Carole Hemke Mahnke - Guestbook

Mom,
I still think of you every single day. It is hard to believe it has been 5 years now.

I know you can see that our lives have gone on. You have 2 more grandchildren now, my precious twins (Chase and Taylor). I know we bring a smile to your face when you see how amazing they are. They remind me so much of you and Dad.

I am still so very sad, but I get up each day and keep going. When we travel I think of you, when I see a cardinal I think of you and when I look to the heavens I think of you. I know we will meet again one day since I know where you are is just amazing. But I still wish you were here with us.

You were beautiful inside and out and taught me how to laugh and live life. Ok, so no more tears for now....

Love always,
Your Deaner (Darlene)

To the Mahnke Family:

It has taken me a while to sit down to write this. It was such a shock when we read it in the newspaper. Robert worked with your Dad at SBC when your parents first moved to Brenham. We also knew your family by being at Grace with you all. After your parents moved, we found out that we had all gone on to become members of Lutheran Outdoor Ministries by being on the council together. We enjoyed seeing your parents at the gatherings in La Grange at Camp Lone Star. We have not been able to go to the "Lone Star Weekends" for the past few years due to other committments, so we had not seen your parents in a while. As I drove by their gravesites, I could not help but think that they are helping to prepare a party for all of us when we see them in Heaven.

Our prayer for you the family is that God will be with you and help you with this great loss here on earth.

Dear Doreen and Family,
I, too was shocked to hear about what happened to your parents from my sister, Diane. I'm so sorry for your extremely deep loss.
I remember (way back when) your family to be such a kind, loving, and caring one. And I can see from reading the other condolences that it still remains true today.
Hold on to your faith and be strong in the Lord because no one can ever take that away from you.
You're all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Lois (Bock) Capek

Dear Denise, Darleen, Doreen and Mike and their families:

It has been quite a few years since we have all been together. After my parents called to tell me the sudden calling of your parent's to their eternal home, my mom(Donna Adrian) shared stories of all of us growing up. You guys came up to our family cottage many times in Eagle River, WI. There was one night we got in a lot of trouble because Mike was sleeping and we were all suppose to be quiet (and of course we weren't). We weren't the only ones up there though, the Pede and Roth families were also up there. Mom also told me of lots of "parent" card parties and nights of playing volleyball at St. Jacobi.

I am sure your hearts will always have a hole that is being filled with memories of your parents. Their traveling days are over, they are now in their final destination. OUr prayers and thoughts go out to each of you.

Pam Hunt, for the Jerry and Dona Adrian family

Dear Carole,

Thank you for being a wonderful Christian wife to my brother. Thanks for raising four beautiful Christian children.

You made great meals, washed clothes, cleaned house, drove the children wherever they needed to be. Thank you for showing Christ’s love in your life. Your Christian faith shone through with kindness and caring for others. You loved your family, sacrificed and did everything for them so they could be happy and healthy. You showed Christ’s love in bedtime prayers and bible stories. You showed this love by bringing them to church and Sunday school, even though at times it was screaming and kicking. You took the time to make them listen and behave. WHY? because you loved them, because you wanted them to have that which is most important, FAITH in our Lord and Savior. You loved being with your children and grandchildren on this earth. But you and Dave made very sure your children would be with you in heaven.

I know your biggest heartache would be, seeing your children sad and hurting. You prepared them well. The Christian training they received taught them the joy you and Dave now have, and we will receive on the last day of our life, when we will be with God and reunited with our loved ones. May the faith that began in their hearts as children, remain in them forever.

