Penny Marie Rau-Hamilton

MADISON-Penny Marie Rau-Hamilton, age 56, of Madison, died unexpectedly at St Mary's Hospital, surrounded by her family on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. Penny was born on Dec. 6, 1959, the daughter of Judy and Jack Kimball. She was a 1978 graduate of Lafollette High School in Madison. On Jan. 1, 1983 she married the love of her life and her "childhood paper boy", Randy Rau, who gave her the gift of two children. In 1999, she was able to find love again, for a short time, and married Bob Hamilton of Albany. Penny was an inspired journalist and had a strong passion for writing. She had such an amazing way with words. Penny found a new passion of waitressing. While working at Cracker Barrel, she was nominated one of the top waitresses in the city of Madison in 1995. Penny was an avid "East Sider" and enjoyed spending her time at Bernie's Rock Shop, writing in her journal, and causing "shenanigans" with her friends. Her unparalleled sense of humor and addictive personality would always brighten up the room. Penny is survived by her mother, Judy Meixner of Madison; a sister, Kristi (Blake) Speaker of Monticello; a daughter, Chelsea (Jon) Kennedy of Evansville; a son, Chase (Alyssa) Rau of Monroe; five grandchildren, Shane, Gavin, Cassidy, Lukas, and Lexis; four nephews, Gabrial Jelle; Corey Johnson; Gary Johnson; and Lonnie Brown; three step-sisters, Victoria Holmes, Sharon Jahnke, and JoAnn Chambers; and of course, her dog—her best friend and companion, "Madi". Penny was preceded in death by her step-father whom she called "Dad", Albert Meixner. A Celebration of Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 2 p.m., on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been set up at gofundme.com under the name Penny Rau. Penny will always be the third leg of "Our Tripod" ...she "Pinky Swears". In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up in Penny's name at GoFundMe.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420