Comforted by the love of her family, Peggy Ann (Guttenberg) Wardecke passed peacefully into eternal life on March 31, 2014, after a long journey with breast cancer. Peggy was born to Harold and Evelyn (Buckoski) Guttenberg on December 26, 1961 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She attended Monroe High School and graduated in 1980. Peggy continued…
Continue ReadingComforted by the love of her family, Peggy Ann (Guttenberg) Wardecke passed peacefully into eternal life on March 31, 2014, after a long journey with breast cancer. Peggy was born to Harold and Evelyn (Buckoski) Guttenberg on December 26, 1961 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She attended Monroe High School and graduated in 1980. Peggy continued her education by attending UW-Madison and graduating with her B.S. in Nursing. After graduation, she began her career as an RN at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton, Wisconsin.
During her time working at St. Elizabeth, mutual friends introduced Peggy to the love of her life, David Wardecke. They married on August 22, 1987 and settled into their new home in Darboy. By 1989, their family was blessed with a daughter, Sarah Nicole, soon followed by Laura Beth in 1991. After the arrival of their first daughter, Peggy began her most joyful job in life, becoming a full-time mom and wife.
Both of Peggy's girls were swimmers and she enjoyed attending their swim meets as they grew and as they continued to compete across the state and the country. She enjoyed sitting in the bleachers with the many swim team families, making new friends and being part of their swim-parent family. She felt blessed to watch so many of the young swimmers she had followed bloom into young adults over the years of their swimming with her girls.
When not sitting on a bleacher watching her girls swim, Peggy loved being at her cottage on White Potato Lake. Many a summer day was spent relaxing in the sunshine and chatting with family and friends who were visiting. Mornings often started off with tea in her “cedar lounge” and going for a walk, while late afternoon pontoon boat rides around the lake were a favorite way to end the day before having a campfire and making s'mores. In more recent years, she especially loved having her nieces up for a week of spoiling them and taking them tubing and swimming.
As her girls headed to college, Peggy returned to full time work as the corporate nurse at Appvion. She had previously spent time there as a relief on-call nurse and she enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with her many friends.
One of Peggy's proudest accomplishments was being able to be present for the college graduation of both her girls in May 2013. She was so proud of the young women they had become and where their lives and careers are taking them.
Peggy is survived by her husband: David Wardecke; two daughters: Sarah Wardecke and Laura Wardecke; her mother: Evelyn Guttenberg; two brothers: Kerry (Emily) Guttenberg and their son Tom, and Randy (Amy) Guttenberg and their children Mya, Paige, Megan, Kate, and Kayla. She is also survived by David's parents: Robert and Ann Wardecke; two sisters-in-law: Barb (Andy) Dorn and Mary (Jeff) Luzinski; nieces: Suann (Paul) Dombrowicki and Robin (Chris) Schmit; and nephews: Steven Wendt, Michael Luzinski, and Collin Luzinski, as well as several great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father Harold Guttenberg, and her niece Elizabeth Guttenberg.
A celebration of Peggy's life will be held at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at OUR SAVIOUR'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 3009 N. Meade Street in Appleton, with Rev. Kurt Hoffman officiating. Inurnment will take place at Highland Memorial Park. Family members and friends are invited to gather at the church on Saturday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com.
Stephanie Konek-Brielmaier
left a message on April 28, 2014:
David, so sorry for your loss.
Amy Rabas
left a message on April 9, 2014:
To the Wardecke family- I had Sarah when she was in first grade. Your mother was a wonderful lady. I remember how proud she was of you. I loved hearing about your swimming. I will be keeping you and your family In my prayers. May her memories and love surround you at this difficult time.
Amy Rabas
Sandra (Blanc) Boyden
left a message on April 8, 2014:
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Peggy at Monroe High School and at the UW-Madison. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Mark, Judy, Max and Heidi Klei
left a message on April 6, 2014:
We are so sorry for hearing the loss of a swim team Mom. We were blessed to have been a swim team parents along with the Wardecke parents. Even though, our children swam for Oshkosh, we still hold special memories of being on the pool deck, in the stands, and helping at pool meets together with Peggy. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Mark, Judy, Max and Heidi Klein
Cheryl Teske and Mark Geyer
left a message on April 5, 2014:
Dave, Sarah and Laura: Our deepest and heartfelt condolences for your loss. May you find peace in knowing that your wife and mother is now in a far better place than anyone could ever imagine. The memories, the rainbows, the gentle breezes, the love in your heart will carry you through these difficult times. May God hold you and your family in the palm of His hands. Cheryl Teske and Mark Geyer (Cheryl-mother of Katelyn Teske, Class of 2007; Mark-co-worker of Dave)
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Jean (Monaghan) Sinkule
left a message on April 5, 2014:
To Peggy's family: I am very sorry for your loss. Peggy and I were confirmed together at Grace Lutheran in Monroe, May you hold tight to the many wonderful memories you have of your wife, mother, daughter and sister.
