Clarence E. Brieske, 85, of Wilton passed away Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, at Tomah Memorial Hospital. He was born Dec. 8, 1923, to John and Lydia (Purpus) Brieske. Clarence served in the United States Army in World War II.
He was united in marriage to Geraldine Von Haden on Aug. 5, 1950, in Sparta. Together they farmed for 20 years outside of Wilton. Clarence then went to work at Volk Field for a few years before going to work at the Armory in Tomah.
Clarence was a member of the Wilton American Legion Post 508. He enjoyed bowling, playing pool and playing cards, especially euchre. He was an avid sports fan, whether it was watching the Packers or attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. More than anything, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends.
He is survived by his wife, Geraldine; his sons, Ron (Barb) Brieske of Tomah and Steve Brieske of Chicago; four grandchildren, Jeff (Mandy) Brieske of Tomah, Jen (Sean) Kowalski of Ringle, Wis., Joel (fiancé Heather) Brieske of Tomah and Jamie (Charles) Thibodeaux of Menomonie, Wis.; six great-grandchildren, Carson and Addison Brieske, Cole and Kaya Kowalski, Jackson Steffel and Jaylyn Thibodeaux; two sisters-in-law, Maryann Brieske of Springfield, Va., and Coryl Brieske of Wilton; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Louise; and three brothers, Linus, Edwin and Verland.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Pastor William Rice will officiate. Burial with full military honors by the Wilton American Legion Post 508 will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Tomah. Family and friends are invited for visitation at the funeral home from 4–7 p.m. Monday and one hour prior to services Tuesday.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
