Obituaries

Theresa Ann Anstett Theresa Ann Anstett passed peacefully in her sleep on December 4th, 2024, a year and a half after her diagnosis of ALS. The days were long, and the weeks were short, but in life, there is never enough time. Terri was born on August 8, 1951, to Theodore “Ted” Pierquet and Rita (Gilling) Pierquet in Skokie, Illinois. She grew up in Plymouth and graduated from high school there in 1969. After earning a degree in Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1973, Terri spent the next 35 years working as a graphic designer. But her true passion was in the realm of fine art, with embroidery as her preferred medium. She showcased and sold her handcrafted pieces at juried art fairs across the state. Terri’s artistry extended beyond the canvas. She created a cherished tradition of crafting Christmas ornaments for her daughters each year—a tradition she lovingly continued with her grandchildren. Thanks to her, our Christmas trees are glittering time capsules, each ornament a testament to her talent, love, and dedication. Terri had many loves in life. She was a voracious reader, a lover of all things chocolate, and had a deep affection for animals. Not a single drooling mouth was denied human food when she was around—her heart (and lap) always open to pets in need. Music, too, held a special place in her heart. A lifelong fan of The Beatles and David Bowie, she found joy in the magic of their music. She and Michael shared a love of concerts, often attending shows together and making memories with the sounds that defined their lives. She and Michael Anstett married on July 6, 1974, in Plymouth and lived in Omro throughout their professional careers before moving to Spring Green in 2009. Throughout their life together, they shared a love for travel, exploring destinations both near and far. From numerous adventures across the states and Canada to the charming cities of Europe and the vibrant cultures of South and Central America, they embraced new adventures, creating lasting memories along the way. Terri was a deeply loving, thoughtful, and devoted mother to her daughters, Erin and Allison. Her pride in them was evident in everything she did, from offering unwavering support during life’s challenges to celebrating every small triumph along the way. As a mother, she gave us the greatest gift of all: the feeling of being truly seen and loved, just as we were. This love extended to her three grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy. In addition to being an extraordinary wife and mother, Terri was a cherished sister, sister-in-law, aunt and a loyal, compassionate friend. She shared a special bond with her siblings and extended family; her love and support were always evident. As a friend, Terri was dependable, kind-hearted, and quick with a listening ear or a word of encouragement. She treasured the friendships she had throughout her life, always making time for those she cared about and offering her unique warmth and wisdom. Terri is survived by her husband of 50 years, Michael Anstett; daughters Erin (Peteris Zeltins) Fuller of Madison and Allison (Peter) Bernhardt of Eau Claire; sister, Renee (Dean) White of Sheboygan Falls; brother, Gregory Ames of Sheboygan; three grandchildren, Willem Fuller, Lina Hansen, Sylvia Hansen; step-grandchild, Corbin Bernhardt; in-laws Mary (Phil) Johnsen, Tom (Laury) Anstett, Kathy (Kevin Villwock) Anstett, and Tim (Donna) Anstett; seven nephews and nieces; and seven great-nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ted and Rita Pierquet, and in-laws, Emmett and Nadine “Sally” Anstett. In lieu of a formal funeral service, our family is planning a shamelessly boisterous celebration of life, after the thaw, in Spring Green. Date and location TBD. Anyone whose life Terri enriched is invited, with open arms, to ugly cry, dance, and share their own stories about her. Donations of any amount to the ALS Association in Terri’s honor are appreciated. We are profoundly grateful to the Spring Green community for providing Terri and Mike with some of the best years of their lives, and for the outpouring of love and support from friends during Terri’s passing. We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at the UW ALS Clinic and the incredible team at Agrace Hospice for their compassionate care and unwavering support during this difficult time. Online condolences available at www.staffordfuneralhomes.com  The Richardson-Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.