Laura Todd

Laura L. Todd, age 59, of Oshkosh, WI, passed peacefully from this life to the next on May 11, 2025, surrounded by her family after a long and courageous battle with illness.

Laura was born Laura Durkee on March 28, 1966, in Two Harbors, MN to Rachel and Robert Durkee. She later gained a loving second father, Albert "Al" Hanisko, who played a special role in her life.

She earned her MBA from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, where, while working at Hardee's, she met the love of her life, Jeff Todd. Laura and Jeff built a life rooted in love, laughter, and adventure. They shared a passion for hunting, fishing, long scenic drives, and quiet weekends at their campsite in Wild Rose - especially when their kids came along for the fun.

Laura was smart, driven, and had a sense of humor that could light up an entire room. She believed she could do anything she set her mind to - and she was right. She spent 7 years working in Human Resources and Workman's Comp at a Residential Care facility for individuals with developmental disabilities. For 25 years, she served as a Technical Support Supervisor with Winnebago County, where she was known for her work ethic and her wit.

Outside of work, Laura had an eye for design and a deep love for home improvement projects. She could outwork anyone on a remodeling job and still find time to roast a mean batch of coffee. She cheered loudly for the Badgers, loved traveling with her family, and especially treasured her most recent trip to Hawaii - one that brought her so much peace and joy.

But the very best day of Laura's life was July 15, 2023 - the day she became a grandma. The moment she met Steele Garett Petraszak, she was smitten. Steele brought an entirely new kind of happiness to her life. She adored snuggling him, reading to him, and watching him discover the world. They shared a deep bond - Steele was the President of Laura's Admiration Society, and she was most definitely the President of his.

Laura loved deeply and gave endlessly to her family. She was so proud of her son Justin, her partner-in-golf and her steady source of pride. She loved supporting her daughter Sydney in business and life - whether that meant helping with DIY projects or just being her constant cheerleader.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 36 years, Jeff Todd; son, Justin Todd; daughter, Sydney Todd, and her fiancé Garett Petraszak and her grandson, Steele, the light of her life. She is also survived by her mother Rachel Hanisko; siblings Jim Durkee (Sherry), DuWayne (Mary) Hanisko, and Aaron (Lori) Hanisko; in-laws David and Susan Todd; sisters-in-law Jennifer Clavette and Emily Todd; niece Sarah (Andrew) Engel and their children Calvin, Wesley, and Isla; nephew Steffen Clavette; and many other beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her father Robert Durkee and stepfather Al Hanisko.

To know Laura was to laugh with her. She had an incredible gift for making people smile - even in the most unexpected moments. Her absence leaves a giant Laura-sized hole in our hearts. She will be missed more than words can ever say