Otto Pranke

Otto Pranke passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, January 18, with his family present at the age of 96. 

He was the devoted Husband of Alma Pranke; Father of Marilyn Rinker (Michael) and Michael Pranke (Deborah); Grandfather of Jennifer Postma, Ben Rinker, Garrett Pranke, and Derek Pranke; Great-grandfather of Jack Postma, Lucy Postma, Audrey Postma, and Amelia Pranke; and the dear brother of Jackie Krueger.

Above all else Otto treasured his family and friends and kept a close, loving relationship with them his entire life.

Otto was a survivor with a strong will to make a better life coming from a war torn Germany in 1950. He married Alma Hein in 1955 and together they worked hard and made the American dream a reality. They had two children and built their house in Greendale and lived there for 59 years.

Otto was an engineer at heart and was ready to tackle any problem or project. He figured things out without the help of Google! He was well known for his ability to fix anything. Nothing was beyond repair and he frequently helped his family and friends with joy and satisfaction.

He cared for his home and garden with pride. He kept himself busy tending to his yard and feeding the birds. He loved flowers and planted them with passion until the end. He always had a chocolate bar for the grandkids and treats in his pocket for the dogs.

He had a sharp mind, wit, and sense of humor. People enjoyed his company because he was truly interested in them. He loved picnics and get togethers and was a gracious host.

Otto leaves a legacy of a life lived with integrity, honesty, humility, and devotion. People watched as he cared for his wife tenderly for 19 months before she passed away and saw what true love is. 

He lived a long full life with those he loved and who loved him. There is sadness mixed with joy because he will be missed greatly but we know he is present with the Lord and Alma and we will see them again, as well as all those who call Jesus Christ their Savior and Lord.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Greendale, WI, located at 6705 Northway, with the Visitation at 11:30AM, Celebration of Life at 12:30PM, and a light luncheon to follow at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Luke's Lutheran Church (https://www.slchurch.org/giving) or VCY Channel 30 Christian TV (https://vcyamerica.givingfuel.com/donate), in memory of Otto.