Obituary: Thomas J Hoffman - Class of 1965

MADISON - Thomas J. Hoffman, age 68, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, while on vacation in Orlando, Fla., from complications of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Tom was born on Aug. 26, 1947, in Madison, Wis., the son of Rupert and Lillian (Warzeka) Hoffman. He graduated from Central High School, class of 1965. Tom worked at Engineering Industries in Verona, Wis., for almost 40 years. He loved going to the movies, finding out about his ancestry, and going on vacation, especially Disney Cruises. Tom spent most of his free time adoring his great-great-nephews, Dontay and Jordan (whom resided with him). Survivors include his sister, Diane Imhoff and brother, Jeff (Diane) Hoffman; nieces and nephews, Doug, Pam (Randi), Vicky (William), and Shawna (Eric); great-nieces and nephews, Ryan, Brandon, Jessica, Alicia (Spencer), Brittany, Justin, Briana, Sandra, Kyle, Maguire, Beckett, and Declan; great-great-niece and nephews, Dontay, Dionna, Jordan, Laila, Rylee, and Sam; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rupert and Lillian; sister, Sandra; and niece, Kristi. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2450 Atwood Ave., Madison, on Friday, Feb. 12, 2016, at 11 a.m. with Father Michael Radowicz officiating. A visitation will be held at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave. in Madison, on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Another visitation will take place at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be held at Highland Memory Gardens.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 7, 2016. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Steven M. Fix - Class of 1965

MADISON - Steven M. Fix, age 69, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016. He was born Jan. 11, 1947, in Madison, the son of Phillip and Eileen (Runey) Fix. He graduated from Central High School in 1965 and from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1969 majoring in History with minors in Geography and Secondary Education. He earned a Masters of Science in Cartography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1976.

Steve taught history classes at Tomah High School from 1969 to 1974. While at Tomah, Steve met Mary Fonstad. They were married on April 1, 1972. Steve taught geography at Southern Connecticut State College in New Haven Connecticut from 1976 and 1977 and worked for the Department of Defense in St. Louis, Mo., from 1977 to 1978.

Steve began a 30 year career with the State of Wisconsin in 1979 working on environmental issues with the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Public Service Commission. He continued to be active in the environmental arena after retirement working on a water resource management plan, a lake restoration project, and rain gardens. He was a citizen member of three City of Madison committees: the Board of Public Works, Long Range Transportation Planning Committee, and was Chair of the City's Committee on the Environment.

Steve had lifelong interests in Russian history, maps of all kinds, water resources, traveling back roads, visiting major and minor league baseball parks, birding, hiking in the woods, singing in the symphony and opera choruses and getting to wear great hats in opera productions, being kind to cats and dogs, playing sheepshead and bridge and chocolate desserts (without peanut butter, please).

Steve is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary; children, Peter Fix and Ann (Fix) Taillon; grandchildren, Kyria and Liam Taillon; mother, Eileen Fix; brother, Stanley Fix; and sister, Linda (Fix) Guerin. He was preceded in death by his father, Phillip Fix.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. The family invites you for dessert and coffee immediately following the service at the funeral home.

Those wishing to express their sympathy with a memorial may wish to consider contributing to Opera for the Young, Madison Community Foundation, Foundation for Madison Public Schools, Madison Urban Ministry or Second Harvest.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 2, 2016. Submitted by Sidney Iwanter (Class of 1967).

Obituary: Raymond L. Bogardus - Class of 1965

AMBERG, WISCONSIN - Raymond L. Bogardus, age 69, of Amberg, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday May 19, 2015. He was born in Madison on July 9, 1945.  Ray attended Drafting College in the Madison area before working at the Boat Factory in Wausaukee. He was a mechanic who could fix anything. His hobbies included collecting trains and owl pictures and designs. He also enjoyed his pets and putzing in his backyard.

Raymond is survived by his son, Ray “Jr.” Bogardus of Wausaukee; his cat, Honey Bun; and extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held in the Amberg Cemetery.

Originally published on the website of the Roubal Funeral Home of Wausaukee, this obituary notice has been edited for clarity. 

Raymond Bogardus is listed among the graduating seniors in the 1965 Tychoberahn.

