Rochelle "Pinky" Mickelson

Rochelle "Pinky" Mickelson

1936 - 2023

MADISON - Rochelle "Pinky" Mickelson, aged 87, a lifetime resident of Madison, died on Dec. 12, 2023, after a months-long series of health issues following a fall. She was born in 1936, the first child of Joseph and Geraldine Dommershausen (Joe D. was a longtime bowling and Home Talent baseball writer for the Wisconsin State Journal). She is survived by her children, Jaymee Meier, Jodi Parish (Dennis), Suzanne Scholes (George), and Marc Mickelson (Anna); her sister, Michelle "Mikki" Popowich (Roger); brothers, Jay Dommershausen and Joel Dommershausen; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Mickelson; daughter, Laurie Mickelson; granddaughter, Melissa Mell; and her brothers, David "Butch" Dommershausen and Scot Dommershausen.

How did she come to be called Pinky? When she was born at St. Mary's hospital, she had red hair and pink skin. The nurses named her Pinky and it stuck, becoming the name she used her entire life. Pinky attended East High School, where she was part of a group of girls with whom she would have lifelong friendships. She had a series of jobs and volunteer positions where she interacted with and helped people: at Elvehjem Elementary School, at Colonial Manor Nursing Home, at Queen of Apostles High School, and at Gerhardt Drugs. She made friends at them all.

It is true that nobody is perfect, but to some of us who could call Pinky "Mom," she was as close to perfection as we'll ever know: forever kind and supportive, but willing to give firm counsel when it was needed. She was a beautiful person, a light in our lives, a mother through and through. We are grateful for the secure and peaceful retirement she had, visiting with her family, friends and neighbors often, and spoiling her feline companions, especially her "sixth child," a tabby named Tim. We mourn losing her with deep sadness, but we know she is a big part of who we are, and for that reason she lives on.

Pinky and the Mickelson family would like to thank the staff at Wildwood Clinic, Oak Park Place Rehabilitation Center, and SSM Health/St. Mary's Hospital. Thanks also go out to the special physicians, nurses, CNAs, housekeepers, and respiratory therapists at SSM Health/St. Mary's 8SW. You know who you are, and you know how much Pinky appreciated and cared for all of you. Your care and compassion for her will never be forgotten.

Per Pinky's wishes, there will be no formal services. Gunderson Funeral Home is assisting the family with all arrangements. Instead of flowers or monetary gifts, Pinky requested donations be made to 9 Lives Cat Rescue, 6907 South Ave., Middleton, WI 53562. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420