Tricia Mary Ploessl, age 45, of Ridgeway, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on November 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. In her final act of generosity, Tricia gave the gift of life through organ donation, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping others even in her final moments.
What Happened: A Tragic Loss
Tricia Ploessl’s passing has left a profound impact on her family, friends, and colleagues. She passed away on November 21, 2025, surrounded by prayers and loved ones. Tricia’s selflessness, kindness, and unwavering commitment to others were evident throughout her life, and her unexpected death has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her.
Who Was Tricia Mary Ploessl?
Born on December 13, 1979, to Rod and Sheila Breuer, Tricia grew up in Ridgeway, WI, and was a proud graduate of Cassville High School, Class of 1998. She went on to earn her degree in Elementary Education from Winona State University. Tricia’s early career saw her working at Kids Express Learning Center in Madison, where she first met the Watson family. She later became their nanny, balancing work with raising her young family.
In 2012, Tricia decided to pursue her passion for helping others by attending Southwest Tech to obtain a nursing degree. Her career as a nurse at Central Wisconsin Center allowed her to care for patients with both skill and compassion. Colleagues remember her as a steady, gentle presence who was unwavering in her commitment to her patients’ well-being.
Legacy and Family
Tricia was a devoted wife and mother. She married Todd Ploessl on August 9, 2003, and together, they built a beautiful life, raising three daughters: Brynn, Brielle, and Myiah. Tricia’s love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life, particularly in the way she guided her daughters through life with grace and wisdom. She was also a lover of animals, including her chickens, cats, and dog, who were part of the family she cherished so much.
Tricia’s kindness and thoughtfulness extended far beyond her family, impacting everyone she encountered. Whether she was caring for patients or supporting friends and family, her selflessness left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Funeral Arrangements and Visitation
A visitation for Tricia will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes & Crematory, located at 1234 S Madison St., Lancaster. A prayer service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, prior to the visitation. In lieu of flowers and plants, the family requests that memorial contributions be directed to a college fund for Tricia’s daughters, ensuring her legacy of care and support lives on.
Survived By
Tricia is survived by her beloved husband Todd Ploessl, their three daughters Brynn, Brielle, and Myiah; her parents Rod and Sheila Breuer; sister Erica Schauff; in-laws Gary and Vickie Yunk; brother-in-law Travis (Stacey Kirschbaum) Ploessl; sisters-in-law Tracy (Bob) Kubitz and Kerri (Travis) Shefelbine; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved her dearly. Her animals, which she cared for so lovingly, are also a testament to her nurturing and compassionate nature.
A Community in Mourning
Tricia’s sudden passing has left a deep sadness in the Ridgeway community, but her legacy of compassion and dedication will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was filled with love, service to others, and a profound commitment to making the world a better place, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
