Marilyn J. Wilke “Skeeter”

• Visitation: will be held at ST. THOMAS OF CANTERBURY EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 7255 W. Grange Ave., Greendale, WI 53129, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 4:00 PM until the time  6:00 PM.
• Funeral: will be held at ST. THOMAS OF CANTERBURY EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 7255 W. Grange Ave., Greendale, WI 53129, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 6:00 PM.

 

Marilyn J. Wilke “Skeeter,” Franklin, WI

Marilyn “Skeeter” Wilke, born on December 10, 1931, peacefully passed away on October 9, 2024, at her beloved home and studio in Franklin, WI, at 92. She was the devoted wife of the late Ralph Wilke, with whom she shared an enduring 69-year marriage.

Skeeter was the cherished mother of Scott Wilke (Deborah DeDecker), Gregory Wilke (Linda Cutty), Mark Wilke (the late Mary Sauer), and David Wilke (Elizabeth Grage). She was the loving sister of Nancy Roesler, the proud grandmother of Nicole, Christopher, Ashley, Shannon, Amber, Cailyn, Alexander, Chandler, Garrett, and Victoria, and the adoring great-grandmother of Keira, Lincoln, Briella, Nora, Kash, Ivy, Axl, Izzy, and Adriana. She is also survived and remembered fondly by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ralph, her parents Henry and Margie Roesler, and her siblings Alan, Marjorie Ann, and Vernice.

Born and raised in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood, Skeeter graduated from Bay View High School before marrying Ralph Wilke in March 1951. She was a dedicated homemaker and spirited mother of four boys, creating a warm, vibrant household filled with love and creativity. Her father, Henry, a cartoonist, and fine artist, passed his artistic talents to Skeeter—a gift she generously treasured and shared.

Skeeter’s creativity was boundless. Her hands were seldom still, whether crafting jewelry, sewing wearable art, scrapbooking, making paper, or organizing project parties for her young grandchildren. “Grams'” crafting and cooking sessions were eagerly anticipated and became lasting memories for her grandchildren, who were captivated by her endless ideas and talent.

She had a warm heart for service, contributing to the Hales Corners Women’s Club and supporting La Causa, among other community engagements. In the 1960s, she was a devoted den mother, nurturing young minds and guiding future generations.

In the 1990s, Skeeter lent her talents to Leader Paper Products, the family business, particularly within the Paper Adventures division. She was instrumental in developing innovative products there, and her passion shone as she demonstrated these creations at trade shows. Her presence graced every company picnic and party, where she eagerly organized raffle prizes and desserts, spreading joy among her family and coworkers.

Her love for family gatherings often drew her to the family lake home in Cedar Grove, Wisconsin, where she found peace, solitude, and countless cherished moments with her grandchildren. She lovingly shared her skills and passion here, hoping to inspire a new generation of makers and creators.

As a mother and homemaker, Skeeter poured her heart into family life. Her kitchen was a haven of comfort and tradition, where favorites like macaroni and cheese, spinach pancakes, Surprise cupcakes, spinach cornbread, open-faced hamburgers, pesto meatballs, and her famous steamed pudding cake were prepared with love, becoming beloved holiday traditions.

Her warmth, creativity, and boundless generosity will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family would like to thank her caregivers, Lori and Jeanne, and devoted friend, Trish, for the caring and loving way they assisted Skeeter in her final months. Also, thanks to the friends and family who regularly visited to spend time with her. You will be happy to know it made a significant positive difference.

Instead of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to La Causa Crisis Nursery, 522 W. Walker St, Milwaukee, WI 53204.

Visitation will be held at ST. THOMAS OF CANTERBURY EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 7255 W. Grange Ave., Greendale, WI 53129, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 4:00 PM until the time of service at 6:00 PM.

HERITAGE FUNERAL HOME

9200 South 27th Street                  (414) 761-2750

www.heritagefuneral.com