Obituary: Mollie Mary (Esser) Blied - Class of 1913

MADISON - Mollie Mary Blied, age 106, died Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at Meriter Hospital. One of eight children, she was born Mollie Esser in 1894 in Ashton, Wisconsin.And then, over the course of 106 years and three centuries, Mollie lived a wonderful lifeand touched many people. After graduating from Madison Central High School, Mollie took a job at UW and later worked at the Capitol in the public property office. She married Gregory Blied in 1917 and together they worked at the family business, Blied Printers in Madison. They had two children, Doris and Gregory; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. They were married until Gregory passed away in 1943. During their marriage and after his death, Mollie embraced life and all that it had to offer. Her hobbies raised countless eyebrows: bridge, bingo, poker, bowling, and choir, of course, but those are the simple ones. Hockey, one-armed bandits, Friday fish frys, Frivolous Fawn, our loving friends at Sylvan Crossings, Blackhawk, train and boat rides, travel, champagne brunches, Nitty Gritty lunches, Baileys. Las Vegas, softball in Cross Plains, Badgers football at Camp Randall, tailgating, kisses from Bucky, parking cars at Van Hise, sunsets on the Florida beach, Jacuzzis, massages, Y2K at the Orange Bowl in Miami; these are the hobbies we all loved to do with her and she loved to remember. And all but three were in the last two years. Everywhere she went, and every person she touched, left the experience better for it. And from the inner circle, and with the customary respect, “we rub your bottom.” And in the end, it seems fitting to pass along her longtime philosophy: “Keep breathing.” And that philosophy took her through three centuries, 19 presidents, the dawn of electricity, automobiles, aviation, the Internet and space; overall, a road not traveled by many. Godspeed to you, Mollie Blied, from those you touched. Thanks for the memories. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 22, 2000 at ST RAPHAEL’S CATHEDRAL in Madison. Expressions of sympathy are being accepted and appreciated in Mollie’s name by the East Madison/Monona Coalition of the Aging, Inc., 4644 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, WI 53716, which works closely with elder care.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on December 20, 2000

Note: Mollie Mary Blied's class year is based on information in Tychoberahn yearbooks

Obituary: Delores Y. (Hanson) Raimond - Class of 1947

STOUGHTON [Wisconsin] - Delores Y. Raimond, age 71, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Monday, December 4, 2000. Delores was born on April 7, 1929, in Madison, the daughter of Clarence and Dorothy (Elligan) Hanson. She was a 1947 graduate of Madison Central High School. Delores worked for many years at Josie's Three Sisters restaurant in Madison, and later at the Nazareth House in Stoughton. Survivors include two sons, John (Fran) Raimond of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Chris Raimond of Sun Prairie; two daughters, Linda (Bill) Brimmer of Lodi, and Diana Raimond of Aurora, Illinois; three grandchildren, Andrea Saari, Jamie (Tim) Heitz and Lisa Brimmer, all of Lodi; two great-grandchildren, Karlie and Ashley Saari, both of Lodi; stepfather, Angelo Catalino of Madison; and special friends, the Hestnes family, Steve, Cheri, Scott and Alice. She was preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service will be held at ST. ANN'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 323 VanBuren St., Stoughton, on Friday, December 8, 2000, at 11:00 a.m. Father Healy will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Nazareth House in Stoughton. Ryan Funeral Home 2418 N. Sherman Ave. (608) 249-8257

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on December 7, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Howard R. Fish, Jr. - Class of 1938

