Jodi Doepke

Racine – Jodi Lynn Doepke; age 46; passed away peacefully at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Saturday, May 2, 2015, following a courageous 8-year battle with cancer.

Jodi was born in Racine on October 21, 1968. She received her education from Mitchell, Washington Park and the University of Wisconsin – Parkside. On June 13, 2002, Jodi was united in marriage with the love of her life, Donald Doepke.

Jodi was employed for the past 18 years at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center, most recently as a Polysomnographer. She also worked at Lincoln Village, Becker-Shoop Center and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Jodi was a lifetime member of Atonement Lutheran Church.

Jodi’s interests always focused on the well-being of others. After being diagnosed with breast cancer 8 years ago, she became extremely involved with various cancer support groups. She served as an online administrator to educate and support other cancer patients. Jodi was a warrior in the fight against cancer. Her positive attitude and endless smile were a true inspiration to everyone around her. Jodi also had an active interest in the Fire Department / First Responders since childhood . Jodi had a tremendous passion for all animals – especially her beloved canine companions “DJ,”  “Carter”.and "Chance." Above all, Jodi loved and cherished being in the surroundings of her entire family and extensive circle of friends.

Surviving are her husband of nearly 13 years, Donald;  parents, Jeanette (nee: Polzin) & Tom Seefeldt; step-children, Nicholas & Elizabeth Doepke; sisters and brother, Susan Saynay, David Saynay, Janice (fiancé, Tom Wolfe) Lojeski and Roseanne Nelson; mother-in-law, Donna Heyburn; sisters-in-law, Jeannie (Wayne) Miles and Jill Lewis; brother-in-law, Michael Doepke; aunt, Sandy (Dave) Hansen; uncle Richard (Sheila) Polzin; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends – too numerous to mention by name.

Jodi was preceded in death by her adored son, Anthony “Boo” Guthman (who died of cancer at the age of 2 years old in 1994); father, Robert Budney; father-in-law, Ivan Heyburn; and brothers-in-law, Charles Heyburn and John Lojeski.

Memorial services celebrating Jodi’s life will be held at Atonement Lutheran Church (2915 Wright Avenue) on Saturday, May 9, 2015 at 1:00 pm with Rev. Dr. Warren Williams officiating. A reception will follow. Visitation will be in the church on Saturday from 11 am – 1 pm. Memorials to the Relay for Life “Walking for Jodi” have been suggested in lieu of flowers.

Private interment will take place next to her  "Boo” in West Lawn Memorial Park following the upcoming Relay of Life Event.

A heartfelt note of thanks to Dr. Ryan Engel and the entire All Saints Oncology Department, therapists and especially to the nursing staff at All Saints Medical Center 3B; and to all of Jodi’s family & friends for all the loving acts of kindness given in her time of need. May God bless all of you!