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Betty Quadracci Obituary

Quadracci, Betty Ewens Educator. Publisher. Philanthropist. Wife. Mother. Betty died peacefully in her Wisconsin home, surrounded by her children, siblings and close friends, on Monday, December 9, 2013, at age 75. She is survived by her children, Elizabeth (Chris) Quadracci Harned; Joel (Caran) Quadracci; Kathryn (Raja) Quadracci Flores; and Harry Richard (Emilio Cabrera) Quadracci; grandchildren Ellie, Kit, William and Alec Harned; Meghan, Halle and Danica Quadracci; and Isabella, Kaitlin and Harry Flores; brothers Jim (Pat) Ewens and Tom (Ellen) Ewens; sisters Jane (Dion Kempthorne) Ewens, Sue Ewens and Sister Mary Ewens; and many nephews and nieces. Betty was preceded in death by her husband and partner, Harry V. Quadracci, with whom she helped co-found Quad/Graphics in 1971. With very little money and big dreams, they launched Quad/Graphics in an abandoned factory in Pewaukee, WI, with 11 employees, a rented press and a borrowed binder. Undaunted by larger competitors and myriad challenges, the Quadraccis and their team persevered during the company's early, lean years to build one of the world's premier printing companies. Today Quad/Graphics is a leading global printer and media channel integrator with approximately 25,000 employees working from hundreds of print-production and other support locations in 8 countries on three continents. Betty was Quad/Graphics' matriarch and will long be revered for helping create and preserve Quad/Graphics oft-admired company culture. Hallmarks of the culture include taking better care of employees' needs, including providing education-centered onsite childcare, which Betty first championed in the mid-80s; treating employees with dignity and respect; empowering employees to make decisions and innovate solutions; and providing employees with opportunities to be more than they ever hoped to be through continuous training and education. A member of Quad/Graphics' board of directors since 2002, Betty played a pivotal role in the company's 2010 transition from a privately held company to a family controlled publicly traded company, which then enabled Quad/Graphics to acquire its next larger competitor and further secure its leadership position in the printing industry. For nearly 30 years, Betty served as president and publisher of Milwaukee Magazine, which Quad/Graphics acquired in 1983. During her tenure there, Milwaukee Magazine garnered more than 200 state and national awards, including a Best Editorial Gold Medal for a publisher's letter written by Betty entitled "The First Amendment Starts Here." In 2012 she was inducted into the Milwaukee Press Club's Media Hall of Fame. Betty's creative inclinations led her to found Quad/Creative, a graphic design firm, in 1985. Today the firm is known as Quad/Graphics Creative Solutions and serves many well-known publishers, retailers and direct marketers nationwide. Betty was well-known as a champion of the arts, serving on the Milwaukee Art Museum's Board of Trustees for many years. In 1997 she and Mr. Quadracci spearheaded a $10 million matching donation from Quad/Graphics to kick off fundraising for a major addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum - the Quadracci Pavilion. Designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2001, the pavilion has become a widely recognized symbol of Milwaukee. Betty also served on the board of Artists Working in Education, a Milwaukee non-profit organization that provides arts programs in the schools; the board of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, serving as co-chair of its Diversity Committee; and the board of Milwaukee Women Inc., an organization she founded. Additionally, Betty extended generosity through the Windhover Foundation, a philanthropic organization funded by the Quadracci family and of which she led as president. The Windhover Foundation seeks to give flight to organizations dedicated to meeting a pressing, unfilled social need - from women's centers to hospices, libraries, arts centers, playgrounds, parks, food pantries and more. Betty was one of the first trained Montessori teachers in the United States and helped establish the Waukesha Montessori School in 1964. She also helped launch the Waukesha Head Start program in 1968, now the oldest continually operating Head Start program in the United States. A native of Milwaukee, Betty earned a bachelor's degree from Trinity College in Washington, D.C., in 1961 and attended the University of Fribourg in Fribourg, Switzerland. Visitation was held at Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church (formerly St. Clare's), W314 N7462 State Road 83, North Lake, WI, on Friday, December 13, from 3 PM to 7 PM and Saturday, December 14, from 9 AM until 10:45 AM. The Funeral Mass was followed by Saturday's visitation at 11 AM. Due to the small size of the sanctuary, the family has kindly asked that floral arrangements not be sent to the church. In lieu of flowers, expressions of condolence may be sent to Children's Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 1997 - MS3050, Milwaukee, WI 53201; the Women's Center of Waukesha, P.O. Box 554, Waukesha, WI 53187-0554; or the Waukesha Montessori School, Attention: Bill Walsh, 2600 Summit Ave., Waukesha, WI 53188. Children's Hospital saved Betty's life when she contracted polio as a young child. The Women's Center of Waukesha has long been a passion of Betty and her family. The Waukesha Montessori School was co-founded by Betty.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Dec. 11 to Dec. 15, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Betty Quadracci

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Valenda Newell

November 11, 2016

Thinking of Betty today. A beautiful person I never met but has influenced my life greatly.

