Connie Quednau

Connie Quednau of Whiteland, Indiana died peacefully at her daughter’s home on August 14, 2025 at the age of 78 surrounded by her loving family.

Connie was born June 21, 1947 in Cicero, IL to Lawrence and Gretchen Volpe.

Connie’s first job as a beautician helped pave the way to her true calling as a psychotherapist, where she touched thousands of lives with her wisdom, kindness, and compassion. She was immensely proud of her education—earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Governor’s State University and later her master’s degree in counseling from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. Achieving those degrees, especially later in life, was one of her greatest personal triumphs, proving her belief that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Every diploma was framed not just as an academic achievement, but as a symbol of perseverance, grit, and heart.

She loved, loved, loved music! Whether on a long road trip or a quick errand, you could count on her to turn the radio up too loud, sing every lyric at the top of her lungs, and cruise with the windows down—spirit wide open.

Her journey of faith and personal growth was as unique as she was—from Catholic schoolgirl, to embracing Native American spirituality, to finding wisdom in Buddha’s teachings. She believed deeply in visualization, manifestation, and never saying “I can’t.” In every challenge, she embodied strength, determination, and optimism.

Connie was our biggest cheerleader—literally and figuratively. She showed up for all of us, from early morning games to late-night tournaments, bundled up on freezing bleachers or fanning herself in the summer heat. She clapped the loudest, yelled the proudest, and believed in us the most. Win or lose, we always knew she was in the stands, beaming with pride.

She had a rare gift for making people smile—whether through her warm laugh, her fearless honesty, or her perfectly timed wit. If you spent even five minutes with her, you walked away feeling lighter. Sometimes it was because of her advice, and sometimes it was because she made you laugh so hard you forgot what you were worrying about.

In true Connie fashion, she’d remind us: life’s too short not to sing with the windows down—and if you don’t know the words, just sing louder.

From Aunt Pat:

Connie, my beloved sister, was a “handful.” She did whatever she set out to do—for better and for worse—especially these last few years. I know it was challenging at times! I’m reminded of an old Frank Sinatra song, “My Way.” The last thing I saw in her eyes was contentment. Listen to the lyrics—it tells the story of Connie’s amazing, wonderful life. I love you. Tons and tons 🤗 —Aunt Pat

Celebrating Her Final Wishes

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write… and yet one of the greatest honors of my life.

Connie was clear about one thing: when her time here ended, she wanted her body cremated and her ashes scattered over the Rocky Mountains—a place she loved deeply. Next summer, in July/August 2026, we will make that journey for her. If you feel called to be part of this moment, please text me directly for details.

We will also have the opportunity to keep a small part of Connie close in keepsake form. Whether it’s a mini urn, a piece of jewelry holding her ashes, or her fingerprint captured forever, there are so many beautiful ways to carry her with you. I’m happy to connect anyone who wishes to have something special made.

She will forever be in the mountains she loved… and in the hearts of all who loved her.

She is survived by her children Angie Faurote (Jim) and Tom Quednau; grandchildren Brayden (Callum), Jordan, Jack, Eva, Iian, and Oliver; sister Patricia Novy (Chuck), and brother Larry Volpe (Peggy), as well as so many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lawrence and Gretchen.