We will all miss you and Dave, but with time, we will be rejoicing that you are at home, save with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ

Love,

Judy & Don

My Sweet Auntie Carole My Sister My Friend: It is so hard that not only did my Big Brother leave us but not you too! You always called me almost instinctively when I needed you. You always were here to help me cook, clean, weed, feed the birds, help with my dogs. You always walked in the door with bags from the grocery store right after getting off the plane. You brought me recipes, you brought me presents, your love, your hugs, your kisses and your smarty pants attitude. Who is going to help me play pranks on people? Your words "Auntie Kay what can I do, I can't just sit here". I never worried when I had 50 or 100 people here because you were here to help. You knew where every pot and pan was. We had so much fun together I can't imagine life without you. Everytime I look at the bed you and Dave slept in I keep thinking I'm going to see you. I keep waiting for you two to walk in the door because we need you. I keep wanting to pick up the phone and call you. You will so very much be missed by me and Uncle Pat, my kids and grandkids, Uncle Pete and Auntie Rhonda. I know how much Dave needed you and you him. My solice is that you two are together in heaven with many who loves you. The only problem is that I'm being selfish I love you and want you. Dave took a piece of my heart as you did. Please put them together and hang on to them for I will see you both again. Thank you for the Cardinals they are beautiful, and for the call you gave me before you left. I know that you two are truely home and happy it's just that my heart is breaking. I so love you and miss you and will desperately try to do as much as I can for the girls and Mike, I promise. I asked Dave for a dream with hugs and kisses please come with him in that dream. Until then all of our stories are getting me through. Wait for me I'll be there some day. All my Love Auntie Kay

Denise and Joel,

My prayers are with you and your family. May the dear Lord bless you, comfort you and give strength.

Love,
Irene and Family

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

I'M SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSS.

Darleen & family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We both understand your pain and grief that you are going through. Please remember that your mom is up in heaven watching over you and always. If you ever need anything, we are there for you.
Love,
Tammi and Brooks Birkhimer

Dear Doreen and family
I don't know if you remember us,we just heard today of the tradegy of your parents, we are deeply sorry for your loss!!!
We have fond memories of your parents and all of you,what a wonderful family you are.Diane always enjoyed spending many hours with you and doing things with you.
We have the assurance that your parents are happy in heaven with our Savior. Sincerely,
Ken and Bev Bock

Doreen and Family,

We are so sorry to hear about your loss.

May God comfort you and your loved ones during this time. May He bless you, David, and the boys, and provide comfort to all of you.


Ray and Renea Rolan
Cypress, Tx

Dear Doreen & family,

I was shocked and saddened when I heard about
your parents. I know we haven't been in contact
with each other for many years now, but I've often thought of you and your family wondering how you all have been. My prayers are with you all during your time of sorrow. I remember your parents as wonderful and extremely loving people.
Whenever I visited you, your parents always made
me feel like one of the family.
May you find comfort in the many treasured
memories that will be with you always.

My sympathy to you,

Diane (Bock) Clark

My thoughts and prayers and with all of you and your families. We have many memories with Uncle Dave and Aunt Carol. Uncle Dave and his cribbage games with Jeremy, Aunt Carol calling Tyler "BooBoo-Bear", all of the summer vacations we have spent together with them, laughing at me because I was scared to death of any bug that would come near me or buzz in my ear. Auntie Carol wrapping her legs around seaweed, pulling it out with her legs and swimming it to shore just to help out. Uncle Dave's laugh and his tight, loving hugs. Auntie Carol and her wonderful sense of humor. They were the most generous and loving people that I have ever met. I will cherish all of the memories and feel honored and priviledged that I was able to be a part of their lives. To know that they are together, in heaven, brings me great comfort and I know that they will always be watching down on their loved ones.

Ms. Darlene, Eric, and Emily,
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of your Mom and Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. If there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to ask.

With Love,
Kristy and Judd Westfall

Denise, Joel and family,

We only got to spend a little time with your mom and dad but we could tell how much fun they were in that short time. We feel so bad for you all and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Rachel, Eric, and Matthias Blair

Mom,

I will always remember how much you have done for me all these years.
Like all families, ours has had its share of ups and downs. I am so glad my kids got to know and Love Grandma Kay Kay. You always let them do the things I never would have.
You have been the best Mom and Grandma anyone could ever ask for.
I still find myself picking up the phone and wanting to tell you something that has happened.
I don't know if I will ever get past that feeling.
Today is your birthday and I wanted so much to give you the beautiful bird house I bought you in the shape of a church.
I guess now I will have to keep it in my yard and remember you.
It is harder for us but I am so glad you and Dad went together.
Yours was a true love story and I know you could never have lived without him nor he without you.
Tell Grandma and Grandpa how much I love them and save a place for me.
I will especially cherish these last few years when we were the closest.
I Love you, Mom.
Denise
Joel, Robert, Johnson and Andrew

