Elaine E. Strassburger

MADISON - Elaine E. Strassburger, R.N., age 89, died on Friday, November 29, 2013 at Agrace Hospice. She was born on the 4th of July, 1924, in Chilton, WI. Her birthdays were always star-spangled celebrations. After graduating from high school with National Honors, she attended St. Agnes School of Nursing in Fond du Lac and began her R.N. career at Methodist Hospital in Madison and later retired from Madison General Hospital (now Meriter Hospital). Elaine was united in marriage to Harvey D. Strassburger on May 24, 1947. They made their home and raised their family in Madison. He preceded her in death in August of 1998. Elaine will be deeply missed by her sons, John (Gwen) and Mark (Deborah) and daughter Sarah (Rick) Brietzke; grandchildren Jennifer (Dan) O’Malley, Julie Reupert, Laura (Adrian) Brietzke, and Phil Brietzke; great-grandchildren Madeline, Jack and Kate O’Malley; Jason Reupert; Emily and Benjamin White, and other extended family as well as some very special friends including Pat, Natalie and Mary. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Esther Brocker and sister Betty Schmahl. Both Elaine and Harvey were deeply devoted to their faith and found lifelong support within the church. They were long time members of Wellspring United Methodist Church in Madison. Elaine was an enthusiastic Badger fan, never missing a football or basketball game on TV. Her passions included reading, sewing, knitting, crocheting, counted cross-stitching, and giving many of her handmade gifts to family, friends and as church or hospital donations. She enjoyed collecting antiques and solving any word puzzle. She is remembered for her beautiful piano playing and her love of church hymns. Her cooking and baking talents provided family with many revered recipes and special memories. Everyone knew Elaine as a wonderful listener. Both family and friends always found great compassion during their conversations with her. Elaine was always happy for each success and life event of others’. Her gentle smile and sweet demeanor will be remembered by all who knew her and who held a special place in her heart. On Wednesday, December 18, 2013, a visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11:00 am with a memorial service following at WELLSPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 5702 South Hill Drive, Madison, WI. 53705. (608) 238-7753. Lunch will be served at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wellspring United Methodist Church. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staffs of Waterford at Fitchburg Assisted Living, Attic Angels Health Care Center, Meriter Hospital and Agrace HospiceCare; you were great!