FREDRICK M. PETKE, age 73, of Thorp, WI, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.  A Celebration of Life for Fred will be held at 1pm on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Thorp Funeral Home, in Thorp, with visitation starting at 10am.

     Fredrick Michael Petke was born on June 21, 1951, the son of Theodore J. E. and Elsie I. (Rohland) Petke.  He was raised in Withee, WI and received his education in area schools, graduating from Owen-Withee High School in 1969.  On July 8, 1972, Fred was united in marriage to the love of his life, Joan Lato, at St. Hedwig Catholic Church in Thorp.  They resided in Thorp where they raised their two sons.

     He had many interests and hobbies.  Fred loved hunting and fishing with his sons, but especially enjoyed spending time with his three grandchildren.

     Fred was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Queen of Peace Council #4634.

     He will be sadly missed by his wife, Joan, of Thorp; two sons: Nathan (Angie) of Thorp, and Travis (Jen) of Greenwood, WI; three grandchildren: Payton, Brooklyn and Dean; one sister, Patsy (Al) Tetzlaff of Sundance, WY;  three sisters-in-law: Jean (Randy) Kadolph of Waupaca, WI, Mary (Fred) Fravert of Merrill, WI, and Rita Dion of Dresser, WI; one brother-in-law, Roy (Judy) Lato of Thorp; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

     Fred was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Jackson Petke; one brother, Richard McDonald; his father and mother-in-law, Joe and Agnes Lato; two brothers-in-law: Ted Lato and Bob Dion; and one nephew, Derrick Fravert.