A Swiss Immigrant's Heartfelt Life Story!
My Home Is Where My Heart Is - and my heart is right here in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Yet, part of me will always belong to the old country, as two of my children and their families live in Switzerland. In July 2002, I remarried and gained four stepchildren. Now, out of our combined eight children, four live within 60 miles of us. How much better could life be?
Dennis Prigge and I got married in July 2002. He lived in Missouri, while I was here in the Northwoods. At first, I thought I would move to be with him after I retired and start over again. Then one day, Dennis surprised me by asking, "Would you rather stay right here in northern Wisconsin?" He later told me that I lit up like a Christmas tree! My answer was an enthusiastic yes-this is my home now!
But in 2015, we received heartbreaking news: Dennis had Alzheimer's. That year, we traveled to Switzerland one last time to fulfill his dream - to see the farmers and cows, beautifully decorated, descending from the Alps.
In 2017, we sold our cabin to Dennis's son, Paul, and moved into an apartment. Living with Alzheimer's is not easy, but I thank God every day that Dennis remained a loving and gentle patient. He never became angry or difficult. I was able to care for him at home until the last four weeks of his life, which he spent at the Hospice Home in Wausau. There, I was able to stay by his side 24/7, sleeping right next to him.
On August 11, 2022, Dennis passed away. I miss him every single day.
The 20 years I was married to Dennis were the happiest years of my life. With him, my heart finally found peace and happiness.
Dennis, my mind still talks to you, my heart still longs for you, but my soul knows you are at peace.
Please wait for me.