Glenna Jean (Sieber) Handschke

Glenna Jean (Sieber) Handschke age 74, of Hortonville passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at St Elizabeth’s Hospital, Appleton. She was born September 22, 1948 in New London, WI the daughter of the late Ronnel and Pearl (Botker) Sieber. She graduated valedictorian of Hortonville and Hilbert High School.  She was united in marriage to Erwin G. Handschke on August 12, 1967 at Faith Lutheran Church in Appleton and he preceded her in death January 25, 2002. The Lord blessed them with 34 years of marriage. 

Glenna’s main goal in life was to raise her family.   She dedicated her time and effort making this her priority in life.  Glenna’s faith was also of great importance.  With their faith in the forefront Glenna and Erv became founding members of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Greenville.  Her life’s philosophy was based upon those teachings. Many lifelong friendships began at church. Glenna held many jobs throughout her career including Avon sales, life insurance sales, and clerical work at several companies.  She enjoyed going to plays at the PAC and the Attic Theatre. Her favorite, joyful activity was dancing.  She enjoyed dancing with her special pal Pete VanDera.  Glenna gained her truest, best friend with Jim VanDerBurgt while they danced, laughed and whooped it up.  

Glenna is survived by son, Jonathan Handschke, Hortonville. WI; son, Lowell Handschke, Plano, TX; daughter Gloria Handschke, Hortonville, WI; granddaughter, Kathryn (Alex Coenen) Coenen, Greenville, WI; brother, Dr. Robert (Dr. Margaret Orzel) Sieber, Hortonville, WI.  She loved her pets; the cats, the dog and the birds.

Family and friends may visit on Thursday, February 2, 2023 from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N Richmond St, Appleton.  Funeral Services for Glenna will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, February 3, 2023 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Greenville with Rev. Chad Starfeldt officiating. Friends may visit the family from 10:00 am until the time of services at the church. Inurnment will be in Highland Memorial Park, Appleton. 

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy a memorial fund in Glenna’s name has been established with the family, to be given to the Jerry Schneider Polka Show how on which many Saturday’s was listened to.

Glenna’s life philosophy was: “Live by the Golden Rule.”  Pete taught Glenna “Whether you are 16 or 60 the rest of your life is ahead of you.  You can’t change your past but you can change your whole future.” With Jim, Glenna added, “Let’s not dwell.  Let’s celebrate the now.”

Thank you to all of Glenna’s caregivers over the years. The family appreciates your care and compassion.

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