Ilene Lois Mae “Tootsie” Block, 86, a Coleman resident, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family late Tuesday evening, August 15, 2023. She was born on December 5, 1936 in Oconto Falls, daughter of the late Stanley and Matilda (Miller) Olson. Ilene attended school in Maple Valley. On May 7, 1955 she married William Block in Milwaukee. He preceded her in death on May 6, 2016. Ilene was employed at many factories while tending to her husband and raising 8 children of her own as well as caring for and meeting the needs of others as they were welcomed into their home. Ilene enjoyed playing guitar, piano and accordion, as well as singing. She also liked camping, fishing and berry picking. Ilene enjoyed passing time reading, completing puzzles and listening to country music. But, mostly she loved spending time with her family and baking with her children and grandchildren, carrying on the kuchen tradition.
If you arrived at Ilene’s house unannounced, she would immediately be cooking for you. If you left her house hungry, it was your own fault. Christmas was a special time in Ilene’s home. She
always made sure everything was perfect. Ilene was a strong and independent matriarch of her family. Her contagious laugh, beautiful smile and bright blue eyes will never be forgotten.
Ilene is survived by seven children and their spouses: William (Laurel) Block, Kendall (Diane) Block, Kevin Block, Terry Block, George (Special Friend: Tracy) Block, Sandy (Larry) Bader, Lisa (Block) Wood; 20 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; one brother: Stanley (Susie) Olson; two brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law: Norman “Buddy” and Judy Block, Leonard and Carrie Block, Shirley Block; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. In addition to her parents, Stanley and Matilda Olson, Ilene was also preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, William Block; one son: Randy Block; one daughter-in-law: Linda Block; three sisters: Esther (Ray) Velten, Leona Olson, and Mildred (Edward) Peterson; and three brothers: Richard (Millie) Olson, Gilbert (Marge) Olson, and Clifford (Ellen) Olson.
Funeral services for Ilene will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 21, 2023 at St John Lutheran Church, 101 W Main St, Gillett. Officiating at the service will be Rev. Chris Byars. Visitation will be held on Monday morning, August 21, 2023 at St. John Lutheran Church from 9:00 AM until the time of services at 11 :00 AM. Cremation will take place following services and Ilene will be laid to rest at St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery at a later date. Expressions of sympathy and memories may be shared with Ilene’s family on her tribute page at www.legacycarepartners.com.
The Kuehl Funeral Home, 108 E Main St, Gillett is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
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