Ira B Gohlke

Ira B Gohlke, 97, of Crawford, received the fulfillment of his baptism, Monday, August 28, 2023.  Funeral Service will be 10:30 AM, Friday, September 1, 2023, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Crawford, with Rev. Donna Wright officiating.  A Visitation with the family will begin at 9:30 AM in the fellowship hall.

Ira was born October 14, 1925, to Herbert and Lydia (Rabbe) Gohlke on the family farm near Crawford in McLennan County on Rainey Creek.  He was baptized in 1925, at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Coryell City, and confirmed on April 2, 1939, in the same church.

He attended school in Coryell City until the 7th grade and graduated from Gatesville High School.  In August 1944, Ira was drafted into the Army and served during World War II. He was on the ship heading to invade Japan when the atomic bomb ended the war, he completed his time serving in the occupation of Japan.

After returning from the War, Ira  and Margaret became one on November 14, 1946, at Zion Lutheran Church in McGregor.  The couple enjoyed over 76 years of marriage. Ira was a successful Farmer in the Crawford Community and in Coryell City.  He was very active in church, and with his sons, grandchildrens, and great grandchildrens activities, he even served on the Crawford School Board for 18 years.  He was a faithful and active community member, serving on the board of the community center, booster club, little league teams, played in Coryell City league, American Legion, Church Council for Zion Lutherin in McGreor and St. Paul Lutheran in Crawford, civic club, and countless other area organizations.

Ira enjoyed hunting and fishing, and considered farming an enjoyment as well as a profession.  He adored his wife and spending time with her, and greatly cherished his time with his family.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents; his beloved wife, Margaret; and grandson, Jake Patrick Gohlke.

Left to carry on his legacy are sons, James and wife Sue, Gary and wife Patricia; grandchildren, Burt Gohlke and wife Ginny, Cody Gohlke, Kelly Patterson and husband Kyle, Jamie Taylor and husband Justin, Jackie Stiba and husband Eric, Vance Gohlke and wife Taylor; eleven great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild. At the birth of Grayson, the Gohlkes celebrated having five generations.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the charity of your choosing.