Corrine Ann Brekke

A livestream of the Mass of Christian Burial Services can be viewed in the box below this obituary beginning at 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 13, 2026.

Corrine A. Brekke, age 94, of Neillsville, WI, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

Corrine Ann Rinka was born on September 22, 1931, in Stevens Point, WI, the daughter of Stephen J. and Frances R. (Laszewski) Rinka. She graduated from P.J. Jacobs High School and worked briefly at the Fox Theater and Sentry Insurance, carrying with her the strong work ethic and quiet determination that would define her life.

On September 12, 1953, she was united in marriage to Dr. Eugene H. Brekke in Stevens Point. Their marriage was a partnership built on devotion, hard work, and shared dreams. To fulfill Gene's military obligation, they lived in Minneapolis, MN, for a short time, where their first child, Bonnie, was born. In 1956, they settled on Bruley Street in Neillsville, where Gene established his veterinary practice and Corrine wholeheartedly embraced her most treasured role-raising their six children.

In 1967, Corrine and Gene, along with her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Jane and Clifford "Rusty" Zukowski, purchased a CHIPS hamburger franchise and opened their first location in Marshfield. They later expanded with a second location in Wisconsin Rapids.

In 1971, they built their home on the golf course in Neillsville-a home Corrine dearly loved. She poured herself into caring for it, making a hobby of keeping every room immaculate and welcoming. It was more than a house; it was the heart of countless family gatherings, holidays, and everyday moments that became cherished memories. She made every occasion special, whether it was a holiday or birthday celebrations through decorating and food. She enjoyed knitting, and was a member of the knitting club.

After their youngest child graduated from high school, Corrine chose to work at Figi's in Neillsville. She became a lead-lady and worked there for several years before retiring, forming friendships and earning the respect of those around her. Even after Gene's passing on January 20, 1991, her strength and independence carried her forward as she continued living in the home they had built together.

Corrine was a faithful member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville and served in the St. Remegius Circle of the PCCW. Her faith was a quiet but steady foundation in her life. She found joy in shopping trips-whether browsing Figi's outlet store in Marshfield or visiting Dayton's and Macy's in Minneapolis. She was also a past member of the Neillsville PEO Chapter and the Purple Passion Patooties Red Hat Society, enjoying the friendship and fellowship each brought.

She is lovingly survived by her six children: Bonnie Keller of Neillsville, WI; Bill Brekke of Milwaukee, WI; Debra Mohr of Neillsville, WI; Jane Ringstad of Stoughton, WI; John (Darlene Schaeffer) Brekke of Owings Mills, MD; and Tim (Lynn) Brekke of Neillsville, WI. She is further survived by her cherished grandchildren: Eugene Bieneck, Chris (Nicky) Keller, Joseph Keller, Michael Mohr, Thomas (Jess) Mohr, Andrew Mohr, Mark (Ellen) Mohr, Ben (Payton) Mohr, Mary (Ben) Christianson, Alex (Claudia) Mohr, John (Rachel) Ringstad, Adam Ringstad, Michael Ringstad, Eric (Lindsey) Brekke, Brooke (Cole) Finch, Anna (Nick) Brekke, and Emily Brekke; 25 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and her brother, Peter (Nancy) Rinka of Loyal, WI.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Eugene H. Brekke; her parents; a grandson, Matthew Keller; infant grandchildren, Cora and Arlie Mohr and Rhettley Finch; a son-in-law, Allen Mohr; her sister, Mary Jane Zukowski-Dieringer; her sister-in-law, Sharon Rinka; and two brothers-in-law, Clifford Zukowski and Don Dieringer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville. The celebrant will be Fr. Greg Michaud. Music will be provided by Rebekah Lehn, organist, and the St. Mary's Choir. Interment will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, with a 6:45 Rosary Service, and from 9:30 a.m. until the time-of-service Friday at the church.

Corrine will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her pride in a well-kept home, her quiet strength, and the steady love that anchored generations. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the traditions she upheld, and the countless memories created within the walls she so lovingly cared for.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

Gesche Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting Corrine's family with funeral arrangements.