Obituary: Michael N. Meddings - Class of 1968

MADISON - Michael Norris Meddings, age 67, of Madison, passed away on Thursday evening, Sept. 18, 2014, at Agrace HospiceCare, following a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born on Dec. 4, 1947, in Madison, the middle son of William T. and Agnes M. (Lovick) Meddings. He grew up in the Isthmus and graduated from Madison Central High School in 1967. He enlisted in the U.S. Army following high school and served a total of four years on active duty including service in Germany and two tours in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division. While in Vietnam, he was awarded a Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Clusters, (two awards), an Air Medal, and two Army Commendation Medals. He was an active member of VFW Post 8483 and American Legion Post 481. After completing his military service he returned to Madison, attending school for a brief time on the GI Bill before securing employment with the City of Madison Streets Department. He retired from City employment in 2002, but not before acquiring the nickname "Squirrel", a moniker which persisted long after his retirement. He was a friend to all he worked with, a proud Union member, and enjoyed getting together with fellow retirees at numerous "social clubs" on the east side. His true legacy will remain the love and care he provided his mother, whom he visited on a daily basis until her passing in 2011. He is survived by the "love of his life", Jean Robinson of Madison; his canine companions, "PJ", "Gizmo" and "Mr. Pugsly"; brother, William T. (Jillaine) Meddings of Cross Plains; sister, Sonja L. Hildestad of Madison; brother, Mark P. Meddings of Sun Prairie; as well as five nephews, three nieces and a host of friends too numerous to count. He was preceded in death by both parents, a grandnephew and too many of his fellow serving soldiers. Funeral services will be held at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014, at 7 p.m., with pastor Chad Christensen presiding. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 4 p.m. until the time of service. Interment will be with his parents in the mausoleum at Roselawn Memorial Park in Madison. This will be a private service for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Agrace HospiceCare or the Dane County Humane Society. A celebration of Mike's life will be held at a later date at VFW Post 8483. The family would like to thank the staff at University Hospital in Madison and especially the staff at Agrace HospiceCare for their care and compassion. We are blessed to have these wonderful resources here in Madison. Special thanks to dear friends, Jim and Patty Back, who accommodated all of his needs for transportation, love and companionship during the most difficult days of his struggle. "It is strange how one can feel both at the same time. My life, in a physical sense, is truly insignif- icant. As a tiny finite in all mea- sures compared to the infinite, I'm insignificant. At the same time, I can feel significance in be- ing linked to the infinite power, knowledge, love and presence of the Lord. Being personally known by and having interaction with the Creator brings significance. I didn't deserve the status of such significance, I didn't earn it. At best, I simply yielded to a role that I didn't fully understand in life. Understanding that one has a role in something infinite is a source of peace. My physical body felt the effects of age and disease. My mental being was prone to taking leaves of absence. My spiritual being is feeling rather healthier."

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 21, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Note: The graduation year given in the obituary may be incorrect. Mike Meddings is listed as a member of the Class of 1968 in both the Tychoberahn yearbook and the 1968 list of Madison Central High School graduates published in The Capital Times.

Obituary: Jackie L. Matthews - Class of 1968

MADISON - Jackie L. Matthews, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May, 21, 2014. Jackie was born in Madison on March 18, 1950, the daughter of Jacqueline (Dolly) L. Matthews and John J. Matthews. Jackie will be remembered for her love of children, flower and vegetable gardening, cooking, photography, and her artistic talents. She had a heart for those who were less fortunate. She is survived by her son, Carl (CJ) R. Matthews-Barr (Emily); and grandson, Owen Robert; her mother, Jacqueline (Dolly) L. (Jim Mayer); her siblings, Cheri, John, Suzanne (Jim), Mark (Terri) and Todd (Jennifer); along with 10 nieces and nephews and five great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, John J. Matthews; and companion, Carl A. Barr. A private family service will be held to honor Jackie's life. Memorials may be made to The Arc Dane County, 6602 Grand Teton Plz, Madison, WI 53719.

Originally printed in the Wisconsin State Journal on May 28, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Marilyn Friske - Class of 1968

MADISON - Marilyn Friske, age 61, of Madison, passed away on Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at the HospiceCare Center.