Obituary: Kenneth James Spangler - Class of 1965

SPRING GREEN - Kenneth James Spangler, age 67, of Spring Green, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2015, at The Golden Living Center in Muscoda, Wis. Ken was born on April 9, 1947, at Madison General Hospital. He lived in Madison for 52 years, graduating from Madison Central High School in 1965. He later moved to Spring Green where he resided for 12 years. Ken worked as a customer service representative at Madison Gas & Electric for 46 years. He entered into wedded bliss on Oct. 8, 1976, to Paula Jeanne (nee Kunz) in St. Louis, Mo. Ken and Paula were married for 38 wonderful years. Surrounded by Christian men and women all of his life, Ken had a special connection, love and respect for Living Word of Faith Church and Bill Winston Ministries. Ken was a powerful and anointed Christian Faith Believer in the Lord Christ Jesus, the Father God, and Holy Spirit. Ken is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Paula Jeanne. She gratefully thanks St. Mary's Hospital Medical Teams, Dr. Robert Smith and his team at Golden Living Center, Agrace HospiceCare, and Dr. Kenneth Miller and the Spring Green Medical Staff. Ken was preceded in death by his father, Roy Lewis Spangler, and his mother, Lenora (Langve) Spangler. Ken said, "to set the Word of God in your heart one must trust and believe and do." "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the Word of Truth." ~ 2 Timothy 2:15 Ken always said, "Be a good Burrian." A Celebration of Ken's Life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2015, at 11 a.m. at CROSSROADS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 5901 Hogan Road, Waunakee, Wis., with Pastor Kristen Lowe presiding. Friends and family may call from 10 a.m. until time of service. Memorial contributions can be made to the Make a Wish Foundation, 1 S. Pinckney St., Suite 40, Madison, WI 53703.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 26, 2015. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Bradley J. Lightfoot - Class of 1965

FAIRLAND, OKLAHOMA - Bradley Lightfoot, 67, of Fairland passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2014. Services are pending and have been placed in the care of Brown-Winters Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Fairland. Friends and family may send the family notes of encouragement by viewing Mr. Lightfoot’s Tribute Page at http://www.brown-winters.com/obituaries/Bradley-Lightfoot/#!/TributeWall

From the tribute page: "Brad was 9 years younger than me.. No matter how big he became, he will always be " my little brother. " My favorite memory will forever be coming down for breakfast on a Saturday... To find all 5 of my little chickens sitting on the floor .. Watching cartoons.. Enjoying the donuts and penny candy that Uncle Brad brought...I'm so happy for Brad.. He longer [sic] to see Jesus... We were in a race. To see would see our Lord 1st ... Brad won!! I miss him terribly !!!" - Judith R. Mullen - January 25 at 09:08 AM

Bradley J. Lightfoot did not graduate from Madison Central High School, but attended for several years. He would have been a member of the Class of 1965. Brad's older brother, Joe, was a member of the Class of 1962.  

The link to the information provided by the funeral home was provided by Christine Sannes (Class of 1965). Some additional research confirmed that this is/was the Bradley J. Lightfoot who attended CHS.If you have memories of Brad from his days at CHS, please leave a comment on this post.

Obituary: Josephine Ann (Peterson) Bambrough - Class of 1965

CROSS PLAINS / MADISON - Josephine Ann Bambrough, age 67, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2014, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg. She was born on Aug. 21, 1947, in Madison, the daughter of John and Rosemary (Montalto) Peterson Jr. Josephine was an avid sports fan, and especially enjoyed the Badgers, Packers, Cubs and watching local golfers. She loved watching softball throughout the years. She was a coach for East Madison Little League and served a term as league president. She would do anything for her children, and never missed any of their events through the years. Her family was very important to her. She will be remembered for her great, quick wit. People who met her instantly loved her and will always remember her. Josephine is survived by her two children, Andrea Bambrough of Sun Prairie, and Dan Bambrough of Cross Plains and their father, Howard Bambrough of Kevil, Ky.; her mother, Rosemary Peterson of Fitchburg; two brothers, Andrew (Rob) Einer-Peterson and John (Sue) Peterson; a sister, Toni Peterson; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, John Peterson Jr.; three nieces, Laura Peterson, Connie Bambrough, and Debbie Olson; nephew, Robert Robinson Jr.; two brothers-in-law, Richard Bambrough and Mickey Olson; and a sister-in-law, Shirley "Poochie" Olson. The family would like to extend their thanks for the care provided by Agrace HospiceCare, the staff at UW Health, Oregon, Meriter Hospital, and family and friends for their support. A celebration of life gathering will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2014, at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., Madison. Tributes in memory of Josephine will be directed to Agrace HospiceCare and a Scholarship Fund for an East High School softball athlete.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 14, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968). 

