Racine – Stella Celia Putra, 89, received the promise of eternal life on April 28, 2012.  She was born in Racine, August 24, 1922, daughter of the late John and Alexandra (nee: Nowikowski) Putra.

Stella was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church for many years prior to its closing.  She had attended St. Edward Catholic Church and also worked at the Marian Center.  Stella had a very special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Stella faithfully served her country in the United States Navy during World War II.  She was employed in the medical records field in Colorado.  Stella moved back to Racine and worked for many years at St. Luke's Hospital as the Director of Medical Records.  In her younger years, Stella was very active in a bicycle club and loved skiing.  Later she was very active and won various awards in a golfing league at Johnson's Park and in bowling.  Stella also enjoyed reading and traveling.

Stella is survived by her sisters, Helen Brezney of Racine, Florence (Gene) Ahnen of Bayfield; sister-in-law, Anne Putra of Racine; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.  In addition to her parents, Stella is preceded in death by her sisters, including her twin Bernice Putra, Jessie Putra, Esther Clickner; brothers, E. Phillip Putra, John Putra, Stanley Putra, Peter Putra, and Frank Putra; sister-in-law, Lillian Putra; brothers-in-law, Joe Brezney and Howard Clickner.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, May 4, 2012, 12pm, at St. Edward Catholic Church, 1401 Grove Avenue, with Rev. Allen Bratkowski officiating.  Visitation will be from 10am until the time of the service.  Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Caledonia.  In lieu of flowers, Stella had suggested memorials to St. Edward Catholic Church.

The Putra Family would like to give a special thanks to everyone at Franciscan Villa in Oak Creek and especially the staff at Ridgewood Care Center for their love and care of Stella.