She was born on Jan. 14, 1950, in Madison, the daughter of Russell Kenneth and Elizabeth (Hammersley) Friske. Marilyn graduated from Central High School in 1968, then joined the U.S. Air Force, serving for six years during the Vietnam war era. She was very active in Alcoholics Anonymous and was a great mentor to those in need. Marilyn was a drug and alcohol counselor at Rebos House and then the Detox Center. Her most recent job was at Tobacco Outlet in Monona. Marilyn loved softball and was a huge Packers fan.

She is survived by her siblings, Barbara (Bill) Crawford, Sandra Friske, Thomas Friske and Janice Friske; nieces and nephews, Jason, Justin, Chad, Carrie, Nicole and Thomas Jr.; four great-nieces; adopted grandchildren, Lydia and Amelia; and best friend and greatest supporter, Maureen Drunasky. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Patricia Dobie.

On behalf of Marilyn's wishes, no funeral services will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 9, 2011 (submitted by Michale Vahldieck, Class of 1968)

Obituary: James Thomas Keating - Class of 1968

MADISON - Jim was born Jan. 6, 1950, and passed peacefully from this world to the next surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, March 16, 2010, after suffering a second stroke. His first stroke occurred in 1993. For the past 17 years Jim has lived a life of joy and grace while teaching us all how to ignore the obstacles and embrace the pure love of life.

Jim is survived by his longtime loving soul mate of 30 years, David Fischer; Lind Wernick (Mick), Bill Keating, Sherrie Keating, Lori Recker (Rodney); many nieces and nephews; and other family members.

He was preceded in death by parents, Warren and Irene Keating; and brothers, Dennis and Bob.

Jim's wishes were to commemorate his life with a party for family and friends. Please join us at the EDGEWATER HOTEL - RIGADOON ROOM Sunday, April 18, 2010, from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. to honor his request. A few moments of observance will be held at 2:30 p.m.


Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 21, 2010.

Note: The class year for James Thomas Keating was confirmed by his fellow classmates, Debbie Benell and Michael Vahldieck (who submitted the photograph of Jim originally published in the 1968 Tychoberahn).

Obituary: Linda L. "Peachy" (Spatola) Godding - Class of 1968

CROSS PLAINS - Linda L. "Peachy" (Spatola) Godding, age 60, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison. She was born on June 17, 1949, in Madison, the daughter of Joseph and Blondie (Christianson) Spatola. Peachy was united in marriage to Bill Godding on May 17, 1969, in Madison at St. Raphael's Cathedral. She had a variety of interests including fishing, playing cards and video games, but she truly treasured most the time she spent with her family, grandchildren and friends. Linda is survived by her husband, Bill Godding; their children, Tina (Brian) Meier and William (Becky) Godding; four grandchildren, Aaron, Patrick, Baylor and Lindsey; four brothers, Keith (Ramona) Spatola, Ken (Alaine) Spatola, Nick and Chris Spatola; and four sisters-in-law, Ruth (Don) Bongey, Donna (Don) Walter, Yvonne (Bob) Lake and Delores (Darrell) Reynolds. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2947 Thinnes St., Cross Plains at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, with Father Lavern Meier presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the 7th floor staff of St. Mary's Hospital and to Jenny Drake for their loving care given to Peachy. Gunderson Cross Plains Funeral and Cremation Centers 2421 Church St. (608) 798-314

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on January 7, 2010 (submitted by Deborah Benell, Class of 1968)

