Azalea Heinz

Azalea Ann Heinz (Kessenich), age 76, of Madison, WI passed away on Friday April 2, 2021 at her residence in Madison surrounded by her long-term caregivers. She was born on May 1, 1944 in Waunakee, WI, daughter of Loretta and Raymond Kessenich.

After her parent’s passing, she was able to move into her own home with the assistance of supported living agency RISE UP, Inc., which allowed her to maintain her independence with the aid of her caregivers. She took much pride in decorating her home to her liking and did not mince with words regarding what she wanted. Her Catholic faith was immensely important to her; she attended St. Johns church in her younger years and St. Dennis in her later years.

Azalea was a big fan of classic country music, and she loved to travel. Memorable trips she took include her dream vacation to Hawaii, Branson, MO and several cruises. She loved sharing pictures of her adventures with her friends. Despite her unassuming demeanor, Azalea was a fiercely competitive UNO player who loved winning, which she often did.

She was able to work several years for the Waisman Center’s Community Outreach Program, with support from job coaches at Integrated Community Work, where she developed a great network of friends. Azalea saved her money for her country music CDs, travel and decorating. She had a great sense of style and participated in several fashion shows for people with All Abilities. Azalea was a kind-hearted, caring and a strong woman who touched so many people. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her long-term caregivers from RISE UP Jenny, Amanda, Trina, Maggie, Lance, LaDonna, Sue, Ashok, and too many others to name and by guardian Heather Simmons and many friends she met through RISE UP and through her work, including special friends Charlotte, Amanda, Stephanie and Kate.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father Loretta and Raymond Kessenich, close family friend, her brother Sonny, and her beloved son Raymond.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 9 at 2p.m. at St. John Church in Waunakee, WI with a burial at St. Johns. Visitation will be at the church just prior to the service.

We would like to thank Heartland Hospice for all of their kindness and assistance, particularly Sister Nicole.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to RISE UP, Inc. In her name.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:8