Beloved Volunteer Jeanette Steinke, 98, Passes Away; Leaving a Legacy of Service and Love
HOKAH – Jeanette Rose Steinke, a dedicated volunteer known for her unwavering commitment to serving others, passed away at the age of 98. She left behind a lasting legacy of compassion, selflessness, and love that touched the lives of many.
Jeanette was born in La Crosse, WI, on November 22, 1924, to Joseph and Mina Erlewein. On February 20, 1945, she married Karl Steinke in Hokah, MN. Jeanette worked at La Crosse Rubber Mills/Footwear and was a lifelong member of the Thomas Rooney Post 1530 in La Crosse, WI. She held significant positions within the post, serving as a Past President and Past District President.
One of Jeanette’s most remarkable contributions was her 30 years of volunteer work at the Tomah VA Medical Center. Day in and day out, she dedicated her time and effort to helping those in need, especially veterans. Her impact on the lives of patients and staff at the medical center was immeasurable. Even as she grew older, she continued to be an active member of her church, living out her faith and spreading love to those around her.
Jeanette was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Karl Steinke, her daughter Fay Reiley, and her grandson Tim Loken. She also mourned the loss of her son-in-law Dale Nelsestuen and her siblings: Angela Butterfield, Helen Palmer, Marion Miller, Willard Erlewein, Arthur Erlewein, and Edward Erlewein.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Elaine Nelsestuen of Blaine, MN, and her four granddaughters: Julie Fields of Minneapolis, MN, Jill Nerud of St. George, Utah, Kim Habben of Blaine, MN, and Toni Domino of Andover, MN. Jeanette also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren, sixteen great-great-grandchildren, her special best friend Sandee Feuerhelm, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at the Community Church of Hokah, 204 Main Street, Hokah, MN, on Monday, October 30, 2023, at 11:30 A.M. Prior to the service, visitation will take place from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the church. Following the service, Jeanette will be laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Jeanette’s caring nature and willingness to lend a helping hand were evident in the lives of those she touched. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of service and love serves as an inspiration to us all. Jeanette, you will forever be in our hearts.