Obituary: Mae Marie (Musillami) Sweeney - Class of 1968

MADISON - Mae Marie (Musillami) Sweeney passed away on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on Nov. 3, 1950, to Frank and Jean (Delaney) Musillami. She married Thomas Sweeney on April 16, 1977. Mae was a lifelong Madison resident. Her most treasured job was being mother to her three beautiful daughters, and being grandma to her precious granddaughter. Mae was a member of the Italian-American Women's Club of Madison, where she served a number of years as a board member. Mae touched the hearts of many people. We will always remember her for her ability to make people laugh, her kindness and generous heart, and the strength, grace and determination she showed in fighting her terminal illness. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Tom Sweeney and their daughters Shannon, Colleen and Angela Sweeney, and their granddaughter Ashlyn Marie. She is further survived by her mother, Jean Musillami; her brothers, John, Frank Jr. (Marsha), Joseph (Joni Schwenn) and Patrick (Candy McVay); her sister, Debby (Rick) Hillebrand; her sister-in-law, Mary Sweeney; and brother-in-law, John (Sandy) Sweeney. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Musillami Sr.; and her mother and father-in-law, John and Josephine Sweeney. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, Oct. 2, 2009, at 11 a.m. at ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1905 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713. A visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. Our family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to the staff at the UW Hospital Palliative Care Unit and the staff at HospiceCare for their kindness and care.Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 6021 University Ave. (608) 238-8406

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 30, 2009; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Note: Mae graduated from West, but attended Central through 1967. She is pictured as a junior in the 1967 Tychoberahn

Obituary: Patricia E. McGlynn - Class of 1968

SUN PRAIRIE - Patricia E. McGlynn, age 59, of Sun Prairie, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009, at St. Mary's Emergency Center in Sun Prairie. She was born on Feb. 10, 1950, in Colorado Springs, Colo., the daughter of John and Alice (Blanchar) McGlynn. Patricia attended school at Madison Central High School and later graduated from Madison Area Technical College with a clerk typist degree. She then worked for Madison Telco Credit Union. Patricia retired from GTE/ Verizon in May 2008. She taught Sunday school at Bethel Lutheran Church and when she was younger, was a "little angel" in the church choir. Patricia enjoyed get-togethers with her family, especially with her nieces and nephews. She was an avid Badgers hockey and football fan, and would follow the Badgers to their away games. Patricia was known as "Little Badger." She also was a Big Brother and Big Sister. Patricia is survived by her mother, Alice Hanson of Madison; half-brother, Gary Smith of Arizona; sisters, Margaret Turner of Nevada and Karen (Patrick) Lambert of Madison; brothers, Alan (Deedee) Hanson and Kevin Hanson, both of Madison; nephews, John and Jacob Hanson and Michael Lambert; and a niece, Amanda Wagner. She leaves behind many relatives, friends and co-workers. Patricia was preceded in death by her stepfather, Odin Hanson; a niece, Jordan Alice Hanson; and grandparents, Leila and Roy Blanchar. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 31, 2009, with the Rev. John Swanson presiding. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the time of the service. Inurnment will be held at Windsor Cemetery at a later date. A special thanks to the Sun Prairie EMTs and the staff at St. Mary's Emergency Center. Also, a special thanks to Linnae Pope, for being there with Patricia during her final moments. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 29, 2009

Patricia E. McGlynn's class year is based on information provided by Michael Vahldieck (Class 0f 1968)

Obituary: Doon Nging "Joe" Chow - Class of 1968

FREEPORT, ILL. - Doon Nging “Joe” Chow, 58, of Freeport, died Friday, Oct. 17, 2008, as a result of a motorcycle accident.

He was born on April 30, 1950, in Guangdong Province, China, the son of Don Ting Chow and Heng Hoy Lau.

Mr. Chow graduated from Central University High School in Madison, Wis., in 1968. He later graduated from Madison Business College in 1972 with a degree in business administration.

For 25 years he owned and operated Twin Dragons Restaurant in Freeport and was currently working at Swiss Colony in Monroe, Wis.

He married Karen King on May 27, 1979, in Freeport.

Joe attended Crossroads Community Church.

He immigrated to the United States at the age of 12.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Chow of Freeport; his mother, Heng Hoy Chow of Chicago; two sons, Chadwick Chow of Washington, D.C., and David Chow of Freeport; one daughter, Michelle Chow of Pueblo, Colo.; two brothers and three sisters; and one grandson, Jaidin Martz.

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at Crossroads Community Church. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home.

A memorial fund has been established in his memory.

Originally published in The Journal-Standard (Freeport, Illinois) on October 21, 2008.

