Victoria A. Whitford
“Vicki”
April 1, 1948 – May 27, 2026
Darlington, Wisconsin
——— ✧ ———
Victoria A. Whitford, age 78, of Darlington, WI passed away on May 27, 2026 at Lafayette Hospital and Clinics. Born April 1, 1948 in Monroe, WI, she was the cherished daughter of John and Jenni Goodell. A proud graduate of Darlington High School, Class of 1966, Vicki went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville.
On Valentine’s Day, 1992, Vicki married the love of her life and soul mate, Bill. Their partnership was built on more than love — together they built a life and a business, proudly owning Whitford Pharmacy and Ben Franklin in Darlington. Through every season, Vicki poured herself into her community, her home, and the people she held dear.
——— ✧ ———
A LIFE FULLY LIVED
Vicki was the ultimate fighter — resilient, determined, and full of spirit. She stands as one of the longest-living double lung transplant recipients in the state of Wisconsin, thriving for 22 remarkable years after her transplant. In those 22 years she faced challenge after challenge with quiet strength, never once complaining, always choosing to live fully and enjoy the ride.
Her most cherished role was that of Mema and mother. She had a gift for motherly wisdom and was never shy about sharing it — whether you asked for it or not. Fashion was a point of pride: Vicki always made sure to look her very best. Her bond with her sister Suzi was the kind of sisterhood that only grows deeper with time.
In retirement, Vicki and Bill discovered the joy of their winter home in Gilbert, Arizona — morning breakfasts on the back patio, warm sunshine, and a wonderful circle of friends who made the desert feel like home.
——— ✧ ———
SURVIVED BY
Vicki is lovingly survived by her husband, William Whitford of Darlington; sons Nick (Mia) Zuberbuhler of Darlington, WI, Thomas (Leah) Whitford of Kenosha, WI, and Steven (Steph) Whitford of La Crosse, WI; daughter Lindsey Becker of La Crosse, WI; sister Suzi Osterday of Darlington, WI; grandchildren Zoie, Zeke, Caleb, Anna, Julia, Riley, Abby, Jack, and Isabel; nephew Tim (Kristin) Osterday of Darlington, WI; and nieces Kristin (Tim) Staver and Alea (Matt) Lindsey, both of Mineral Point, WI.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John and Jenni Goodell, and her son, Daniel Zuberbuhler.
——— ✧ ———
SERVICES
Wake and Funeral Services will be held at United Methodist Church in Darlington on Tuesday, June 9th. Wake from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with funeral services to follow. A special thank you to the compassionate staff of Lafayette Hospital and Clinics and Agrace Hospice.
