Barbara Jean Strutzel

MADISON - Barbara Jean (Corcoran) Strutzel, age 76, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was born on May 23, 1947, the daughter of William Copeland and Elmyra (Bergo) Copeland.

Barbara graduated from McFarland High School in 1965 as part of the first graduating class. In 1967 Barb married her husband of 38 years, Rodney Corcoran. Together they resided in Madison and had two children, Christine and Jeffery.

Barbara had a career with the State of Wisconsin where she enjoyed her work and many lifelong friendships. She was a member of St. Ann Catholic Church. One of Barbs greatest loves was volunteering and helping others in her community. As a long time member of Beta Sigma Phi service sorority, she volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Ronald McDonald house, Dane County Food Pantry and Gilda’s House. One of her favorite volunteer opportunities was ringing bells each year with the Salvation Army. She loved chatting with everyone who contributed to the red bucket and always had a little piece of chocolate to give as a gesture of thanks along with her warm smile.

Barb had a flair for decorating and loved entertaining, always making a beautiful environment for her guests. She was happiest when spending time with her family. She loved hosting family holidays with a special fondness for her annual Easter egg hunt for her beloved grandchildren. She was known to wear her bunny ears and whiskers while helping the little ones with their egg gathering.

After the death of Rodney, Barbara was blessed with over 10 years of marriage to her second husband, Vernon Strutzel. Together they enjoyed a second home in Arizona, where they loved spending winters with friends and family. Barb cherished her stepchildren and their families as they brought her so much joy and welcomed her into their family with open arms.

Barbara will leave a lasting legacy of love and friendship. She made every room brighter with her warm spirit and genuine smile. Always engaging others in conversation, giving a compliment, sharing a story, and warm embrace was the way she lived her life.

Barbara is survived by husband, Vernon; son, Jeff (Michelle) Corcoran; daughter, Christine (William) Enright; grandsons, Jacob Corcoran, Emmett Enright and Liam Enright; granddaughter, Ella Enright; great-grandchild, Avery Corcoran; sister-in-law, Jan Crary; stepdaughters, Candice (William) Graf and Soni (Chris) Haag; stepsons, Chad Strutzel and Aaron (Jessie) Strutzel; as well as beloved nieces, step-grandchildren, and many cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rodney Corcoran; parents; and her brother, Gary Copeland.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

Memorials in Barbara’s honor may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420