With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a devoted servant of the Lord, Reverend Gerhard F. Schapekahm. He peacefully entered eternal rest at the age of 90 on Sunday, March 3rd, 2024, at Prairie Home Assisted Living in Menasha, WI.

Born in New Ulm, MN, on December 15, 1933, to the late Adolph and Martha (Seehusen) Schapekahm, Rev. Schapekahm lived a life guided by faith in God's Word. On August 7, 1955, he joined in matrimony with Lois Shiley in Waukesha, WI, and together they celebrated an inspiring 70 years of love and dedication.

After a fulfilling teaching career, Reverend Schapekahm embraced a new divine calling, serving as Pastor at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Tulsa, OK (1972 – 1978), Immanuel Lutheran Church in Greenville, WI (1978 – 1999), and finally, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fremont, WI where he faithfully shepherded his flock until his retirement in 2010.

He is survived by his wife, Lois, Menasha; three children:  Dan Schapekahm, Grand Chute, Linda Kath, Appleton, and Todd Schapekahm, Berlin; 7 grandchildren:  Samantha, Jacklyn, Lauren, Hannah, Zachary, Abby, and Adam; 7 great grandchildren:  Brooklyn, Bennett, Brinley, Clara, Lainey, Olivia, Lucy and Addie; a brother, LeRoy (Carol) Schapekahm, New Ulm, MN; and 3 sisters:  Naomi Schimmel, North Mankato, MN, Judy Schroer, New Ulm, MN, and Ruth (Dean) Bartsch, New Ulm, MN.  He is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Pastor Schapekahm was preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers Egbert and Richard Schapekahm.

A memorial service will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 9, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, N3505 State Road 47, Appleton. Reverends Mark Gartner and Matthew Schoell will preside over the service, welcoming friends and family to pay their respects from 9:00 am until the commencement of the service. Interment will take place on a future date at St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Fremont. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Prairie Home Assisted Living and St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care during Pastor Schapekahm's final days.

"To God be the Glory!"