Obituary: Judith Ann "Judy" (Neuhauser) Baumgartner - Class of 1953

MADISON - Judith Ann "Judy" Baumgartner passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2015, after a valiant seven-and-a-half year struggle with the devastating effects of Encephalitis. Judy was born May 18, 1935, at Madison General Hospital, to her parents, George Neuhauser and Esther (Schulz) Neuhauser. She graduated from Madison Central High School in 1953. Judy married the love of her life, Paul F. Baumgartner, on July 11, 1959, at Luther Memorial Church in Madison. They went on to have two children, Michael and Heidi. Judy dedicated her life to her husband and their children, thoroughly enjoying her role as a homemaker throughout her lifetime. She also had many other interests. She cherished time spent with her beloved family and friends. She had a lifelong interest in politics, often volunteering her time. She enjoyed traveling very much, from short Sunday road trips to crossing the country to touring Europe. She adored animals of all kinds, especially her precious cats throughout the years. Judy is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Paul F. Baumgartner; her son, Michael (Tonia) Baumgartner; her daughter, Heidi (Chris) Baumgartner Bonnaffon; her granddaughter, Amelia; brother-in-law, Herbert Baumgartner; sister-in-law, Patricia Baumgartner; sister-in-law, Carol Neuhauser; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Lois Matt; and her brother, Dr. Charles Neuhauser. Special thanks go out to the kind staff at New Glarus Home, especially Dr. Styles, for their compassionate care of Mom throughout her illness. Services will be held Saturday, May 16, 2015, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Franklin Wilson presiding. Judy will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you make a donation in Judy's memory to the Dane County Humane Society or to the New Glarus Home in New Glarus.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on May 13, 2015. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).