Mildred “Millie” Mader
MIDDLETON–On Sept. 22, 2023, Millie moved on to her last adventure, to eternal life where she will be reunited with family and friends, and most importantly the love of her life, Rollie. After 57 years together, and 17 without him, they are together again and can resume their nightly cribbage games, always keeping score and always with a toddy in hand…and always with the phone unplugged so they won’t be disturbed.
Millie was the oldest child of Gladys and Lawrence Kaufman and was born in Fond du Lac in 1927. The family moved to Appleton when she was a small child. In high school she met Rollie Mader, and together they created a family of four. Big changes came with a move to Texas in 1961 and she quickly became a Texan. They ultimately retired in New Braunfels, TX for almost 20 years before Rollie’s health took a downturn. Then they headed back home to Wisconsin where friends and family could provide support, and to Middleton where their daughter could look after them.
Millie was adventurous, energetic, always perfectly coiffed, a snazzy and sparkly dresser, and always up for a spirited conversation. She was also a gifted writer and her tales about her life on a farm, her siblings and their adventures were a fun read. She joined several writing groups in Middleton and made writing a novel her priority, which she accomplished when it was published several years ago. When she made the move to independent living, you could always count on her attending happy hour and enjoying her new friendships and activities. She had a smile on her face and a friendly hello at the ready. She was fun to be around.
One of her passions was travel, and with Rollie, she explored many wonderful places. She danced on the tables of a biergarten in Germany with her spirited sister on their first European tour, cruised the markets of England looking for Toby mug treasures, and made new friends on the road in their travel trailer. They loved to cruise and sailed on many trips to exotic ports on the Love Boat. Millie’s favorite stop was Ephesus.
Millie will be missed by her family: Vicki (Lew) Posekany of Middleton and Laurie Lallinger of Houston; grandchildren, Justin Lallinger (Kathryn) and Ruthie Posekany (Tom Russell); and three adorable great-granddaughters whom she lovingly referred to as the “greats” because “they are,” as well as many nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her many friends.
We would like to thank Beth Hennes, RN, who managed a wonderful team of Bright Star aides who made sure Millie always felt safe, comfortable and cared for. We would also like to thank the staff at Middleton Glen (especially Jessica). All have been a source of great support for our family.
Online condolences may be made at gundersonfh.com.