Dear, Darlene,Eric, Emily and Family
I'm so sorry for your loss.You are in my thoughts and prayers, May God be with you and your family.
God Bless, Rhonda Roweton

Dear Darlene, Eric, Emily and family,
We express our deepest sympathy to you in the tragic deaths of your parents. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we pray that God will give you comfort and strength.
With love, Neal and Carol

Denise and Family,
Our deepest sympathies to you all for your loss, words can not explaine how sorry we are. Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you and your families. God Bless you all.

Denise and family, We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

My prayers are with you and your family.

Dear Denise and Family,
I would like to express my deepiest sympathy to you and all of your family . You are in my heart and in my prayers . Again I would like to say I am very sorry.

Darlene and Family, you are on our hearts and minds and in our prayers.

Doreen,
I am praying for you today. May God bless you and your family and comfort you.

Love,

Phyllis

Doreen and Family...
I am very sorry for you terrible loss. Our family will pray for you and yours. They are still looking down and you and will be forever with you. Please don't hesitate to call upon us if you need us!

Dear Children and Grandchildren of Carole and Dave,

Your mom came into my life in sixth grade at Tess Corners Elementary School in Muskego. She was also in my Sunday school and catechism class at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Muskego. We were close friends throughout high school and had lunch together every day along with three other girlfriends.

As marriage and raising a family came along, we didn't keep contact with each other. I would see her occasionally when she returned to Wisconsin to visit family and then would attend services at St. Paul's. My husband is the cemetary caretaker at St. Paul's so he was in touch with her about Grandma Minnie's burial.

I was very saddened to hear of their deaths, but rejoice with all of you in knowing that they are together in heaven with Jesus. I appreciate knowing about the cross your parents kept on the front seat of the car. Your parents and grandparents gave you the most precious gift ever in teaching you about Jesus.

God be with each of you with his comfort, his strength, and his love. You are all in my thoughts and prayers today as I remember mom and grandma's 61st birthday.

In Christian love,
Gloria Hermanson
Muskego, WI

MOM AND GRANDMA KAY KAY, TODAY IS YOUR B-DAY!! I WOKE UP THIS MORNING WITH AN ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF SADNESS. I DIDN'T UNDERSTAND UNTIL I REMEMBERED WHAT DAY THIS SPECIAL DAY WAS. I KNOW NOW ALL OF THE SIGNS THAT WERE SHOWN TO US BEFORE YOU LEFT ON YOUR TRIP. THE CROSS ON THE SEAT OF YOUR CAR IS A CONSTANT REMINDER THAT YOU BOTH ARE SAFE WITH GOD AND YOU BOTH HAVE MADE IT. IMAGINE THE SMILES ON GRANDMA AND GRANDPAS FACES WHEN THEY SEE YOU WALK IN. WE HAVE EXPERIENCED A GREAT LOSS IN OUR LIVES. BUT TAKE COMFORT IN KNOWING THAT YOU ARE IN GODS CARE AND LOOKING DOWN FROM HEAVEN AT THIS MOMENT. YOU WOULD BE SO PROUD OF US TO KNOW HOW CLOSE ALL OF US GIRLS HAVE BECOME. BOTH OF YOU WOULD BE REALLY HAPPY KNOWING THE GOOD THAT HAS COME OUT OF THIS IS THAT WE HAVE ALL BEEN REUNITED WITH OUR BROTHER. I WOKE UP THIS MORNING EXPECTING THE DAILY CALL FROM BOTH YOU AND DAD JUST TO SAY THAT YOU LOVED US. OUR LIVES HAVE BEEN CHANGED AND WE TRULY MISS YOU. AND WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU IN OUR HEARTS AND YOU CAN BOTH BE PROUD OF ALL OF US AND THE GREAT JOB WE DID IN PLANNING YOUR FUNERAL. YOU WERE THE BEST MOM, GRANDMA, FRIEND AND COOK. WE WILL ALL MISS YOUR RECIPES. UNLESS WE CAN FIND THEM IN THE 10 BOXES OF PAPERWORK. THANK YOU FOR BEING SO ORGANIZED AND WELL PREPARED TO HELP US WITH EVERYTHING WE HAD TO DO. LOVE, DOREEN, DAVID, DYLAN AND DAWSON

Mom,
I know you are looking down at me right now as the tears are streaming down my face, telling me it is going to be ok. I know you would want to hug and kiss me and take all of this heartache and pain away. You always hated to see me cry or in pain.