NEW GLARUS [Wisconsin] - Howard R. Fish Jr., age 79, passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2000, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, after a long illness. He was born January 9, 1921, in Madison, the son of Howard R. and Alma (Roump) Fish. He married Barbara Wootton on June 1, 1944, in Madison. He graduated from Madison Central High School in 1938 and from the University of Wisconsin with a B.S. in electrical engineering in 1947. He was commissioned a second lieutenant from UW ROTC in June 1942 and served with the U.S. Army Air Corps in the Southwest Pacific. From 1942 until 1944 he was a radar and communications officer with heavy bomber squadrons. From 1944 until 1946 he served as airborne radar officer with the Air Technical Service Command. He served in the Air Force Reserve until 1966, when he retired as a lieutenant colonel. He spent his professional career as an electronics engineer at the Argonne National Laboratory of the United States Atomic Energy Commission, Argonne, Illinois. After retirement, he returned to Wisconsin. Throughout his life, Howard generously volunteered his time and talents to a number of organizations, particularly Recording for the Blind, Orland Park, Illinois, the Boy Scouts of America in Palos Heights, Illinois, and Orfordville Wisconsin, and the Community Center Foundation in Palos Park, Illinois. He was a member of the American Legion and a volunteer at the Veterans Hospital in Madison for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapshooting and, later in life, his cottage in northern Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; two children, Martha (Paul Fuchs), Belleville, Wisconsin, and Robert (Claire Charney), Seattle, Washington; and two granddaughters, Lisa and Rebecca. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Doris. A memorial service with military honors will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2000, at 11:00 a.m. at NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME in Orfordville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, IL 60464.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on December 1, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Scot M. Tappen - Class of 1967

MADISON [Wisconsin] - Scot M. Tappen passed in to the everlasting arms of his savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, November 28, 2000, following a long illness. Scot was born in Madison, Wisconsin, on July 1, 1948, to John R. Tappen and Evelyn (Kluge) Tappen. Scot graduated from Madison Central High School in 1967, and entered the Air Force shortly thereafter. While on active duty as a fighter aircraft electronics technician, he was stationed in Thailand and South Vietnam, and brought home a love for these southeast Asian cultures when he was honorably discharged in 1971. Scot worked for Grant Electronics of Madison for a time, and then at the Madison post office before retiring in 1999. He enjoyed wind surfing, deer hunting and cruising on his recumbent bicycle. Scot attended and was baptized at Grace Baptist Church in Madison, where he put his talents and skills at electronics to work for his Lord. Survivors include his parents, John and Evelyn Tappen of Mount Home, Arkansas; brothers, Craig (Kathey Riggs) Tappen of Redding, California, and Jay (Jane Manion) Tappen of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; sisters, Gail Tappen and Emily Capicik, both of Madison; nieces, Amy Tappen and Jesslyn Capicik; and nephews, Aaron Tappen and Jiri Capicik. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Arthur G. and Hester Tappen of Madison, and Arthur and Amy Kluge of Minong, Wisconsin; his uncle, Dr. David Noll of Verona, Wisconsin; his aunt, Judy (Kluge) Ryan of Dayton, Ohio; and his cousins, Barbara Gonstead of Beloit, Wisconsin, Guy Beardsley of McAllen, Texas, and James Tappen of Buhl, Idaho. A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, on Saturday, December 2, 2000, at 10:35 a.m., with Pastor Dean Howell of Grace Baptist Church presiding. Family and friends are invited to attend. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Baptist Church. The family wants to thank all of those who helped and loved Scot throughout his life. Scot will always be remembered for his gentleness and kind spirit, and his great love of animals and the outdoors.


Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on November 30, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Charles Addison Peckham

