Lucy P. Nehrenz

Cottage Grove--Lucy P. Nehrenz died on September 15, 2009 at the age of 104. She was born Lucy O. Polodna and was raised in the rural Prairie du Chien area with her four sisters and two brothers. Her husband, Percy, died in 1964 and her closest relatives are nieces and nephews: Eugene Mara of Oak Creek, Arnold Mara of Prairie du Chien, Bernice Hopkins of Clinton, Lucille Woodliff of Rockford, IL, Dorothy Redmond of New Hope, MN, Cecelia Redmond of Manchesney Park, IL, and Thomas Ball of Colona, IL; and grand-niece, Mary Ann Drescher.

Exemplifying her spirit of adventure and fierce independence, Lucy ventured from the farm to the city of Madison at age 20 to find employment. She was hired by Burgess Battery, which later became Research Products Corporation. She worked in the same building for 48 years becoming a very valuable member of the staff. She retired in 1972, but continued her interest in the company and her many friends as expressed through numerous meticulously kept scrapbooks, and her attendance at company sponsored banquets.

Despite her widow status, Lucy traveled extensively, which included destinations of Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe. She was an excellent conversationalist, and enjoyed discussing national, state and local events of the day. She was also an avid Badger fan and was always ready to join in a card game.

At Lucy's request there will be no visitation or funeral service. An open house will be held on October 11, 2009 from 2 to 4 pm at the Dean House, 4718 Monona Dr., Madison, to honor her life and generous contributions to the Blooming Grove Historical Society. Memorials should be sent to Angelus, HospiceCare, or the Wisconsin Badger Camp, Box 723, Platteville, WI [a focus of Lucy's generosity which serves adults and children with developmental disabilities.]