Obituary: Jill Ann Schiro Jamison - Class of 1968

WINNETKA, ILL./MADISON - Jill Ann Schiro Jamison, age 57, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2008, at Midwest Palliative and Hospice Care in Winnetka, Ill. Born and raised in Madison, Jill was a longtime resident. In 1979, she met and married Scott Jamison, also of Madison, and moved to Lexington, Kentucky to share their love of horses. In Lexington, both Jill and Scott worked at the fabled Spendthrift Farms. Jill's fondest memories from that period were of watching the foals romping with their mothers in the morning mist. In 1981 the couple's daughter Tyler was born. The family moved back to Wisconsin to start a horse farm on the Jamison country homestead in Muscoda, where their son Sean was born in 1984. During this time, they were owners in a racehorse, Hurdy Gurdy Man, trained by Wayne Lucas, and often raced by the renowned jockey, Angel Cordera. When Scott was offered a job as marketing manager for a thoroughbred track in Oklahoma, the family followed him there. Eventually, they returned to the Midwest, and resided in Winnetka, Illinois where Jill thoroughly enjoyed the role of wife and mother. Not ready to become an empty nester, when the children went off to college so did Jill, becoming house mother to the Delta-Delta-Delta sorority on Langdon Street, commuting between Madison and Winnetka. In those days, it was easy to find the "Tri Delt" house; the one with the spotless front yard. Jill worked tirelessly on that house, planting flowers, keeping greenery in front door pots, and making sure the girls all felt pride in their home away from home. The overarching theme of Jill's life was that of mother. She took immense pride in her role. Mother to her two wonderful children, Tyler and Sean. Mother to the foals she brought into the world. Mother to her sorority "daughters." Mother to her pets, Kodie and Spencer. Mother to her numerous nieces and nephews who have learned to care for others as she cared for them. During her illness, Jill became mother to herself balancing traditional and alternative treatments in her own way. She impressed dozens of healthcare workers of all disciplines with her tireless dedication to her health, nutrition and mind-body work. And they routinely went out of their way to help her on her journey. Jill is survived by her husband, Scott; her children, Tyler and Sean; her mother, Audrey Yost; her sisters, Jan (Schiro) Bawden and Carrie Schiro; and her brothers, Paul Schiro and Brian Schiro, and their families. She is preceded in death by her father, Damian. The family extends a grateful thank you to Jill's hospice team, Jan, Margaret, and Dr. Katz, and the entire staff of Midwest Palliative and Hospice Care, and Jill's spiritual guide, Bonnie Speno of Northshore Healing, who helped fill Jill's journey with dignity and grace. A lifelong lover of animals, Jill had suggested that memorials be made to the ASPCA at www.aspca.org.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 5, 2008; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: James C. Ranzen - Class of 1968

MADISON - James C. Ranzen, age 57, of Madison, died on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2007, as a result of a house fire. He was born on Aug. 7, 1950, in Madison, the beloved son of Sven E. and Betty (Goodkind) Ranzen. Survivors include his mother, Betty; a brother, Sven Eric "Butch" (Jeanine) Ranzen Jr.; and nieces, Kelly, Brenna and Amy Ranzen. He was preceded in death by his father. A memorial service will be held at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., on Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, at noon. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 11 a.m. until time of the service. The Rev. Mary Pharmer will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Aldo Leopold Nature Center. Ryan Funeral Home and Cremation Services 2418 N. Sherman Ave. (608) 249-8257

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on January 3, 2008

Note: James Ranzen's class year is based on information in the 1967 Tychoberahn, where he is listed as a junior.

Obituary: Nichola "Nikki" (Masino) Johnson - Class of 1968

MADISON - Nichola "Nikki" Johnson, age 57, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2007, at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg. Nikki was born on Aug. 28, 1950, in Madison, to parents Joseph and Vi Masino. She graduated from Central High School in 1968. On July 26, 1969, she married her high school sweetheart, Dave Johnson. Nikki worked at the University Hospital and loved gardening, sewing and quilt making. She is survived by her husband, Dave Johnson of Madison; children, Renee (Rick) Hart of Janesville, Chris Johnson of Edgerton, Brian Johnson of Wonewoc and Lora Johnson of Sun Prairie; nine grandchildren; parents, Joseph and Vi Masino; sisters, Mary (Bill) Becker of Golden, Colo., Gina (Mike Halvorsen) Masino of Madison and Leslie Vanko of Middleton; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2007, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, with a visitation held one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the HospiceCare Foundation Inc., 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. A special thanks to the entire staff at HospiceCare, especially Tommye, for their love and care. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Obituary: Cassandra "Candy" (Johnson) Sorenson - Class of 1968

