Lois M. Blackbourn

Lois M. Blackbourn, 68, of McFarland passed away on June 8, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.

Lois was born on December 5, 1956, in Belmont, Wisconsin to Russell and Edith (Henry) Riechers. Lois grew up the youngest of five on the family farm in Belmont. After high school, she earned her associate’s degree at Southwest Technical College in Fennimore, WI. It was there that she met the love of her life David Blackbourn. Dave and Lois were married at Peace Lutheran Church in Belmont on June 19, 1976. Shortly after they were married, they settled in McFarland and raised their family. Dave and Lois were married for 29 years until his passing in early 2006. Lois worked as an Administrative Assistant for UW Madison until she retired after 30 years. Lois was also a long-time member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Madison.

Lois loved spending time with her family and friends. She was always up for an adventure. Lois and Dave would frequently host family and friends at their home in McFarland. If they weren’t entertaining at home, they would be off with family or friends enjoying life. After Dave’s passing, Lois began to travel. She loved taking road trips with her family and friends. She traveled all over the country and even made her bucket list trip to Alaska.

The true joy in Lois’ life was found the day she became a grandma. Lois truly adored her four grandchildren. She could frequently be found attending one of their school events, sporting events, or other activities. Her friends looked forward to hearing about their accomplishments, as she was always sharing photos and videos. She was just so proud of each one of them. When she couldn’t be there in person she would spend hours video chatting with her grandkids; just talking, playing board games, or catching up on the “news” of the day. She was the glue that held the family together. She would also update all the brothers and sisters on events and activities of everyone’s family.

Lois is survived by her children, Chrissy (Donald) Allen, Justin (Aimee) Blackbourn; grandchildren Brandon, Shambry, Ivan, and Wyatt; Siblings Jerry (Linda) Riechers, Steve (Cheryl Touchett) Riechers, Gene (Kathy) Riechers, and Marsha (Ross) Stein; several wonderful in-laws; many amazing nieces and nephews; and several exceptional friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Edith Riechers; and her husband, David Blackbourn.

At this time, no formal services are scheduled. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.