Carole Budzinski

Carole Budzinski of Port Washington, formerly of Glendale and Cedarburg, passed away peacefully at Lincoln Village in Port Washington on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was 91 years old.

  Carole was born to Harley and Alice (nee Matte) Rossmiller in Milwaukee, Wis., on Oct. 13, 1933. She attended local schools and graduated from Rufus King High School, Class of 1951.

On April 26, 1952, Carole was united in marriage to Gerard “Gary” Budzinski at St. Mary of Czestochowa Catholic Church in Milwaukee.

The couple settled in Glendale and raised their family of three children.

Gary preceded Carole in death in 2001 and Carole moved to Cedarburg.

Mrs. Budzinski found joy in the simple pleasures of life — square dancing with her husband, losing herself in the pages of a good book, nurturing her vibrant garden and enjoying nature during the many camping trips across the country with her husband. Her love for flowers was mirrored in her garden, which blossomed under her care. This made way for her love of birds, attracting birds of all sorts, with her favorite being cardinals.

Carole was also known for her competitive yet friendly nature when playing various card games, which included cribbage, kings corners, hand and foot, Wizard and dominos.

Carole is survived by her three children, Deb (Craig) Stalter, Sheree (Roger) Klumb and Gregg (the late Sandra) Budzinski. She is further survived by five grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gary and sister Jean (Gordon)Weber.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5, 2024, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, Wis. The Rev. Linda Westphal-Buth will preside over the service. The family will receive guests at the funeral home on Sunday from 1 p.m. until the service.

Carole will be laid to rest beside her husband at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Newburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Hospital in Carole’s name.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.