Verlena Fortune

Verlena Adaline Kowalke-Fortune, age 94 of Baraboo went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sept. 12, 2018. She died from complications of dementia, with her daughter and grandson by her side. Verlena, daughter of Albert and Stella (Mueller) Kowalke, was born April 21, 1924, in the township of Honey Creek. She was the oldest of six brothers and sisters.She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. She attended St. John's Lutheran School. She was a long time, faithful member of St. John's church.On Feb. 21, 1945, she was united in marriage to Charles Fortune in Baraboo. This unions was blessed with three children, Melvin (Kathy) Fortune, Linda (Alan) LaGasse, and John (Gayle) Fortune.She worked at Red Goose shoe store for many years.She is survived by her children; Melvin (Kathy) Fortune of Baraboo, John (Gayle) Fortune of Baraboo, and Linda (Alan) LaGasse of Thornton, CO; grandson, Jason (Meredith) Adams; granddaughters, Jena LaGasse; Stephanie Fortune; two great-grandchildren, Nickolas and Ava Fortune; sister, Betty Seymour of Baraboo; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Glorianne Lyles and Elva Madland; five brothers, Harley, Bob, Jack, Melvin, and Gerald Kowalke; two sister-in-laws; and grandson, Chad Fortune.Services will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church in Baraboo on Wednesday, Oct. 3rd, 2018, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Tim Kuske officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be given to St. John's church of Baraboo. Redlin Funeral Home is assisting the family.