 Josie Peterson's Class year is based on information in the 1965 Tychoberahn, where she is pictured among the members of the Senior Class.

Obituary: Terry L. (Burrows) Orvold - Class of 1965

SUMMER, Wash. / MADISON [Wisconsin] - Terry L. (Burrows) Orvold [age 67], family at her side, went to Heaven's light in Sumner, Wash., to be with her dappled Dachshund, red and white Bassett Hound and cats, on June 22, 2014. Terry was a loving Granny, an awesome soccer and baseball mom, wonderful sister, aunt, long-time friend, animal rescuer and a great Nurse. Terry was born to Aggie and Herbie Burrows in Jan. 1947 in Madison, graduated from Central University High school with a 4 year scholarship to the UW where she earned her Bachelors degree in Nursing; Terry practiced as an RN in hospitals in Wisconsin and Minnesota and after moving to Washington State was a Nurse Case-manager until she retired. Terry was both a Packers Backer and a Seahawks "12th man" loudest fan. Terry will be missed greatly by her two sons, Gabriel N. Orvold and his wife, Jaimie, precious grandchildren, Julianna Grace and Grayden Jase, and Benjamin J. Orvold and his wife, Corey ; her sister, Cathy Swanson-Hayes (John Hayes); nieces and nephews, Amelia Swanson (Rick), Peter Swanson- -godchild (Chelsea), Emily Burrows; and sister-in-law, Laurel Peterson; childhood, high school and college good friends, Dianna and Jean Fowles, Nancy Ellis Schuttenhelm and Susanne Seifert Treichel. Terry's younger brother, Ron Burrows passed-on in Madison, three weeks after Terry. Friends and family have made donations to Animal Rescue organizations in Terry's and Ron's names. Thank you Terry for your loving care of the persons and animals around you. We are grateful.  

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 10, 2013 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968) 

Note: Terry Burrows was Secretary of the Class of 1965

Obituary: Marie "Mary" (Smith) Burgess - Class of 1965

McFARLAND - Marie "Mary" Burgus, age 67, of McFarland, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 9, 2014, at her home. Mary was born on Feb. 24, 1947, in Madison, the daughter of Lester A. and Eileen Smith. She graduated from Madison Central High School in 1965. She married Albert Burgus Jr. on Aug. 28, 1965, in Madison. Mary worked at St. Mary's Hospital for many years, retiring in 2012. The most important things in Mary's life were her family and her pets. Mary is survived by her husband, Al; son, James (Jill); brothers, Michael (Carol) Smith and Frank (Lynne) Smith; sister, Patricia (Terry) Sellers; brother-in-law, Joe (Sandy) Burgus; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Virginia and Albert Burgus Sr.; a sister, Susan Smith; and sister-in-law, Mary Mazeika. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5306 Main St., McFarland, at 6 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2014, with Father D. Stephen Smith presiding. A private burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the church from 4 p.m. until the time of the Mass on Monday. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established  

 Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on July 13, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Edward John Muehlemann - Class of 1965

STOUGHTON - Edward John Muehlemann, age 67, of Stoughton, passed away on Friday, Feb. 28, 2014, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on Jan. 22, 1947, in Madison, the son of Werner and Dorothy (Whiting) Muehlemann.

Ed married Diane Davis on June 20, 1970, in Madison. He graduated from Madison Central High School in 1965. He worked for 39 years with the U.S. Postal Service, retiring last year. Ed was active in coaching youth baseball in Stoughton. His coaching philosophy was always "team unity."

Ed is survived by his wife, Diane; a daughter, Tammy Muehlemann of Madison; a son, Scott (Stacy) of Hales Corners; grandchildren, Samantha, Leah, and Ryan; and brother, Fred of Kingman, Ariz. He is preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Chuck Muehlemann.

