Louise Ann Fosshage

Louise Ann Fosshage passed away on October 15, 2026, at the age of 86, leaving a remarkable legacy of love and a family who will forever be grateful that she was theirs.

Louise's story began in Henrietta, Wisconsin, where she was born at her grandmother's home to Linda and Paul Kidd. Her father's work as a cheesemaker took the family to various Wisconsin communities before they eventually settled in the Black Earth area.

At Black Earth High School, Louise was a cheerleader, participated in forensics, and caught the eye of a young man named Ken Fosshage.

They married on April 14, 1956, beginning a loving and devoted union that would last 62 years. Soon, their sons Paul and Scott arrived, followed later by Tim. Louise now had her very own version of My Three Sons, and she had found what she considered her most important calling. She was a mother and what a mother she was.

Some people discover their purpose over a lifetime. Louise seemed to know hers from the beginning. She was loving, generous, protective, creative, and endlessly devoted to her family. She possessed a quick wit and wry sense of humor. Louise was also fiercely loyal. She celebrated her family's successes, comforted their disappointments, and stood ready to defend them whenever necessary.

In 1964, Louise and Ken purchased their home on Blue Mounds Street in Black Earth. What followed was a decades-long labor of love. There was always another improvement to make or room to decorate.

After raising her children, she opened Kidd’s Korner, a home daycare that she operated for nearly 20 years. To generations of children, she became affectionately known as "Auntie Louise."

Becoming a grandmother gave her an entirely new audience to adore. Her six grandchildren—Myhia, Amber, Kenny, Michael, Kyle, and Katharine—each were adored for their unique personalities. Anyone who spent much time with Louise was likely to receive an update on their latest accomplishments, accompanied by photographs she was always delighted to share.

Eventually, Louise became a great-grandmother to Carter, Rae, Isis, Nkai, Jamere, Kenneth, and Scottie Jean. Although age and declining health limited her ability to participate as actively in their lives, her love for them never diminished.

Louise possessed a rare combination of creativity, determination, and an eye for beauty. She was an exceptional gardner, cook and baker. Her chocolate bars were legendary, and anyone fortunate enough to receive a batch knew she believed there was no reason to skimp on the good ingredients.

Louise loved decorating for every season, but Christmas was her masterpiece. Her home transformed into a holiday wonderland, with elaborately decorated trees throughout the house, each reflecting a different theme. Her home could easily have graced the pages of a holiday decorating magazine. But for Louise, the decorations were never simply about appearances. They were part of creating memories and bringing joy to others.

Then there were the holiday meals. Somehow, Louise could prepare an astonishing amount of delicious food, have everything ready at precisely the right moment, and serve her growing family around a beautifully arranged table complete with her beloved china and crystal. How she managed it all remained something of a family mystery.

She loved history, architecture, beautiful objects, and the stories behind them. As their sons grew older and began families of their own, Louise and Ken enjoyed traveling, particularly to the southern United States.

Louise also believed in serving her community. She was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church in Black Earth, where she served on various committees. She was especially known for organizing funeral meals. She served as president of the cemetery board and volunteered as an election worker for decades.

Perhaps the greatest example of Louise's devotion came during the final years of Ken's life when he required increasing care. Louise became his devoted caregiver, providing daily support with extraordinary patience, loyalty, and love. Ken passed away in 2018, after 62 years of marriage.

Louise experienced profound heartache during her lifetime, especially the losses of her son Scott, and her grandsons Kenny and Michael. These losses remained with her during her lifetime.

As Louise's own health declined, the essence of Louise remained. She continued to care deeply about her family. She continually worried about their well-being. And even when she needed help herself, her instinct was to think of others first.

Louise is survived by her sons, Paul (Barb) Fosshage and Tim (Melissa) Fosshage; daughter-in-law Donna Fosshage; grandchildren Myhia (Tom) Chapman, Amber (Ben) Van Fossen, Kyle (Jade) Fosshage, and Katharine Fosshage; and great-grandchildren Carter Freymiller, Rae and Isis Chapman, Nkai, Jamere and Kenneth Van Fossen, and Scottie Jean Fosshage.

She is further survived by her sister Paula (Clem) Kelter; brother Mike (Nancy) Kidd; sisters-in-laws Phylis Lorenz and Corinne Vrbsky; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Linda and Paul Kidd; her beloved husband, Ken Fosshage; her son Scott Fosshage; grandsons Kenny and Michael Fosshage; and sisters Ginny Vacha and Audrey Curtis.

A celebration of Louise's life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Midland United Methodist Church, 10235 County Road KP, Mazomanie, Wisconsin.

Visitation will take place from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be served immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Midland United Methodist Church.

Louise's family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Maplewood in Sauk City for the compassionate care, kindness, and love they provided to Louise. The family also wishes to thank Megan and the staff of Agrace Hospice for their gentle and supportive care during Louise's final days.