Wally Morrow
left a message on April 5, 2014:
Dave & family
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope the love and strength you receive from your family and love ones will help you through this trying time. May the good lord bless you and guide you.
Wally Morrow - Class of 2008
Scott Johnson
left a message on April 4, 2014:
David,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughters during this time. Take care and keep your memories close.
Scott
Mary Coppes
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dave and girls,
May I express my deepest sympathy to all of you for losing Peggy at such a young age. I enjoyed training her in Occ Health, but some how she ended up with Meredyth as a relief nurse at the Appleton plant. We still managed to work together over the years and she was always such a happy and optimistic person. What a blessing!
Peggy was a gracious caring person, always wearing a smile on her cute face! She was an asset to all and will be greatly missed by all!
With Sympathy,
Mary A. Coppes
Retired RN-COHN
Combined Locks Mill
Amy Tongue
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dave, Sarah and Laura,
Peggy was one of my dearest friends from junior high to college. We spent a lot of time together running track and doing gymnastics together. After we graduated from UW, we went in different directions, but I always enjoyed receiving your Christmas letters and staying in touch that way. I am so sorry that she was taken from you so young, but I'm rejoicing that she is spending eternity with Jesus!
Amy (Hurlbert)Tongue
Candis
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dear Family, I offer my sincere condolences for your devastating loss. May God soothe your aching hearts with his loving promise to reunite you together again in the future Paradise when he will bring an end to sickness, pain and even death. Revelation 21:4, 5 says that one day, "Death" will be no more. God knows the many painful tears that you cry. (Acts 24:15) You're in my prayers.
Doug Knutson
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dear Dave and Family
Peggy was a warm welcome to the troops at Appvion. In all cases, she delt with employees and friends with true compassion. She will be sorely missed both as a nurse and a good human being. There is a saying that only the good die young. This certianly applies to Peggy.
My condolences and prayers for the family. May God get you through this difficult time.
Doug Knutson-Long time employee.
The Barclay Family
left a message on April 4, 2014:
We got to know Peggy a little bit sitting on the pool bleachers while our daughter Jordan swam with Laura at Carroll U. What I will remember about Peggy is her calm exterior, which I never had, when her precious girl was on the blocks ready for a race and the pride that sparkled in her eyes watching her swim. God bless you, Peggy as you find rest in our Lord. We will hold your family in our hearts and prayers. - Robin & Curt Barclay
Susan Smith
left a message on April 3, 2014:
So sorry to hear of your loss. Sending prayers to your family at this time. Remember Peggy from so many classes at school.
Dave Wedl
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Coach Sarah: May peace be with you and your family.
Ryan & Dave Wedl
Lisa Mayer and family
left a message on April 3, 2014:
David, Sarah, and Laura,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Peggy had a knack
for making people feel special. Everyone who visited White Potato Lake was
treated like family. Warm cinnamon rolls in the morning, followed by a full day
of water skiing and tubing, and an evening around the campfire. We will
remember Peggy gracefully water skiing barefoot, cheering at swim meets, and as an amazing person and Mom. Peggy will be dearly missed.
Much Love,
Steve, Lisa, Erik, and Kaitlyn Mayer
Mary and the Goggans kids
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Thank you Peggy for embracing every family who sat on the bleachers with you all those years around all those pools. Thank you for your smile, laughter and optimism about out children in both swimming and outside of swimming. Your unconditional kindness and support made a difference in our lives. We will miss you. I am praying for God's peace to you and your family in this difficult time.
Thomas Brotski
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Dave, Sarah & Laura,
As you well know, Peggy is an inspiration to all who had the pleasure to know her. As I looked through my photos and the photos of others, most recent and past, her smile was always kind and warm. This truly reflected her inner self and character to the world. God's peace to you, and knowing Peggy rests peacefully with God.
Thom
Cristina Mullally
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Dave, Sarah, and Laura,
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I hope that time can help assuage your grief and, with Peggy looking down from above, bring comforting recollections of shared moments. I lost my mom to cancer almost 8 years ago yet her guidance, inspiration, and "voice" remain a calming presence in my life. God bless your family during this trying time.
Watton Family
left a message on April 2, 2014:
Our love and prayers go out to Peggy's family. May the Lord strengthen you and keep you firmly in His loving grip.
