Maxine L. (nee Brown) Herek, of Waunakee, previously of Plover, passed away on August 20, 2023 at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg, WI, at the age of 85.

Maxine was born May 12, 1938 in Amherst Junction, WI; daughter of William and Lela (Brooks) Brown. Growing up, she lived in various Wisconsin communities, but ultimately spent most of her life in Plover, WI. She was a graduate of Pacelli High School, Class of 1956.

Following high school, Maxine joined the workforce and was eventually employed at St. Michael’s Hospital in the billing department. On November 14, 1964, she married the love of her life and proudly became Mrs. Hank Herek; a title she honored for the rest of her life. When Hank and Maxine decided to start their family, Maxine joyfully became a stay-at-home mother. She dedicated herself to being a loving daughter, wife, and mother to their two children. Maxine and Hank spent 56 beautiful years together, until Hank’s passing in 2020.

Maxine’s interests revolved around her family and friends, always sharing a good laugh with those around her. In younger years, she enjoyed camping and making great memories, especially at their favorite campground in Redgranite, WI. She also enjoyed reading, watching the Milwaukee Brewers and traveling when she was able to. Once she became a grandmother, her granddaughters became the apple of her eye and she loved spending as much time with them as she could. Maxine had a great sense of humor and her kind and generous personality will be deeply missed.

Maxine is lovingly survived by her daughter, Jodi (Jim) Tarala of Waunakee; and her granddaughters, Kaitlyn (Conor) Sullivan of New Hope, MN, Kassidy (Sam Burns) Tarala of Minneapolis, MN, and Sarah Herek of Marquette, MI. She is further survived by her sister, June (Dave) Lila of Plover, and many nieces and nephews.

Maxine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hank; her son, Scott Herek; and her parents, William and Lela Brown.

For those wishing to express their sympathies, the family kindly suggests donations be made in Maxine’s honor to Agrace Foundation (5395 E. Cheryl Parkway; Madison, WI 53711).

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Agrace Home Care and Agrace Residential in Fitchburg for the exceptional care and compassion provided to Maxine and her family.

A Memorial Service will be held to honor Maxine’s memory at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 25, 2023, at Shuda Plover Funeral Home - 2400 Plover Road, Plover, WI. Pastor Marjorie Rice Myers will officiate. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories at the funeral home on Friday from 10:00 AM until the time of service. A burial will be held at a later date.

Shuda Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.