Florence Kortsch

Florence Irene Kortsch, BSN born April 25, 1926, entered her heavenly home on January 23, 2017. A spiritual woman of unshakeable faith, a young Florence Brenner was committed to becoming a Catholic missionary in Africa before she met Bill Kortsch. When Bill requested her hand in marriage, Florence hesitated at a momentous fork in life’s road. Down one path lay a life of service to the poor and dissemination of God’s message; down the other marriage and a blank canvass awaiting life’s paint. Bill swayed her by saying “I know that my vocation is to serve God though my love for you”.

Sixty three years, six children, twelve grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren later, Florence has reached the final exit on her chosen path and is firmly embraced in the loving arms of Jesus.

Starring in plays at Messmer High School, Florence blossomed into the spiritual and intellectual dynamo she remained through life. The footlights of high school faded to the theater of adult life with two wonderful newlywed years in Butte, Montana. Returning to the East Side of Milwaukee, she became the business manager of Bill’s dental practice and spent many years assisting chair-side. Through the years Florence lived her life as a reflection of God, attracting people to the light of her presence.

Sons Timothy (Geri) and Robert preceded Florence in death, as did granddaughter Anne Lois. Their deaths caused deep sorrow and pain, but never shook her deeply rooted faith. Also preceding her to heaven were sisters Joselyn Brenner SSSF, Irene Tretow (Vern) and Jean Brenner CSA; brothers Thomas (Susie), Gerald and Joseph. Florence was a surrogate mother to all her siblings, fondly referred to as “Orny”.

Florence is survived by loving husband William and children Bill (Joan), Anne Fleming (Jim), Frank (Laurie) and Katy Kortsch, and siblings Kate Brenner SSSF and John Brenner (Evelyn). Grandchildren, great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews hang their heads in sorrow at the passing of our family’s matriarch.

Visitation for Florence will occur Saturday, February 4th at Old St. Mary Church beginning at 10:00 am, with the Funeral Mass commencing at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers please donate to the School Sisters of Saint Francis. May the angel Florence protect us from the perils of a weary world.