Catherine Bunke
Catherine A. Bunke, age 77, of Medford, went to be with parents, Uncle Joe Schiepek, and all of the faithful dogs when she passed away suddenly on August 26, 2021, at Aspirus Hospital, Wausau.
A Mass of Christian burial for Catherine will be at 11 a.m., on Sept. 3, 2021, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Athens. The Reverend George Graham will preside at the liturgy. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. till the time of Mass.
Catherine was born to Eric and Mary (Schiepek) Bunke on May 22, 1944. She grew up on a dairy farm in the Town of Johnson, Marathon County and was active in 4-H. She was a graduate of St. Anthony School, Athens; Newman High School, Wausau; Taylor County Teacher’s College, Medford; and UW-Stevens Point. She held bachelors and master’s degrees in elementary education and was a licensed K-12 administrator in the state of Wisconsin. Most of her 47 years in education were in Catholic schools. She retired from teaching in 2009 after spending two years on the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Mont. After retirement, Catherine continued to share her love of learning by substitute teaching in a number of area schools.
Catherine enjoyed traveling abroad and visiting countries like Russia, Austria and Germany (where she had relatives). She was a lover of dogs and throughout her life had many loving and devoted furry companions. She especially enjoyed her shelties, Jasper and Bentley. Flowers and birds were also Catherine’s passion. She was an avid bird watcher and through her skillful gardening, always provided a beautiful sanctuary in her backyard. Catherine loved to read and could skillfully crochet an afghan.
Catherine loved her friends and planned many get-togethers to sustain those close friendships over the years. She will be deeply missed by the people she touched in so many beautiful ways.
Following the service at the church, Catherine will be buried near her parents at Calvary Cemetery in Athens.
Memorials may be given to: De LaSalle Blackfeet School, Browning, Mont.; St. Anthony School, Athens; Mission Office, Diocese of La Crosse for Sister Carla Harrison’s work in Peru; and South Wood County Human Society, Wisconsin Rapids.
John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at HonorOne.com.
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