Maurice Gaulke, 92, of Ackley, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at his home in Ackley. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Ackley with burial in Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be an hour before the service. Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
Maurice Lynn Gaulke was born on May 2, 1932, in Owasa, Iowa, to Orville and Vera (Smalldridge) Gaulke. He graduated from Iowa Falls High School, Ellsworth Community College and University of Northern Iowa. On June 6, 1954, Maurice was united in marriage to Marlene Eichmeier in the St. John’s United Church of Christ in Ackley.
Maurice taught Art Education in the Ackley-Geneva School District for over 30 years. He was a longtime member of the Ackley Lions Club, where he served with distinction as both president and treasurer, and was an active member of Ackley Heritage, contributing his artistic talents in the design of Ackley mugs, stationery, and other memorabilia. A faithful member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Maurice served on the church council, participated in search committees, and designed the Peace Garden sidewalks, which he lovingly maintained. He also designed the church’s memorial cabinet and helped in preserving the church’s history. He was an avid gardener. Maurice served in the National Guard from 1950 to 1959.
Maurice is survived by his children, Kelly (Imelda) Gaulke of Weslaco, Texas, Steven (Tari) Gaulke of Ankeny, Iowa, and Lisa Gaulke of Prairie Village, Kansas; his step-granddaughters, Sarah (Alex) Harkin of Spanaway, Washington, and Hannah (Max) Feller of Norwalk, Iowa; and his great-grandsons, Owen and Felix Feller of Norwalk, Iowa. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Gaulke of Iowa Falls, Iowa.
Maurice was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Vera Gaulke; his wife, Marlene; and his brother, Alan.
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