Lois J. Klosterman

MADISON – My mama died Sunday night, June 3, 2012. She was 78 and had Alzheimer’s for the past 14 years. It was a long journey but was also filled with endless joy. Those that knew Mom in her later years knew she loved her desserts! It was appropriate that she died peacefully after eating Blueberry Cobbler. Mom was the person that everyone loved to be around. We had such fun over the years and she was my closest confidante. She made me realize what was important in life. She had a passion for animals, especially cats. She took in every stray she found and gave them love! Thank you to Darlene for taking Mom’s cat Ginger when the time came to find her a new home. Mom was born to Charlotte and Carl Nelson in Janesville and lived her adult life in Madison. She was a homemaker for years and then ventured into the work world, including her favorite places, Davis & Duehr and Pleasant Company. I know she would want to thank, as do I, her caretakers. I apologize up front if I have forgotten anyone. They became our family. It started with Shirley and Marsha of Care Wisconsin. You helped us through many challenges and helped keep things in perspective. You were our saviors. There were numerous doctors and nurses at the UW Hospitals and Clinics, including Dr. Steffen and her nurse Sandy, who gave me the confidence that the right decisions were made along her path. I will forever be grateful. As for the caretakers at Willow Pointe Memory Care, I hope you realize how much you mean to Mom and to me. You were our family, and I cherish that. You treated Mom with the utmost respect and constantly made her laugh. Thank heaven for you. During her last months on earth, Agrace Hospice became involved. I thank Cara and Lindsay for respecting her wishes and finding the beauty in being part of her last days. Your guidance and constant watch provided a sense of peace. Thank you to Andrew for taking care of us the night Mom died. Mom has four children: Me, the writer, Charlotte Benetti (and Mark); Ralph Klosterman (and Maureen); Steve Klosterman (and Shanna); and Nancy Kosobucki, who died three years ago. Nancy left behind her husband Gordy and kids Karisa and Clint. She also has a sister Berta and a brother Walter. Thank you to Viv for her continued visits. “The process of death and the process of birth are exactly the same. It just depends on who’s waiting at the other end.” Mama, I am sure you are with Nancy and your sister, Helen, and your mom along with Suzi and Angel. I hope you are having a glass of Asti and singing! We will forever love and miss you. Until we see you again, you will always be remembered. Memorials in Mom’s honor can be made to Agrace Hospice, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. Memorials in Mom’s honor can be made to Agrace Hospice, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711.