Nell Gehrke

Nell was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church. She was an amazing woman who retired from the Brevard County Sheriff’s Department and continued to work as a successful entrepreneur. She was also very active in local and state politics. Her career with the BCSO started as a secretary, then after attending the police academy was sworn in as the 2nd ever, female officer for BCSO. She was a groundbreaker for women. As an officer she had a varied and extensive career. Along with other duties, Nell worked with the youth, helping countless kids, her main focus being youth living in difficult situations. Then Nell saw another need, understanding that sometimes people make a mistake and need a second chance. She was instrumental in starting and running Brevard County’s first pre-trial release program. This program was used as a model for many agencies throughout the state. Nell loved to work but her favorite thing was to spend time with family, friends and go fishing!

Nell is survived by her daughter, Debbie Kocol, grandson Jason Kocol (Crystal), granddaughter Kimberly Bohne (Nicholas) and great granddaughters Maia, Skylar and Ava Bohne, siblings Reba Patanella, Fay Massey (G.F.), Jean Almond, Robert Andrews (Dipper) and Edward Raines (Nancy). Nell is pre-deceased by her husband Marlin and daughter Janet.

Service will be Saturday, December 12, 2020. The Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:00 with a Funeral Service at 2:00 at Faith Lutheran Church, 280 E Merritt Ave, Merritt Island FL. Graveside service will follow at Florida Memorial Gardens.

Masks and social distancing requested. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Health First, 1350 S. Hickory Street, Melbourne, FL 32901.