Jennifer Lynn Garza-Stork

Jennifer Lynn Garza-Stork, age 52, of Burlington, WI, passed away on May 23, 2025, leaving a profound void in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

Born in Burlington, WI, in 1973 to Homero and Linda Garza, Jennifer lit up the world with her radiant smile, infectious laughter, crazy humor, and quick wit. She was a woman of profound spirit, fierce love, and limitless creativity.

Jennifer devoted her life to the things she loved most: art and family. A gifted artist from an early age, she pursued her passion at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, where she forged lifelong friendships and found inspiration in culture and self-expression. During her college years, she had a professor who connected her with her Kickapoo lineage, which made a lasting impression on her artwork. She created beautiful paintings and captured incredible photos.

Immersed in tradition, Jennifer’s path crossed with a special mountain man-Brian Stork. It didn’t take long for them to share a tipi together with their beloved dogs, Shadow and Izzy. She learned to make dream catchers and do beadwork, which she sold and traded across the Midwest. They also traveled together to Mexico, where she connected with her family and heritage. Her greatest success came through being a dedicated mama to her sons, who were her pride, happiness, and the beating heart of her world.

Jennifer found happiness in putting her artistic talents to use designing the sets for musicals that Ben performed in and cheering on Josh from the sidelines of his football games. Being an auntie was a role Jennifer deeply treasured. She cherished her nieces, nephews, and cousins – whether it was swimming at the beach, attending band concerts and dance recitals, cheering at sports events, helping with quinces, and capturing countless prom and senior pictures.

Jennifer was an avid reader and a passionate music lover who found joy in nights out dancing and attending music concerts. She was also a presence in the Burlington community, volunteering to support Music Matters and the Burlington High School theatre department’s spring musicals. Jennifer was quick to lend a listening ear to her friends in need. She brought joy to others through her positive life outlook and quick-witted jokes. Inclusivity came naturally for her; she embraced others with compassion and without judgment, creating space for everyone to belong. She loved others unconditionally.

Jennifer is survived by her children, Benjamin and Joshua Stork. She was a surrogate mom to Gabriella Mullikin, who grew up in her home before leaving for college. She is also survived by her parents, Homero and Linda Garza; her sister, Christina Garza; her niece, Corina Nelson; and nephews, Nathan (Abigail) and Christian Nelson. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Brian Stork, and her grandmother, Maria de los Angeles Davila.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Jennifer's life on:

June 13, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Faith Chapel Evangelical Free Church, 141 Westridge Ave, Burlington, WI 53105.

1:00 PM to 1:30 PM: Greeting

1:30 PM to 2:30 PM: Service

2:30 PM to 3:30 PM: Fellowship Meal

3:30 PM to 5:00 PM: Fellowship & Sharing