
Phyllis Ann Bradley
October 17, 1932 - October 21, 2026
Obituary
ARLINGTON - Phyllis Ann Bradley, age 94, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday October 21, 2026. She was born on October 17, 1932, the daughter of Thomas and Mary (Koehler) Midthun. Phyllis's life was marked by dedication, love, and an unyielding work ethic. After the early loss of her mother, her childhood memories of running through tobacco fields alongside her brothers and sisters shaped a spirit rooted in family and resilience.
A 1950 graduate of DeForest High School, Phyllis married Donald Arthur Bradley on May 10, 1952, at the Dane Immanuel United Church of Christ, where she was an active member throughout her life. She worked for Delmonte Canning Company, a testament to her dedication and strong work ethic that began in her youth and continued until she was still tending her yard in her later years.
Phyllis was a passionate homemaker whose love for baking and cooking was well known—especially her famous chocolate cake, celebrated countywide. An avid sports fan, she delighted in watching the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers, and found joy in reading and spending quality time with her family. Family was always her highest priority, and her deep bonds with her siblings carried through to the love she shared with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her son, Donald R. (Brenda) Bradley; daughters Lynne (John) Harmon, Cheryl Mell, and Lori ("Turk”) Yelk; her daughter-in-law, Shirley Bradley; eighteen grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald A.; her sons, William, James and Mark; two grandsons, David Bradley and Jack Mell; and her siblings, Anne Moran, Eldon Midthun, Carrie Mulcahy, Ferdie Midthun, Tom Midthun, Gerald Midthun, Marion Nordness, Oliver Midthun, Gertrude Mulcahy and Jackie Moran.
Phyllis’s life story is one of enduring strength and heartfelt compassion. Her voice, whether gently listening or boldly speaking her mind, left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to inspire generations.
In honoring Phyllis’s wishes, private family services will be held.
Memorials may be given to the charity of your choice.
We are your legacy Mom, and we thank you and Dad from the bottom of our hearts for just being “you.”
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Lodi
Funeral and Cremation Care
500 N. Eighth St.
(608) 592-3201