Michael Gerke

De Forest - Michael A. Gerke, age 56, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 9, 2017, at his home in De Forest. He was born on March 17, 1961, in Tomah, WI, the son of Royce and Marjorie (Lancaster) Gerke. Mike graduated from Madison East High School in 1980. He then attended MATC to attain his welding certification. Mike was united in marriage to Elaine Anderson on May 21, 1994. He began his career as a welder for Varco Pruden then became a journeyman sprinkler fitter with the Local Union. In 2009, Mike began his own business, Absolute Animal & Pest Control. He also enjoyed his hobbies of bee keeping and taking care of his ponds. Mike loved his wife, family, friends, and loyal dogs. He will be remembered for his big heart and always being there with a helping hand.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Gerke; a son, Clayton Arnold; a daughter, Erica Gerke; grandson, Zayden Gerke; sisters, Pamela (LaVerne) Reekie, Peggy (Al) Woodworth, Pauline (Bob) Morgan and Patricia (Dale) Kuderer; brothers, David (Patty) Gerke and Todd Gerke; mother-in-law, Donna Anderson; sisters and brothers-in-law, Gary (Patty) Anderson, Larry Erbs, Rosemary (Scott) Fehrman, Marlene (Tom) Benzmiller, Barbara (Bob) Herro, Randy Anderson, Denise Anderson, Brian (Amy) Anderson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and his dogs, Molly, Ellie, and Buddy.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Richard Gerke, father-in-law, Rueben Anderson, a sister-in-law, Beverly Erbs and his dogs, Misty and Snowball.

A funeral service will be held at BRISTOL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 6835 County Hwy N, Sun Prairie on Wednesday, September 13, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jen Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Bristol Lutheran Cemetery in Sun Prairie. A visitation will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie, on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services
1310 Emerald Terrace
(608) 837-9054