Beverly A. Bethke

Beverly A. Bethke 86, Wausau, died Thursday, June 28, 2012 at Mount View Care Center, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services, with her family by her side. She was born February 27, 1926 in Loyal, Wis., daughter of the late Harold and Loretta (Ratelle) Tucker. In her younger years, Beverly worked as a telephone operator in Wausau, and then worked for Heineman's Department Store for two years. On March 1, 1947, she began her career at North Central Technical College as an Administrative Assistant to the Director, and was employed there for 44 years, until her retirement in 1991. During the course of her work, she traveled extensively with her business associates and thoroughly enjoyed the people she worked with. Beverly was very involved in many social activities, both at work and in her community. She was a longtime member of the Helping Hands Homemakers Club, a member of the BPW (Business and Professional Women), a member of the Marathon County Retired Educators Association, and a member of the 20 years Retirees Club. Among her favorite pastimes, she enjoyed knitting, cooking, rosemaling and cake decorating. Many of her family and friends will remember Beverly for the graciousness of her personality and her unique ability for reaching out to people. Survivors include, one son, Michael Tucker, Wausau; her granddaughter, Corinna (Alvaro) and their son, Tomas of Seville, Spain; one sister, Kathleen Englebretson, Marshfield; four nephews, Tim (Kathy) Englebretson, Stratford, Patrick (Carmen) Englebretson, Loyal, Eric Englebretson, Loyal and Paul Englebretson, Loyal; three nieces, Kristine (Bob) Schultz, Loyal, Yvette (Jesse) Zvolena, Loyal and Connie (Tom) Heersma, Rozellville; and many friends. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard Bethke in August of 2006; and an infant brother, Dwayne in the spring of 1925. Memorial services will be held at a later date. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Mount View Care Center, the staff with the Faith Action Group, the staff at Marshfield Clinic Wausau and Weston Centers and the staff at Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services for all the care and compassion given to Beverly. Also, a special thank you to all of her friends and neighbors who sustained her over the past several years. Online condolences at www.petersonkraemer.com