Jessica Anne Kollasch

FITCHBURG - Jessica Anne Kollasch, age 48, of Fitchburg, passed away on Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was born on April 29, 1974, in Madison, Wis., the daughter of Kirk and Susan (Fry) Kwasigroch.

Jessica graduated from Middleton High School in 1992 and from UW-Madison in 1997 (B.S.-Economics). She married her junior high sweetheart, Tony Kollasch, on Oct. 4, 1997, in Middleton, Wis. After school, Jessica spent three years in the Chicago area and worked at North American Bear. After moving back to Madison, Jessica worked as an inventory forecast analyst at American Girl and at Land's End combined for 23 years. She was a StampinUp! Demonstrator for nearly 20 years. Jessica was a talented and creative crafter, designing and creating detailed hand-made cards. She left her stamp on many peoples’ lives.

Jessica’s daughters were a source of unrelenting and continuing pride. She loved her daughters and family unwaveringly.

Jess’s giggle and smile were infectious. She loved dill pickles, Paisan’s, babies, and puppies. While she was always cold, her warm heart drove her to help those around her. She was always looking for ways to donate or volunteer with meaningful local organizations. She enjoyed decorating and craft fairs, which she experienced with her mom, aunt, and friends finding unique and fun gifts to surprise others. She always prepared a unique and tasty salad for any gathering and was a proud dance mom.  

Although Jessica was first diagnosed with brain cancer in 2009, she never let that define her. Many around her never knew about her condition, as she never complained and maintained a positive attitude. Despite Jessica’s own health issues, she was a pillar of strength and support throughout her daughter’s health struggles.  The recurrence of aggressive brain tumors in late 2021 was eventually too much for her to overcome despite world class medical care through the Carbone Cancer Center. She was brave and strong throughout her long battle. She was a wonderful person, mother, wife, and daughter and was a source of joy for all around her. Family and friends are so proud of Jess and will miss her forever.

Jessica is survived by her husband, Tony; daughters, Anna Kollasch and Sophie Kollasch; parents, Kirk and Susan (Fry) Kwasigroch; brother, Justin (Shauna) Kwasigroch; parents-in-law, David and Jean Kollasch; brothers-in-law, Robert (Kathy) Kollasch, Michael (Stephanie) Kollasch, Thomas (Amy) Kollasch and Benjamin (Daria) Kollasch; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends; and her beloved canine companion, Mylie.  She was preceded in death by her grandparents; and aunt, Penny Fry.

We will be holding a celebration of Jess’ life at Kalscheur Park in Pine Bluff on Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. All are welcome with casual attire. It will be an informal community gathering to celebrate Jessica’s life and the many people she touched. Bring a story or two about Jessica to share. Her daughters have dubbed it an “After Party.” A private service and burial ceremony will be held separately.

The family wishes to thank everyone who has supported them through this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Jessica's name to:

·The Madison Reading Project (www.madisonreadingproject.com), or

·The Oligodendroglioma Research Fund (www.braintumor.org)

Rest in peace, Jess. We lost you way too young, and you will be in our hearts forever. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care

2950 Chapel Valley Road

(608) 442-5002