Linda R. Lambrecht

Linda Rae Lambrecht, 67, of Mosinee, passed away peacefully with her children and husband by her side on Aug. 2, 2021, nearly five years after being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.

She was born Nov. 30, 1953, the fourth of five children, to Harry and Nellie Krumrie. Linda spent her early childhood in Menomonie, later moving with the family to Wittenberg. After graduating from high school in 1971, she met her husband of 48 years and avid fisherman, Gary (Chops) Alan Lambrecht. The two were married on May 5, 1973, also the opening day of the fishing season that year. Together they raised three children, Amy, Krista and Kirk.

Linda had a natural talent for sales and carved out a successful 20-year career in jewelry retail with Sterling, Inc. She began in the Wausau Center Mall on the Shaw’s Jewelers sales floor in 1983 and quickly rose to district manager, eventually becoming the company’s first female regional vice president of operations — all while being a devoted mother and wife. She was a recognized, trusted face in the Shaw’s storefront, and with her radiant personality and signature blonde hair, drew customers looking for just the right piece of jewelry.

She had countless repeat customers who sought her out when shopping for something distinctive to mark a special occasion. Even 35 years later, she often ran into former customers who recognized her and held out a hand to show her the ring she sold to them decades earlier. She carried the talents and management skills developed in jewelry retail to various hotel and bank management positions until retiring in 2016.

Linda loved to travel and visited 29 countries during her lifetime, including trips to the Bahamas, Caribbean islands, Europe, Hawaii and South America, where she made lasting memories and friendships. She also enjoyed visiting local Wisconsin destinations and was just as content vacationing at a Northwoods waterfront cabin or taking day trips to Door County as she was at a tropical beach resort.

Holiday entertaining was her specialty. On Christmas Eve, Linda always opened her home to family and friends, filling it with laughter, card playing and a remarkable array of food. She taught her children enduring holiday traditions that they will pass on to their children. Her Thanksgiving dinner was replicated year after year because everyone loved it so much. Her turkey stuffing was a particular family favorite.

Linda had a heart of gold and gave generously to others. Her thoughtfulness was unmatched. She was a prolific sender of greeting cards and never missed an occasion. She knew that the best cards weren’t empty, so she always included something special for her grandchildren, such as a movie ticket, a gift card or a few dollars.

When she was diagnosed with stage 4 metastastic breast cancer in 2016, she remained optimistic and raised funds for various breast cancer causes. Her positivity and resilience never faded throughout her illness. Even on her weakest days, she always found the strength to give more.

Linda’s zest for life, genuine goodness and fun-loving nature are an innate part of each of her three children and nine grandchildren, who will continue to contribute gifts to their communities throughout their lives. Her legacy will endure in ways Linda could not have imagined, all because of the values she instilled.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, Gary, of Mosinee; her three children, Amy (Howard) Ruddell, of Port Angeles, Washington, Krista (Andrew) Hamilton, of La Crosse, and Kirk (Sarah) Lambrecht, of St. Charles, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Maggie, William, Luke, John, Matthew and Peter Ruddell, Alec and Claudia Hamilton, and Alden Lambrecht; her brother, Harry (Alexandra) Krumrie Jr., of Lake Wales, Florida; sisters Kathy Hoffman, of Mesa, Arizona, and Dr. Shirley (Dr. Steven) Kleiman, of Ada, Michigan; sister-in-law Joan (Gary) Martin, of Stevens Point; brother-in-law Bruce Lambrecht, of Wausau; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and beloved brother, James Krumrie, with whom she shared a close eternal bond.

The family wishes to thank Linda’s close supportive friends and family members for keeping her spirits up during her cancer struggle, and her oncologist Dr. Niaz Haque, for providing guidance and reassurance after her diagnosis. His compassion and support meant the world to her.

A private celebration of Linda’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Aspirus Hospice Care (www.aspirus.org/donate-now) in Linda’s name.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.honorone.com.