Florence R. Firkins

MADISON - Florence Ruth Firkins, of Madison, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019, at Brookdale Madison West Senior Living, Memory Care Unit. She was born on Jan. 20, 1919, in Superior, the daughter of John and Mary (Sedorik) Ciesielski. She moved to Milwaukee at a young age and loved living in the city. Florence graduated from Pulaski High School and married Charles Firkins on June 16, 1945. Florence enjoyed cooking, baking, knitting and sewing everything from drapes to Halloween costumes. She also enjoyed ballroom dancing and golfing. Florence donated her time creating braille documents. She felt education was very important and was always proud that her husband was a college professor. Most of all, she loved spending time with her friends and family. Florence is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Roe Parker) Firkins; granddaughter, Meghan Parker; and sisters, Agnes Notbohm and Jane Haasch. She is further survived by her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles; sisters, Marie Stringer and Gertrude Ciesielski; brother, Bernard Ciesielski; and friend, Wally Drawantz. Florence’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Agrace HospiceCare and Brookdale Madison West staff for all the kind and compassionate care they gave her. Private services will be held. Memorial contributions in Florence’s memory to the Oregon Area Food Pantry, Oregon, Wis., would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care 2950 Chapel Valley Road (608) 442-5002