Barbara A. Budde

Barbara Ann (Boelter) Budde, age 88, of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025.

Born on December 20, 1936, Barb was the beloved daughter of Agnes (Beers) and Raymond Boelter. She was a woman whose life was defined by faith, family, and a deep appreciation for the simple beauties of the world.

On October 6, 1962, Barb married her grade-school sweetheart, Edward Budde, and their love for each other never lost its spark. Their devotion to one another was evident to all who knew them. Even during Barb’s seven years as a resident at Hillside Manor, Ed was by her side nearly every day.

Together, they found joy in the traditions they created over the years—celebrating anniversaries with trips to Door County, watching the Canada Geese at Horicon Marsh, taking long drives, searching for the perfect ice cream cone, and playing their favorite card game, Sheepshead. Music continued to be a part of their shared life, from Sunday morning radio to “The Old Barn Show” at dinner time.

A devoted wife and mother, Barb’s greatest joy was her family. She loved to cook for celebrations and parties, always ensuring there was more than enough for everyone. She had a contagious smile and could engage in conversation with anyone she met.

A passionate music lover, Barb worked in a record store as a young adult and built an impressive album collection that reflected her eclectic taste and deep appreciation for music. She always enjoyed being outside, tending to her plants and garden, and pointing out the simple, profound beauty found in nature.

Her strong Catholic faith was a guiding principle throughout her life. She exemplified that in her daily life, and through many hours volunteering for the St. Vincent de Paul Society and delivering Meals on Wheels.

Barb is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Edward H. Budde; her four children: Mark (Suzanne) Budde, Anne (Gavin) Yoder, Paul (Kimberly) Budde, and Catherine (Kevin) Loughney. She was a proud grandmother to Zachery (Emmi), Madeline (Andrew), Andrew (Kirra), Jacob, Hannah, Noah, Joshua, Caleb, Daniel, Elliott, and Collin, and a great-grandmother to Stella Budde.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Jim Boelter; her grandson, Matthew Loughney; and other beloved family members.

Barb’s life was one of quiet generosity, deep faith, and enduring love. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever by those who knew her.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hillside Manor for the wonderful care they provided.

Visitation will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated immediately following, at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at St. Peter Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at Bayside Supper Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Barbara’s memory. https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-AlzheimersChampions?pxfid=967398&fr_id=1060&pg=fund