Bonnie Landgraf

Madison - Bonnie Rae Landgraf, age 75, passed Monday, November 17, 2014 in the comfort of her home and surrounded by the love and laughter of her children. Bonnie was born January 23, 1939 in Freeport, Il, to Edward and Berniece Barthel (Derr).
Bonnie was a lover of sunsets, life, nature, music, dancing and a collector of angels. She was an avid crafter, floral arranger, baker, reader, and gardener. She often gifted her work to family and friends, but you would find her making extra for that special someone who she knew was homebound and could use a little cheer. Her home always smelled of something wonderful cooking in the kitchen and wherever you looked there were always several 'projects' underway. Bonnie was never happier than when she was actively helping and serving others; which she did until her final days.
Bonnie was a 1960 graduate of Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. Her passion for nursing and compassion for people made her long-standing career as a registered nurse a natural fit. She was a former director of nursing in Phelps, WI and Stoughton, WI. She served on the board of directors for United Professionals for Quality Healthcare. At the time of her retirement, Bonnie was a nursing consultant and surveyor for the State of Wisconsin where she advocated for quality health care and enforced state and federal rules and laws.
Bonnie belonged to many nursing associations, as well as Kayra, United Methodist Women of the First United Methodist Church. She was a queen member of the Red Hat Society. Bonnie was the first to volunteer to serve on many community councils and committees in any way that was needed.
Bonnie was a dedicated mother to three children whom she loved more than life. She cherished her grandchildren and treasured her great-grandchildren - loving them all dearly.
Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Ronald Lee Barthel, husband Richard John Landgraf, Sr., and granddaughter, Mindy Fabian.
Bonnie is survived by her aunt Joyce Erler - Il, her uncle Kenneth Derr - CA, her brother, Robert (Barbara) Barthel - Janesville, WI; her three children: Andrew and Mary Arndt - Woodbine, IA; Amy and Michael Foley (Arndt) - Portage, WI; Andrea and Tony Fabian (Arndt) - Madison, WI., many special cousins, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, numerous dear friends and a great many adopted 'A' children.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave., Madison, WI, 53705, with visitation from 11 am until the time of service. A Celebration of Bonnie's life and luncheon will follow the service at the Cress Center. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Bonnie's name to the Mercy Hospital Alumni Scholarship Fund (c/o President Laurene Tayler, N307 S7965 Applewood Ct., Mukwonago, WI 53149).