FRIESLAND [Wisconsin] - Charles Addison Peckham, age 80, of Friesland, died Monday morning, November 27, 2000, at Columbus Community Hospital. Charles was born in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, on April 14, 1920, the son of David Ray and Clara (Fehrman) Peckham. He was a graduate of Madison Central High School. He attended UW-Madison for two years in physical medicine and later graduated from Madison Area Technical College with a major in accounting and office management, and a minor in data processing. Charles joined the U.S. Army in World War II and became a technical sergeant in the Medical Corps, and later was a volunteer for detached duty and was transferred to serve with the paratroopers and special forces. He was engaged in battles in North Africa, Sicily, Anzio, Salerno, Omaha Beach, the Battle of the Bulge and in Desert Storm. Charles was honorably discharged from the Army and held various accounting positions in the Madison area. He was a 17th ward alderman for the city of Madison from 1953 until 1955, was a justice of the peace, was foreman for Badger Ordinance Works, and in 1953 became general foreman for the Joliet Arsenal in Joliet, Illinois. In 1969 he was certified by IBM as a computer programmer and has worked as auditor for the State Medical Society of Wisconsin and as a senior auditor for Olin Industries' Badger Ordinance Works. While Charles was working as a custodian of Madison East High School in 1976, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. After three years of treatment and in remission, Charles became involved in founding the state chapter Living With Cancer. In the years of 1980 until 1984, he became a registered master gardner through the UW-Extension division. Charles was a member of the Bricklayers Union (AFL-CIO) serving as secretary for their arbitration committee and in 1976 was president of Local No. 60 of Madison Municipal Works Union, past associate member of the National Archives in Washington, D.C., past commander of the Madison Chapter of Disabled American Veteran's Veterans, brigadier of the United States Veterans Assembly, legislative director for the Wisconsin Veteran's Council, and past president of the Allied Veteran Council of Dane County. On September 12, 1992, Charles was united in marriage to Lorraine E. Bobholz at Trinity Lutheran Church in Friesland. Together they made Friesland their home for the last eight years. Since his marriage, Charles was a member of John E. Miller American Legion Post No. 146 of Beaver Dam and a faithful member to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Friesland. Survivors include his wife, Lorraine of Friesland; three sons, John, Stephen and David; a daughter, Ann; two grandsons; a granddaughter; a step-granddaughter; two sisters, Yvonne (James) Thompson of North Leeds, and Shirley Johnson of Reynoldsburg, Ohio; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Charles was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and four sisters. Memorial services will be held on Friday, December 1, 2000, at 11:00 a.m. from TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH in Friesland, with Pastor John Unnasch officiating. Burial of cremains will follow in Friesland Cemetery. Family and friends may call on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH in Friesland. Kratz-Smedema Funeral Home in Cambria is serving the family.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on November 30, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Tina Nania

WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA - Tina Nania, age 82, passed away on Wednesday, November 8, 2000, at John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek, California. Tina was born to Joseph and Gaetana Nania on August 6, 1918, in Madison, Wisconsin. After graduating from Madison Central High School, Tina enrolled at the University of Wisconsin, where she earned a B.A. degree in education. She worked as a secretary in the legal department for Badger Ordinance proof reading government contracts during World War II. After the war she made her residence in Berkeley, California. She earned a master's degree in library science at the University of California at Berkeley. Tina was employed as a librarian in the legal department of the law library at Berkeley until her retirement. Surviving are her sisters, Stephena N. Frederick, Janesville, Wisconsin, and Ann Nania, River Forest, Illinois. Further survivors include her nephews, Jeff Nania, Madison, Dr. James Nania, Spokane, Washington, Joel Nania, Spokane, Jay Nania, Houston, Texas, George Frederick, Carol Stream, Illinois, and Joe Nania, Mishawaka, Indiana. Surviving nieces include Arra Lasse, Janesville, and Becky Kitta, Mishawaka, Indiana. Tina was preceded in death by her parents; and her brothers, Dr. James Nania, Ernest Nania and Corporal John Nania. Mass will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 13, 2000, in ST. JAMES CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1128 St. James Court, Madison. There will not be a visitation. The family wishes to thank all of Tina's friends who extended their generous help during her latest illness. Cress Funeral Service (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on November 11, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Frank S. Custer - Class of 1931

