Baby Theresa is laid to rest

DODGE COUNTY - It's a story that for many, was too hard to ignore.

"I just feel so bad, so sorry for that baby," said Phyllis Rutz of Iron Ridge.

"She didn't even have a chance," said Tim Stafford.

"It's sad she was place out there just like garbage," said Marge Daniels of Waupun.

But this Monday, Baby Theresa finally has a home, the small Village of Lowell in southwest Dodge County.

"I'd like to think of it this way that she's being passed around in the hearts of all you and given more hugs than she ever had," said Sheriff Department Chaplain Tim Bauer.

And today her adopted family took the time to give her a proper goodbye.

"Today we were her mother and father and aunt and uncle and brother and sister and her relatives and friends," said Dodge County Sheriff Todd Nehls.

Everything from the headstone to the casket to the burial plot was donated.

"Makes you feel good that people care," said Robert Daniels of Waupun.

"This is phenomenal that people here came together to do this," said Sheriff Nehls.

The Sheriff says the funeral was put together out of compassion, and not a ploy to bring the mother, who the department is still looking for, out of hiding.

"If the feelings of guilt didn't get you to pick up the phone and call us, I wouldn't expect you to be here today," said Sheriff Nehls.

But those who did show up say this little angel will never be forgotten.

"You weren't here very long, but your life counted," said Bauer. "You are somebody and we love you so very much. We're so sorry your life was so short."

The sheriff says the department is still looking for answers. Anyone with information that may help is asked to call them at 920-386-3726.