Illa Mae (Peterson) Tetzlaff

MADISON-Illa Mae Peterson Tetzlaff, age 83, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Saturday, Dec. 3, 2011. She endured years and years of illness yet never lost the joy of living. Even on her most difficult days, she loved her life and expressed gratitude for her family and friends and the life she had with her beloved husband, Karl J. Tetzlaff, whom she married May 1, 1948. Illa was born on Dec. 20, 1927, in Endeavor, the daughter of Gustav and Jane Peterson. She graduated from Portage High School and went on to become a beautician. After raising her family, Illa worked at Methodist Hospital in the dietary department. She was very active in the Masonic Lodge as a member of the Daughter of the Nile, as well as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. She was an avid golfer, and was grateful for another season on the golf course. Illa is survived by three children, Kurt (Linda) of San Diego, Calif., Kaye of Evanston, Ill., and Christina Rose of Madison; five grandchildren, Emily Briggs-Breton, Sam and Sara Katz, and Aaron and Melissa Tetzlaff; two great-grandchildren, Jackson and Hannah Breton; and sister, Shirley Zimmerman of Brookfield. She was preceded in death by siblings, Lucille and Sheldon. Private services were held and a celebration of her life will be held sometime next summer. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. The family wishes to thank all of the people who loved Illa and made her life meaningful and very special. We are also very grateful that her suffering has come to an end. Peace, Illa, we will miss you terribly but love you enough to let you go. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. Private services were held and a celebration of her life will be held sometime next summer.