December 11, 2015

Yet another year has gone. Thinking of you this evening, and remembering good times. The Heaven and Earth exhibit at the Milwaukee Art Museum will be wonderful! That is scheduled on my to do list this week. Love you, ~Terri

December 28, 2014

I want to express my sympathy to the Quadracci family belatedly for the loss of Betty Quadracci. I worked for Quad for almost 20 years in Lomira and am now retired living in Mexico- just noticed the obit.. Harry and Betty are some of the very best people that humanity has offered, and we should all follow their example of making the world a better place. Regards, John Casper

July 24, 2014

I worked for the Milwaukee Magazine in the late 90's. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to get to know Betty and Harry. They will be missed.
David G. Stevens

February 13, 2014

"I Just Learned of Mrs. Betty Quadracci passing, My Deepest sympathy for your loss"

Gricelle Lahoz

February 11, 2014

I just learned of Betty's passing. My parents, Jan and Dolly Hartnett, were close friends and classmates of Betty's mother, Marian. As a child we often visited them, and stayed at their wonderful house.

I always loved the family; Betty was always very nice to this spoiled little interloper underfoot.

My very best to her brothers and sisters and her children.

Mike Hartnett

February 10, 2014

I will always think of Betty's bright smile, welcoming spirit and compassion. Betty and Harry's devotion to friends and making the world a more beautiful place are a constant source of inspiration to me. Happpy they are united again in the world of the spirits. Wishing all the family peace of mind. Sending love. Maggie Merkow

Maggie Merkow

January 15, 2014

She was one of the last of The Greats.

She was my mother, my mentor, my best friend.

She died in peace and in a state of grace.

There not a morning I will not have to remeber mom is gone.

She had infinite patience with me.

And I am a better person for it.

The Miss Betty has sailed to new frontiers, to New Worlds yet undiscovered.

I miss her not as a mother but as my best friend.

Ever.

Regards,

HRQ
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Harry Quadracci

January 2, 2014

The family has my deepest sympathy for your loss. Mrs. Quadracci seemed to have a lot going for her in an accomplished way. I'm sure her family and many others are proud of her. Also to the family trust in God and do not lean up on your own understanding. May the peace of God comfort you at this time.

Hyde

December 31, 2013

This is not only a loss for the Quadracci's and those who knew her best, my deepest sympaties to all of you. But her passing is a huge loss for the greater community of Milwaukee, as well. There will be many who miss out on the opportunity to be in the presence of such strong leadership. I think fondly to my days at Quad/Graphics and Quad/Creative as bright spots in my career. Thank you for everything!

Kluck (Rook) Heather

December 28, 2013

Knew Betty when we were all growing up in Milwaukee and she and her sisters were at Holy Angels and my brothers and I were at Marquette University High with her brothers. She was dynamic as a teen and she became a force to be reckoned with later on with her husband.God Bless from the Ewens clan in California. Our prayers are with her and her family. Mike Ewens Ventura,California

December 26, 2013

We will miss Betty's passion and generosity. She truly was a great woman who positively influenced a great many people. - Brooke Luteyn

December 16, 2013

Eternal rest grant to her. Betty's spirit lives in the lives of her family, friends and her many accomplishments. Our prayers and condolences to family.

TomandHoa Fox

December 15, 2013

Dear Richard, Kathryn, Joel and Elizabeth,

We are so sad to hear of the loss of your mom. We have fond memories of her, your dad, and all of you. We know that you will miss her. Please know that we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

With deepest sympathy,

Fran and Bob Kessler

Robert Kessler

December 15, 2013

My heart felt sympathies go out to the entire Quadracci family. I remember Betty as a very colorful person in a fascinating business and a woman who will be missed by many.

God's Blessings

Scott McPhaul

December 15, 2013

As tis book remains open forever, I will come here and visit. On this cold Sunday my heart is less heavy knowing Betty is at peace, God is in charge we are only here to do our best, and Miss Betty you gave 100 percent. Thank you again Betty Quadracci, missing you.