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Marilyn Workinger RN
left a message on April 2, 2014:
You were a ray of sunshine and wealth of knowledge in my beginning as a Nurse here at Spring Mill. Prayers for your family, because we know you are in his arms.
John and Joane Kavajecz
left a message on April 2, 2014:
David and Family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort and strength in your
memories. Love, John and Joane
Lynn Halley
left a message on April 2, 2014:
Spent many, many hours in the bleachers with Peggy. What a truly great lady! Always helpful and generous from the day our daughter started swimming over 15 years ago. You will be missed! Sarah & Laura your Mom was so proud of you - hold tight to your memories. Thoughts and prayers are with your whole family. Lynn, Cliff, Kristina & Erica Halley
Lisa Wright
left a message on April 2, 2014:
David, Sarah, and Laura,
Your wife and mom inspired me in so many ways. She inspired me spiritually in book study where I first met her at CTK. During discussion, she raised compelling questions and helped me understand what it meant to be a good Christian mother. Then, she inspired me in a different way as we crossed paths again at the clinic. Her strength in all she endured was amazing to say the least. Her and I talked a lot about you, her family, and it was obvious how proud of your accomplishments she was. I will remember her and the impact she made on me always.
Take care,
Lisa Wright
Cynthia Raatz
left a message on April 2, 2014:
Dave, Sarah and Laura,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Isaiah 57:1-2. Praying for your recovery as a family.
Bill Haag
left a message on April 1, 2014:
Thank you Peggy for all your kindness.
You will be truly missed.
May God bless you and your family
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Stephanie Konek-Brielmaier
left a message on April 28, 2014:
David, so sorry for your loss.
Amy Rabas
left a message on April 9, 2014:
To the Wardecke family- I had Sarah when she was in first grade. Your mother was a wonderful lady. I remember how proud she was of you. I loved hearing about your swimming. I will be keeping you and your family In my prayers. May her memories and love surround you at this difficult time.
Amy Rabas
Sandra (Blanc) Boyden
left a message on April 8, 2014:
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Peggy at Monroe High School and at the UW-Madison. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Mark, Judy, Max and Heidi Klei
left a message on April 6, 2014:
We are so sorry for hearing the loss of a swim team Mom. We were blessed to have been a swim team parents along with the Wardecke parents. Even though, our children swam for Oshkosh, we still hold special memories of being on the pool deck, in the stands, and helping at pool meets together with Peggy. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Mark, Judy, Max and Heidi Klein
Cheryl Teske and Mark Geyer
left a message on April 5, 2014:
Dave, Sarah and Laura: Our deepest and heartfelt condolences for your loss. May you find peace in knowing that your wife and mother is now in a far better place than anyone could ever imagine. The memories, the rainbows, the gentle breezes, the love in your heart will carry you through these difficult times. May God hold you and your family in the palm of His hands. Cheryl Teske and Mark Geyer (Cheryl-mother of Katelyn Teske, Class of 2007; Mark-co-worker of Dave)
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Jean (Monaghan) Sinkule
left a message on April 5, 2014:
To Peggy's family: I am very sorry for your loss. Peggy and I were confirmed together at Grace Lutheran in Monroe, May you hold tight to the many wonderful memories you have of your wife, mother, daughter and sister.
Wally Morrow
left a message on April 5, 2014:
Dave & family
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope the love and strength you receive from your family and love ones will help you through this trying time. May the good lord bless you and guide you.
Wally Morrow - Class of 2008
Scott Johnson
left a message on April 4, 2014:
David,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughters during this time. Take care and keep your memories close.
Scott
Mary Coppes
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dave and girls,
May I express my deepest sympathy to all of you for losing Peggy at such a young age. I enjoyed training her in Occ Health, but some how she ended up with Meredyth as a relief nurse at the Appleton plant. We still managed to work together over the years and she was always such a happy and optimistic person. What a blessing!
Peggy was a gracious caring person, always wearing a smile on her cute face! She was an asset to all and will be greatly missed by all!
With Sympathy,
Mary A. Coppes
Retired RN-COHN
Combined Locks Mill
Amy Tongue
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dave, Sarah and Laura,
Peggy was one of my dearest friends from junior high to college. We spent a lot of time together running track and doing gymnastics together. After we graduated from UW, we went in different directions, but I always enjoyed receiving your Christmas letters and staying in touch that way. I am so sorry that she was taken from you so young, but I'm rejoicing that she is spending eternity with Jesus!
