Julie Ann "Strong" Behnke

Julie Behnke ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Berndt-Ledesma Hartford Funeral Home on Mar. 16, 2026.Julie Ann Behnke, of Hartford, WI, passed away on Saturday, February 7 at her home. Her death was due to acute chronic respiratory failure, brought on by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. She was born June 26, 1960 at St. Olaf Hospital, Austin, MN, the daughter of Terrence and Nancy Strong. Julie married Gary Herman Behnke on June 15, 1985. They met in Rib Lake, WI while both were teachers in the Rib Lake School District.Julie began her teaching career in Rib Lake, WI, after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a degree in Special Education. She continued teaching at Hamilton Sussex High School until having children. She was a stay at home mom caring for daughter Kristi and son Connor until becoming an Instructional Aide at Merton Community School. Julie loved her job at Merton, working as an aide in the 4K classes and in special education classes as well. Julie retired from Merton in 2020.She is survived by her husband Gary, of Hartford, WI, her children, Kristi and Connor Behnke, and her sisters, Connie Neubeck and Cathy Strong. Julie is preceded in death by her parents, Terrence and Nancy. She will be missed.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Julie Ann (Strong) Behnke, please visit our floral store.