Bernita Littel

MADISON – Bernita M. “Bunny” Littel, age 87, passed away peacefully, with her loving family surrounding her, at UW Hospital, on Thursday, March 12, 2015, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Bunny was born on Dec. 16, 1927, in Portage, the daughter of Richard and Esther (Schluter) Manweiler. She married Russell Littel just over 66 years ago at the Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua, Iowa. She was employed at Oscar Mayer for 44 years. She loved flower gardening and caring for her yard. She had a phenomenal collection of cat figurines, and will be remembered for her seasonal decorations both in and outside of their home. Most important was her love for her family and friends.

Bunny is survived by her husband, Russell Littel; five children, Suzanne Nelson, Diane Littel and her husband, Norton Thomas, Steven Littel, Tammy Littel and Debra (Tony) Przybylek; six grandchildren, Bradley, Kristine, Russell, Shane, Linnea, and Nathan; two step-grandchildren, Michael and Jessica; three great-grandchildren, Bethany, Zachary and Lucas; two step-great-grandchildren, Raelyn and Tallan; two sisters; one brother; nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors and staff of UW Hospital and Clinics; and special friends, Frances Gamer and Laurie Sanford for her loving care.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2015, at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., with the Rev. Ann Fisher officiating. Private entombment will be at Roselawn Memory Gardens. Visitation will be held on Monday at the funeral home from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to The American Cancer Society, or to Olbrich Gardens, 330 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704.