C. F. Gehrke was born in Neumark, Germany on April 21, 1841, son of Carl Gehrke and wife, Henrietta, nee Hoffman. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. In 1868 he immigrated, settling at Columbus, WI as a farm hand. In May 1874 he was united in marriage to Miss Henrietta Volkmann of Columbus. Their union was blessed with 6 children; his daughter, Martha, preceding him in death. For a number of years he was engaged in farming, at first near Columbus, later near Doylestown. In 1890, just 34 years ago, he purchased and moved on to what is known as the Gehrke farmstead in Windsor town. In 1901 deceased was one of the 12, who under the direction of Rev. E. Dornfeld of Marshall, organized the Friedens Evang. Lutheran Congregation of Sun Prairie. In 1921, on occasion of the 20th anniversary celebration of the congregation, Mr. Gehrke presented to the church a beautiful art glass window with the figure of "Christ Knocking at the Door." Blessed with exceptionally good health, deceased attained a fine old age that is granted to but very few. On Feb. 1, nearly 3 months ago, he was taken ill with a severe cold, which developed into bronchitis and due to his old age, brought on a physical breakdown. Prepared to depart this life at his Master's summons he was a patient hopeful Christian sufferer finding and hope in the blood and righteousness of his Savior Jesus. His end came peacefully on Thursday night, April 24. He leaves to mourn his death, the widow; 5 children, Anna Brumm of Windsor, Louisa Frydenland of Burke, Emil of Sun Prairie, Minnie Neindorf of Waterloo, Arthur of Windsor; 2 daughters-in-law, Mrs. Emma Gehrke and Mrs. Dixie Gehrke; 3 sons-in-law, Chas. Brumm, Carl Frydenland, and Carl Ninedorf; also 6 grandchildren. He attained an age of 83 years and 3 days. The funeral was held last Sunday, with services at the home at 1:45 and at the Lutheran Church here at 2:15. Interment was made in the Sun Prairie Cemetery, Rev. Theodore Thurow officiating.