MADISON - Frank Stanley Custer, age 88, ended his brave battle with cancer on Saturday, October 28, 2000. He passed away peacefully, attended by his children, at the Don and Marilyn Anderson HospiceCare Center. Frank was born on July 16, 1912, in Madison. He was the first of five children, and shared his birthday with his identical twin brother, Rudy, of Atlanta, Georgia. Frank is survived by his wife, Selma of Stoughton; his children, Deborah (Tom Sykes) Custer of Columbia, Maryland; Wendy (Mike) Kornell of Stoughton, William of Madison, and Jill (Tom) Hietpas of Madison; and six grandchildren. Frank is also survived by his brother, Rudy; and sisters, Joy Dakin of Dallas, Oregon, and Maya Olsen of Banks, Oregon. Frank was a graduate of Madison's Central High School and UW-Madison. During his high school and college years he was a cheerleader for their football and basketball teams. As one of the famous "Custer twins," he led energetic cheers and acrobatic routines, revving up the crowds on a regular basis. He turned cartwheels on the football field during UW Homecoming games throughout his adult life, until the mid 1990s. After college, Frank served as personal secretary to the founder of The Capital Times, William T. Evjue, before enlisting in the United States Army on June 18, 1942. He was very proud of his service overseas in various World War II battles, including Normandy and Ardennes. Following the war, Frank returned to the states. After a brief respite in southern California, he returned to Madison and The Capital Times, beginning an eventful career as a newspaper reporter. Frank married Selma Iylland on June 25, 1949. A veteran reporter of The Capital Times, Frank was the author of the popular "Looking Backward" column, in addition to covering the police run and writing a variety of feature articles. Frank thrived at the newspaper, loving every minute. Frank had a deep love for Madison and a passion for its colorful history. As a walking encyclopedia of Madison history, Frank became a respected Madison historian. This led him to develop popular lectures and slide shows which he presented to organizations and schools around the area. He also acted as a guide on bus and talking tours, taught Madison mini-courses at the UW-Madison, and wrote Madison history articles for Madison Magazine and In Business. In addition to his professional activities, his tireless energy was funneled into community involvement such as PTA president, Sunday school teacher, and credit union director. He was a dedicated, enthusiastic Chicago Bears fan. Frank loved music, art and nature. He was a voracious reader and treasured his books. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn Custer and Maya Custer; and his brother, Dr. Glen Stanley Custer. Family and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, November 1, 2000 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. The funeral will be on Thursday, Novermber 2, 2000 at 11:00 a.m. at ADVENT LUTHERAN CHURCH, 7118 Old Sauk Road, Madison. Friends may call on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Frank's memory to the Don and Marilyn Anderson HospiceCare Center, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. William Rock, nurses and assistants, and all those who have made such wonderful, compassionate care available through the HospiceCare Center. They allowed our father a loving and peaceful passing on to God's arms. Frank was a beloved husband and heroic father who lived to its fullest and had a smile for everyone. He cherished his family and never let them forget it. His love, quick wit and high energy will continue to be an inspiration to his family.

Originally published in The Capital Times on October 31, 2000

Note: Frank Custer's graduation year is based on information in a June 5, 1931 article in the Wisconsin State Journal listing the Central High School graduates.

Obituary: Barbara Ellen (Fuss) Casey - Class of 1962

MADISON [Wisconsin] Barbara Ellen Casey, age 56, of Madison, died Sunday, October 29, 2000 at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg following an extended illness. She was born June 4, 1944 in Madison, the daughter of Alfred and Jeanette (Wirth) Fuss. She graduated from Madison Central High School in 1962. She worked for over 10 years for Equifax as a customer service representative. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and family. She enjoyed reading, traveling, and shopping, and was an avid QVC cardholder. She was preceded in death by her longtime companion, Don Hensen; two brothers, Jack and Russ Fuss; and Don's daughter, Kristi Hensen. She is survived by a son, John Casey of Madison; Don's children, Tom and Jill Hensen; two grandchildren, Noah Casey and Kailyn Hensen; a sister, Caroline (Al) Siclovan of Evansville; a brother Ed (Andrea) Fuss of Madison; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at the JOYCE-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 5701 Odana Road, on Tuesday October 31, 2000 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, Madison. Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for an education fund to be established for her grandson Noah, or to HospiceCare, Inc. Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home 5701 Odana Road 608-274-1000

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 30, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Margaret Rosebud (Rogers) Johnson - Class of 1967

