Audrey Behrens

 Audrey Elizabeth Behrens, 84, of Sterling passed away Sunday December 15, 2024 at home in Sterling. Audrey was born July 4th 1940 in Pana, IL the daughter of Harry and Amelia Smith of Sterling. She went to Wallace grade school in Sterling and graduated SHS class of 1958. She was class historian for 50 years. She married William “Bill” Behrens on July 29, 1961 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Sterling, where they were both members since childhood. Audrey and Bill farmed in the Coleta and Sterling area for 62 years. Audrey helping and working beside Bill.

 Audrey enjoyed helping and working at Messiah Lutheran Church, Sterling. She was a Sunday school teacher, member of Ladies Auxillary, Christmas decorating committee, Altar Guild, custodian and spent many years on various church boards. She worked at Schilling Funeral Home for many years and also worked for Gaffey Home nursing as a caregiver.

 She enjoyed going to flea markets, antique shows, camping with family and friends, especially Mt. Pleasant Old Threshers Campground, IA.

 Survivors include her husband William "Bill"; two children Marcia Ratliff and Douglas (Donna) Behrens both of Sterling; four grandchildren, Jason (Jennifer) Ratliff of Wentzville MO, Traci Shaw of Estacada OR, Brittany (Brad) Spears of Sterling and Brandy (Bryan) Hall of Lyndon and six grandchildren, Allison and Abby Ratliff, Roan Shaw, Brianne and Bentley Spears and Renley Hall. Special thanks to Deb for her care of Audrey for 3 years.

 Funeral service will be 11AM on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Messiah Lutheran Church, with Pastor Chad Boloson, officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30AM-11AM at the church, prior to services.

Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling.

 A memorial has been established to Christ Lutheran School.

 Condolences may be sent to www/schillingfuneralhome.com