Christine Kay Gieseke

Christine Kay Gieseke, age 72, of Marengo, Illinois passed away peacefully at home on November 28, 2023. Christine was born on March 27, 1951 in Elgin, Illinois to George and Hilda (Glade) Freise. Christine was a lifetime resident of the Marengo area and was blessed to be born into a very large extended family. Her childhood was filled with memories of helping on the farm, breaking ponies and large family picnics with her 39 first cousins. She graduated from Marengo High School in 1969. After graduation, she went to work for the FBI in Washington D.C. as a fingerprint analyst. Following her time at the FBI, she returned to Marengo and went to work for Illinois Bell. Christine married the love of her life, Jerry Gieseke on June 3, 1972. Always a farm girl, she and her family would continue to work and grow Deerpass Farms. She and Jerry were blessed to raise their family in Marengo. She loved spending time in the outdoors. Whether it was a long walk, brushing her horses, training her beloved Saint Bernards, hanging clothes on her clothesline, gardening or tending to her flower beds, she was happiest when the sun was shining down on her. Christine spent many years as a stay at home mom and homemaker before returning to the work force at Prairie Community Bank. The friendships she made with her coworkers and customers made at the drive thru were a true testament to her social butterfly personality. Christine was also fortunate to have many lifelong friendships. From her best friend since kindergarten Wendy, to her monthly pinochle games with her card club or a Friday night fish fry out. She always lived life to the fullest. Her true joy in life was watching her grandchildren. She had a unique and special bond with each one of them. Those who knew Christine, knew her grandchildren by the stories she shared. She was a constant fan in the stands, whether it was 4-H, sporting or dance events. Christine is survived by her husband Gerald, children, Brett (Sarah) Gieseke, Autumn (Marc) Bechler, Ryan (Rhonda) Gieseke, Jeremy (Kasey) Gieseke; grandchildren, Ethan, Hayden, Avery, Gabby, Madelyn, Addison, Ella, Colton, Michael and Gracie; siblings, Larry (Angie) Freise, George (Vickie) Freise, brother and sister in laws Dennis (Linda) Gieseke, Roger (Wanda) Gieseke, Brian Gieseke, Frank Misiano, Uncle Richard (Betsy) Glade and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Best friend Wendy (Tim) Dlugos. She was preceded in death by her son Quinn, brother Randy and parents George and Hilda Friese. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023 from 3pm to 8pm at Niko's Grill and Pub 7509 S. Grant Hwy. Funeral service Saturday, December 2 at 1 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 412 Jackson St. Marengo with a visitation from 11 a.m. until time of prayer at 12:25 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials in her name to Zion Lutheran Church or School. Fredrick Funeral Home, Hampshire is assisting the family, Erika Freund Director. Express online condolences at: www.fredrickfuneralhome.com.

Christine Kay Gieseke

March 27, 1951 - November 28, 2023