The estate of Amella Beilke has provided a recent gift of nearly $1 million to the Raymond A. & Amella P. Beilke Scholarship Fund administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin.

Amella Beilke established this fund within the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin in 2008 to encourage study in disciplines of interest to her and her late husband, Raymond. The fund provides scholarships each year for Marathon High School graduating seniors who plan to pursue a post-secondary education at an accredited college or university in the fields of engineering, elementary education, nursing, pharmacy, and other health care professions.

Raymond and Amella Beilke enjoyed separate and successful careers in the Marathon area. Equipped with ingenuity and a strong work ethic, Raymond embarked on a career as a successful dairy and ginseng farmer. Following graduation from Marathon High School, Amella went on to earn a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in elementary education, after which she pursued a 15-year career as an elementary school teacher.

“Ray and Amella knew the value of education, both for the individual receiving it and the community at large that benefits from an educated workforce,” said Mark Bradley, an attorney at the Ruder Ware law firm who worked with the Beilkes in structuring their estate plans.

“We knew that Mrs. Beilke intended to add to the scholarship fund that commemorates her career and her husband’s career but were unaware of the amount,” stated Jean Tehan, executive director. “Ray and Amella’s generosity and vision for the future of Marathon High School students cannot be overstated. For years to come, the Beilkes will be literally changing lives. We are deeply honored to carry out their legacy through this scholarship fund.”

To apply for consideration for either the Raymond A. Beilke Engineering Scholarship, or the Amella P. Beilke Scholarship, students must complete the general application for scholarships at Marathon High School. Contact the Marathon High School guidance office for application materials and deadlines.

To learn more about how you can plan for your future legacy through your estate plan, or about the Community Foundation, contact Jean Tehan, Executive Director at 715-845-9555 or visit our website at www.cfoncw.org.