When a daughter loses her mom, words cannot describe the sadness that takes over your heart. Emily wants to know what is wrong and all I can tell her is mommy is very, very sad.

You shared in so many firsts in my life. You were there when I took my first breath. You were the first person I called when I found out we were having a baby. You were the first one to get on a plane to come help after my beautiful Emily was born or anytime I needed you. You were the first one I would call when I was sad, happy, or just needed to talk.

I loved our talks. I loved telling you all of the cute things Emily was doing and I loved when she talked about her grandma KayKay. She adored you as much as I did.

You were the best mother in the whole wide world. You were fun and so full of life. Everyone knew you for how nice you were. I will think of you every day for the rest of my life and will miss that we didn't have more time on this earth together. I really need one of your big hugs right now.

I know you will be our angel in heaven watching down over us. Thank you for being a wonderful MOM to me and a great grandmother to my daughter.

I never got to tell you Happy Mother's Day or Happy Birthday this year, God took you to heaven before I had a chance. I know your faith was strong. We got the cross you left on your seat in the car at the airport reminding us that God is Love.

I will miss you everyday for the rest of my life and will look up to the heavens knowing you are looking back at me.

Love you forever and ever, Darlene

Darlene,
There are no magic words that will take away the pain only time will heal this hurt. We both understand your grief and will continue to pray for you and your family. There isn't a day that goes by that someone doesn't ask about you. Take care,
Love,
Art and Bernie McDonald

Where do I start? Uncle Dave & Aunt Carole were the two most unselfish people I have ever known. They’d give you the shirt off their backs. Whether it was both of them helping Nicole & I move into our first house, or helping pull out weeds from our flower beds, or just taking time to talk to us. Anytime there was a project going on during their visits to Wisconsin, neither one would hesitate to jump in and help out. I will always cherish every moment that I was able to spend with them. I’m really going to miss playing Uncle Dave in cribbage and almost always winning his quarters. Even though he lost he would want a re-match. My pockets were always a little fatter until they went home to Texas. But what I enjoyed the most was taunting back and forth between he and I. Uncle Dave was always good for a lot laughs and personality brightened the worst day. The same can also be said about Aunty Carole. I could always count on her to be willing to talk to me about life and share her infinite wisdom with me. I never once saw her sitting down and relaxing on any of their annual visits to Wisconsin. She was always saying, “Put me to work, what do you need done”. Everyone says that god has a master plan and that only he knows what that plan is. The world seems a little bit sadder without the two of them. But, I do take comfort in the fact that they’re finding out what the master plan together in heaven. That the two of them loved each other dearly, and they will continue to watch over us until we see them again. We’re all better people for even knowing you two and I’m proud to call you my Aunt and Uncle. So, Aunty Carole and Uncle Dave (Bubba)… we love you and will miss you until we see you again. Bubba I hope you’re saving up your quarters.

Love always!!!!
Jeremy, Nicole and Tyler Wielgosh

SORRY I COULD NOT MAKE IT, AS YOU KNOW I AM IN NURSEING HOME. BILL

You and your family are on our hearts and minds and in our prayers. Praying for God's peace that surpasses all understanding. Kim

Denise and family:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys and the remainder of your family during this difficult time.

Tom & Michele Vanecek

Scott and I are deeply saddened by the loss of your parents. I have such fond memories of your parents growing up. We feel very fortunate to have visited with your family just recently. We truly loved your parents – my godparents- and the memories will live in our hearts forever. Scott and I know what it is like to lose a parent suddenly and we found much comfort in the words and prayers of others. Our prayer for your family is that you find comfort in God’s word and the support of others while knowing that your parents will live forever in your hearts!

Love and Prayers,

Scott and Lori Manning Family

I am keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.

