Delores M Grulke

Delores (nee Lembke) GrulkeSeptember 9, 1930 – June 26, 2025   Delores Grulke, a lifelong resident of Waukesha, WI, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 94 years old. Born on September 9, 1930, to Walter and Mabel, Delores was one of fifteen children in a large and loving family. Though she completed only the eighth grade, she went on to create a full and meaningful life defined by hard work, devotion, and compassion. On August 22, 1949, she married the love of her life, Arthur Grulke, and together they built a warm and vibrant home filled with love, faith, and laughter. They raised four wonderful children: Carole, Kathy, Alan, and Randy, each a testament to her deep care and unwavering support. Delores worked for many years as a cashier at Carroll College, where she formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of colleagues and students alike. A devoted member of St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, she served on altar guild and was a proud member of the quilting group.  In her quiet moments, she found joy in working on puzzles and crocheting. Delores is survived by her children: Carole (Reinhard) Wolter, Kathy Dennig, Randy "Buck" Grulke (Sandi), daughter-in-law Pat Grulke, her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law. She was preceded in death by her husband Arthur, her son Alan and a grandson, as well as her parents, and 14 siblings—10 brothers and 4 sisters—whose memories she carried in her heart throughout her life. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (424 Hyde Park Ave, Waukesha, WI 53188), with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m and continuing until the start of the service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Wisconsin Memorial Park on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 10:30 AM.   In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a Charity of Your Choice in memory of Delores Grulke. Her life was a shining example of grace, strength, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.