MADISON - Bernadette C. Pope, known by many as “Bunny”, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the age of 77. She was born on April 5, 1948, in Madison, the daughter of Bernard and Loretta (Schiffman) Holan.

Bernadette graduated from Madison East High School. She was united in marriage to Jeffrey Pope on March 5, 1976. Bernadette worked for 36 years in the billing department at Meriter Hospital. After retiring, she continued to stay active by working part-time at Metro Market in Monona, a role that kept her engaged and connected with her community

Bernadette cherished her role as a grandmother and took great joy in being actively involved in her grandchildren’s lives. She celebrated their accomplishments with immense pride. A lifelong collector, she had a special fondness for anything featuring bunnies, and over the years, lovingly built an extensive and whimsical Bunny collection

Bernadette is survived by her husband, Jeffrey; children, Shannon Pope, Jennifer (Chris) Georgeson and Brett (Trish) Bandow; grandchildren, Shanna (Sam) Yanke, Mason Georgeson, Carson Georgeson, Cole Pope, Gavin Bandow and Kayla Bandow; great-grandchildren, Mateo Yanke, Eliana Yanke and Levi Yanke; siblings, Rita (Rick Westling) Benz, Kevin (Kathy) Holan, Frank (Doreen) Holan, Chris Holan and Jim (Tina) Holan. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of life may be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Bernadette C Pope

April 05, 1948 - October 16, 2025

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