Mary L. Woodke

Mary L. Woodke, 86, of Gillett, passed away at home on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020, surrounded by her family. Mary was born April 8, 1934, to the late Edward and Isabelle (Swiekatowski) Jarock. Before marriage, Mary worked as a beautician in Pulaski and Green Bay. On April 24, 1954, Mary married Robert Woodke in Pulaski. The couple farmed for 40 years in Gillett. After retirement, Mary and Robert enjoyed going to casinos and out polka dancing. She also enjoyed gardening, growing flowers, watching birds, cooking and baking. Her family will always remember her famous dill pickles and her delicious fruit cake and other desserts. For many years, Mary was a member of the women’s bowling league. Mary was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Gillett.

Mary is survived by her five sons, Robert Jr. (Molly), Larry (Connie), Chuck (Jodie), David (Sue), and John (Susan); her daughter, Kristin; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and one on the way; siblings, Len (Kathy) Jarock, Judy Larscheid, Joanne Thorkelson, Dick (Joann) Jarock, Paula (Louis) Raska and Vicki Marotz. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Robert; a brother, Norm (Boots) Jarock; brother-in-law, Merle Larscheid.

Public visitation will be held Friday, Dec. 18, 2020, at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. A private funeral service for the family will be held. She will be interred at Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery beside Robert. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

The family would like to thank Christine Berndt, APNP, for the excellent care and compassion offered to Mary during her time of need.