Lavonne N. Breidel

LaVonne N. Breidel, 79, of La Crosse, devoted wife and loving mother, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2015 surrounded by her family .

LaVonne was born on September 24, 1935 to Clarence and Dottie (Pierce) Simpson. LaVonne lived in Middle Ridge until she met the love of her life, Harold Breidel, whom she married on September 3, 1953 at St. John’s Catholic Church in La Crosse. Together they raised four children and were happily married for 61 years until Harold was called to Heaven on September 7, 2014.

LaVonne enjoyed being a mother and wife and devoted her time and energies to being the best wife and mother she could be. She was a strong, independent woman who knew her own mind. She instilled family values while encouraging us to be independent and self-reliant. We will miss her smile and sense of humor.

Survivors include her four children, Deborah (Michael) Gregoire, Jana (John) Maternowski, Randall (Roxanne) Breidel, and Sandra (Paul) Leske, eight grandchildren, four great grandchildren, one sister-in-law, Betty Ann (Gene) Gerke, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Dottie (Pierce) Simpson, two brothers, Dennis Simpson and Darrell Simpson, and one sister, Verla Mae (Ralph) Swan.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2015 at the Schumacher Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Avenue South, La Crosse. The Rev. Rick Roberts will officiate. Burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery immediately following the service. A luncheon will follow after the burial service at Schmidty’s Bar & Restaurant. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service Thursday at the funeral home.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude and thanks to the staff at Bethany St. Joseph’s Nursing Home and to the doctors, nurses and staff at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center for the care and compassion given to LaVonne and her family during this incredibly difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association.