Suzette Cheri Fishbaugher

Suzette Fishbaugher passed away at the UW Madison Hospital on March 11, 2015 in the arms of her beloved husband and surrounded by family.

Suzie was born in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin to Doris and Fred Bender on September 3rd 1958. She developed diabetes at a young age was informed early on by doctors that her life expectancy was not going to be a long one so she decided to put a smile on her face, marry the love of her life, find a fulfilling career and live every day like it was her last. That attitude made being around her so easy by so many. Her mission was to get through every medical procedure asked of her and to do it with dignity. It was her belief that the reason her journey was difficult was to set an example to others that anyone can be kind, productive, and happy. Over the years she received the gift of life from 3 different donors. Amy Fay of Beaver Dam generously stepped forward last June to offer her kidney. Amy will forever be loved by this family for giving Suzie the opportunity for a better life. Suzie and Doug Fishbaugher were married on March 18th, 1989.

To Suzie’s delight Doug came into the marriage with 3 children. Those children and then later the grandchildren completed her. Suzie loved all of the gatherings and birthday parties for the grandchildren and the Saturday mornings with her son “Heathie” and grandchildren, Julianna and “Nader”. Suzie worked 22 years for the State of Wisconsin. She loved her job as a receptionist at the Department of Corrections in Madison but moreover, loved her co-workers and Supervisors as much as they loved her. The Department of Corrections family constantly rallied around her, encouraged her and gave her their love and support. Their patience and the accommodations made for her allowed her to maintain her ability to contribute and feel worthwhile. A special thank you to Jack Koch for his many acts of kindness toward Suzie. Suzie was met in heaven by her Dad, Fred Bender, her father in law Harvey Fishbaugher, sister in law Doris, “step father” Dale Lenton, brother in law Ken Weier and her beloved pets. She is survived by her husband Doug, Randolph, Son, Heath (Janelle) Fishbaugher of Markesan, Daughters, Holly (Dave) Belongia, North Fond du Lac, Heidie (Mike) Belongia, North Fond du Lac, 11 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, Mother in law, Marlene Fishbaugher of Harmony, MN, brother in law Don Fishbaugher also of Harmony and sister in law Debbie (Jeff) Finley, Chatfield, MN. She is also survived by her Mother, Doris Bender of Juneau and sisters Sandy Weier of Beaver Dam, Debra (Rick) Gempeler of Beaver Dam and several nephews and nieces. For those of you who know Suzie well, you will understand that as she neared Heaven’s Gates she threw open the doors and yelled “Whoo Hoo Suzie’s in the House!!” It’ll never be the same.

Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2015 at United Methodist Church, 227 N. High Street, Randolph with Pastor Mary Balson officiating.

Suzie’s family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday at the church from 2 p.m. until the hour of service.