Dorothy Buraczewski

Dorothy Buraczewski (nee Berndt), died peacefully on August 6, 2024, in Woodruff, at the age of 100.

Dorothy was born on December 11, 1923 to Gustave and Anna (Garbrecht) Berndt and raised in Markesan, along with her older brothers John and Herb. As a farm girl she grew up with a love of all animals but throughout her life goats held a special place in her heart. She and her husband Steve were married in 1943. The family they built started with their four children but grew to include ten grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and a host of in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends who all endlessly adored her.

Together she and Steve raised their family in Milwaukee and the northern suburbs. There Dorothy filled a variety of roles including mom, neighbor, and friend. During World War II they both worked at the David White Company. In 1972 she and Steve purchased a share of Scientific Instruments which they co-owned and operated until their retirement in the late 1980s.

With their retirement to the Northwoods came morning coffee on the dock, afternoons on the pontoon boat, and evenings watching the Lake Minocqua sunsets. And while spending time on the lake was one of her favorite things to do, you’d also find her hiking the Bearskin Trail, bowling in her weekly league, volunteering at the local hospital, fishing on the dock or challenging anyone who walked through the door to a game of cards. No matter the activity her favorite thing to do was to spend time with the people she loved.

Dorothy recently shared that she was lucky to have had such a wonderful life, a beautiful family, and terrific friends. Our “Butterball,” mom, grandma, GG, aunt Dorothy, “Dottie,” friend, and neighbor will be remembered as someone who was accepting, kind, curious, and playful, and who brought joy to others, each and every day. Her light will be missed by all who knew her.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, brothers and Steve, her husband of 63 years. She will be eternally missed by her four children Linda (Joe) Mastalski, Mike (Darlene), Jim (Kaela), Tom (Lisa), and their families, plus a host of nieces and nephews, including Jeannine Laibly who supported her care in recent years.

A memorial gathering for Dorothy will be held at Nimsgern Funeral Home in Woodruff, on Saturday, Oct. 19 at 10:30 a.m. with a funeral service at noon and luncheon to follow. A private family inurnment will take place at Lakeside Cemetery.

Dorothy asked that memorials in her name be given to Seasons of Life Hospice in Woodruff, the Northwoods Wildlife Center and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.