Obituary: Ruth Bertha (Pingel) Behnke

Ruth Bertha (Pingel) Behnke, age 98, died Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Brillion West Haven.

She was born September 11, 1925, in the Town of Rantoul, daughter of the late Robert and Bertha (Rusch) Pingel. On May 6, 1944 she married Milton Behnke in the Emmanual Evangelical Church, Town of Rantoul. They farmed northwest of Brillion for 21 years. Then moved to the City of Brillion where she babysat in her home for many years as she always enjoyed children. She also helped her late husband as custodians of Faith United Methodist Church in Brillion for 38 years.

She is survived by her five sons and four daughters-in-law: Roger (Cynthia) Behnke of Spring Hill, Florida, Howard (Sharon) Behnke of Brillion, Clifford Behnke of Manitowoc, Russell (Janica) Behnke of Greenville, Darrell (Michelle) Behnke of Madison, and one daughter and son-in-law: Patsy (Jeffrey) Manion of Madison, 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Milton Behnke, one grandson, and many brothers and sisters-in-law and sisters and brothers-in-law.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church, Brillion, with Rev. Dale Eggert officiating. Abiding by Ruth’s wishes cremation has taken place. The family will be receiving relatives and friends at Faith United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in her name for the church. 

Online condolences may be made. 

The Pielhop Wieting Funeral Homes of Brillion and Reedsville are assisting the family with funeral arrangements.