A Memorial Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON STOUGHTON FUNERAL HOME, 1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., on Thursday, Mar. 6, 2014. Private services will be held in the spring.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 2, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Brian John Conlon - Class of 1965

MADISON - Brian John Conlon [age 67] was born on July 9, 1946, to Lawrence and Elaine Conlon who together, with his brothers, Thomas, Christopher and Russell, raised Brian in a loving and caring family. He passed away on Monday, Feb. 10, 2014. Brian was born with a birth defect that caused him to be mentally challenged his entire life. His parents and brothers were keenly aware of Brian's challenges and fought alongside Brian to be sure he had the same advantages in life that you and I do. Through the tenacious, loving work of his mother and father, Brian was taught how to be a productive individual. Brian graduated from Edgewood Campus School and Central High School in Madison. He graduated from Goodwill Technical School in Milwaukee, where he learned the craft of small appliance repair. When he completed his course, he started a small business in our parents' basement and called it "Brian's Lamp Repair Service". Brian canvased the neighborhood, distributing announcements of his business. His business was so successful that he affectionately "hired" his father to help him keep up with the demand. Further in life, Brian was employed by the United States Armed Forces Institute and the United States Postal Service. After retiring from the Postal Service, Brian worked with his brother, Chris, at Anteco Pharma. Brian was a great "tinkerer." He loved to take things apart just to see how they worked. Getting them back together was another story. He enjoyed woodworking, electronics and music. There was always a great Sinatra or Crosby song in the background at Brian's home. Lawrence Welk was Brian's favorite show when we were growing up, which is why we had to buy a Dodge.

Brian is survived by his two children that he dearly loved until the day of his death, John (Amy) Conlon and their two children, and Judy (Mike) Mueller and their two children. He is also survived by his three brothers, Thomas (Patricia), Christopher (Margaret) and Russell; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Lawrence and Elaine Conlon. Brian had many great, supportive friends that his family would like to thank for being so special to Brian throughout his life.

Brian had many challenges in life, most were met and won, and some were not. He never gave up living life and meeting his challenges. Brian will be remembered by his family and friends as a hardworking, loving, generous and supportive friend. We all love you and miss you Brian. Say hello to Mom and Dad for all of us. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2131 Rowley Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014, with Father Steve Kuhlmann presiding. A visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass on Thursday. Burial will be at Sunset Memory Gardens following lunch.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 12, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Brian Conlon is listed in Madison Board of Education records as a member of the Class of 1965.

Obituary: April J. (Zekas) Johnson - Class of 1965

MADISON - April J. Johnson, age 65, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, April 20, 2012, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was born on May 10, 1946, in Madison, the daughter of John and Dorothy (Verweyst) Zekas. April graduated from Central High School in Madison in 1964. She was united in marriage to James L. Johnson on Dec. 30, 1967, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Madison. April worked for various insurance companies as a unit clerk for 37 years. After retirement, she volunteered at St. John's Lutheran Church and Romes Corner Middle School in Oregon. April is survived by her husband, Jim; daughter, Nicholet J. (Steven) Wagner; son, Carl J. (Ami) Johnson; and grandchildren, Kevin, Kelsey and Carli. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bruce Zekas; and sister, Janis Samuelson. Funeral services will be held at ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 322 E. Washington Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, April 24, 2012, with the Rev. Ken Smith presiding. Private entombment will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., on Monday, April 23, 2012. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John's Emergency Fund. April's family would like to thank Agrace HospiceCare, members of St. John's Lutheran Church, South Madison Rotary Club, and friends and neighbors for all of their care and support. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive

Note:  April Zekas was member of the class of 1965 and is picture amongst the graduating seniors in the 1965 Tychoberahn. The class year in the obituary is incorrect.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 22, 2012 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968).

Obituary: Karen Kowing - Class of 1965

MADISON - Karen L. Kowing passed away Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2011, following complications from a long illness.

She was born in Madison on June 26, 1947, the daughter of the late Richard and Mary (Miller) Kowing. Karen graduated from Central High School and attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she enjoyed playing the clarinet with the University Band. Karen loved kids and was an excellent caregiver to her nieces and nephews.

Karen is survived by two sisters, Mary (Myrl) McCully of Mount Horeb and Jane Marquardt of Madison; two nephews, Chad (Jennifer) Minter of Mount Horeb and Jeffrey (Amanda) Minter of Belleville; three nieces, Karen Reece of Madison, Elizabeth (John) Lemke of Madison and Laura Marquardt of Madison; four great-nephews, Kevin and Zachary Minter of Mount Horeb, and Alexander and Maxwell Lemke of Madison; and two great-nieces, Savanah and Alysa Minter of Belleville.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary (2004); father, Richard (1996); and brother-in-law, Larry (2001).

