Eileen Gerken, 87, of Lincoln, NE died Tuesday, January 1, 2013. She died peacefully in the presence of family at the Tabitha Hospice.
Eileen was born October 22, 1925, to Clyde Eldon and Ruth Mae (Thompson) Thomas in Gary SD. She graduated from high school in Deer River, MN in 1943. Following graduation, she attended the Minneapolis School of Business.
From 1944 through 1967 Eileen resided in Mazeppa, MN where she was married to Marlyn J. Gerken, began raising a family, and held various bookkeeping and customer service positions in the banking industry.
In 1967, Eileen and family moved to Onida, SD. She worked in the Sully County Auditors office from 1968 to 1987, serving as auditor from 1969 forward. She moved to Brookings, SD in 1987 where she held a position with South Dakota State University as the Extension Office claims clerk. After moving to Lincoln, NE in 1989, Eileen worked various part time jobs until fully retiring in 2005.
Eileen was always very involved with church, community, civic and professional activities, volunteering time and input both personally and professionally.
These include the South Dakota Association of Public Officials, The National Federation of Business and Professional Women, The National Federation of Republican Women and the American Legion Auxiliary, to mention a few.
Eileen’s life revolved around her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, giving selflessly of her time, love, and affection. She loved traveling to visit her grandchildren and spend time with family members.
Eileen is survived by her children: Tom Gerken and wife Jill of Topsham, ME; Tammy Gerken (Hubl) and husband Erik of Lincoln, NE; Karl Gerken and wife Jo Anne of Arvada CO; 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren: Tara Gerken (Buckner), husband Charles, Devon and Cailey; Elise and Shana Gerken; Orion Diaz and friend Nikki Boetton; Corvus Diaz, wife Angela, and Austin; Caelum and Lyra Hubl, Kellan Gerken. She was preceded in death by her parents, former husband Marlyn, and son Kurt Gerken.
Funeral Service 11:00 a.m. Saturday January 5, 2013, Roper and Sons Chapel at 4300 ‘O’ Street with Ron Drury officiating. Memorials to Tabitha Hospice, 4720 Randolph, Lincoln, NE 68510. Visitation one hour prior to service time. Final internment, Onida, SD a future date.