Elsebeth Jantzen Buckley

Elsebeth Jantzen Buckley, born in Hellerup, Denmark on October 23, 1938, passed away peacefully on the morning of March 19, 2024 in the arms of loving care-givers at Bickford Senior Living after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Elsebeth had been a very happy resident for over 5 years, living in the memory care unit for the last year. She will be remembered by Bickford residents and staff as a kind friend, always giving a wave and a compliment as she walked by.

Prior to the onset of Alzheimer’s, Elsebeth enjoyed taking hikes, playing tennis, traveling, bird watching via kayak, and most of all spending time with her children and grand/great grandchildren.  When at home, you could find her curled up with a good book or in her amazing garden.  Coming from a long line of artists, she was also an accomplished spinner, weaver, photographer and painter – often taking inspiration from her garden. 

Elsebeth grew up in Copenhagen, lived through the German occupation in WWII, graduated with a nursing certificate in 1956, and immigrated to the U.S. in the mid-1960’s.  She lived in Iowa, Illinois, and eventually settled in Madison, Wisconsin in the late 1980’s.  As a life-long proponent of the arts, literature, and education, throughout her life, she earned her nursing degree, four undergraduate degrees in French and English languages, history and art management and master’s degrees in both art history and library science. In July of 1977, she earned her private pilot license to conquer her fear of flying.  By profession, she was a compassionate nurse whose career spanned from nurse anesthetist, ER, OR, and admin, eventually finding her home as a hospice nurse giving supportive caring to those who needed it most in the rural areas of Southern Wisconsin. Elsebeth told her children often, that life is what you make it. We are passing it on and can only hope to live up to her accomplishments and zest for life.

Beloved daughter of the late Erik and Ebba (nee Stensballe) Jantzen, and sister of Vibeke Jantzen Ullstad. Loving mother of Charlotte (Michael) Harrington and Søren Erik (Neely Law) Brun. Adored Mormor of John, Deirdre, Michael, Henry, and Catherine Harrington and dear great grandmother to Declan and Oliver Harrington, and cherished Farmor of Alexander, Annelise, and Ethan Brun.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, a donation to Mulliganeers.org in her name would be greatly appreciated.  A celebration of life will be held in the summer and we will notify all friends and family.

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