~Terri

December 15, 2013

An amazing woman who has harnessed all her might to uphold and promote the principles of benevolence and compassion, Betty's courage, vision, optimism and strong leadership underpin the impelling force behind her proverbial expression of passion, tangible magnetism and smoldering charisma. Her true commitment as an educator instilled in her a deep sense of discipline which has inspired many of us who have been so lucky to know her.

To her many children, grand children, siblings and family members I sincerely wish peace and love.

John Abraham -

Jojhn Abraham

December 14, 2013

How sad I am to hear of Betty's death. She certainly was a woman who lived life well and fully. Having known her all four years at Holy Angels Academy in Milwaukee, and seeing her at our many reunions, I treasure her friendship and her loving spirit. I miss you already, Betty, and know we will meet again. My love and prayers for your family and friends.

Ann Harrington, BVM

December 14, 2013

Betty had a keen eye and a very caring heart. I will never forget that day when she saw me get hit with a ton of bricks, and she graciously called me to her side and lifted my spirits with her joyfulness and caring nature. My deepest sympathies to Betty's entire Family.

Ivanka Geiger

December 14, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

robert freybler

December 14, 2013

Thank you Betty, and God bless your loving family. I will hold tight to my memories and remember your laugh and charm, grace, love and wisdom. I have learned so much and yes the world is a bit better because of you.

Terri Kroll

December 13, 2013

an inspiration and fine friend. I will miss her but know she
will still be here in spirit to watch over Katherine, Richard,
Joel and Elizabeth and their families. Truly a thinker and
doer. Goodbye Betty , loved you, the Wray Family

December 13, 2013

Betty inspired me to work hard and keep doing a good job in everything I would do in my life.Thank You Betty! Love to you and all your family! M.Feltes brookfield

December 12, 2013

My condolences to the entire Quadracci family on their loss....as a former employee of Quad Graphics, it was because of Betty's initiative to start on-site daycares that gave myself and so many other single mothers the opportunity to be able to work for a good wage and still have reliable, safe,daycare for their children.... God Bless the angel she was. V.Bricco

December 12, 2013

Betty brought a shining light to somany Milwaukee children through her volunteer work and philanthropy. Her impact as a board member and advocate for Artists Working in Education was immeasurable. The entire organization shares our deepest condolences with the Quadracci Family and Betty's loved ones during this difficult time.

Beth Haskovec

December 12, 2013

December 12,2013
To the Ewens Family especially Mary and Sue, and also to all of the Quadracci Family,
Betty, your sister and mother of the Quadracci Family was indeed a remarkable woman in all she did and what she stood for justice. It is sad to know that she is gone from our presence but neverthe less joy that she is now in God's delightful love. May our loving God hold all of you in the comfort of His love.

Sister Frances Consuelo I Ibarley,OP

December 12, 2013

I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Betty's family. She was a great friend to me during the two years I spent at Trinity prior to my going to Paris for my junior year and never looking back. I rejoice in her numerous accomplishments and the loving memories she has left to her family. Avery (Betsy) Kane, US Consular Agent Nice France.

December 12, 2013

WE are so sorry for your loss. Fond memories of happy times long ago.
Charlie Scheips and Tom Graf

Charlie Scheips

December 12, 2013

Betty was the consummate hostess -- warm, exciting in her thoughts yet gentle in her manner, ever gracious, and an amazing listener. She made each guest feel welcome and important. I feel fortunate to have known her.

Marie Clapper

December 12, 2013

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

DStallings

December 12, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

DStallings

December 12, 2013

My condolences to the entire Quadracci and Ewens family.
From my first encounter with Betty to my last, I totally enjoyed her energy, her class her ability to motivate, her sense of humor and charm. I sat with her and Larry and a press man and helped write the HMS Printafore with them in their home on the east side. I traveled with her to New York when the Cousteau display of the Amazon trip was displayed. I celebrated with her when Larry was awarded the Women in Production award in New York and when she also was awarded the honor. I had the honor of seeing her be the hostess with great charm and class to all people. I learned, and admired this classy lady, watching her be a amazing partner to her husband and a wonderful mother to her children. I was given the gift of working with her and Larry.
My life is better because I knew her.

