Doris Martha Wilkening

Doris Martha Wilkening was born September 17, 1919, in Rib Lake, Wisconsin, the daughter of Gust and Lydia (Dallman) Perseke. She was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Odessa. She attended school in Minnesota.

On November 10, 1939 she was united in marriage to Earl Palmer Wilkening, at her brother, Irvin’s, home in Correll. This union was blessed 63 years together and with two children: Eunice and Dallas. Doris spent most of her life in the Odessa, Correll, and Appleton area; where she and Earl farmed and raised their family.

After retiring from farming, Doris worked at Fingerhut in Benson and the Appleton Nursing Home. She was a dedicated volunteer in the community as well as at Trinity Lutheran Church, where she was a member for over 65 years. Doris’ door was always open for all to stop in for a cup of coffee and lively conversation. Her infectious laugh would bring a smile to anyone’s face. She enjoyed camping, traveling, and baking for her family and friends. Doris loved spending time with her grandchildren; especially when she was teaching them how to fish!

Doris passed away on February 28, 2016 in Appleton Area Health Services –Care Center. She attained 96 years, 5 months, and 11 days of age. She is survived by her children: Eunice Aden of Stillman Valley, IL and Dallas (Bonnie) Wilkening of Appleton; nine grandchildren: Leann (Thomas) Garitie, Steven (Lisa) Aden, Danell (Doug) Drazek, Rob (Marge) Wilkening, Jeff Wilkening, Todd (Laurie) Wilkening, Maryann (Tom) Stoeckel, Stacie (Jeff) Hook, and Steve (Jill) Stavos; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Joyce Perseke of Tyler; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl; parents, Gust and Lydia Perseke; son-in-law, Henry Aden; two sisters: Luella Swenson and Emma Anderson; and five brothers: Irvin, Harold, Reuben, Harvey, and Eddie Perske.

Blessed be the memory of Doris Wilkening.