Obituaries

Gertraut Sigrid Hildegard Belicke, nee Fischer, born on August 18, 1934, in Heiligenbeil, East Prussia, Germany, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, in St. Charles, Illinois, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 90 years old.

Gertraut was the beloved daughter of Gustav Fischer and Frida Fischer, nee Marquardt, who preceded her in death along with her siblings: Ilse Fischer, Siegfried Fischer, and Guenther Fischer. Her family was her cornerstone, and she cherished the memories they built together throughout her life.

In 1961, Gertraut embarked on a new journey when she married the love of her life, forming a partnership that would last for 63 beautiful years. Together, they welcomed two wonderful children into the world, Silvia Belicke Funke and Thorsten Guenther Belicke (and his wife, Diana Sorgi Belicke). Gertraut was immensely proud of her family, finding joy in the lives of her grandchildren: Dakota Funke, Ryan Funke, and Nicole Belicke.

Gertraut’s professional life began with the Deutsche Bundespost, which became the German Post Office, National Bank and German Telecom.  She arrived in the United States, where she joined Bell and Howell in Chicago. After the birth of her daughter, she transitioned to a fulfilling career in accounting with Ball Seed/Jiffy Products of America in West Chicago, Illinois, where she continued to work until her retirement.

Her greatest passion, however, was her family. Gertraut was an exceptional cook, delighting in preparing meals not only from her German heritage but also exploring international cuisines. Her kitchen was always filled with the aroma of her latest culinary adventure. She continued to cook for her family daily until her health began to decline. Gertraut also had a green thumb; her vast flower,rose and vegetable gardens were a testament to her love for nature. Where inside her home, every color of orchid could be found, each one a reflection of her vibrant spirit.

Traveling was another cherished aspect of Gertraut’s life. She enjoyed exploring new places, visiting breathtaking destinations such as Alaska, Iceland, Amsterdam, Paris, Switzerland, and Germany, accompanied by her family. These adventures created lasting memories that her loved ones will carry with them forever.

A visitation in Gertraut´s honor will be held Wednesday, June 25th from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Yurs Funeral home in St. Charles, IL . The memorial service celebrating her life will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Charles, Illinois, on June 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with burial to follow in Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gertraut’s memory to Healing Gardens at Stone Hill Farm in St. Charles, Illinois, or to Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Charles, Illinois.

Gertraut Sigrid Hildegard Belicke will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, resilience, strength and culinary delight will continue to shine in the hearts of her family and friends. May she rest in peace, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.

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