MOAB, UTAH - Cassandra "Candy" (Johnson) Sorensen, age 57, passed away at her Utah home, Saturday, June 9, 2007. She was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip and Edith Johnson and her brother, Philip Lee Johnson. She leaves behind her husband, Joe Sorensen; a sister, Debbie Johnson; a brother, Russ Johnson; her three sons, Jeff, Jody and Danny Vultaggio; and eight grandchildren. She cherished her family and friends. Cass loved the outdoors and worked in many different parts of the country from Florida to Hawaii, Arizona to Oregon. She was no stranger to hard work. She cold take apart and fix almost anything. She was quick to laugh, always had a project going and spoke her mind all the way to the end. As per Cass' wishes, there will be no memorial service.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on July 1, 2007

Note: Cassandra (Johnson) Sorenson's class year is based on information provided by Tom Jordee

Obituary: Linda Mary Maloney - Class of 1968

MADISON - Linda Mary Maloney passed away on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2006. She was a quilt maker for many years. Linda had a gift with fabrics, and was able to take small scraps of material and make them into beautiful quilts. She learned the craft from her grandmother. Linda was also very involved with the music scene in Madison for many years, writing music and cultural articles for local papers in the Madison area, namely The Isthmus. One of the highlights of her life was getting tickets to see Otis Redding for his Madison concert on Dec. 10, 1967. Linda attended Madison Central High School, graduating in 1969. She then went on to study journalism at Madison Area Technical College. Linda also embraced the Native American culture, and that became a large part of her life. Her native name was "Standing Woman that Sees Spirits", and she also served as a pipe carrier. Linda was also active in the local Native American community. She is survived by her daughter, Sara E. Linde of Seattle, Wash.; sisters, Susan A. Maloney of Exton, Pa., and Mary B. (Michael) Souza of East Windsor, N.J.; a brother, Steven R. (Diane) Maloney of Evansville; as well as many nieces and nephews. Linda is also survived by a special friend, Arthur Robert Longbohn of Madison. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert C. Maloney and mother, Margaret M. Maloney; and also her grandparents. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 1 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 29, 2006, followed by a service of remembrance at 2 p.m. The family would like to thank the staff at HospiceCare Inc., the doctors and nurses at UW Hospital and the liver transplant team, her many Native friends who were with her to help with her departure from this earth to her new home, and also to Aunt Lonnie. Linda was loved, and will be missed by all. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on December 28, 2006

Page from the 1968 Tychoberahn showing Mary Maloney as a senior

Obituary: Samuel Thomas "Tom" Beld - Class of 1968

MADISON - Samuel Thomas "Tom" Beld, age 56, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2006. He was born on Aug. 12, 1950, in Madison, the son of George and Rachel Beld. Tom graduated from Central High School, with the class of 1968. He owned Beld Roofing in Madison. Tom enjoyed kayaking, canoeing, bowling, helping others, traveling, especially to Mexico, and socializing with family and friends. He is survived by his mother, Rachel Smith of Madison; two children, Matt Beld and Christina Beld both of Madison; and their mother, Peggy Beld of McFarland; two grandchildren, Diamond and Darius Washington; a brother, Jeff (Denise) Beld of Santa Cruz, Calif.; a sister, Janice (Lucas) Piper of Oregon; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Tom was preceded in death by his father, George; step-father, Fred Smith; and a brother, Gary Beld. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 2 p.m., on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2006. Visitation will be at the funeral home from noon until the time of the service on Sunday. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on December 7, 2006

