Madeline Carol Slamka (nee Kercheck)
Age 88, passed peacefully, on August 20, surrounded by the love of family. Wife of Robert John. Mother of Kathleen (Al Gassenhuber), Maryanne Dunne, Anne (William Morris), Suzanne (Douglas) Staniszewski, Robert Louis (Patricia Jahnke), Karl (JoAnn) and Louis (Danielle). Preceded in death by children Terra and Joseph and parents Robert and Catherine. Grandmother of Alexis, Rebekah, Kevin, Stephen, Evan, Kendra, Kyle, Brooklynne, Megan, Judith and Dylan. Great-grandmother of Madison, Xander and Ian.
Mom was a strong believer in education, taking classes as she could, graduating from Alverno College and achieving her dream of teaching primary school.
She raised a bit of hell in her time, fighting for the then-radical idea of dad to be present and offer support for the births of their children. She was also a long-time member of La Leche League, at a time when breastfeeding was not encouraged. She taught her children to work for social justice and to never stop working for your dream.
She loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing with them her love of gardening, fishing and camping. She made amazing scratch apple pies, pizza, Mexican Wedding Cakes, and anything with yeast dough. She will be remembered for the huge kettles of oatmeal with raisins that fed 11 mouths every morning!
A private family gathering is planned. To honor her memory, please read a book to a child.