Dana Anna Burroughs

Dana Anna Burroughs, beloved wife, mother, sister, cousin, aunt, and friend passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at St. Clare Hospital after a courageous 4-year battle with cancer, surrounded by her loved ones.

Dana was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 17^th, 1969, to James Allan Cole and Arlene Ann Seefeld.  The family moved to Baraboo, Wisconsin when Dana was nine months old.  Dana often spoke of fond memories while growing up in Baraboo.  From the house at 410 6^th Ave. to the “house behind the old Culver’s” where they had a small stream, raised sheep, lamb and rabbits, and sold vegetables from their garden with her sister, Kim and cousin, Ralani. 

Dana attended West School Elementary, Baraboo Junior High School, and graduated from Baraboo Senior High School in 1987.  Dana then attended MATC in both Milwaukee and Madison.  Dana eventually returned to Baraboo and helped her mother, Arlene, operate Circus City Printing and Office Supply in Baraboo.  After the business was sold, Dana worked for the family of Carol Hoppe as her caretaker for seven years.  Dana became a part of the family, and truly loved and cared for Carol until her passing in 2009.  A few years later, Dana began working for Neat-o’s Bakery in Baraboo.  Dana thoroughly enjoyed her time working at the bakery and became close with the wonderful family that operates it.  Dana eventually had to stop working due to issues with her epilepsy, but continued to be involved with the bakery where she could.

Dana met the love of her life, Patrick, in 1992 while at an event with friends.  Excited to begin their new lives together, they were married on June 11^th, 1994, at St. Joseph’s Church in Baraboo. They couldn’t wait to start a family of their own, and were overjoyed when their daughter, Sophia, was born in 1997. Sophia was truly the light of their world.  Countless dance recitals, piano recitals, basketball games, and school events kept them busy through the years.  Sophia continually made them proud parents with her many accomplishments.

Dana was a spectacular cook and baker, often making several different baked goods for the holidays and other family events.  Dana was also very involved in her family, always remembering birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events.  She often lit up the room with her laughter and banter with her sister Kim.  Dana and her family also made almost yearly trips to California, visiting family and spending time at Disneyland.  This eventually led to the family attending the Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyland on several occasions.

Dana had several pets over the years and had a soft spot for animals.  Her first pet with Patrick was their cocker spaniel, Max.  This was followed by their chocolate lab CeCe.  Eventually their silver lab Elmo was added to the family, and he was particularly special, as he was the first puppy in the home for Sophia.  After Elmo’s passing, Dana found a rescue dog from Alabama named Boo.  Boo’s endless energy and loving nature were the perfect fit for Dana and Patrick.

Dana will always be remembered for her kind and caring nature.  She always wanted to help others and was continually there for loved ones when they needed her.  She always tried to find the best in everyone and genuinely cared for others’ well being.

Dana is survived by her husband of 31 years, Patrick; daughter, Sophia (Riley) Baker; very funny sister, Kimberly Meyer; very special cousin, Ralani Seefeld; Uncle Ronald Seefeld; nephews, Coleman (Abby), Wilson, and Macston Meyer; nieces, Nora (JT) Taylor and Anessa Anderson; as well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins, family, and friends.

Dana was preceded in death by her father, James Cole; mother, Arlene Towns; stepfather, Bruce Towns; and aunt, Alice Seefeld.

Per Dana’s wishes, no formal service will be held.  Dana wished to have a celebration of life approximately 6-12 months from the date of her passing.  The family will make an announcement once a date and time is confirmed.

Please consider making a donation in Dana’s honor to Agrace Hospice, The Sauk County Humane Society, the Pancreatic Cancer Network, or the Lustgarten Foundation.

The family would like to especially thank the staff at Agrace Hospice, along with the staff at St. Clare Hospital. 

“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”