A private graveside service will be conducted by the Rev. Timothy M. Genin of Chapel Valley Community Church, Madison.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 10, 2011 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968)

Note : Karen Kowing's class year is based on information in the 1965 Tychoberan, where here photograph is included with the members of the senior class.

Obituary: Suzanne Bible Waters - Class of 1965

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLA.- Suzanne Bible Waters died on March 25, 2011, in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., in peace.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Waters; mother, Betty Bible; Nancy Bible and James Bible. Her ashes will be spread in their garden in Rockland, Maine. She would love to have you plant something in your garden in her memory.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 11, 2011

Obituary: John T. Geiger - Class of 1965

SPRING GREEN/MADISON - John T. Geiger, age 64, of Spring Green, passed away at home on Saturday, March 12, 2011, after a long illness.

John was born on Feb. 12, 1947, in Clearwater, Fla. He was united in marriage to Janet Wilke on Aug. 18, 1973. He was a graduate of Central High School in 1965; he also served in the U.S. Army. After graduating from Western Michigan University in 1974, John had a career with American Family Insurance for 37 years.

He was a mentor to many, especially his wife, children and grandchildren. His life revolved around his family and best friends. He had a passion for the outdoors, and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Physical fitness was very important to him. He exercised routinely and encouraged others to do the same.

Survivors are his loving wife, Janet; daughter, Julie (David) Marrou of Livermore, Colo.; son, Jordon Geiger (Stacy) of McFarland; five granddaughters, Taylor, Brooke, Ashlee, Sydney and Taylor; along with several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins; and very special friends, Bill Bissett, Rich DiSalvo, Tim Healy, Jan Hogan, Bruce Meier, David Earll and Cheri Connell, who showed love and support along the way.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jennifer; son, Justin; and mother, Alberta Sue Geiger.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to UW Carbone Cancer Center, Madison and to Susan, Sue, YeVonne and all the caring people at Home Health United Hospice. Your kind and caring ways will always be remembered.

"John, Dad, Papa, Chief, Chico... we will miss you always. As you told us, we'll talk to you down the road."

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., with the Rev. Dean Kirst officiating. Visitation will be at the funeral home from noon until the time of service.

Memorials may be directed to UW Carbone Cancer Center, Attn. Kelly Sitkin, 600 Highland Ave. K4/658, Madison, WI 53792-6164; or Home Health United Hospice, 1111 8th St., Baraboo, WI 53913. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 15, 2011

Obituary: James Douglas Strand - Class of 1965

EVERETT, WASH./MADISON - James Douglas Strand, age 63, passed away, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, after suffering a brain hemorrhage, in Everett, Wash.

He was born in Madison on Aug. 6, 1947, to Herbert Allen James and Myrtle Helen Strand. Jim was a graduate of Central High School (1965) and Madison Area Technical College with a degree in architectural technology. He worked several years using his creative talent for Kitchen Mart in Madison. In 1978, he moved to San Diego, Calif., followed by Prescott, Ariz., working as a licensed general contractor. He was very good at remodeling homes and also built several doctor and dentist offices. His work rarely had to be advertised due to referrals. Jim's home since 1990, has been Everett, Wash., where he continued working as a licensed general contractor, running his own business and spent several of those years working with Fisher Development Inc. as a building superintendent. Some of his projects included the GAP store in downtown Seattle, Wash., as well as many Banana Republic and Old Navy stores all across the country - quite an unmatched talent! Jim will be remembered for his wit, sense of humor and fun loving, outgoing personality. He enjoyed returning to Madison to visit family and friends, especially in the fall when he could attend a Badgers football game.

Jim is survived by his wife and companion of 30 years, Patricia; daughter, Pamela (Dennis) Strand Zerkle; two grandchildren, James (Sheena) and Faith; a great-grandchild, Jackson; his six stepchildren; eight stepgrandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren. Other survivors include a sister, Maureen (Jerry) Syverud of Temecula, Calif.; brother, Gary (Diana) of Madison; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Herbert Frederick Robert.

Jim's wishes were to be cremated. A gathering of family and friends will be held at Main Depot, 627 W. Main St., Madison, on Friday, Oct. 22, 2010, beginning at 4 p.m. If you cannot attend the memorial, condolences may be sent to his daughter, Pamela Strand Zerkle, 514 W. Madison, Waterloo, WI 53594.

"You will remain in our hearts and memories forever.

Originally published on the Wisconsin State Journal on October 17, 2010.

