Verona – Deborah “Debbie” Benell, a gentle, kind and loving angel on earth, slipped from the loving embrace of her surrounded family at home on Saturday, March 13, 2021, at the young age of 70. She also escaped the grip of cancer after more than 3 years.

Debbie was born on September 26, 1950 in Madison to Damain and Lucille Kennedy. She was raised in the historic 4th Ward of Madison, where she would walk to school with her life-long friends to St. Raphael’s Grade School and Central High School (Class of ’68). Debbie was a very proud and loyal Centralite!

Shortly after high school graduation she began a career with the UW Madison as a Program Associate at the UW College of Engineering, Department of Professional Development. She remained with the Department until her retirement after 49 years of loyalty and a steadfast focus of continuing excellence. Debbie worked side-by-side with professors and engineers of all mechanical and electrical disciplines forming long and heartfelt friendships with all co-workers. Debbie’s unwavering loyalty to her work earned her recognition and awards at the highest levels upon her retirement, including:

- “Emerita Status” for distinguished service to the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

- State of Wisconsin “Certificate of Commendation” for dedicated service to the citizens of the state; signed by Governor Scott Walker on November 2, 2017.

- “Certificate of Appreciation” in recognition of 49 years of dedicated service to the University of Wisconsin-Madison; signed by Chancellor Rebecca Blank.

Debbie married her high school sweetheart, Tom, from Central on June 29, 1974, and was immediately embraced by his large and loving family as an “Honorary Eighth Sister.” They raised their two children in Verona, WI, where they resided for 35 years.

Debbie has as many friends as the stars in the heavens, a testament to her endearment. She was a devoted and incredible daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She put the “Grand” in grandmother. Debbie’s life was full of love.

If you knew Debbie you would know that her smile could light up a room. Debbie’s warm, loving, and selfless personality was contagious. Despite her condition, Debbie traveled to Florida and provided lasting memories for her grandchildren. Debbie’s presence has certainly made the world a better place.

Debbie cherished her pets. Debbie loved being active in the outdoors with daily bike rides or walks. She was an excellent gardener; her green thumb complemented her Irish heritage well. She enjoyed all Wisconsin sports and was a loyal and enthusiastic Badger and Packer fan. Family Wisconsin vs. Iowa football gatherings were always a highlight for her.

Debbie was eager to help others in her free time. After high school she remained on the standing committee for Central High class reunions. She was also an active member at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Verona.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Tom; children,Renee (Brian) Wolfgramm of Fitchburg, Colin (Ashley) Benell of Wausau; grandchildren, Jade, Vica, Rylann, Brooks; brother,Michael Kennedy of Oelwein, IA; and numerous other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father Damain (when she was 2 years old); her mother, Lucille; and brother Patrick Kennedy.

The family extends their appreciation to SSM Dean Oncology, UW Hospital/Carbone Center, and Agrace Hospice for their for their help and care in this strong lady’s endeavor.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at ST. ANDREW CATHOLIC CHURCH, 301 N. Main Street, Verona. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm and one hour prior to mass on Wednesday, both at the church.