Galetta R. (Wendorf) Sterba, 103, of La Crosse and formerly of Wilton, Wis., died Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018, at the Benedictine Manor of La Crosse.
She was born in Wilton, Wis., on March 15, 1915, to Carl and Laura (Buchholz) Schindler. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wilton, where she was a life-long member. She taught Sunday school and Bible school at the parish for many years.
Galetta attended Wilton Grade School and Wilton High School, graduating in 1932. She then took the Teachers’ Training Course at Tomah High School, graduating in 1933. She taught school for 18 years in the Staten Creek, South Ridge, Black Valley, Tunnel Joint and Red Brick rural schools. She then worked as the bookkeeper and payroll clerk for the Tillman Produce Co. and Wilton Foods for 23 years. Galetta also served as the treasurer for the Village of Wilton for 14 years.
Galetta was a member of the Sarah Circle at St. Paul’s parish and the 500 Club and Senior Citizens Club.
In 1944, Galetta was united in marriage to Elmer Wendorf, who passed away in 1961. She then married Charles Sterba in 1967. He preceded her in death in 2002.
Galetta is survived by two stepdaughters, Pat Harrison of Muskego, Wis., and Sherry Kish of La Crosse; a stepdaughter-in-law, Carol Sterba of Wonewoc, Wis.; 14 step-grandchildren; and numerous step-great-grandchildren and step-great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by her parents; a stepson, Bill Sterba Sr.; a step-grandson, Danny Sterba; two stepsons-in-law, Edward “Bud” Harrison and Don Kish, Jr.; a brother, Lyle Schindler; and a sister-in-law, Emily.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wilton. Rev. Kay Wold will officiate. Burial will follow in St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery. Friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of service Tuesday at the church. The Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services of La Crosse is assisting with arrangements. An online guest book is available at www.schumacher-kish.com.
Galetta’s family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Benedictine Villa and Manor for their excellent care.
