Geraldine Thate

Geraldine Thate, of Antigo, died at Our Special Family Assisted Living under the care of their staff, her family and LeRoyer Hospice. She was 89 years old. She was born December 10, 1925 in West Allis, daughter of the late Joseph and Pauline (Hologa) Dettlaff. She married Donald Retzak, and they later divorced. She then married Eugene Thate, and he preceded her in death on Jan 24, 2006. Mrs. Thate graduated from West Allis Central High School. She was a homemaker, and also did clerical work and foster parenting. She raised her family in West Allis, living there for 52 years. She also resided in Rhinelander before moving to Antigo. She enjoyed gardening, baking, crocheting, puzzles and shopping trips to Wausau with her daughter, Dona. She was a member of SS. Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church. Survivors include 3 daughters, Sharon (Dan) Gollman of Pratteville, AL, Dona (Tom Masek) Retzak of Polar, Leann Retzak of Oak Creek; 2 sons, Gary (Lynn) Retzak of Manitowoc, and Scott Retzak of San Diego, CA; 12 grandchildren; 2 step-granddaughters; 13 great-grandchildren; 5 great step-grandchildren; a sister, Adeline Hansen of West Allis; and a brother, Reginald Dettlaff of Greenfield. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a sister, Leona May; and 3 brothers, Eugene, Raymond, and Robert Dettlaff. A memorial mass will take place at 11:00 a.m. Thursday at SS. Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church, with Rev. David Schmidt officiating. Visitation will be 9:30-11:00 a.m. Thursday at the church. Friends may visit online at www.strasserrollerfh.com.