Erika Goulette

Erika Goulette, 65, of Sioux City passed away Friday, Aug. 18, 2006, at a Sioux City hospital, surrounded by her family, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel, with the Rev. Leo Kostizen of St. Paul's Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will be in Logan Park Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 to 8 p.m. today, with the family present 6 to 8 p.m. and a prayer service at 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.meyerbroschapels.com.

Erika was born Jan. 26, 1941, in Nurnberg, Germany, the daughter of Andreas and Johanna (Gosswein) Rees. She attended and graduated from school in Germany.

She married Fred E. Goulette on May 19, 1961, in Pirmasens, Germany, while he was serving in the U.S. Army. Fred preceded her in death on Oct. 7, 2004, in Sioux City. The couple moved to Sioux City in 1964. Erika was employed with Sunshine Foods for several years.

She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Erika was a foster parent for 10 years. She also was a volunteer with Hospice of Siouxland, Marian Health Center and CSADV. She enjoyed traveling, camping, gardening and was very active in the safety and well-being of children.

Survivors include four children, Thomas Goulette Sr. and his wife, Beverly of West Point, Neb., Ellen Meisner of Rapid City, S.D., Mary Ann Goulette Risner and her husband, Robin of Sioux City and Kimberly Ramstedt and her husband, Peter of Ft. Worth, Texas; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by both parents; and a great-grandson, Micheal Risner.

Pallbearers will be Nickolas Risner, Corey Risner, Nathan Meisner, Thomas Goulette Jr., Robin Risner and Peter Ramstedt. Honorary pallbearers will be Stacy Goulette, Angelia Goulette, Katelynn Meisner, Zachary Goulette, Mackenzie Risner, Julia Goulette and Rachel Ramstedt.