Ardys M. Bollenbacher of Newtown died Sunday, March 3, 2019 at Pennswood Village in Newtown. She was 96.

Ardys was the beloved wife of 56 years to the late Paul V. Bollenbacher.

Born in Monticello, Wisconsin, Ardys was the daughter of the late Bennnett and Marie Svrud Benson.

Ardys was a long time resident of Pennswood Village in Newtown. She had lived in various communities throughout her lifetime which included: Monticello, WI, Brookings, SD, Forest City, IA, Northfield, Minneapolis, MN, Chicago, IL, New Vernon, Bernardsville, NJ and New Hope, PA. She received her undergraduate degree from St. Olaf College where as a college freshman she became the lead soprano in the famous St. Olaf Choir. She continued her education and received her Masters Degrees from Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH and the New School for Social Research in New York City. Ardys in her early years was a professional vocalist on the radio in Chicago and Minneapolis; would sing in clubs, managed the Arbach Singers and eventually transitioned into a fabulous homemaker. She volunteered countless hours in her early years to the music program at the Minnesota State Mental Hospital. Ardys traveled extensively throughout the world, visiting: Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, India, Africa, Australia, Costa Rica, Paraguay and the mountains and villages of Switzerland. Her interest and activities included literature, biography, concerts, theater, photography, art, and staying updated on current events.

Ardys was predeceased by her cherished daughter, Lisa K. Bollenbacher and is survived by her son Christopher P. Bollenbacher and his wife Denise of New Hope and her daughter-in-law Catherine E. Smith of Newtown.

Services and interment will be privately held by the family.