Jeanette Denu

Madison- Jeanette Winifred Denu (Thompson), age 88, passed away peacefully in her sleep Monday, June 20, 2016. Jeanette was born in Milwaukee on June 16, 1928 to the late John and Venice (Lund) Thompson. She graduated from Pulaski High School in Pulaski, WI and later attended Layton School of Art in Milwaukee. It was there that she met her husband, Ralph Denu. They were married on May 6, 1950 at St. John's Cathedral in Milwaukee. She worked as a telephone operator in Milwaukee. She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church since 1961, serving on the church choir and Rosary Altar Society. She also was a member of the Olbrich Garden Club, Girl Scouts for 65 years including being a girl-scout troop leader for both her daughters Colette and Denise. She also was previously a member of St. Bernard's, the Madison East Altar Rosary Society and was a member of Sweet Adeline's 4 part harmony singing group. Jeanette enjoyed keeping busy, gardening (especially flowers and lily's), watching and feeding the birds and having indoor and outdoor plants. She also made Valentine's for residents at St. Mary's Care Center for 35 years, known as The Valentine Lady of Madison. She also liked to make gift tags and bookmarks as gifts for anyone.

Jeanette is survived by her husband Ralph Denu, two daughters, Colette Denu of Middleton, Denise (Charlie) Wold of South Range, WI, brother Jack (Jean) Thompson of Indio, CA, her sisters, Ann Manske of Seminole Fl, Betty Rauguth of Dousman, WI, granddaughter Katrina (Evan) Ritthaler of South Portland, Maine, many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law George Denu.

Family and friends may visit at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 2121 Rowley Ave, Madison on Friday, June 24, 2016 from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Jeanette will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery.

The family appreciates donations to Olbrich Gardens or the charity of your choice.

Cress Funeral Home
3610 Speedway Rd
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-3434