Kay Brabender

BLACK EARTH- Kay Lara Brabender, age 72, of Black Earth, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2018 at home surrounded by her family.  She was born on May 24, 1946, in Dodgeville, the daughter of Mabel Hauge Davis. Kay attended Wisconsin Heights High School, a part of the first graduating class in 1964. She married the love of her life, Darrell “Mac” Brabender, on Oct. 23, 1965, at St. Francis Church in Cross Plains. She enjoyed her position at Bill’s Grocery Store in Shorewood Hills, later she enjoyed her position as the head cook for Wisconsin Heights High School for 17 years.  After leaving her "kids" at the high school, Kay opened her home as a daycare for her next generation of "kids".  Kay and her husband were longtime members of New Heights Lutheran Church. She was a talented baker, and known famously for her special scotcheroos. Kay loved watching her children and grandchildren achieve in life and she never missed a single ball game. She embraced and supported her family, friends, and anyone she encountered. Kay always lifted others up and known by many as "Grandma Kay".  Above all, her favorite thing to do was to spend time with her family. Kay is survived by her husband, Darrell “Mac” Brabender; daughters, Megan (Derek) Warren and Michelle (Tim) Ballweg; son, Matt (Kristi) Brabender; grandsons, Kyle (Kenzie) Ballweg, Tyler (Cassie) Ballweg, Devin and Jacob Brabender; granddaughters, Jocelyn Brabender, Madelyn, Zoey Warren and Amelia Warren; and was excited for her two great-grandchildren currently on the way; and sister, Lois Skinner. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Haylee Warren; niece, Susan Skinner; and brother-in-law, Willie Skinner. A Gathering will be held at GUNDERSON-CAMACHO BLACK EARTH FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1710 Center Street, Black Earth, at 3 p.m. until the time of Celebration at 5:30 p.m., on Thursday, Aug. 23, 2018.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kay's family, to be designated at a later date. Kay's family would like to send a very special thank you to Dr. Hupp and her amazing staff and to all of the wonderful caregivers on the SSM Hospice team for their loving care for mom and all of us during this very difficult time.  We love you Mom...thank you for everything. Online condolences may be made to www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson-Camacho Black Earth Funeral & Cremation Care 1710 Center Street, Black Earth 608-767-3684