Eva Ann McCracken

LODI - Eva Ann McCracken, age 88, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Eva was born on June 2, 1937, in Norwalk, Monroe County, WI, to Ashley and Julia (Berendes) Coldren. She grew up in Kendall and later raised her family in Janesville, WI After retirement, Eva and her husband Larry moved to the Lodi area and later settled in Poynette, WI.

On June 20, 1959, Eva married the love of her life, Larry McCracken. They shared 66 wonderful years together. Eva and Larry were well known for their dancing-whether it was a lively polka, swing, or a two-step, they could truly “dance up a storm.” She loved hosting backyard parties, which most likely included live music! She was a Packers and Brewers fan and looked forward to watching the games with Larry.

Eva lived a full and active life. She was a golfer, a daily walker, and an avid card player who especially loved euchre. Her greatest passion, however, was quilting. She lovingly created quilts for each member of her immediate family, ensuring everyone had their own special keepsake. She also cherished music, especially country, and could often be found dancing at the local Moose Lodge. Eva worked at Simmons Mattress in Janesville before later joining McDonald’s in Poynette, where she made many lasting friendships.

Family was always at the center of Eva’s heart. She delighted in raising her children, hosting family gatherings, and filling her home with food, laughter, music, and stories. She was happiest surrounded by loved ones. Above all, she treasured her role as wife, mother, grandmother, but most of all, she was so proud to be a great grandma or Gigi.

Eva is survived by her devoted husband, Larry; their three children, Vicki (Steve) Schmidt, Ann (Guy) Marshall and Mike (Vickie) McCracken; her seven grandchildren, Jason Trollen, Tera (John) Schulte, Madelynn (Kevin) Suppon, Hunter (Molly) Marshall, Jessica (Christopher) Chrisler, Emily McCracken and Jared McCracken; and five great-grandchildren, Ezra, Eva and Veda Schulte, Sullivan and Cecelia Suppon, and Beau, Harper and Hudson Marshall. She is further survived by her sisters Joyce Tessmer and Alli Model.

Eva was preceded in death by her parents, Ashley and Julia (Berendes) Coldren; her brothers, Butch, Fred and William Coldren; and her sisters, Mary Jane Clark, Kate Finucan, Bette Coldren, Emmy Kennedy and Sally Haffner.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. PATRICK'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 521 Fair St., Lodi, at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

Eva’s family and friends will forever remember her warmth, generosity, and the joy she brought into every gathering.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to: Journey of Hope, Sienna Crest, Maplewood, Lodi Sauk Clinic - Dr. Karen and staff, Agrace Staff, and all family, neighbors, and friends who offered care, prayers, and support. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

 With Love and Gratitude - The Family of Eva Ann McCracken

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

Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 S. Main St.
(608) 592-3201