To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people just exist” - Oscar Wilde.

FITCHBURG - Ann K. Buedel of Fitchburg knew how to live. She lived a full life for 71 years before she passed away at home on June 22, 2025.

Ann was born in Dayton, Ohio, to Lois and Lawrence Buedel and attended the Julienne Catholic High School and then the University of Cincinnati where she studied business and obtained her CPA in accounting.

Ann is survived by her children, Lisa Lauren and Daniel Spooner; siblings, Teresa O’Brien, Thomas (Margaret) Buedel and Daniel (Janet Walters) Buedel; five nieces, Erin (Nick) Mickley, Elise (Will) Walsh, Bronwyn Buedel, Marina (Jordan) Calhoun and Annie Gray Buedel; three nephews, Kevin (Evangelia) O'Brien, Paris Buedel and Bruno Buedel; great-niece, Alliyah Buedel; three great-nephews, Tripp Mickley, Jox Mickley and Nyjah Calhoun; and her special furry friend the guinea pig, Mike the Situation. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law, Patrick O’Brien.

Ann’s priorities were her children as she was a proud mom. She enjoyed joining Lisa on adventures near and far and cheering on Dan in sports. An athlete herself, Ann played Frisbee disc golf, enjoyed long walks, and was an avid bicyclist.

Ann was one of the local Doin’ R Thing moms, supporting disabled bowlers and dancers. She loved to travel, taking a solo backpacking adventure for three months in Europe in her early 30s, cruising to Alaska, and visiting South America to name a few. She played classical guitar and was a member of the Madison Classical Guitar Society; recently donating her guitar and sheet music to the Society.

Ann volunteered for VISTA, Arc-Dane County, taught adult language skills for immigrants, was a Girl Scout Leader for many years and supported the Ice Age Trail Alliance and Historical Society efforts. Professionally, she was a CPA employed by the State of Wisconsin for 18 years and retired in 2016.

Ann had many, many friends and was loved by all who met her. This was evident by the constant parade of visitors who spent time with her during her illness. She was known for her sense of humor and compassion.

Ann was a life-long learner, curious and considered herself “on the Pagan-Christian spectrum.” A private natural burial will take place at Natural Path Sanctuary. A Celebration of Ann’s Life will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday June 28, 2025.

A special thank you to the staff at The Waterford and Agrace HospiceCare.

In Ann’s memory, she asked that you please call a friend, be a friend, and make a friend.

Ann’s final parting words were, “Love you. Later, gator.”

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Oregon

Funeral & Cremation Care

1150 Park St.

(608) 835-3515

Ann Buedel

March 27, 1954 - June 22, 2025

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