Donna L. Brugger

FENNIMORE - Donna L. Brugger, age 89, of Fennimore, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg on October 28, 2025. Donna was born on February 19, 1936, in Platteville, Wisconsin, to Frankie and Verna (Wehnke) Shepard.

Donna graduated from Platteville High School and went on to earn her nursing degree from Madison General School of Nursing. On November 30, 1957, she married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Brugger. After living in Platteville for a few years, Bob and Donna moved to Fennimore in 1964 where they made their home and raised four sons.

Donna dedicated her career to caring for others. Prior to moving to Fennimore, Donna worked as a nurse at hospitals in Platteville and Lancaster. In Fennimore, she worked for 30 years at the Good Samaritan Center and later shared her knowledge and compassion as an instructor at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, where she taught nursing courses.

After retiring, Donna and Bob enjoyed over 20 years of wintering in Florida, escaping Wisconsin’s cold weather and making countless friends with other snowbirds. Donna will be remembered for her warm heart and love of conversation. Donna was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church and enjoyed volunteering at the Fennimore Toy & Doll Museum and the Fennimore Railroad Museum. She cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, golfing, playing cards with friends, and going on all-day shopping trips and excursions with her dear friend Gail Friesen. Donna also loved relaxing with her daily glass of wine and never missed an opportunity to visit and laugh with those she loved.

Donna is survived by her sons: Brad (Pam) Brugger of Oregon, Bret Brugger of Green Bay, Brian (Becky) Brugger of Verona, and Bobby (Shelley) Brugger of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; grandchildren: Christina (Tyler), Megan (Gabe), Wade (Shelbie), Jakob, Alyssa, Alexis, and Luke; great-grandchildren Calvin and Natalia; and her sister Karen Shepard.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents Frankie and Verna, husband Bob on February 21, 2015, and two sisters Norma Shepard and Sandie (Anson) Sheldon.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Agrace Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.