Doretha A. Wahl

Doretha A. Wahl, 95, of Ferdinand passed away surrounded by her family on September 8, 2026, at Scenic Hills at the Monastery in Ferdinand. Doretha was born, January 7, 1931 to Rupert and Emma M. (Hollinden) Klueh. She married James “Jim” Wahl on July 31, 1954, in Ferdinand and celebrated 70 years of marriage. Jim preceded her in death on January 16, 2025. Doretha dedicated her life to raising her children and providing a warm and loving home.

Doretha was a 1949 graduate of the Academy of Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand. She started her career working as an office assistant to Dr. H.G. Backer and later worked at Hildegard Health Care at the Sisters of St. Benedict. She worked as an Avon Representative for 24 years where she made President’s Club for sales excellence each year. In her free time, Doretha enjoyed knitting, sewing, canning, cooking and baking. She had a special heart for giving time and helping others. She volunteered at Scenic Hills for 25 years, and taught others the art of palm braiding at the Ferdinand Library.

She was a devoted member of Christ the King Parish, St. Ferdinand Catholic Church, where she was a member of the church choir, a catechist, Eucharistic minister, a member of the prayer line, and part of the visitation of the sick ministry team. She was also a member of the Daughters of Isabella.

Doretha is survived by her six children: Paul (Martha) Wahl of Ferdinand, Kenneth (Mary) Wahl of Newburgh, Patrick (Kristi)Wahl of Evansville, Mary Jane (Dennis) Whitsitt of Duff, Thomas (Tammy) Wahl and Nicholas (Corrine) Wahl of Indianapolis; 16 grandchildren; and 30 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Doretha was preceded in death by her sister, Joan Verkamp; brothers Donald and Earl “Brewster” Klueh.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, September 16 at 10:00 AM EST at Christ the King Parish, St. Ferdinand Catholic Church, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM EST Tuesday,September 15 and continuing Wednesday from 7:00 AM to 9:30AM EST at Becher Funeral Home in Ferdinand.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Ferdinand Catholic Church or the Sisters of St. Benedict. Online condolences may be shared at www.becherfuneralhome.com. Becher Funeral Home in Ferdinand has been entrusted with final arrangements.