Colleen Carmichael, age 56, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2017 surrounded by family after a long illness. A lifelong and tireless advocate for animals, Colleen brought this passion to more than two decades of work as a veterinary technician, surgical assistant and anesthesia specialist. Known throughout the Milwaukee community for her pet therapy outreach work with rehabilitation and assisted living communities, Colleen also worked with animal advocacy groups such as Peace for Paws and No Dog Left Behind. She likewise shared her expertise with exotic animals through volunteer work with the Wildlife Care Association and the UC-Davis Raptor Care Center. Colleen was preceded in death by her father John P. Carmichael Jr. and is survived by her mother, Jeannine Carmichael, and four siblings, John Carmichael, Kevin Carmichael, Marice Carmichael, and Kathleen Carmichael as well as many friends and beloved pets. A memorial gathering will be held at Hartson Funeral Home, 11111 W. Janesville Rd, Hales Corners, on Saturday, Jan. 6th, 2018 from 2 PM until 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the Wisconsin Humane Society or the Zilber Family Hospice.