Carl Oehlke 01/29/2015

Carl R. Oehlke age 92 of rural Hammond, died on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at his home.Carl was born July 26, 1922 to Carl H. and Flossie (McHattie) Oehlke in Cottage Grove, MN.  He was married to Dorothy M. Doehling on December 28, 1945. They were blessed with four children.  Carl attended U of M Farming School, and used his knowledge and love of the land first in Cottage Grove, then in Hammond, WI after relocating in 1953. Carl’s passion was farming the land and producing a bountiful crop. After retiring from the farm, he continued this love by planting trees, grapevines and shrubs. Recently he had been making plans for what he would plant this spring.  He never wanted to stop working. After “retiring” from the farm in the early 1980’s he continued to work at a variety of jobs where he could share his knowledge. His last job was at Menards in Hudson where he felt that at 90 years old, it was finally time to retire for good  Carl was an active member at St. Luke’s Lutheran church in New Richmond, WI serving in a variety of positions on the board over many years, always willing to serve when there was a need.  His dedication to farming prompted him to commit much of his time to St. Croix County Farm Bureau.  He served on the board for countless years, always advancing the needs of farmers through its activities.  He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; his wife, Dorothy; daughter, Deborah LeTourneau and granddaughter Faith Ann LeTourneau.  He is survived by his son Dean (Linda) Oehlke, Clayton; and daughters Constance (William) Georgius, Hammond; Gayle (Daniel) Brooks, Hudson; four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  A memorial service was held Sunday, February 8, 2015 at 2:00 pm at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in New Richmond.  Visitation was also Sunday from 1:00- 2:00 pm at the church.  Interment was in the New Richmond Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services Beebe Chapel of New Richmond.