Edward Jahnke, 90

Edward Herman Jahnke, 90, Parkers Prairie, died Monday, August 31, 2009 at Douglas County Hospital in Alexandria.

Edward was born June 14, 1919 in Effington Township, Otter Tail County, to Wilhelm and Anna (Trachte) Jahnke. He was a lifetime member of Zion Lutheran Church where he was baptized and confirmed. He attended school at Effington Township District 218.

Ed was united in marriage to Evelyn Zinter on April 8, 1942 at Zion Lutheran Church, North Effington. They recently celebrated 67 years of wedded bliss. Ed and Evelyn made their home and farmed in Effington Township until 1962, when they moved to Parkers Prairie. Ed also drove milk truck for Urbank Creamery for five years during the time he farmed.

In 1975, they moved to Apple Valley, where Ed worked for Alexander Construction Company for 23 years as a truck driver. Following their retirement in 1982, Ed and Evelyn returned to Parkers Prairie. Ed enjoyed fishing, watching television, playing cards and doing puzzles. Ed was excellent at old-time dancing along with his lifetime partner, Evelyn. Ed especially enjoyed spending time with his family and visits by the small children of his family.

Ed is survived and beloved by his wife, Evelyn; two sons, Donald (Margaret) Jahnke of Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Larry (Veronica) Jahnke of Parkers Prairie; a daughter, Patsy (Roger) Ruckheim of Parkers Prairie; nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Walter; six sisters, Olga Zarn, Esther Behnke, Lorraine Witt, Leona Hollatz, Viola Krebs and Elda Karger; and two infant daughters, Bonnie and Connie.

Funeral services were held September 3 at Zion Lutheran Church, North Effington with the Rev. Dane Compton officiating. Music was provided by organist, Marilyn Sibert and vocalist, Greg Wachter. Burial was at the church cemetery.

Pallbearers were Allan Ruckheim, Gary Ruckheim, Kenneth Ruckheim, Lee Jahnke, Paul Flatley and Dennis Behnke.

Arrangements are by Lind Family Funeral Service with chapels in Miltona and Parkers Prairie, www.lindfamilyfuneralservice.com.

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