Camille Joy Jahnke

Camille Joy Jahnke, 89, of Plymouth, MN, peacefully passed away on April 11, 2024, at her memory care center in Henderson, Nevada, with her daughter Nancy Henke by her side, concluding her eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s. Born on April 18, 1934, in Waukesha, WI, Camille was a beacon of joy and resilience throughout her life.

From her early days, Camille possessed a curious spirit. Her favorite part of school was often found by looking out the window, wondering what adventures were unfolding beyond the classroom walls. She had a fondness for nature's treasures, always delighted by flowers, four-leaf clovers, and shiny things. After graduating from Waukesha High School, Camille married her beloved husband Robert (Bob) Jahnke on October 28, 1952. They built a life filled with love and creativity until their divorce in 1987. Not long afterward Camille met her longtime friend and partner Tom Bunn, whom she spent most of her time with traveling, dancing and enjoying life. Camille was a skilled homemaker, adept at sewing, painting, crafting, and problem-solving. She found joy in bringing people together, whether through her membership in Eastern Star, her love for bowling, or her passion for ballroom dancing.

Camille's generous spirit and infectious laughter touched the lives of all who knew her. Her mantra, "How can I help?", exemplified her selflessness and kindness. Despite the challenges she faced, Camille remained dedicated to spreading happiness and bringing smiles to those around her.

She is preceded in death by her father Emil Kaufmann, mother Genise Kaufmann, sister Tiny Kaufmann, and brothers Eugene, Conrad, Dwayne, and Ronald Kaufmann. She is survived by her sister in law Elaine Kaufmann, brother in law William Jahnke, children Donald Jahnke, Kenneth (Nancee) Jahnke, LuAnn (Ricky Anderson) Hatten and Nancy (Tom) Henke, grandchildren Amanda (Ryan) Schmidt, Megan Jahnke, Alec (Nina Sveinson) Jahnke, Matthew (Alexandra) Follett, Morgan (Sean) Gerretty, Derek (Neena) Kramer, Drew (Katie) Kramer, Collin (Jen) Kramer, Lindsey (John) Clark, Max (Bobby De LaRosa) Henke, Madeline (Albert Cui) Henke, Sophia Henke, Samuel Henke, great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on July 21st, 11:00 visitation, Service 11:30 with lunch to follow, at the Anoka Masonic Lodge (#30), 1908 3rd Ave, Anoka, MN 55303. Camille requested cremation to preserve land for recreation. In lieu of flowers contributions to give.nationalparks.org or simply spending time outdoors in her memory are appreciated. Camille's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness, intertwined with her appreciation for life's simple treasures, will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.