Annabel M. Stoffels

Annabel Mary Stoffels was born March 24, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the first child of Elroy F. Stoffels and Isabelle M. Hegy. Our beloved sister, cousin, aunt and friend passed peacefully from our arms to the awaiting arms of her parents on October 5, 2008, at Ruth Hospice on Mill Road, a year and a half after discovery of a brain tumor. Annabel attended Holy Redeemer School and Messmer High School, graduating in 1954. She then worked at Howard Foundry. In 1956, she began a 43 year career at A.O. Smith automotive division, and its successor, Tower Automotive, retiring as an Administrative Assistant in 1999. Annabel was an outgoing, warm and caring woman with a devoted family and longstanding friends. She quickly endeared herself to new acquaintances, recently including her nurses and other caregivers. Spirited and with a quick wit, she spoke her own mind while accepting the differing views of others. Annabel was an avid shopper and collector of antiques. She enjoyed playing tennis, bridge and sheepshead. She had a special love for children and delighted in the visits of her grandnieces and grandnephews. Annabel was deeply grateful to the caring physicians, nurses and other staff at Ruth Hospice, and at Community Memorial Hospital in Menomonee Falls. Annabel is survived by brothers and sisters James J. Stoffels of Richland, Washington, and Mary F. Kane (the late Richard), Barbara A. Zillmer (Robert) and Kenneth W. Stoffels, all of Milwaukee; cousins, Joan Larsen of Racine, and Emily Hickey, Anna Mae Smith and Betty Schopf, all of Sturgeon Bay; nieces and nephews, grandnieces and nephews; uncle, Frank Vingleman; and numerous friends. A Memorial Gathering will be held at the Funeral Home on Thursday, October 9, 11AM-1PM with a Memorial Service at 1PM. A Committal Service to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Ruth Hospice, National Alliance on Mental Illness, or a charity of your choice. "Life is amazing, love is enduring, and family is forever."