Harley Boettcher

Harley Roy Boettcher, 95, of Artesia, N.M. (formerly of Watertown, Wisconsin), passed away on Thursday, November 1, 2018 at Good Life Senior Living and Memory Care in Artesia.

Harley was born on the family farm in Reeseville, Wisconsin on January 16, 1923 to Louis and Helena (Kreueger) Boettcher.

He married Ethel Louise Mertz on February 18, 1950 in Watertown.

Harley served in the US Army during World War II in the 91st Infantry Division in the Rome/Arno, North Apennines and Po Valley campaigns. He was in combat for 10 months and was awarded the Bronze Star. He was a life member of VFW Post 3709 and previous Post Commander.

He worked as a machinist at Crepaco in Lake Mills, retiring in 1987. He was a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW).

Harley was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Helena Boettcher, wife Ethel; brothers, Marvin Boettcher, Roland Boettcher; sisters, Lila Rasmussen, Lucille Bradke. Harley was the last member of his immediate family.

Survived by children; son Daryll L. Boettcher and wife Alicia, daughter Carol Demetropoulos and husband Chris; grandchildren Bryan Boettcher and wife Jamie, Dustin Boettcher, Kim Genz, Kris Stai-Swisher, Angela Robinson and husband Ed, Alyssia Byers and husband Paul. A niece and nephews, 16 great-grandchildren 4 great-great-grandchildren and his friend Bill at Good Life.

Service and interment will be in Wisconsin at a later date.

Harley was a member of 1st Congregational United Church of Christ. He asked in lieu of flowers, if desired, please consider a memorial to the Churches Mission Fund at 120 Kuckkan Lane, Watertown, WI 53098.