Fern Rydzewski, of Antigo, died Sunday, December 21, 2008 at Langlade Hospital. She was 91 years old. Born May 19, 1917 in Antigo to Albert and Alvina (Noe) Teal, and she married Carl Rydzewski on May 10, 1941 at St. John Catholic Church in Antigo. He preceded her in death on May 11, 2003.

She was a lifelong Antigo area resident and worked as head cook at Crestwood Elementary School retiring in 1969. She and her husband operated a farm in the town of Ackley for 26 years. She enjoyed growing vegetables and was very proud of her flower gardens. Mrs. Rydzewski made quilts and her enjoyment came from giving them away to family and friends. She was a member of St. Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church, the Ferndale Women's Club, and was an avid polka dancer.

Survivors include two daughters, Lorraine Schisel, Phlox, Kathleen Rich, Milwaukee, three sons, Carl (Elva) Rydzewski, Aniwa, Walter (Marg) Rydzewski, Deerbrook, Joseph (Sherry) Rydzewski, Bonaire, GA, one brother, William Teal, Antigo, 10 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, one granddaughter Renee Zabransky, two sisters Kathryn Baginski and Loretta Pilecky Blank, one brother Lyle Teal, a son in law Harold Hummer Schisel.

Services will be held on Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary & Hyacinth Catholic Church with Rev. Jeremiah Worman officiating. Entombment will take place in Queen of Peace Cemetery. Visitation including a 4:00 p.m. wake service will be held on Tuesday from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home and on Wednesday from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Online condolences at www.bradleyfh.com.

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