Linda Hisgen

Madison - Linda Mae Treat Hisgen died unexpectedly on August 9, 2014, after a brief illness. She was born in Oak Park, Illinois to Harold and Lois Treat. Her great passion was helping and protecting children and families. As a result her education focused on Social Work. Her career began as a frontline social worker in Dane County Department of Social Services. After brief experiences in non-profit settings she developed into a state child welfare program expert for much of her career in Wisconsin state service. Her last position was Director of the Bureau for Children, Youth and Families/Bureau of Programs and Policies for the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services. One shining achievement was her appointment as the lead staff person for the resettlement of Cuban unaccompanied minors. She volunteered her time for Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Dane County and became president of its Board for a time. She cared very much about her alma mater, Beloit College, and was proud to be honored as an outstanding alumna and Trustee for the college. It was at Beloit College that she met her great love, William (Jerry) Hisgen. This past January Linda and Jerry celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary. Their daughter, Elisabeth, and grandson, Benjamin, will miss her love, support and laughter. Linda was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Lois Treat and her older brother, Robert Treat. She was fortunate to have many family members to love: Hariette Treat (wife of Robert) and their children Jennifer, Jeff and Mark and their spouses, their children and grandchildren. In addition, her brother-in-law Jon Hisgen and his wife Jane, their children, Erica and Jon, and their spouses and children. She was beloved by the children of Jerry's deceased brother, Richard. Alyce and Scott Coyle and their children were a very important part of her life. Other nieces and nephews include Mary, Neil, John and Richard and their spouses and children. Carlo Esqueda became the son that she never had. He and his wife Gail were welcomed into our family. She also showered her love on many friends. Linda had an amazing spirit that will live on in the people who love her. Everyone will remember her fondly for her irreverence, humor and her refusal to suffer fools. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2014 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A visitation gathering with light refreshments will follow the service at Cress. In lieu of flowers please send contributions to: Food Banks, NAMI, the Wounded Warrior Project, Beloit College, or anti-abuse programs.