Clarence W. Herlitzke

 

 

Clarence W. Herlitzke, 90 passed away June 3, 2012 at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital surrounded by his adoring family.

He was born February 13, 1922, in La Crosse to Louis Sr. and Helen (Roesler) Herlitzke. He married Rosemarie Strasser on June 18, 1946 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Clarence was an active member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and the Holy Trinity Men’s Club.  He was an usher for many years and enjoyed working the Chicken Ques.  He retired from Trane Company after 39 years.  He was a member of the Trane 25 Year Club.  In retirement he was employed by Avis Car Rental.  He enjoyed time with his family and friends especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren,  camping on his land at Lake Holcombe and gardening on his land in La Crosse.  He had a quick wit, generous heart and was always ready and willing to help family, friends and neighbors. Family gatherings will never be the same without him.

Clarence is survived by Rosemarie, his loving wife of 66 years; his children Larry (Jennie) Herlitzke of Stoddard and Lynette (Thomas) Sheffer of Holmen; Six grandchildren, Jennifer (Robert) Sawicki, Kevin (Sarah) Sheffer, Jeffery (Tracy) Herlitzke, Jason Herlitzke, Timothy (Melissa) Sheffer, and Pamela (Paul) Samec; Eight great-grandchildren, Ashley, Brandon, and Justin Sawicki,  Chloe Herlitzke, William and Harrison Samec, Elias Sheffer, and Graham Sheffer; Two step grandchildren Nancy (Todd) Wright and Kevin Kromke; Five step great-grandchildren; Three step great-great-grandchildren; Brothers Paul (Joyce) Herlitzke and Louis (Evelyn) Herlitzke;  Brother-in-law Sylvester (Beverly) Strasser; nieces and nephews.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; Brothers Lloyd and Eugene Herlitzke; Brother-in-laws LeRoy and Clarence Strasser; Sister-in-laws Leona Herlitzke, Florence and Fern Strasser; step grandchild Susan Kromke.