Howard Herman Pethke

Howard Herman Pethke, 75, of Suring, passed away peacefully at home on July 14th, 3026 surrounded by his loving family.

Howard was born on May 19, 1951, in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, to Otto Sr. and Mildred (Ruch) Pethke. He attended St. John's School for eight years before graduating from Suring High School with the Class of 1969.

Howard began his career at Sterns/Lumber Yard in Suring before returning to his family's farm. He married the love of his life, Rebecca "Becky," on May 19, 1973. Together, they raised three children and built a life rooted in faith, family, and farming.

Howard and Becky took over the family farm in 1981, where they dairy farmed together for the next 30 years while both working full-time jobs and raising their family. Life brought its share of challenges, but through hard work, dedication, and love, they built a life they were proud of. In 1985, Howard purchased the dairy farm on Elm Road, where he and Becky made their home for the next 26 years. After suffering a stroke in 2011, Howard turned the farm over to his son and proudly watched his family's farming legacy continue.

Howard had a passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, and looked forward to his yearly trip to Canada. His greatest pastime, however, was playing Sheepshead. Whether at family gatherings or community events, Howard could almost always be found around the card table. After more than 60 years of playing the game, he remained a formidable player right up to the end.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Rebecca "Becky" Pethke; his children, Chad (Lisa) Pethke and Kari Kristof; his grandchildren, Brett Kristof, Brady Kristof, and Emma Kristof; his step-grandchildren, Brooke Jansen and Laura (Dan) Bartman; his great-grandchildren, Jada and Madeline Bartman; his brother, Otto (Delberta) Pethke; his sisters, Barb (Bob) Niec, Judy Bunker, Linda (Dave) Bullock, Diane Sleeter, Susan (Wayne) Miller, Lisa (Jeff) Suring, and Nancy Estep; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Otto Sr. and Mildred Pethke; his daughter, Dawn Pethke; his son-in-law, Michael Kristof; his brothers-in-law, Mike Sleeter, Dean Bunker, and Jeff Estep; and his best friend, John Diehl.

Howard will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his love of farming, his devotion to his family, his friendly competitive spirit around the Sheepshead table, and the kindness he showed to everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the farm he loved.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.