Lucille E. Gottschalk

Lucille E. Gottschalk, 94, of Edgar, died Monday April 10, 2017, in Lakeville, Minnesota. She was born June 10, 1922, in Edgar, daughter of the late Jesse and Helen (Strasser) Rifleman. Lucille was known as "Birdie" to family and friends for her small stature and light appetite. None of that slowed her down, however. She loved to dance the polka, and could be found dancing with friends well into her 90s. On March 10, 1940, she married Benjamin Gottschalk. Lucille raised their four children and worked as a bookkeeper in the family business, Ben Gottschalk Granite, prior to her retirement. Lucille and Ben enjoyed spending winters at their home in New Port Richey, Florida with their family, boating, playing cards and socializing. Ben preceded her in death September 3, 1995. She was also preceded in death by a son, William Gottschalk, one brother, Douglas Rifleman and one son-in-law Jerry Janke. Survivors include her children, Carol Janke, Dade City, Florida; Patricia (Robert) Schmirler, Dade City, Florida; Gail (Richard) Sjoquist, Burnsville, Minnesota; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one brother, William Rifleman, Marshfield, Wisconsin. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday May 13 at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar. Rev. Thomas Huff will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Friends may call on May 13th from 10:00 -11:00 a.m. at St. John's Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Lucille to St. John's Catholic Church, or to the charity of your choice. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.