Kowalke, Ann (Grabau) 1961 – 2008

KOWALKE, GRABAU, JAMES

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 4/10/2013 at 09:10:53

Source: Cresco Times December 10, 2008, Page 6A

Ann Kowalke, 47

CRESCO – Ann was born on October 25, 1961 to Roger and Marvel (James) Grabau in Cresco, IA. She was raised on her family farm near Bonair. As a child she was baptized and confirmed at the Bonair United Methodist Church. She graduated from Crestwood High School in 1980 and received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Winona State University in 1984. She worked as an oncology nurse in Peoria, IL, following college.

On October 3, 1987 Ann married Todd Kowalke at the First United Methodist Church in Cresco. To this union were born daughters Courtney and Caitlin on October 19, 1990. Ann worked as a post-surgery nurse in Des Moines while Todd attended school. Ann and her family moved to Cresco in 1994. Since moving to Cresco Ann worked at Kessel Kids, Cresco Care Center, Howard-Winneshiek Community School District, and Community Health Services. She was also a member of the Cresco Library Board, PEO, Band Boosters, Choir Boosters, and First United Methodist Church of Cresco.

Ann is survived by her mother: Marvel; husband: Todd; children: Courtney and Caitlin; brothers: Tim (Sheila) and Alan; nieces and nephews: Garrett, Karlee, Gabe, Danielle, Brooke, Ashley, Shelby, David and Cory; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Ward and Evelyn Kowalke.

Ann was preceded in death by her father: Roger.

Ann died at home on December 7, 2008 of causes related to cancer.

A memorial service will be held today, Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Cresco, IA. There will be no public visitation. Friends are encouraged to join the family for a time of gathering and fellowship in the church basement immediately following services at the church. Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, gifts and plants, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of donor’s preference in Ann’s memory.

Transcribed from a newspaper clipping submitted by Janice Sowers.