Sharon Hogue

December 11, 2013

Our prayers go out to the Quadracci family. We are greatful for over twenty years of employment that helped us raise our family. The Quadracci family made us feel like part of their family. Tom and Doris Summers

Doris Summers

December 11, 2013

My sincere condolences to the Quadracci and Ewens family.May she rest in peace. Joyce Montecalvo

December 11, 2013

Thank you to the family for sharing so much of the marvelous story of a woman about whom I thought that I knew a lot, from many stories over the years -- but I did not know that she also was a polio survivor who also always was grateful to Milwaukee Children's Hospital for saving her life. I may have been on the same ward, a few years later. And, as I also deal with post-polio syndrome, I am going to continue to draw from the example of her life well-lived to the last. So, please know that her legacy lives on, in many ways, beyond the landmarks that bear her name.

Genevieve McBride

December 11, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to the children and family of Betty Quadracci. God bless and except her into his loving arms. John and Beverly Rice Family, Hartford Plant

John & Beverly Rice

December 11, 2013

Sending our deepest sympathy to the entire Quadracci Family. Betty was a wonderful daughter, wife, mother, and friend to all who knew her. She will be truly missed. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers, during this most difficult time. Rest in Peace, Miss Betty.

Bruce & Kathy Heming

December 11, 2013

Betty blessed the lives of so many during her time here on earth. Thankfully, her legacy of strength, courage and unending generosity will remain. I am so honored to have shared even one second with her during her time here.

Patricia S.

December 11, 2013

Betty loved to see people grow. She was forceful but kind and everyone in our family was richer because of it. Thank you, Betty. -Lyle

Lyle Clapper

December 11, 2013

Establishing lasting peace is the work of education and the work of Betty. Rest in peace this holy week and for enternity, and peace to the Ewens/Quadracci family.

December 11, 2013

I am very grateful that she had the foresight to believe Montessori education would be critically important to children in our area. After becoming a founding member of the school that my three girls attend - Montessori School of Waukesha - I am incredibly thankful to her that my children are getting a phenomenal education which has instilled in them a personal drive to succeed and learn. Thank you Betty for supporting Montessori education for all these years!

Kristin Guadagno

December 11, 2013

A person that departs from the earth never leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and, through us, they live on.
Please accept our condolences. Betty will not be forgotten.

Cheryl Anderson and Bill Jones

December 11, 2013

It has been a pleasure to have known you. Thank you for all your generosity. We will miss you. My condolences to all the Quadracci family.

Georgia Volakis

December 11, 2013

I have always wanted to thank Betty for her kindness, generosity, and inspiration she bestowed upon my daughter, Cristina. Betty gave Cristina the opportunity of a life time as Editor of Betty's beloved Milwaukee Magazine. Betty was such a fabulous role model for a young woman beginning her professional career. Cristina learned things from Betty that only a generous, smart and successful woman could teach her. Our family will always have a special place in our heart for this remarkable woman. Betty may you rest in peace knowing that you made so many lives better in our world.
Respectfully,
Catherine Daglas

Catherine Daglas

December 11, 2013

Betty was a driving force and a woman who commanded great respect. She gave so much to Quad and so much to the community. She will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies to her children, grandchildren, siblings and all who had the privilege to know her.

Carol Fontanez

December 11, 2013

It was my pleasure to have the opportunity to know Betty. So many interesting conversations. My condolences to her family, and to all in our community who knew her.

Susan Darmstadter

December 11, 2013

To the Quadracci Family: May the Lord send His Holy Comforter to be with you. We all knew what a great and wonderful woman she was. I will continue to keep the family in my prayers. I can say this for sure: Harry and Betty are Together Forever.

Barbara Garner

December 10, 2013

Betty changed my life. I was one of her first employees at Milwaukee Magazine, and Quad Graphics. Betty made me want to succeed, not only at Milwaukee Magazine, but in life. I will never forget Betty, or Harry.......never.

Ruth Dunning

December 10, 2013

Betty was a force equal to that of Harry. The community will miss her presence as will all those who knew her personally. May she rest in peace.
Pam Kriger

Pam Kriger

December 10, 2013

I was so sorry to hear of the loss of Mrs. Quadracci. My wife and I will be thinking of you during this trying time.

Vic Frazzell--Yard Racing

December 10, 2013

Betty was a gift to all and touched our life with that goodness Mike and Mimi Ariens

Mike and Mimi Ariens

December 10, 2013

We sailed a mighty ship together for many wonderful years. I will never
forget you or all of our adventures.
Jeanne Kuelthau, Q/G retiree

December 10, 2013

I always loved being with her over the past 25 years. I will miss not seeing her again.
Bill Reyer

William Reyer

December 10, 2013

My condolences to the family of Betty. May the God of all comfort be with you during this time of sadness.

