Racine – Clifford R. Kanetzke, 89, received the promise of eternal life on Thursday, April 2, 2015. He was born in Racine on March 11, 1926, son of the late Fred and Martha (nee: Kohlman) Kanetzke.
Cliff was united in marriage to the love of his life, the former Lois E. Hoeft, on September 10, 1949. Lois preceded him in death on February 22, 1996.
He was a lifelong member of Epiphany Lutheran Church and honorably and faithfully served his country in the United States Army from 1944 to 1946 during World War II in the European Theatre. Cliff was a draftsman for Modine Manufacturing and retired in 1988 after 41 years of service. His passion in retirement was volunteering at WFH-All Saints Cancer Center, logging 22,000+ hours over 18 years, ‘retiring’ April 18, 2014. He was an avid Brewer’s fan watching or listening to as many games as possible.
Cliff leaves to cherish his memory his children, William (Tina) Kanetzke of Menomonee Falls, Sally (Robert) Kruschke of Racine; grandchildren, Jill Kruschke of Racine, Lindsey (Kory) Gerbick of Metamora, IL, Kristin (Dustin) Lindert of Mequon, Andrew (Kassie Dyer) Kanetzke of San Jose, CA, Nicholas Kanetzke of Menomonee Falls; great-grandchildren, Benjamin Gerbick, Natalie Lindert; and brother, Lyle Kanetzke of Tucson, AZ.
In addition to his parents and wife, Cliff is preceded in death by his brothers, Gerald and Fred Kanetzke.
A celebration of Cliff’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2015, 6:30pm, at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 2129 Olive Street, with Rev. Michael D. Zarling officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00pm until the time of the service. Private entombment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to Epiphany Lutheran Church or Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Cancer Center.
The family would like to extend a “Thank You” to the staff at Primrose Retirement Community and the staff at Hospice Advantage for the wonderful care that they gave to Cliff.
Jeanne and Jim Peters says
Sally, Bill and families- Uncle Cliff lived a wonderful life with a wonderful family. Memories will be many. My best memories of him are at family gatherings with Grandma K, all the boys, wives and all the grandkids, especially after my family moved back to Racine. He was chosen to be my Godfather, so I know that he and my Dad were close brothers. May you find peace in knowing that he’s in heaven, surrounded with great love, and that we will all be gathered together again. Much love, Jeanne
Williams Family says
Condolences to the Kanetzke family. May Jehovah the “God of Comfort” bring you comfort and peace at this difficult time (2 Corinthians 1:3 & 4). Your family are in our prayers.