Louise E. Ives

of Pleasant Prairie (formerly of Milwaukee and later Mequon) joined many loved ones in heaven on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012. Louise began this life's journey on Aug. 8, 1926, growing up in Milwaukee through the Depression and WWII, with her loving parents John and Mamie (Wheeler) Thill and her siblings George, Elmo and Pearl. As Louise often said, she "never knew they were poor because no one told her." Her family knew how to balance hard work and frugality with their generous and fun-loving spirits, nurturing Louise's curiosity and playfulness. Louise attended Milwaukee Public Schools, studied voice with John Aiello and graduated from Washington High School. Louise attended business college and worked for her brother Dr. George Thill before working at Northwestern Mutual Life in downtown Milwaukee. On June 16, 1951, Louise married her true love, Dr. Donald G. Ives. They lived briefly in Ann Arbor, MI before settling with their baby, Donna Louise, near 87th and Capitol. Louise devoted this phase of her life to managing all of Don's office work, perfecting her culinary talents, expressing her creativity through decorating cakes and countless artistic ventures. She designed their summer home near Eagle River, WI; it became a place for extended family to come together surrounded by the beauty of nature. Fascinated by history and always current with the news, Louise longed to explore the world, and her travels were among her happiest memories. Together with Don, they visited most of Western Europe, including her ancestral home in Stensby, Norway. They explored the East, walked on the Great Wall of China, marveled at the Taj Majal, and roamed the streets of Singapore. They braved Russia, even as the Cold War raged, and she always dreamt of one day seeing Turkey. Her favorite place to escape the winter was Sanibel Island, FL, where she would comb the beaches searching for shells. Louise loved with unsurpassed devotion and loyalty. Because of her love, she enriched many lives, including all those who've survived her. She will be deeply missed by daughter Donna L. Ives-Kimpel; grandchildren Katherine M. Kimpel and Benjamin C. Kimpel; adored great-granddaughters Savannah Raine and Maddison Belle; dearly-loved family; her caregivers; and friends. Her visitation will be today, Sunday February 12, at Krause Funeral Home from 2-4, with a service immediately following. Internment will be at noon on Monday at WI Memorial Park. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. George Lange; the Visiting Nurses Association; Hospice Alliance; and her four home healthcare providers for their exceptional attention and care during Louise's final days. Memorials appreciated to Hospice Alliance.