Rhonda Jean Brantner

Rhonda Jean Brantner, age 65, of Eau Claire, passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at her home.

She was born on October 5, 1959 in Eau Claire to Wallace and Betty (Preston) Topper.

Rhonda attended and graduated from Mondovi High School with the class of 1978.

On April 28, 1979, Rhonda married Frank Brantner at Drammen Lutheran Church. To this marriage, three children were born. They later divorced.

Upon returning home to Mondovi from Oklahoma, where she and her children lived, Rhonda began a career at Menards, working at their Mastercraft division manufacturing pre-hung doors. Rhonda retired with over 25 years of service to Menards. Following her retirement, Rhonda began one of her most treasured “careers” Nana’s daycare where she was able to bond, care for and love her most precious commodities…her grandchildren.

Rhonda enjoyed bowling, cross stitching or spending time outdoors in her garden, on the water, taking long walks, camping and birdwatching. 

On July 22, 2007, Rhonda took her first pontoon boat ride with Barry Strauch, who would become her dear and faithful partner in life.

Rhonda’s children and grandchildren were always the center of her life and the love she gave to them all will never be forgotten.

Rhonda will be sadly missed by her children, D.J. (Monica) Brantner, Lindsay (Ryan) Anibas and Kyle (Leslie) Brantner; the "flocked Nana's 9: Hunter, Autumn, Brody & Berkley, Archie & Finn and Rhett, Ryker & Ramsi; siblings, Rolly (Liz) Topper, Garth (Barb) Topper, Chris Cleasby, Connie (Ron) Odegard, Sally (Dennis) Stevens, Lowell (Terri) Topper and Joe (Melisa) Topper; also by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Rhonda was preceded in death by her parents and her aunt, Bubs.

A celebration of Rhonda's life will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025 starting at 1:00 pm at Club 10 TEN Lounge Games and Lanes, W4570 US Hwy 10, Durand, WI. 

In honor of Rhonda's love of the color purple and her favorite tropical bird, the Flamingo. Her family asks that we all wear purple or anything representing her love of flamingos.