Obituaries

Patricia “Pat” Ann (Brudahl) Bolstad, age 72, passed away at home on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and treasured friend to many. Pat was born on December 29, 1951, to Hjalmar “Joe” and Violet (Ferries) Brudahl in Sparta, WI and grew up in Beaver Dam, WI. During her final year of high school, Pat met the love of her life while working at Dairy Queen in Beaver Dam. They caught each other’s eyes and after Dale made frequent visits (consuming too much ice cream), he charmed Pat with his good nature, good looks (must have been the hair) and his Firebird. During their courtship, Pat moved to Madison to pursue her associate degree in interior design. Dale visited Pat often and wrote her a letter every Wednesday night. Pat and Dale were joined in marriage on August 26, 1972. They enjoyed time together and with friends barbecuing, goofing around, camping, and trips to South Dakota and Colorado.

At 19 years old, Pat began working for Meriter Hospital (Madison General Hospital then) in various support roles; retiring at 65. After retirment she was able to enjoy her favorite pastimes, quilting retreats, antiquing, camping and of course, shopping (a lot of shopping), which brought her so much joy. Most of all Pat cherished spending quality time with family and friends. She held so much affection for her precious granddaughter, Violet (named after Pat’s mom). Their bond was truly beautiful. All the love and memories will live on as she is remembered.

While facing two rare cancer diagnoses, Pat maintained her positivity and her courage, far surpassing all prognosis. She was guided by belief, hope and love, as inscribed on the rings she wore daily. Pat was so determined for her future, never losing sight. It wasn’t until her last weeks in which there was quick progression of the disease and her sudden decline, that she relented to the mercy of her coming Home. She passed at home with her ever patient and gentle husband. Pat will be remembered for her loving kindness, sharp wit and humor, creativity and her love for family and friends.

Pat is survived by her husband, Dale Bolstad of DeForest, WI; daughter, Andrea; granddaughter, Violet and son-in-law, Brian Timler of Sun Prairie, WI; devoted sister, Joan (Rick) Gale; nephews, Brent and Adam Gale of MN; brother in-law, Ronald (Kathy) Bolstad of Madison, WI; niece, Lisa (Brad) Boortz of Mequon, WI; nephews, Todd (Dawn) Bolstad of McFarland, WI, and Scott (Anne) Bolstad of MN.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents.

Special praise and gratitude to Agrace Hospice, Senior Helpers, Dr. Sam Lubner, MD and Meredith Winkelhake, NP with Carbone Cancer Center at the UW Hospital.

A Memorial Service will be held to honor Pat’s life at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Ryan Funeral Home, 6924 Lake Road, DeForest, WI. A visitation will be held from 12:00 P.M. until the time of service at 2:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Agrace Hospice, Carbone Cancer Center, and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.

To view and sign this guestbook please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Windsor/DeForest Chapel

6924 Lake Road

608-846-4250