William Eugene Pranke

William E. Pranke, 90, De Pere, passed away Monday, March 19, 2012 at his home (Ledgeview Nursing Center). The son of the late Leo and Eleanor (McQuade) Pranke, was born in Bayfield, WI on November 23, 1921. Bill proudly served his country in the Wisconsin Army National Guard during World War II primarily in New Guinea as part of the 32nd Infantry Division, “The Red Arrow”. Bill was a lifelong member of the American Legion Post 230 and the VFW Post 2113, serving as Post Commander. Bill was employed at Northern Paper Mills / American Can Co., now known as Georgia Pacific, retiring as a lab technician in 1986 after 35 years. He was a great fan of baseball and especially enjoyed Packer football. Survivors include his wife, Rosemary; daughter, Susan; son, Gary; all of De Pere, and daughter, Barbara Jans, Oakdale, MN; special recognition of Roger (Karen) Nienhaus, De Pere; brother: Joe (Pat) Pranke; sisters: Jean Lambert and Joan Steckart, all of De Pere; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Ralph (Ione) Nienhaus, Crivitz, Florence Beining, Greenleaf; and Elaine Nienhaus, Francis Creek; grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews. Bill is preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Elaine Murphy; sisters: Hope and Faith (Len) Johnson; brothers-in-law: John Lambert and John Steckart; as well as numerous other relatives. Private services are being held for Bill. Interment in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Cotter Funeral Home Cremation Services, De Pere, is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be directed to the charity of your choice. Thank you to the staff of Ledgeview Nursing Center for the many years of loving, compassionate and personal care. It was truly sincere and heartfelt. A special thanks is also extended to Heartland Hospice for their kindness and assistance the past three weeks.