Obituary: John J. "Jack" Fasel - Class of 1968

MADISON - John J. "Jack" Fasel, age 57, of Madison, passed away on Monday, Oct. 2, 2006. He was born on July 26, 1949, in Madison, to Leo and Angeline (Donagrico) Fasel. John graduated from Madison Central High School. He served in the U.S. Navy. John enjoyed collages and motorcycles. He is survived by his mother, Angeline Mason of Madison; a sister, Angela (Robert) Federman of Madison; two brothers, James Mason of Louisville, Ky., and Fred Fasel of Austin, Texas; an aunt, Nina Oros of Madison; two nephews; three nieces; three cousins; and other relatives and friends. John was preceded in death by his father. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 1 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 6, 2006. Visitation will be at the funeral home from noon until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in John's name, for a fund to be established for those suffering from mental illness. A special thank you to Offshore Group Home, Dane County Mental Health, and his case manager, for the care and support they have shown John. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 4, 2006

Note: Jack Fasel's class year is based on information in the 1967 and 1968 Tychoberahns. Thanks to Will Elmendorf (Class of 1967) and Tom Jordee (Class of 1968) for contributing this information.

Obituary: Thomas J. Masino - Class of 1968

MADISON - Thomas J. Masino, age 56, passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2006, at home, surrounded by his loving family. In November 2005, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Tom faced his illness courageously, undergoing surgery and treatment. Throughout his life, including during his brief illness, Tom always put his family and friends before himself. Tom was born on Jan. 7, 1950, to George Masino and Lou Ann (Brewer) Hultgren. He attended Central High School where he met the love of his life, the former Mary Maloney. They were united in marriage on May 22, 1969, and had two children, Cheryl and Laura Masino. On May 26, 1994, his pride and joy, granddaughter, Ashley was born. This was the proudest moment in his life. His famous words to her were, "I love you very much." Tom's chosen career was law enforcement, serving in Mineral Point, New Glarus, Blanchardville and the Iowa County Sheriff's Office. After many years, he decided to change careers and became the Operations Manager at the Iowa County Memorial Hospital. Shortly after he began working at the hospital, he realized his true passion and returned to serving the community. On July 5, 1987, he was hired as a Communicator in Dane County. Tom was promoted to Supervisor in 1995, and retired on April 1, 2006. Tom was a volunteer on the Town of Madison Fire Department in the early 70s and was a certified EMT. Tom also served as the Union President for AFSCME Local 720, Dane County Employees, before being promoted to supervisor. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Mary; daughters, Cheryl (Calvin) and Laura (Daniel); granddaughter, Ashley; and granddogs, Pooh Bear and Tito, all of Madison. He is further survived by his mother and step-father, Lou Ann and Allan Hultgren of Fitchburg; his father and step-mother, George and Karen Masino of Temecula, Calif.; siblings, Steven, Mary Ann, John, Jeff, Lisa, Michael and Christopher; and numerous other relatives and special friends. Tom was preceded in death by an infant brother, Robert. He had an effect on everyone he came in contact with and has left an emptiness in all of our hearts. He was the best at everything he did and he always did things his way. A memorial service celebrating Tom's life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 1, 2006. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Tom, we will never say goodbye. You will be with us forever in our hearts. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 30, 2006

Note: Thomas Masino's photo appears as a sophomore in the 1966 Tychoberahn and a junior in the 1967 Tychoberahn, so his class year is probably 1968. Information about the yearbook photos was provided by Sidney Iwanter (Class of 1967).

Obituary: Shelley A. (Harris) Nolte - Class of 1968

JEFFERSON/MADISON - Shelly A. Nolte (nee Harris), age 41, of 242 East Ogden Street, Jefferson, died on Monday, November 2, 1992 at University Hospital. She was born on December 17, 195o in Washington, D.C., the daughter of Bernard and Anita Harris. She was graduated from Madison Central High School and Edgewood College. Shelley was employed with Ameritech, in Brookfield. Survivors include her husband, Fridtjof; her father, Bernard (Susan) Harris of Madison; two brothers, Mark (Katherine) Harris on Tinton Falls, New Jersey and David Harris of Madison; a sister, Susan Harris of Madison; two stepsisters, Laura Burns and Erin Burns of Madison; a sister-in-law, Mary Boss of Madison; and two nieces, Laura Harris Boss and Madeline Harris. She was preceded in death by her mother, Anita Harris. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 4, 1992 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, with Rabbi Mose Re'em officiating. Burial took place at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on November 5, 1992