Children's Hospital Foundation receives gift from Harry Koepke Estate

Harry Koepke, an Oconomowoc area farmer, who died in March, 2008, was honored at a luncheon celebration given by Children’s Hospital Foundation on June 16th. Mr. Koepke was one of three award recipients at the event, held at Westmoor Country Club in Brookfield.

During his working years he farmed approximately 180 acres of land with his brother, Hilbert, and sister, Mabel, in the Town of Oconomowoc. Known for his frugality, Harry began investing his earnings in the stock market in the 1940s. Harry was a wise investor who was known to check on his investments daily.

According to Jim Miller and Kelly Sachse, spokespersons for the Foundation, Harry’s gift was the largest ever received from an estate. His love for kids was one reason he left a significant share of his estate to Children’s Hospital. The other reason, according to his grandniece, Jane Pruhs, was that her father, Alan, (Harry’s nephew) had received treatment at Children’s Hospital for club feet several decades ago. Harry was grateful and wanted to give something back. Thanks to his gift, generations of needy children will receive medical care to help them lead happier, healthier lives.

Taking part in the presentation ceremonies were Alan and James Koepke, nephews of Harry, Dr. Jane Chevako, Medical Director for Children’s Hospital, and Attorney Curtis Brewer of the law firm of Schober Schober & Mitchell, S.C.