Szudy, Cathy Ann (Nee Schimmel) Madison/ West Allis- Cathy Ann (Schimmel) Szudy passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 surrounded by family, following a six-month battle with brain cancer. She was born on October 24, 1949, the daughter of Wilmer and Dolores Schimmel. Cathy took pride in both motherhood and her career. In addition to raising six children, she returned to school as an adult to become first a registered nurse, then a lactation consultant and finally a certified nurse midwife. Cathy was passionate about women's strength and abilities to grow, birth and nourish their young. She helped and supported countless families to achieve their goals. She was part of many community organizations and events over the years to increase breastfeeding rates, education and support. She was very proud that all her children achieved higher education, and perhaps even more proud that all fifteen grandkids were breastfed. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life. She had a special place in her heart for families experiencing loss, spurred by the loss of her own child, Gretchen. Cathy was known to be a devoted friend. She encouraged and inspired many to dream big and work towards their goals in life, education and career. Cathy is survived by six grown children, their five spouses/significant others, fifteen grandchildren, her brother and sister and their spouses, nieces, nephews and many other dear relatives and friends. Her mother, father and infant daughter Gretchen Marie precede Cathy in death. Please join us in a celebration of life and ice cream social between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Sunday, July 30, 2017 at Cress Center, 6021 University Ave. Madison. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memorial to: Breastfeeding Coalition of South Central Wisconsin - Cathy Szudy Scholarship Fund or to the FNU Student Scholarship Fund. Please share your memories of Cathy at: CressFuneralService.com. Cress Funeral Service 206 W. Prospect Street Stoughton, WI 53589 (608) 873-9244