Colleen Dorothy Zaudke

Colleen Dorothy Zaudke, age 74, of Prescott, Wisconsin, passed away on July 2, 2026, at United Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Colleen was born on January 10, 1952, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Russell and Dorothy (Jones) Cusick. On May 12, 1978, Colleen was united in marriage to Ronald Zaudke, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in St. Paul. Together they shared more than 48 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and adventure. They made their home in rural Prescott, Wisconsin, where they lived for 41 wonderful years, raising their family and creating countless memories together.

Faith was the cornerstone of Colleen's life. A devoted Catholic, she attended daily Mass whenever she could and found great joy in serving others through her parish. She faithfully attended women's Bible study groups and participated in church women's organizations, always eager to share her love of Christ and encourage those around her.

Colleen embraced life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. During the winter months, she loved downhill skiing, finding joy on the snowy slopes. When the weather turned warm, she could almost always be found with a fishing rod in hand. While Ron preferred warmer destinations, Colleen happily chased cooler climates, making fishing trips to Canada and even traveling to the Arctic Circle in pursuit of the next great catch. Fishing was more than a pastime; it was one of her greatest passions. Whenever she landed a particularly impressive fish, she celebrated in her own unforgettable way by lighting up a cigar, a tradition that earned her the affectionate nickname "Queenie on the Lake."

She was also well known for her homemade jellies, lovingly prepared for church fundraisers and generously shared with family and friends. Whether gathered around the table, enjoying time at the lake, or spending an afternoon with loved ones, Colleen's warmth, infectious laughter, and generous spirit made everyone feel at home.

Above all else, Colleen treasured her family. She found her greatest happiness in being a loving wife, devoted mother, and proud grandmother. Her grandchildren brought endless joy to her life, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories they will carry with them forever.

Colleen will be remembered for her unwavering faith, adventurous spirit, generous heart, and the love she so freely shared with everyone blessed to know her. Her legacy of compassion, laughter, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the lives she touched.

Colleen is survived by her husband, Ronald; children: Teresa Hartling, Paul (Allison) Zaudke, John (Deanna) Zaudke; grandchildren: Gabriella Lugo, Madison Zaudke, Violet Zaudke, and Jasmine Zaudke; Siblings: Barbara (David) Baierl, Mark (Ann) Cusick, Tim (Kristen Hilendorf) Cusick, Maureen (Kevin) Morse, Shannon (Tim) O’Neill and Shawna (Steve) Speltz. Sister-in-law, Robin Cusick. Along with numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents: Russell and Dorothy, siblings: Joe, David, and Gary.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00am on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church: 269 Dakota St. S, Prescott, WI 54021. A visitation will begin at 9:00am until the start of mass. Burial will be at St Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Prescott.

Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Prescott. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-262-5404.