Agnes A. Bautch
Agnes Ann Bautch, 76, of Independence, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Dove Health Care West.
Agnes was born to George and Verna (Severinski) Roskos, September 14, 1948, in Independence. Agnes was more than a wife, mother, farmer, and co-worker. A simple title could never sum up a woman like Agnes. However, some people did call her St. Agnes at times, and that might be most fitting to describe her selflessness and care for others, whether that was her family or a stranger in the grocery store check-out line. You could always count on Agnes for a hearty laugh or a good cry, if that’s what you needed. She gave with her whole heart, not because she wanted any recognition, but merely because she valued people and wanted to help anyone and everyone.
Agnes was married to her husband, Arnold Bautch, for 56 years. They were married at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, September 14, 1968. Agnes always admired Arnie for his service to our country in the U.S. Air Force. They chose to wait seven years to have children so they could enjoy their marriage and time together first. Farming, traveling to basketball and football games, enjoying pontoon rides on Lake Wissota, and serving their church whenever possible filled the years. When asked what her secret to being married for so long was, she said: “Marriage is not butterflies and rainbows, it is work and dedication, it is working through hard times to enjoy the good. You don’t give up because things are hard.”
Agnes was a very proud mother of her two children, Kory and Amy. As many of her friends can tell you, she loved to boast about her children’s achievements and accomplishments. She was at every basketball game, crop fair, banquet, and choir concert, cheering for her children. She supported their choices, even though she may not have agreed. Her love had no boundaries, she was strict yet understanding. No parent is perfect, they all make mistakes; but Agnes was the type of mom who would tell her children what she thought, with stern strength and conviction, but then that was the end of it and she would move on.
Agnes was a woman who worked hard her entire life. She spent her life on the farm where she was born and raised by George and Verna Roskos. As a daughter of farmers, she was raised to work hard. One of her best quotes is, “There is always work to do, if you want to do it.” Agnes was never idle, she always found something to do. Some of her favorite activities included raising cattle, pigs, chickens, and ducks, working in her flower gardens, vegetable gardens, canning, quilting, baking, cooking large meals that could feed ten, when only four mouths are at the table. Agnes worked at various places in her life, including Ashley Furniture, Club Midway, East End Bar, and most recently the Trempealeau County Health Care Center. Many times, she worked multiple jobs and late hours, making an impact wherever she went and building friendships that lasted her lifetime.
Agnes was a prominent member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Polish Museum of Winona, Red Hat Club, Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, and Ss. Peter and Paul Rosary Society.
Agnes believed in celebrating the milestones in life: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and anything that she felt deserved a celebration. She knew how to throw a party! She loved Christmas and enjoyed her house being decorated with multiple trees and multiple themes.
As much as Agnes will be mourned, missed, and forever loved, we know she would want her life to be celebrated by sharing funny stories, laughter, and great food with great friends.
Agnes is survived by her adoring husband, Arnold Bautch; her son, Kory Bautch (Jackie Przybilla ) of Independence, WI; daughter, Amy McLean (Brian McLean) of Independence, WI; her sister, Martha Lisowski (John Lisowski) of Arcardia, WI; many nephews, nieces, and beloved friends; her grandpaws: Max, Remie, Smokey, Leia, and Rey; her best friend for over 50 years, Bonnie Kabus; and her second daughter, Dawn Koepke.
Agnes was preceded in death by her parents, George and Verna Roskos; her brother, Robert; and many relatives and close friends.
“Things will be different, holidays will be different, but the world does not stop because I am not here with you. You need to live, enjoy life, and I will see you in heaven.”
