Marcia E. Dana, 81, of Sun Prairie passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at UW-Hospital in Madison, WI.

Marcia was born on May 23, 1945 in Chicago, IL to Paul and Jean Kiehl Dana. She moved a number of times before graduating from Rockford East High (Illinois) as class valedictorian. She graduated from Northwestern University in 1967. Upon graduation she pursued a career as an elementary education teacher. She taught for almost 30 years in Madison.

She was a voracious reader of science fiction and later mysteries and had a substantial library. In her younger years she played softball, usually the catcher in the Madison rec leagues. She loved cats and birds! She often worked many extra hours to give her students her best. She gave generously to a variety of charities.

Marcia is survived by: her longtime partner, the love of her life, Lois Corcoran; brother, Stephen Dana (Mary Rice); nieces Katie Dana (Joshua), Colleen Dana (Alex); nephew Colin Dana (Stephanie); and great nieces Gwen, Jocelyn, Marley, Lauren and Emily and a great nephew, Wesley.

She is preceded in death by her parents; Paul and Jean Dana, brother Allan Dana and grandparents.

She will be greatly missed by those whose lives she touched.

At Marcia’s request, no formal services are scheduled.

A special shout out to Lois's children, especially Nancy, for all their help the last year.

In lieu of flowers, donation can be made in Marcia’s name to Heifer International, Wounded Warriors or Doctors Without Borders.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at UW-Hospital for their exceptional care for Marcia.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie

(608) 837-9054