Ila Petersen

Ila Germaine Petersen, 87, of De Pere, passed away peacefully on March 1st, 2023. She was born on October 17, 1935, in the town of Holland to the late Walter & Goldie (Schubring) Franzke. Ila married Carl H. Petersen on August 14, 1954, at Zion United Methodist in Forest Junction. Together they raised two daughters while farming in the town of Wrightstown. 

Over the years Ila had several jobs, but her favorites by far were selling World Book encyclopedias and later “Demoing” products at many stores throughout the area until her retirement. Ila could and would have a conversation with anyone, anywhere. She was a member of Zion United Methodist Church in Forest Junction but enjoyed visiting other churches in the area as well. Ila loved attending as many “Breakfast on the Farm’s” as she could each year, as well as the Brown County Fair annually. She was a cribbage shark who would fool new opponents by “pretending” not to know the game very well. Carl and Ila took great pride in their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. There is nothing they would not do for them. They could often be found supporting them at their sporting events, many times traveling HOURS to watch them play.

Ila is survived by her husband of 68 years Carl, their daughters Carla Falish (De Pere), and Sharon Petersen (Little Chute): 6 grandchildren: Shannon (Brian) Gerrits, Carl Falish, Cory Falish, Nikolas Falish, Shane (Anna) Falish, Sasha (Nick) Steudel; 11 great grandchildren: Ian & Hailey Gerrits, Paige Fuhrmann, Alecia & Coltyn Falish, Lane & Hermione Falish, Cameron, Cooper, Kendal & Carli Steudel. She is further survived by her brother Larry Franzke (Sharon Jansen), brother-in-law Elton Petersen, and many nieces, nephews, friends and other relatives.

Ila was preceded in death by her parents, sister Enola Miller & brother-in law Robert Miller, half-sister Lois Samardich, sisters-in-law’s Helen and Adeline Petersen, and son-in-law Norman Falish.

Family and friends may gather at Zion United Methodist Church, N 8893 Church St, Forest Junction, WI 54123, on Friday, March 10, 2023, from 1:30 PM until the time of the service at 3:00 PM, Pastor Sang You officiating.

Special thank you to Dr Hoppe and the Staff at St Vincent Hospital for their care and compassion.