John R. Oelke

On April 20th 2018, "Father John," "Papa" John Ralph Oelke passed quietly though unexpectedly into eternal life.  John was born on August 11, 1956 to Bernice (Stellick) and Wilhelm ‘Bill’ Oelke.  He grew up enjoying farm life in La Crosse, WI with his sister Nancy and two brothers Darrell and Robert.  He graduated from Central High School in 1974.  In 1979, he married Jean Schaffer in Hokah, Minnesota.  In 1983, they were blessed with a daughter Jolene who immediately became the apple of his eye.  Four years later they were blessed again with their beloved son Justin. John and Jean raised their kids in Hokah, MN, until moving to New Hartford township. John and Jean kept open hearts and house for their kids and all of their valley friends, who soon became family.

John will be most remembered for his sense of humor, fun loving attitude, and story- telling ability.  He left an unforgettable memory on everyone he met. He was blessed with two beautiful grand-daughters, Brooklyn and Dawsyn, who became the joy of his life and became the best 'Papa" anyone could ask for.

He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law. He is survived by Jean, his daughter Jolene and Gordy ‘Craig’ Boldt and their two daughters Brooklyn and Dawsyn. His son Justin and girlfriend Emily Larson.  His siblings and their spouses (Tom, Kari, and Shari), along with many loving nieces and nephews.