KANSAS CITY, Kan. - Judith Ann "Judy" Puttkammer, age 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at The Piper Assisted Living and Memory Care in Kansas City, Kan., following a prolonged struggle with Alzheimer's and later cancer. She was born on January 31, 1941, in Madison, Wis., to Howard and Mildred (Jones) Nelson.

Judy attended Madison East High School where she played the cornet in the band. She graduated in 1959 and married Ronald James Puttkammer on June 2, 1962. They shared 47 years of marriage before Ronald's passing in 2009.

Judy dedicated 37 years of service to the State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation, working in the payroll department. Judy was also a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Madison.

Together, Judy and Ron enjoyed boating on their boat "Putt n' Judy" on Madison-area lakes with family and friends. They enjoyed traveling abroad and hosting memorable gatherings at their Madison home. Judy cherished spending time with her grandchildren, found joy in cooking, and took great care tending to her flowers and plants. She enjoyed listening to music and always had a great love of animals. Upon retirement, Judy and Ron became "snowbirds" in Cape Canaveral, Fla., where they continued to build lasting memories as seasonal residents.

Judy is survived by her daughters, Kimberly (Gregg) Buehler and Tami Pizzurro; grandchildren, Megan (Peter) Buehler-Brazas, Alex (Carly) Buehler and Sam Pizzurro; great-grandchildren, Dylan, Reggie, Maeve and Lainey; and brother, William Nelson. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ronald; brother, Thomas Nelson; and many friends and family members.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 3:30 p.m. until the start of the service on Wednesday. Following the service, guests are invited to share memories, laughter and appetizers at the BREAKWATER, 6308 Inland Way, Monona at 5:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Judy’s name to the Dane County Humane Society, 5132 Voges Road, Madison, WI 53718 or http://giveshelter.org/how-to-help/in-honor-or-memorial-gifts.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at The Piper Assisted Living and Memory Care, as well as Embrace Hospice for their compassionate care. Online condolences may be submitted at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Judith Puttkammer

January 31, 1941 - May 02, 2026

Share photos of Judith