July 29, 1931 – July 1, 2020

Gerhardt “Geke” Vernon Kottke, age 88, of Hanover passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at the Buffalo Hospital. He was born on July 29, 1931 the son of Edward G. and Elisa B. (Bechtold) Kottke. “Geke” graduated from Buffalo High School in 1949. He honorably served his country in the United States Army. On September 16, 1964, he was joined in holy marriage to Sandra l. Weege in Webster, South Dakota. He was formerly employed as a well driller at Bergerson & Caswell in Maple Plain. He also formerly drove a milk truck. “Geke” was a lifelong, faithful member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hanover. He was a charter member of the Hanover Athletic Club and the Hanover Rod & Gun Club. “Geke” was a past Hanover city council member. “Geke” belonged to the Hanover Historical Society, Delano Sportsman Club and to the St. Michael American Legion. He was a member of the Hanover Lions Club for many years. He and his brother, Bill, were long-time softball umpires.

Survived by his loving wife of 55 years: Sandy; children: Lynn (Frank) Quinn of Hamilton, Ontario, Julie (Woody) Lamke of St. Francis, Brian (Amy) Kottke and Dave Kottke all of Hanover; grandchildren and great grandchildren; two sisters: Lorrie (Bob) Masuda of Fridley and Bernie Shannon of Minnetonka; sister-in-law: Leona Kottke of Walnut Grove; brother-in-law: Rollie Eull of Buffalo; and many other relatives and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents; sister, Arlene Eull and Verna Schleif; brothers, Harold, Donald, Melvin, Leonard and Willard “Bill” Kottke.