Sarah Fenske

SARAH E. FENSKE

Sarah E. Fenske, age 85, of Winona, passed away on Wednesday, March 16, 2016, in the comfort of her home.  Although we are sad at losing our beloved mother, heaven has gained a new angel, and we rejoice that she has been freed from her 12 year battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was born on February 17, 1931, in Nashville, TN, to Maurice and Louise (Shacklett) Cook.  Sarah was united in marriage with Bernard “Ben” Fenske on September 2, 1949, in Franklin, KY.  Ben served with the Special Forces of the United States Army, and together they traveled around the world as Ben was stationed in Japan, Korea, Laos, Germany, and France.  Ben and Sarah finally settled in Winona after Ben’s 22 year career with the Army, where he achieved a rank of SSGM E-9.  They later divorced, and Ben passed away on June 20, 2009.

She was employed with Lake Center, Pepco Industries, and for Riverside Electronics.  Sarah was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Winona, and her faith and love for the Word of God brought her great comfort throughout her life.

Sarah will be remembered for her love of playing BINGO, trips to the casino, and as an excellent cook.  Her favorite role in life was that of a loving mother and grandmother.  As a true southern belle, she would do anything for anyone, and her family admired her strength and grace which continued throughout her struggle with Alzheimer’s, and persevered even to her final day on this Earth.  The world is a much sadder place without her, but she has left a strong legacy of enduring love which she has passed on to her family and friends.

Sarah is lovingly survived by her children: Carolyn (Dave) Konkel, Wabasha, MN; Rich Fenske, Nashville; Larry Fenske, Winona; Lori (JJ Kujak) Fenske, Winona; and Roger (Robin) Fenske, West Salem, WI; 19 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; a sister: Linda Peach Washington,  Antioch, TN; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, and one sister.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Monday, March 21, 2016, at Calvary Baptist Church, 676 West Sarnia Street, Winona.  The Reverend Adam Burge will officiate.

Sarah will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home on Sunday, March 20, 2016, from 5 PM until 7 PM, and at Calvary Baptist Church on Monday, March 21, 2016, from 10 AM until the time of the service.

Pallbearers will be Sarah’s grandchildren.

It is respectfully requested that memorials be directed to Alzheimer’s research.

Sarah’s family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to Sharon Nako, Sharal, Cindy, Deb and Doreen, who have all lovingly cared for our mother over the last several years.  In her last days, her care was supplemented by the staff of Winona Hospice.  You are all angels - we are forever grateful for the compassion, dignity, and friendship shown to our mother.

“Rest in peace, mom, we miss you, and will love you always.”

Online condolences or memories may be left for Sarah’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com