OBITUARY: Mildred “Millie” Behnke

Mildred “Millie” Behnke, age 89 of St. Paul Park, Minn., passed away Sunday, October 16, 2016 at White Pines Assisted Living in Cottage Grove, Minn.

Mildred was born November 13, 1926 in Brillion, to Herman and Viola (Bergander) Behnke.   She was baptized on November 24, 1926 and confirmed on May 19, 1940 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brillion.  Millie grew up in Brillion and graduated from Winnebago Lutheran High School in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin in 1945.  She attended Dr. Martin Luther College to pursue a teaching degree.  She taught at a variety of schools including: Homewood, Illinois, Emanuel Lutheran in New London, Wisconsin, St. John’s Lutheran in Lake City, Minnesota, Zion Lutheran School in Columbus, Wisconsin, St. John’s Lutheran School in Caledonia, Minnesota, First German Lutheran School in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Appleton, Wisconsin and also Trinity Lutheran School in Brillion.  Millie moved to St. Paul Park in 1994 to be near her family.  Millie had an incredible work ethic and her faith was an inspiration to many.  She had a willing heart and found joy and comfort in helping others.   She enjoyed gardening, sewing and cooking.

Millie is survived by brothers, Donald (Elaine) Behnke, Harvey (Heidi) Behnke as well as nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by brother Leroy; sister Dorothy (Phillip) Storby.

Memorial Services will be 11:00 am, Saturday, October 22, 2016 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brillion, Wisconsin with visitation one hour prior.  Interment will be in the church cemetery.  Memorials may be directed to the Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota or the Brillion Nature Center in Brillion, Wisconsin.