NEW ULM–Audrey Helen Watchke, age 90, of New Ulm died peacefully on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at The Beacon in Mapleton. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes- SOUTH Chapel with Pastor Nathan Scharf officiating. Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the Minnesota Valley Funeral Home-SOUTH Chapel prior to the service. Livestreaming of the funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, December 13, 2024 on the Minnesota Valley Funeral Home’s Facebook page. To leave an online condolence for her family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org

Audrey is survived by her sister, Marilyn Watchke; brother, Howard (Alice) Watchke; sister in-law, Martha Watchke; many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Janice Watchke and Betty Broste; brother, Gary Watchke; brother in-law, Jerome Broste; niece, Gayle Foote; nephew in-law, John Foote; special friend, Raymond Freeberg.

Audrey Helen Watchke was born July 16, 1934, in New Ulm to Walter and Elsie (Mielke) Watchke. Audrey was baptized on September 13, 1934, and confirmed in her faith on March 21, 1948, at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in New Ulm, where she remained an active member throughout her life. She regularly attended Bible study and participated in various church activities.

Audrey graduated from Dr. Martin Luther High School in New Ulm in 1952 and went on to attend Mankato Commercial College. In 1953, Audrey began her career at the Mankato Police Department as a clerk-matron, proudly becoming the department’s first female employee. She retired in 1986 after more than three decades of dedicated service.

Audrey found joy in simple pleasures, including morning walks and coffee. She especially loved visiting with family and friends, and her kindness and generosity will be remembered by all who knew her.

Memorials preferred to St. Paul’s Elementary school, MVL, or MLC.

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