Debra Ellen Butenhoff

Debra Butenhoff, 72, of Madison, WI, passed away peacefully at home on November 25, 2023.  She was born May 17, 1951, in Berlin, WI, the daughter of Clarence and Dorothy Braun.  Deb graduated from Berlin High School in 1969 and received a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point in 1973.  She is survived by her husband Craig Butenhoff, whom she married in 1973.  She is also survived by her sister Diane Voeltner, her two children, Nik (Sarah) Butenhoff of Rockford, Illinois and Trevor Butenhoff of Portland, Oregon.  She is also survived by her three grandchildren, Bradley, Jonathan, and Norah Butenhoff.  She was preceded in death by her father, mother, brother David Braun and niece Marcia Bruns. 

Deb’s greatest joy was taking care of her family so when she became a mother, she made the decision to put a pause on her professional career and stay home to care for her children.  She poured her all into being the best mom.  She was involved in all components of her children’s lives, especially their schooling.  She became so involved that eventually she was hired as an Education Assistant for the Madison Metropolitan School District where she served for over 20 years until she retired in 2020. Deb was also a loving and doting “Mama” to her three grandchildren who brought her so much joy.

Deb’s attention to detail showed in everything she did.  From gardening to home design, Deb’s intentional touch was unmistakable.  She loved shopping for special gifts for family and friends, or to stay current with fashion trends.  She also loved reading and just as importantly the book club gatherings that would follow. Most of all, she loved to laugh and gather with family and friends.

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A visitation will be held Friday, December 1, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Cress Funeral & Cremation Service - Madison East (3325 E Washington Ave. Madison, WI 53704).  A funeral service will follow at 1:30.   A private family burial will occur at 2:30 at Burke Cemetery.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in Deb’s honor to either the Madison Public Library (mplfoundation.org/donate) or Olbrich Botanical Gardens (olbrich.org/donate).