Amy (Hurlbert)Tongue
Candis
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dear Family, I offer my sincere condolences for your devastating loss. May God soothe your aching hearts with his loving promise to reunite you together again in the future Paradise when he will bring an end to sickness, pain and even death. Revelation 21:4, 5 says that one day, "Death" will be no more. God knows the many painful tears that you cry. (Acts 24:15) You're in my prayers.
Doug Knutson
left a message on April 4, 2014:
Dear Dave and Family
Peggy was a warm welcome to the troops at Appvion. In all cases, she delt with employees and friends with true compassion. She will be sorely missed both as a nurse and a good human being. There is a saying that only the good die young. This certianly applies to Peggy.
My condolences and prayers for the family. May God get you through this difficult time.
Doug Knutson-Long time employee.
The Barclay Family
left a message on April 4, 2014:
We got to know Peggy a little bit sitting on the pool bleachers while our daughter Jordan swam with Laura at Carroll U. What I will remember about Peggy is her calm exterior, which I never had, when her precious girl was on the blocks ready for a race and the pride that sparkled in her eyes watching her swim. God bless you, Peggy as you find rest in our Lord. We will hold your family in our hearts and prayers. - Robin & Curt Barclay
Susan Smith
left a message on April 3, 2014:
So sorry to hear of your loss. Sending prayers to your family at this time. Remember Peggy from so many classes at school.
Dave Wedl
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Coach Sarah: May peace be with you and your family.
Ryan & Dave Wedl
Lisa Mayer and family
left a message on April 3, 2014:
David, Sarah, and Laura,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Peggy had a knack
for making people feel special. Everyone who visited White Potato Lake was
treated like family. Warm cinnamon rolls in the morning, followed by a full day
of water skiing and tubing, and an evening around the campfire. We will
remember Peggy gracefully water skiing barefoot, cheering at swim meets, and as an amazing person and Mom. Peggy will be dearly missed.
Much Love,
Steve, Lisa, Erik, and Kaitlyn Mayer
Mary and the Goggans kids
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Thank you Peggy for embracing every family who sat on the bleachers with you all those years around all those pools. Thank you for your smile, laughter and optimism about out children in both swimming and outside of swimming. Your unconditional kindness and support made a difference in our lives. We will miss you. I am praying for God's peace to you and your family in this difficult time.
Thomas Brotski
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Dave, Sarah & Laura,
As you well know, Peggy is an inspiration to all who had the pleasure to know her. As I looked through my photos and the photos of others, most recent and past, her smile was always kind and warm. This truly reflected her inner self and character to the world. God's peace to you, and knowing Peggy rests peacefully with God.
Thom
Cristina Mullally
left a message on April 3, 2014:
Dave, Sarah, and Laura,
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I hope that time can help assuage your grief and, with Peggy looking down from above, bring comforting recollections of shared moments. I lost my mom to cancer almost 8 years ago yet her guidance, inspiration, and "voice" remain a calming presence in my life. God bless your family during this trying time.
Watton Family
left a message on April 2, 2014:
Our love and prayers go out to Peggy's family. May the Lord strengthen you and keep you firmly in His loving grip.
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Marilyn Workinger RN
left a message on April 2, 2014:
You were a ray of sunshine and wealth of knowledge in my beginning as a Nurse here at Spring Mill. Prayers for your family, because we know you are in his arms.
John and Joane Kavajecz
left a message on April 2, 2014:
David and Family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort and strength in your
memories. Love, John and Joane
Lynn Halley
left a message on April 2, 2014:
Spent many, many hours in the bleachers with Peggy. What a truly great lady! Always helpful and generous from the day our daughter started swimming over 15 years ago. You will be missed! Sarah & Laura your Mom was so proud of you - hold tight to your memories. Thoughts and prayers are with your whole family. Lynn, Cliff, Kristina & Erica Halley
Lisa Wright
left a message on April 2, 2014:
David, Sarah, and Laura,
Your wife and mom inspired me in so many ways. She inspired me spiritually in book study where I first met her at CTK. During discussion, she raised compelling questions and helped me understand what it meant to be a good Christian mother. Then, she inspired me in a different way as we crossed paths again at the clinic. Her strength in all she endured was amazing to say the least. Her and I talked a lot about you, her family, and it was obvious how proud of your accomplishments she was. I will remember her and the impact she made on me always.
Take care,
Lisa Wright
Cynthia Raatz
left a message on April 2, 2014:
Dave, Sarah and Laura,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Isaiah 57:1-2. Praying for your recovery as a family.
Bill Haag
left a message on April 1, 2014:
Thank you Peggy for all your kindness.
You will be truly missed.
May God bless you and your family
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Thank you for leaving a condolence..
Your comment has been submitted for moderation.