Wilhelm Sterba (1932-2017)

Wilhelm Sterba, 86, of Kenosha, passed away in his sleep on July 6 with family and his favorite cat at his side.

He was born May 13, 1932 in Fichtau, Czechoslovakia. He was educated in Germany and was a trained pastry chef. He came to Kenosha in 1951 to work as a baker in his uncle’s grocery store.

He served in the army from 1952 until 1957 where he was stationed in Germany. During this time, he married Inge Sieber. They later divorced. Upon discharge, they returned to Kenosha where he worked at several of the bakeries around town. He also worked at American Motors retiring in 1990 after 30 years.

On October 22, 1977 he married Gerda Tschamann. She preceded him in death in 2002.

He was very active with the Shriners and enjoyed driving the kids in need to the Shriner hospital in Chicago.  

He is survived by 2 sons, Wilhelm (Debbie) Sterba and Reinhold Sterba, daughter Marianne (Ken) Demuysere. Plus, many loving grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life with full military honors will be held on Thursday July 13, 2017 at 6:00PM at Kemper Center Founders Hall. (6501 3rd Avenue) Visitation with the family will be held on Thursday in Founders Hall from 4:00PM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago would be appreciated.