FITCHBURG - Ardith “Ardie” McKeown passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the age of 89, after a short and courageous battle with cancer.

Ardie was born on August 26, 1936, in Madison, Wis., the daughter of Marlyn and Mary Eleen Bennett. She graduated from West High School.

In 1956 she married the love of her life, Richard “Butch” McKeown. Together they built a beautiful life and raised their five children in Fitchburg, Wis. Ardie was also a devoted and loving grandmother to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought her endless love, laughter and joy.

After Ardie’s kids got to be a little older, she went on to work for WPS in the insurance industry for 25 years. Shortly after retiring from WPS, she went to work for Meriter Hospital in the food and parking enforcement departments for 10 years.

Her passion was tending to her beautiful flower beds. Her garden was her peaceful place; she spent most of her Spring and Summer nurturing those beds. Many would say Ardie had a green thumb and her gardens truly reflected that. She also enjoyed country music, line dancing, a good football game and that monthly fish fry with her friends and family. Watching her great-grandchildren was one of the highlights of her day when she got the chance. Ardie enjoyed the many trips she took with Richard and her children and grandchildren.

Ardie is survived by her children, Ronnie, Denise (Jim) Busse and Mary; grandchildren, Fawn, Faith, Leisha, Michael (Amber), Kyle, Shelby (Orlando) and Corey (Camila); great-grandchildren, Shawnna, Natalia, Owen, Jamie, Jackson, Aubreana, Jojo, Libby, Jaxon, Michael, Chanel, Amelia, Allaina, Harper, Junior, Edwin and Zoey; brother, Kenneth; and many extended family and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; sons, Marvin and Rodney; parents, Marlyn and Mary Eleen; and sister-in-law, Marlyn.

Ardie was a devoted Christian who loved Jesus. Her spirit always spoke for the faithful life that she lived. She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. Although very soft-spoken she was a very kindhearted person. Ardie often showed her love by gifting others with her great bargain finds from thrifting.

A celebration of life will be held at VFW POST 7591, 301 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday May 2, 2026.

The family would like to thank Agrace HospiceCare and all of those who helped to make her last days at home comfortable. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care
2950 Chapel Valley Road
(608) 442-5002

Ardith Diane McKeown

August 26, 1936 - March 04, 2026

Share photos of Ardith