Traci Ellen Menke

Traci Ellen Menke passed away Friday, August 16, 2024 at the age of 57. She was born December 31st 1966 to Robert and Donnie Anselm in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Donnie recounted how excited she was when she went into labor, hoping they would have the first baby of the new year who always received lots of gifts and prize money. But Traci didn’t want to wait that long and was born around 9:00pm on the 31st. Her folks were certain it would be a boy and hadn’t chosen a girl’s name so Donnie named her daughter Traci, after a popular comic strip. As a young child Traci often introduced herself as “Dick Traci Anselm”. The family moved to Willow, Alaska in 1975. Traci graduated from Wasilla High School in 1985.

Traci will be remembered as an incredible mother. Her son, Kevin, was born in 1992. He was premature and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, but that didn’t stop Traci and Kevin from doing everything from camping, to dog mushing to pranking their friends and family. With love, outstanding medical care, and determination, Traci built a life with Kevin full of fun, work and humor. An extraordinary mother, she cared lovingly for Kevin until his death in December 2006.

Traci will also be remembered as a skilled, compassionate care giver. Her life with Kevin made Traci realize how many people needed care and could benefit from a skilled care provider. So, Traci decided to complete a Certified Nursing Assistant program and became a licensed CNA. She spent most of her working career doing elder care in assisted living centers and home health. Traci had a special heart for elders with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. She was a hard worker, a caring and effective CNA and was loved by her many clients and families.

Traci met her husband, Robert Alan Menke, in 2013. She commented that they were “always on the same page” and they married on Friday the 13th, June 2014 at Kevin’s graveside. Sadly, after a hip surgery, Robert became very ill and died in April 2020. Traci cared for him throughout his long illness.

Traci continued with her professional career until the fall of 2023 when she became very ill and nearly died. On November 28, 2023, Traci was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Like every other hard event in her life, Traci met this challenge with determination and courage. With the support of her family and friends, Traci fought every day to make it through her treatment with a positive attitude. Her unique sense of humor, and sheer toughness. When it became clear there were no more treatment options, Traci prepared to die with the same courage and attitude she showed her whole life. She is survived by her parents, Bob and Donnie Anselm, her brother Mark Anselm, his wife April Anselm, niece, Liberty Anselm and nephew, Robert Anselm. Traci was an inspiration and will be deeply missed by her family and many friends!