Mary Therese Wilke

Mary Therese Wilke, age 81, of Dousman, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025. She was born on October 30, 1943, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Carl and Mildred Baltes.

Married to Raud Wilke in 1965, Mary and Raud shared almost 60 beautiful years of love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they enjoyed many outdoor activities, from trap shooting and fishing.

She often spent her days exploring the woods, tending to her horses, and enjoying the companionship of her beloved dog. Her involvement with the Morgan Horse Association was a testament to her passion for these majestic animals and the community surrounding them.

Mary was a proud registered nurse anesthetist, a career she embarked on in the 1960s, driven by her passion for caring for others. Her exemplary skills in the medical field positively impacted countless lives and forged lasting relationships with those she served. In addition to her nursing career, Mary served as the Ottawa Town Supervisor from April 2006 to April 2008, where she demonstrated a commitment to her community and its residents, advocating for progress and unity.

Mary is survived by her husband, Raud; daughters, Rachael (Erin) Kelly and Rebecca (David) Rucinski; grandchildren, Raud (Emma) Kelly, Danielle Kelly, Ben Rucinski and Sam Rucinski; sister-in-law, Jacqueline Baltes; nieces, Laura Moddes and Jennifer Bezotte; along with many other family and friends.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Michael Baltes and Wayne Baltes; sister-in-law, Terry Baltes; and nephew, Jim Baltes.

In celebration of Mary’s life and the love she shared, family and friends are invited to gather at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (NEW LOCATION: 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) on Sunday, February 16, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.