My prayers are with your family

Love Candy

Dear Doreen, Darlene, Denise, & Mike:

My heart aches for all of you. I cling to the fact that Aunt Carole and Uncle David are together in heaven, and to the fond memories I have of them growing up. They were always kind, generous, & welcoming when I visited. May all this comfort you as well. See you soon - You are in our hearts and prayers.

Love,

Jeff, Lisa, Aaron, Lauren & Brooke Follansbee

To the family, I am so sorry for your traggic loss!! Doreen, Denise and Darlene will take great care of your legacy, they are fine girls with wonderful families, God Bless all of you!!!!

Jacki And Craig Steele
Ashley, Matthew, Carli and Joey

Darlene and Family,
May God Bless you during this difficult time. Your family at Leesburg Regional love you and are thinking about you.

We are so sorry to hear about your parents. I know you don't know us, but the back of our home at Cape Carancahua faces your parents home. We go down on week ends and would see your Dad walking the dogs and working outside.
May God Bless you.
Linda and Leroy Condel
El Campo, TX

To our family in Texas:

We are grieving with you and struggling with this tragedy.

Aunt Carole was an amazing woman. Exciting, adventurous, intriguing, genuine, forgiving, and selfless. Her smile always lit up the room. We are blessed to have years of memories.

Aunt Carole never forgot us- phone calls, birthday cards, and trips to WI for vacations, weddings, graduations, funerals and births. The last time we saw her was February 4, 2005 a few hours after Sammy's birth. They were on their way back to Texas, but before their flight, made a point to stop by the hospital to see our new son. What a cherished memory that is for us!

Aunt Carole was always making something to eat, buying dinner, slipping cash into a card or presenting a gift, constantly offering to help or to come and stay with them.

Aunt Carole was an incredible woman who never forgot us and we will not forget her. We are coming to pay our respects to a woman that was more than an Aunt, she was a great friend. We love, respect and will miss her enormously.

May the Lord bless your families with the strength to persevere, soothe your troubled spirits, and heal your broken hearts.

With deepest sympathy, Molly & Stephen Zucknick

We were deeply saddened to hear of your terrible loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to you. We had fond memories of the support and care your parents showed to us when we were at Grace Lutheran in Brenham. They will be truly missed.

Words can't begin to express the sorrow we feel for your lost. Please accept our deepest sympathy and know that your family will be in our hearts and prayers always.

Dear Darlene and family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so very sorry for your tragic loss.

Sincerely,
Jill Dykes

Dear Darlene & Family,

Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you and yours doing this tragic time.

Howard and Mary Vandewater

We are so sorry for your devestating loss, and offer all of you our deepest sympathy, as well as our prayers. Your parents were a joy to be around.We enjoyed many AAL conferences with them and swapped 'grandkid' stories! May God Bless and keep you.
Larry and Darlene Bakken

God bless you all at this very difficult time.
Denise, we will be in touch! We love you very much!

With love,
Joe and Rita

Denise, Joel & family - All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish there was a way for me to ease your loss; but I know that only time and the love of others will help. Please remember that we love you.

Dear Denise and family....
Jesus said he would never leave us or forsake us and I know his word is true. Keeping you and your family in prayer. Will and Helen Kinlow

Dear Denise and family,

My heart aches for you and your family. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you the comfort that only God can provide.

Sincerely,

Margaret Haisler

Our prayers are with you..
Love,
Carolyn and Leroy

Denise and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss, it is very hard to understand right now. Keep your faith strong and God will bless you and comfort you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Love Jennifer

Denise and Family,

Our hearts go out to you and your family and we will be praying for you.

John, Tracie, Christopher,& Chase Luna

Dear Denise & Family: I am very sorry for the loss of your parents. We will keep you in our prayers and God will help you through this time. May God bless you and your family. Steven

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God give you the strength and courage that you need to make it through this difficult time.

God Bless you and your family,

Love, JoAnn

Denise,

May you find the strength you need to get through this in the Lord and in your family. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.

Dear Denise and family:
You are in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. May God help you through this time of sorrow.

Mary

Our Prayers are with you and your family, may god bless each and everyone.