Jeanne Marie Witte

MADISON - Jeanne Marie Witte passed away at home on Nov. 11, 2017, at the age of 65. Born on March 24, 1952, she grew up in Colby, Wis. Jeanne graduated in 1970 from Colby High School. She received her bachelors degree from UW-Stevens Point in 1974 and her Master of Arts degree in Library and Information Studies in 1991 from UW-Madison. Starting her professional career at University of WisconsinStevens Point library system, she spent 24 years of her professional career at the UW-Madison Steenbock Library. As head of Access Services and a member of the Steenbock Planning Group, she contributed to planning and implementing many library improvements, including library remodeling projects and creating staff efficiencies. As operations manager for the UW-Madison/Google Book Initiative Jeanne supervised the scanning of books and research projects into digital media form. She developed and implemented the librarys Information Specialist Internship Program, managed the UW-Madison Shelving Facility, implemented software programs facilitating inter-library loan system and the on-campus document delivery. Her work touched the lives of many, many UW students. Jeanne retired from the University of Wisconsin Library system in 2010 after 35 years of service, ready to begin act II of her life. Jeanne was an avid reader and erudite, whose diverse knowledge helped her beat your butt at any game. She loved quilting (i.e. collecting fabric!), book clubs, dragon flies, silly sox, traveling, sharing meals with family and friends, and making those around her laugh. Her knowledge was boundless and her interests endless. To say that Jeanne was curious about the world is an understatement. Jeanne was active in Al-Anon, a top-notch, tell-it-like it is friend, and devoted, loving partner. She leaves behind a host of friends and family who will not forget her positivity and candor. We want to express our gratitude to Agrace HospiceCare for their support and care over this past week. She is survived by her partner of 21 years, Deborah Jordan; her siblings, Lynn Ellenbecker, Sandy (Steve) Esser, Robert, and Bruce; and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Shirley Witte, and siblings Susan, Karen, Joan, and James. Friends and family are invited to join us in a Celebration of Jeannes Life at THE EAST SIDE CLUB, 3735 Monona Dr., Madison, on Sunday, Nov. 19, 2017, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Jeanne wanted a fun-eral, so please wear something bright and joyful. Her family requests that you also bring one or both of the following to the celebration: a favorite photo of Jeanne or a fun story/memory of her that always makes you smile for a memory book. For those wishing to make a donation in her memory, Jeanne asked that donations be made to Northport Al-Anon Family Groups. All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services Madison (608)442-0477 www.866allfaiths.com