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MIDDLETON - Mary E. Nolden, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at home surrounded by her children. She was born on Sept. 19, 1942, the daughter of Roy “Gus” and Doris Curtis.

Mary grew up in Prairie du Sac, where she formed lifelong friendships and graduated from high school in 1960. She had fond memories of swimming at the Prairie du Sac pool, water skiing on Lake Wisconsin, and participating in the band and school dances. Mary spent many weekends traveling with her parents to midget auto races to watch her father’s car. In 1964, she married Donald L. Nolden, and they later moved to Middleton. Donald and Mary enjoyed spending time up north, snowmobiling and being on her parents’ houseboat. After Donald passed in 1983, Mary raised their four children with grace and love in their childhood home. Mary took delight in hosting luncheons and memorable pool parties for co-workers, friends, and family, with no detail overlooked.

Mary’s interests were a reflection of her nurturing soul. She had a remarkable talent for sewing and quilting, creating beautiful pieces that were not only works of art but also expressions of her love. She enjoyed spending time with friends and neighbors, and volunteering at the Middleton Senior Center. Family gatherings were her greatest delight, and she was the heart of every celebration, ensuring that everyone felt welcomed, valued, and well-fed.

Mary worked for 23 years as the religious education secretary at St. Bernard’s after many years at Holy Name Seminary in the vocation office. Her co-workers became a second family to her, and the bonds of friendship remained strong through her retirement.

Mary is survived by her children, Lance (Kris) Nolden, JoAnna (Jason) Vanderpoel and Alissa (Paul) Haugh; her grandchildren, Erin (Drew) Hammell, Annie Nolden, Jade (Tristan) Hudson, Jack Nolden, Julia, Jocelyn and Jordyn Vanderpoel; and five great-grandchildren, Reagan, Carter and Walter Hammell, and Weston and Miles Hudson. She is also survived by her sister, Bonnie (Don "Butch") Rolstad; brothers-in-law, Maurice (Jackie) Nolden, Richard (Laura) Nolden, Greg (Alice) Nolden and Tom (Rita) Nolden; and sister-in-law, Sue (Bill) Matth.

Mary was preceded in death by her son, Jeffrey Nolden; her husband; her parents; her father and mother-in-law, Monroe and Mildred Nolden; and her sister-in-law, Karen Nolden.

Mary’s life was a testament to the power of love and the beauty of a life well-lived. As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we take comfort in the knowledge that her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched with her gentle grace and unwavering kindness. Mary’s spirit will continue to shine brightly in her family, she cherished every moment spent with them.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 7450 University Ave., Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, with a luncheon to follow. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Wednesday. Private burial will take place at St. Aloysius Cemetery, Sauk City.

The Nolden family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have been part of Mary’s life, including the exceptional care team at Agrace HospiceCare. Her memory will be honored, and her presence deeply missed, but the love she gave will continue to resonate in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh..

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761

Mary Ellen Nolden

September 19, 1942 - June 12, 2024

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