Audrey J. McKnight, nee Girolamo, age 82, of Baraboo, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Oak Park Place in Baraboo.
Audrey, the daughter of John and Claire (Bauer) Girolamo was born on September 21, 1943 in Eau Claire. She was a graduate of Eau Claire’s Regis High School in 1962. Audrey went on to vocational business school and worked in Minneapolis. Then she moved to California and worked for McDonald Douglas. It wasn’t long until she decided to travel for 4 months across Europe. She returned and met her husband, William, after he served in Vietnam. In 1971, they united in marriage in California. Together, they moved to Colorado for a few years and returned to Wisconsin.
Throughout her life, Audrey had a passion for adventure and the outdoors. She loved traveling, camping, and downhill skiing, and found great joy in exploring new places. An adventurous spirit, Audrey embraced life's thrills by going skydiving, riding on the back of motorcycles, and taking hot air balloon rides.
Audrey also dedicated countless hours to serving others. She enjoyed volunteering with Friends of Mirror Lake and was a devoted, active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
She is survived by her daughter, Candra Buchholtz of Eau Claire; siblings, John Girolamo of FL and Roseanne Walters Prachar of Mooselake, MN; as well as her best friends, Sandy (Richard) Murphy of Marble, NC and Jackie Bodette of Baraboo. She is further survived by all her dear neighborhood friends in the Buckhorn subdivision, which she considered family.
Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William “Bill” McKnight in 2008; and brother, Jimmy Girolamo.
Mass of Christian Burial will held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Baraboo with Father Bill Van Wagner presiding. Visitation will be at church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
Katie Mueller July 22, 2026
Friend Portage , Wisconsin
It is with the utmost sadness that I express my condolences to the close friends and family of Audrey. She was a bright shining light in our dark world, and she will be missed.
Karen Johnson July 22, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
The members of the Baraboo Area Senior Citizen Organization send their sincere condolences to Audrey's family. Audrey loved to travel with us and she will be missed.
Joyce fichtel July 23, 2026
Friend Hillpoint , Wisconsin
Dear Audrey she will be remembered by many. Rest in peace dear friend. I am sure she is dancing in heaven. Joyce fichtel
Nikki Ramsey July 23, 2026
Friend of Candra Washington , Illinois
My sincerest condolences to Audrey’s family and friends. I was a good friend of Candra’s growing up and spent countless hours at their home and camping with them. My favorite memories include dinner on the screened porch and swimming on the lake in the Summer! Audrey was also the ultimate dance Mom.
Kathy Tuttle July 24, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Dear Candra…. I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s death. She was an incredible advocate for you . She always had a smile! My deepest sympathies Mrs . Tuttle
David Brandt July 25, 2026
Camping friend Muskego , Wisconsin
My sincere condolences to the family. Audrey was a ray of sunshine and had a way of lighting up any event she was involved in. She inspired others to live life to its fullest. I’m certain she’ll be dancing the polka in heaven. She will be missed but never forgotten! RIP my friend.
Dave and Judy Hicks July 25, 2026
Friend Goshen , Indiana
We met Audrey at Arrowhead Campground. Although we didn’t know her well, she was always such a friendly and open person to everyone. We are so sorry for your loss. prayers to you all.
Victoria Gavre July 26, 2026
Grade school near high school classmate Rabat Morocco ??
Rest in Peace
Chris McGee July 27, 2026
Friend Madison , Wisconsin
I knew Aud for over 20 years. I worked with her at Land’s End where we formed a close friend group with several others called “the Four Pack”. We got together often at each others homes, met to celebrate various occasions and even traveled together for weekend retreats. Audrey was full of life and full of fun. She was a fun golf partner in the summers. Was impressed by her volunteerism, talent at sales, self confidence, hospitality, devotion to her God and church, array of friends and can do spirit. She was full of zest and an unforgettable person in my life. Picturing her reuniting with Bill and dancing in her new heavenly home.
Dean and Pamela July 29, 2026
Johnson Eau Claire , Wisconsin
With heavy hearts we send our deepest sympathies to Candra and Audrey’s family. I met Audrey 37 years ago at a Newcomers Club meeting after our move to Baraboo from MN. . Audrey’s kind and colorful personality welcomed us and helped us adjust to our new surroundings. We became fast friends with Audrey and Bill . Candra and our girls were in Dance together. Though we were only in Baraboo for a year, we stayed in touch and mourn the loss of her beautiful spirit.