Obituary: Hubert "Bart" Martinelli

MADISON - Hubert "Bart" Martinelli passed away at home Friday, March 7, 2008,after a long illness. He was born on Dec. 5, 1924, the son of Massimo and Palmina (Viviani) Martinelli. A faithful Catholic, Bart attended old Saint Joseph's grade school. Following that, he graduated from Central High School. Here was a man who served his country proudly and honorably in World War II. Attached to the 365th Medical Battalion, 65th Infantry Division, he received a special diploma from the French government for his contributions to the country's liberation and for people everywhere. In addition, Bart received the Bronze Star for his service in the European theater from January to September, 1945 and the Combat Medical Badge. World War II profoundly affected this courageous man's life and health, as war often does to too many. Hubert was employed in the construction field his entire adult life. These construction projects included many of the major buildings in the city, including the Veterans' Hospital and the City County Building. Madison Labor Local 464 awarded him a 50 year gold card membership and another award for 37 years as an officer in the organization. On Labor Day, he could be found at The Labor Temple, cooking Italian sausage. There were many activities that Bart enjoyed. He was a devoted, longtime member of the Italian Workmen's Club and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Also, he loved sports and teams of every kind, including the Chicago Cubs. Every football Saturday found many of his nephews and friends at his Milton Street home for the pre-game cookout. His survivors include his fraternal twin, Lucy (Bill) Genin; his brother, Victor (Vincenza) Martinelli; as well as 21 loving nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Marcella Martinelli and Rose (Ted) Jafferis. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at ST. JAMES CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1128 St. James Court, Madison with Msgr. Thomas F. Baxter officiating. A visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, and again from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church on Wednesday. Burial will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church or to the charity of your choice. A special thanks to Bart's good friend, Nick Gandolph, as well as the Madison Senior Center. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 9, 2008