Nov. 12, 1927 – March 23, 2010

Edith Mary Garity (nee Williams) was born Nov. 12, 1927, in Oconomowoc, the daughter of Ernest and Clara Williams. She died Tuesday, March 23, 2010.


She was preceded in death by the love of her life John Garity ("Jack"), whom she met outside of a five-anddime store in Oconomowoc while she was still in high school.

She had four children, Linda, Pat, Mike and Rob, all of whom were at her side when she passed away. She has a son-in-law, Charlie Hallingstad (Pat), as well as a soon to be daughter-in-law, Shelley Olsher (Mike). She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

Edith was in a very bad car accident in 1985 that left her mildly handicapped and dependent on others for much of her care. Until his death in 2008, her husband provided that care at a level that marveled all who witnessed it. For those that knew them best, we truly believe the bond these two shared was the main reason Edith lived as long as she did, but her own will to survive was important also. From the time of her accident until she passed away, Edith spent numerous days in the hospital, many of which found her very ill. On all but the last visit, she fooled the doctors each and every time by rallying from some very serious sicknesses and eventually making the trip back to her home in Genesee Depot. After Jack’s death in June of 2008, Edith spent her days living quietly in her home, watching TV, doing crossword puzzles and enjoying the company of her cat, Chance. Edith didn’t think she was very tough, perhaps because she was just doing what she knew and pulled through her many bouts of illness so she could be with her family, which she loved more than anything, but anyone who knew her realized she was one of the toughest people one could ever know. Edith also had a great sense of humor and was known to joke with her nurses and doctors, even when she was barely able to speak due to sickness.

A private service was held at Church and Chapel on Monday, March 29, and was followed with entombment at Prairie Home Cemetery next to her beloved Jack.

The family would like to thank Dr. William Lutz for the many years of excellent care he gave her and John. We would also like to thank the staff at Waukesha Memorial Hospital for the compassion and dedication given to our mother.

Edith loved animals, and donations can be made in her name to the Waukesha Humane Animal Welfare Society.
 
Church and Chapel Ritter-Larsen Bros. Funeral Home is serving the family. For more information, call 549-0659 or visit www.churchandchapel.com to view the online obituary, leave condolences or receive directions.