Theodosia "Teddie" Schwanke

Theodosia "Teddie" Schwanke (nee Martinez) passed peacefully August 12, 2026 at the age of 75 years. Teddie was a remarkable woman whose strength, resilience, and loving spirit touched the lives of so many. Born in La Paz, Bolivia, Teddie faced extraordinary challenges from a very young age. After losing both of her arms at just two years old, she learned to live life with incredible independence and determination, using her feet to accomplish the everyday tasks others do with their hands. At the age of 12, she came to the United States alone, beginning a new chapter in a life defined by courage and perseverance. Teddie was a wonderfully talented artist. Using her feet, she created beautiful drawings and paintings and also learned to sew, knit, and crochet. Her creativity was matched by her love of nature. She found great joy in gardening and loved surrounding herself with plants and animals. More than anything, Teddie will be remembered for her kind and generous heart. She was always willing to help others, quick to offer love and compassion, and had a way of making those around her feel cared for. Her deep faith in God was at the center of her life, giving her strength, comfort, and guidance through every challenge she faced. Teddie's life was a beautiful example of courage, faith, creativity, and love. She overcame obstacles that may have seemed impossible to others and did so with grace and determination. She was deeply loved by her family and friends, and the strength of her spirit and the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Teddie is the wife of John William Schwanke for 30 years and mother of Tammy Ruth Brennenstuhl. She is the grandmother of Jazmine Sarai Cendejas, Antonio (Morgan Ray) Gonsalo Cendejas and Selena Rae Cendejas and great-grandmother of Messiah King Cendejas, Angel Gonsalo Love, Royal Azriel Lyvon Jones and Kataleyah Amor Johnson. She is also survived by her bonus grandchildren (fiance of Jazmine) Maleek Kevione Johnson and Autumn Marie and bonus great-grandchild Avaah Renae Johnson (daughter of Maleek). She was sister to Celia Silva and sister-in-law to Mary Jo (Mike) Johnson and Patti Ann (Jack) Marcy and further survived by other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother Justina Silva, sister Celia Silva and first husband John Glen Brennenstuhl. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 10:00AM at THE LAKES CHURCH (153 County Road QQ, Waupaca, WI 54981) with a Memorial Service at 11:30 AM and a luncheon to follow.