Steve "The Gerk" Gehrke's Obituary
Stephen R. Gehrke, Steve, better known as "The Gerk", passed away at home on Thursday, October 6, 2016 after a brief illness. He was born in Oshkosh on October 11, 1948, the son of Robert and Crystal (Abraham) Gehrke and graduated from Oshkosh High in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army in Germany from 1968-1969 and was honorably discharged. He retired from Oshkosh Truck in 2009 after a career of 36 years. He was a proud member of UAW #578. Steve was an avid hunter and fisherman and had the mounts in his "man cave" to prove his skill. His sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew him. He was a kind, gentle, loving man who was always there for friends.
Steve is survived by his spouse of 34 years Mary Beth (Pupeter), siblings Sandy (Mike) Polishinski, Rick (Cindy) Gehrke all of Oshkosh and Shirley Bunker, Appleton, in-laws Tom (Merry) Pupeter of Oshkosh and Julie (Gregg) Cayce, Green Bay. He is the beloved uncle of Cory Polishinski, Marnie (Andy) Schneider, Kristen and Eric Gehrke, Liz and A.J. Bunker and Jenny (Dave) Wiluth. He is further survived by a special friend and hunting partner, Kyle Jenkins, numerous caring friends and wonderful neighbors. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, nephew Tanner Bunker and brother-in-law Jeff Bunker.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at 11 am at the Poklasny Funeral Home 870 W. South Park Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54902. Rev. Tim Greenwald will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday at the funeral home from 3 pm until 6 pm and also on Tuesday at the funeral home from 10 am until the time of service. Committal services and graveside military rites will be conducted at Brooks Cemetery in the town of Vinland.
Special thanks to Dr. Brad Heraly and Kerry H, RN for their care and concern and the caregivers at Affinity/Ascension that helped us along this journey.
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