Connie J. Behling passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012, at her home in Oconto, after a courageous battle with cancer. Connie was born March 18, 1948 to the late Werner and Rita (Benesh) Schomaker in Marinette, WI. She attended Oconto Public Schools and Parochial Schools in Marinette, graduating from Catholic Central High School in 1966. She went on to the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, graduating in 1971 with a bachelors degree in Elementary Education. Connie enriched the lives of many children as she taught fourth and fifth grade in Oconto for 32 years, retiring in 2003. She was honored with the Oconto Elementary School teacher of the year in 2001. Connie married Doug Behling on October 28, 1995. Doug preceded her in death after five years of absolute joy on December 20, 1999. Also preceding her in death were her parents, a brother Gerry, and sister-in-law Karen. Connie is survived by two brothers Werner (Gail) Schomaker and Jeff (Ingrid Kress) Schomaker; four sisters Karen (Orin) Sandberg, Judy (Steve) Grace, Jeanne (Steve) Bouche, Jackie (Mike) Witter; her special friend Mary (Bob) Heiser; a brother-in-law Merlie (Jackie) Behling; a sister-in-law Kathy (Don) Kuhr; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Connie is also survived by two very special little girls and companions, Allie and Millie. Connie loved spending time with her large family, especially at the joy filled gatherings at her parents’ home. She enjoyed picking wild berries, gardening, floral arranging, making greeting cards and traveling. Doug and Connie ran B&B Crafts for three years where Doug built wood crafts for Connie to decorate. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Oconto, on Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 9 to 11 AM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11 AM at the church with Rev. Bob Karuhn officiating. The Gallagher Funeral Home, Oconto, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.gallagherfuneralhome.net. Connie was a devoted pet owner for many years, which led her to become a dedicated volunteer and generous donor to the Oconto Area Animal Shelter. It was her wish that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her memory to the animal shelter to help support the work done there on behalf of the animals she loved so much. Donations may also be made to the Bread by the Bay food pantry. Connie’s family wishes to thank all the wonderful caregivers who have supported her so lovingly throughout her battle with cancer.

Cemetery:
Brookside Cemetery