Obituary: James "Jim" Schmitz - Class of 1965

MONONA/ MADISON - James "Jim" Schmitz, age 61, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, May 7, 2008. He was born on Oct. 10, 1946, in Madison, the son of Hubert and Gertrude (Hauser) Schmitz. Jim attended St. Patrick's Elementary School and graduated from Central High School. He served in the U.S. Navy for four years and was abroad the USS Randolph. On Oct. 30, 1982, Jim married Mary A. Munson at St. Patrick's Church in Madison. Jim had several hobbies including playing cards and dice, dancing, hunting, fishing and having a good time with friends and family. He especially loved his nieces and nephews and enjoyed being with them. Jim is survived by his sisters, Carol Connery of Blue Mounds, Sister Mary Schmitz of Madison, Jean Norman of Peoria, Ariz. and Betty (Marvin) Meyers of McFarland; sister-in-law, Alice Schmitz of Waunakee; 14 nieces and nephews; many great-nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; brother, Robert; and brother-in-laws, Maurice Connery and Thomas Norman. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, May 12, 2008, 11 a.m., at ST. DENNIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 413 Dempsey Road, Madison. Father Roger Nilles will officiate the mass. A visitation will be on Sunday, May 11, 2008, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m., at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., Madison. Burial will follow at Highland Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Dennis Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice. Ryan Funeral Home and Cremation Services 2418 N. Sherman Ave. (608) 249-8257.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on May 11, 2008

Obituary: Thomas S. Baron - Class of 1965

MADISON - Thomas S. Baron, age 60, passed away at St. Mary's Hospital on Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007. He was born on Sept. 14, 1947, to Dorothea (Robert) McCarthy and the late Staley Baron. Thomas was a graduate of Central High School in 1965. He is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; children, Cammie (Clay) Templeton, Thomas F (Billee Jo) Baron, Tammy (Jeff) Di Salvo, and Terri (James) Bryd; eight grandchildren; his brothers, Wayne Baron of Charokee, Ala. and James (Carol) Baron of Albany, Wis.; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007, at 1 p.m. at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A visitation will by held at 12 p.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family or charity of your choice. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road, Madison (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 30, 2007

Obituary: Lawrence "Larry" Shapiro - Class of 1965

MADISON - Lawrence "Larry" Shapiro, age 56, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, at home of cancer on Monday July 21, 2003. Larry was born on Oct. 19, 1946, in Madison, the son of Herman and Ann (Robinson) Shapiro. He married Barbara Roth on May 26, 2002. Larry was a lifelong resident of Madison, as were his parents. He graduated from Central High School in 1965 and later obtained a master's of social work degree from the University of Wisconsin. Larry owned and operated Quality Collision Repair and Refinishing for more than 20 years. He was a vibrant and enthusiastic supporter of several community organizations, including the Madison Jewish Community Council, of which he had served as president. His activities reached beyond the Jewish community to organizations such as the Urban League of Madison and Madison AIDS Support Network. He took great pleasure in working to make Madison a better home for all its residents. Larry had boundless love for his family and is survived by his mother, Ann; wife, Barbara Roth; brother Dann (Georgette) of Greenland, N.H.; son, Gabriel (Emily) of St. Paul, Minn.; daughter, Dena of Cleveland, Ohio; nephew, Randy Boss, his wife, Janet, and their son, Luke, of Stevenson Ranch, Calif.; and niece, Danielle Caturano (Jason) of North Reading, Mass. Larry also leaves behind many dearly loved cousins, aunts and an uncle, as well as the many, many friends he so deeply cherished. Larry was preceded in death by his father, Herman. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday July 23, 2003, at 11 a.m. at TEMPLE BETH EL, 2702 Arbor Drive, Madison. Rabbi Jan Brahms will officiate. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the UW-Madison Comprehensive Cancer Center, K4/658 CSC, 600 Highland Ave., Madison, WI 53792-0001; Urban League of Madison, 151 E. Gorham St., Madison, WI 53703; Alzheimer's Association, 517 N. Segoe Road, Suite No. 301, Madison, WI 53705; or the Madison Jewish Community Council, 6434 Enterprise Lane, Madison, WI 53719-1117. Cress Funeral Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on July 22, 2003

Note: This alumni obituary is cross-listed. It was originally published as a post on the Class of 1965 blog. That post has several comments that cannot be transferred to here Click on this link if you wish to read them.