Kevin Larry Tanke

Williamsburg- Kevin Larry Tanke was born the son of Leroy & Helen (Laraway) Tanke on October 3, 1954, at Watts Hospital in Williamsburg. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church, Millersburg. He grew up in Millersburg and attended Millersburg schools, graduating from Deep River-Millersburg High School. During high school worked alongside his dad at Tanke's Texaco Service Station and Garage in Millersburg.

On March 3, 1978 he was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Catherine Teresa Frazier, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kinross. They were blessed with two daughters, Kevra and Ashlee. Together Kevin and Cathy created Cathy's Kiddie Cottage Daycare and Preschool. He enjoyed cooking meals for the children. Through the years he became known as "Papa" to many children throughout the community. Kevin enjoyed spending time with his family boating on the Coralville Reservoir, four-wheeling in the timber and playing family games. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, going for long walks or bike rides and hearing the frequent "Hi, Papa!" Kevin enjoyed washing and polishing his cars, laughing, joking and playing cards with his friends. He always looked forward to a fall leaf trip along the Mississippi River. He lived life to the fullest.

On Thursday, September 8, 2016, Kevin passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family after his nearly eight month battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife: Cathy; his mother: Helen Tanke; his two daughters Kevra (Joe) Hawk and Ashlee (Phillip) Trimpe, all of Williamsburg; five grandchildren: Andrew, Brody, McKenna, Maceyn, and Melaina; a brother: Leroy Tanke of Beaverton, OR. He was preceded in death by his father: Leroy Tanke; grandparents: Henry and Mary Tanke and Alex and Eva Laraway; his father and mother-in-law: Larry and Shirley Frazier, North English.


Celebration of Life Visitation will be Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Powell Funeral Home in Williamsburg. A general memorial has been established. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.