his time of need.
Rick we started out like a “Ring of Fire” and ended up “Walking the Line”. I will love you, will miss you always, until we are together again. You will always be one of the very best. Cindy
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