Lee

December 10, 2013

BETTY WAS A QUEEN IN ALL RESPECTS I THANK GOD THAT SHE SHARED SO MANY OF HER GIFTS TO OUR WORLD HER GREATEST GIFT IS HER FAMILY OUR FAMILY SENDS YOUR FAMILY HEART FELT LOVE BARBARA KOHL SPIRO

December 10, 2013

My condolences to the entire Quadracci family. She was an extraordinary woman - a model of strength and resilience, and love of life and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kim Spencer

December 10, 2013

Thank you so much for all the work you did for the Milwaukee Art Museum. Rest easy.

Greg Peters

December 10, 2013

Betty's intelligence, warmth, humor and generous spirit touched many and I feel so fortunate to have shared in her remarkable life. What wonderful memories we created together.
Nina Link

December 10, 2013

Betty was an amazing woman! She taught me many things in the 10 years I worked with her at Milwaukee Magazine and made every day an adventure! My condolences to her entire family.
Linda Freese
Shorewood, WI

December 10, 2013

Terry Pizza

December 10, 2013

The Adult Learning Center has been blessed by Betty's kindness for years. We couldn't be more grateful for her belief in our mission. Prayers go out to the entire Quadracci family.

Mary McCarthy for the Adult Learning Center

December 10, 2013

I received this text in the early hours this morning from my neighbor, a second cousin of Betty's from the Ewens' family side: "Though I never actually met her, I admired what she has done & was really proud to be an Ewens because of that. Sad to lose someone so special." I DID know Betty and her cousin's description is Right On! My love, sympathy and prayers to all the Ewens' and Quadraccis.
xoxoxo Anne Catalane

Anne Catalane

December 10, 2013

Remarkable woman. Amazing legacy. My condolences to her family and close friends...and to the countless others whose lives she had touched through her generosity and leadership.

Carol Voss

December 10, 2013

Thank you for helping to change my life and those of so many others. Your generosity, wisdom and spirit will be missed beyond measure. Rest in peace.

Howie Magner

December 10, 2013

My sixteen years at Milwaukee Magazine provided the foundation to a career that allowed me to travel the country and to break bread with people throughout the world and share my experiences on the air with Reitman and Mueller and CBS-58 for over two decades. Behind everyone's success is a person who gave them an opportunity to show them what they could do. Thank you for that opportunity and rest in peace Betty Quadracci.

Willard Romantini

December 10, 2013

To the Mario Quadracci family and his extended family,
Our thoughts and strength are with you.

The staff at J. K. Lee Black Belt Academy, Fox Point

Mr. Jeff Gendelman

December 10, 2013

Good bye to a visionary boss with an incredible eye for visual design and adherence to detail.

Ken Braband

December 10, 2013

Our family spent lots of time together prior to success of Quad. She was always gracious and welcoming. Fortunate to be part of family. God Bless the family. Mike Ewens

Mike Ewens

December 10, 2013

an incredibly generous visionary.

Mike Brenner

December 10, 2013

Rest in peace

ed m

December 10, 2013

Our deepest sympathy. Thanks for your contribution to the world around us and the parties you threw. Forever grateful. Jim and Dee Hansen

December 10, 2013

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

DStallings

December 10, 2013

The world is a better place because of Betty. I am grateful to have known such an amazing woman.

Jeanne Ames

December 10, 2013

Our condolences to the entire Quadracci family. Your mother was truly a remarkable person.

frank and Ronda arndorfer

December 10, 2013

Never guile behind her smile. Thank you Betty for all you gave. Jo Gorissen (formerly Jo Donovan). Bon Voyage.

December 10, 2013

rip

michelle plakas-kaiser

December 10, 2013

She was an inspiration to women of all ages. Rest in Peace Betty

Beth Kuzbek

December 9, 2013

Wow, she sounds like she was a great lady. Peace be with her family and friends.......sam in MS

December 9, 2013

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Memorial Events
for Betty Quadracci

Dec

13

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church (formerly St. Clare's)

W314 N7462 State Road 83, North Lake, WI

Dec

14

Visitation

9:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church (formerly St. Clare's)

W314 N7462 State Road 83, North Lake, WI

Dec

14

Funeral Mass

11:00 a.m.

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church (formerly St. Clare's)

W314 N7462 State Road 83, North Lake, WI

Funeral services provided by:

Feerick Funeral Home - Shorewood

2025 East Capitol Drive, Shorewood, WI 53211

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