Lorraine Mackey

MADISON - Lorraine Ruth Mackey, age 83, passed away peacefully, on Saturday, April 2, 2011, while holding her grandson Jasons hand. She was born March 7, 1928, in Madison, the daughter of Elwood and Minnie (Bultman) Leonhardt. Lorraine married Deane H. Mackey on September 5, 1948. They were married for 54 years. She graduated from East High School in 1946 and was looking forward to attending her 65th reunion this summer. Lorraine worked for many years in the insurance industry, retiring from General Casualty. She lived her entire adult life in the same home she and her husband Deane built in 1955. Lorraine is survived by her son, Jeff (Roz) Mackey of Middleton; grandson, Jason (Mary Ellen) Mackey of Milton; granddaughter, Lindsey Mackey (Adam Hart) of Los Angeles, Calif.; brother, Eugene (Rosemary) Leonhardt, sister-in-law, Sarah Leonhardt and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Deane Mackey; brother and sister-in-law, Elmer and Arlene Leonhardt; brother, Walter Leonhardt; and sister and brother-in-law, Florence and David Drotning. Lorraine and Deane were members of Burke Lutheran Church for many years. She became even more involved after Deanes passing and considered them her "church family". On Friday evening, she enjoyed dinner out with some of her church friends, including her dear friend, Ardyth Loga. They were quite the pair, supplyingplenty of laughter whenever together. She enjoyed her many activities at the church and was known for making the best coffee. And after living in the same neighborhood for so long, many special neighbors came and went, always looking after one another. Too many to name, however she knew she could always count on Jim and Martha who remain across the street. A special thank you, to all, for helping grandma out when needed and bringing her lots of joy. Most importantly, her family was fortunate enough to have this wonderful woman in their lives. She was an outstanding mother and grandmother. She loved following both her grandchildrens interests while growing up and into adulthood, always remaining supportive. Lorraine was active, independent and happy until her last day. The only way to get her to stop mowing her lawn was to give her lawn service for a Christmas gift, so she could not say no. She was an inspiration to us all. A celebration of Lorraines life will be held at BURKE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5720 Portage Road, Madison, at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 7, 2011. Visitation will be held at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Burke Lutheran Cemetery, with a luncheon immediately following. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Burke Lutheran Church. We would like to thank all the Doctors, Nurses and staff at St. Marys Hospital involved in Lorraines care for their compassion and kindness during this difficult and sad time for our family. "Grandma, thank you for your love, kindness, support and all of your amazing Dutch apple and strawberry chiffon pies! We will always smile when thinking of you, for you have left us with so many wonderful memories! You were a great lady!" Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Burke Lutheran Church. Cemetery: Burial will follow at Burke Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation: Visitation will be held at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Service: A celebration of Lorraines life will be held at BURKE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5720 Portage Road, Madison, at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 7, 2011.