MADISON - Margaret Rosebud Johnson (Rogers) [age 50] departed from the earth on Saturday, October 21, 2000, following a brief illness. Born in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, on January 23, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Anna and LeRoy Rogers. She was raised on the South Side of Madison and enjoyed a very active life, being involved with summer theater through the park system and numerous extracurricular activities at the South Madison Neighborhood Center and the Blessed Martin House. She attended Franklin Elementary School. A 1967 graduate of Central University High School, she was a member of the marching band and orchestra. Along with three other friends, she was a member of a singing group called the Hot Cha's (Central’s Little Supremes). In 1972, she graduated as a registered nurse from the Methodist Hospital Nursing School. She worked many years as a psychiatric nurse for Methodist Hospital and the Mental Health Center of Dane County. Later she became the Customer Service supervisor for the Wisconsin Education Association Insurance Trust. She surprised many by retiring a few years ago. But she couldn’t stay retired, and started her own business, MJ Legal Nurse Consulting. Margaret, also fondly known as “Sister,” is remembered as a loving, giving, caring person who was good at keeping secrets. One friend commented, “She was always there when you needed her.” She was a doting mother and grandmother. In recent years, she had also become a collector of assorted dolls. Although raised in the St. Paul A.M.E. Church, she later affiliated with Mount Zion Baptist Church. She is survived by four sons, Andre Johnson Sr. (Kristin), William Miller, Jamah Johnson (Jessica) and LiArri Johnson; three grandchildren, Andre Jr., Lenai and Jamah LeAndre; a sister, Margaret Mae Brown; three brothers, Bart Rogers, Leroy Rogers and George Rogers; beloved nieces and nephews, cousins, and numerous close friends. The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Margaret R. Johnson Scholarship Fund. A memorial service will be at noon on Saturday, October 28, 2000, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3810 Speedway Rood, Madison. Friends may greet the family from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. The "SISTER” with a sweet spirit.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 24, 2000. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Hawley LaVerne Butler - Class of 1948

MADISON [Wisconsin] - Hawley LaVerne Butler, age 70, died on Sunday, October 22, 2000. He was born on January 7, 1930, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, to LaVerne and Margaret (Kreisch) Butler. Hawley graduated from Madison Central High School in 1948. He enlisted in the Navy during the Korean conflict. Hawley married Josephine Stankiewicz on January 23, 1954, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. He worked for Dairy Equipment for 31 years and Alkar for 10 years. Hawley is survived by his wife, Josephine of Madison; his son, Mark Butler of Madison; two daughters, Susan (Eric) Tenjum of DeForest, and Holly (Henry) Busch of Madison; four grandchildren, Amanda and Kimberly Tenjum, and Kyle and Amy Busch; five brothers and sisters, and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. DENNIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 505 Dempsey Road, Madison, at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 25, 2000, with Father Jason Hesseling presiding. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Friends may call at the church from noon until the time of the service on Wednesday. Hawley was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and will be deeply missed.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 24, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Eugenia Elizabeth Rudd Meinke

MADISON [Wisconsin] - Eugenia Elizabeth Rudd Meinke, age 94, died at Hebron Hall, Oakwood Village, on Monday, September 25, 2000. She was born on June 11, 1906, in Madison, the daughter of Fred and Christine (Dolfin) Rudd. She graduated from Madison Central High School, and in 1925 married Alfred J. Meinke, who predeceased her. Survivors include her son, Robert Meinke of Short Hills, New Jersey; a daughter, Mrs. Nancy Koch of Afton, Minnesota; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A private funeral service will be held, with burial to follow in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. Cress Funeral Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 27, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Marjorie (Neller) Greenwald

MOUNT HOREB [Wisconsin] - Marjorie Greenwald, age 95, of Mt. Horeb died on September 21, 2000, at Meriter Hospital in Madison. Marjorie Greenwald was born June 6, 1905, at Appleton, Wisconsin to John and Ina (Briggs) Neller. She was baptized at the First Congregational Church in that city. Marjorie attended Lawrence University and graduated from the Chicago Art Institute. Following graduation she taught in the art department at Madison's Central High School. On May 30, 1930, she married Alton T. Peterson and together they made their home on Willow Valley Farm near Daleyville. Two sons, Robert (Kay) Peterson of Milan, Italy and Theodore, who died at birth and one daughter, Kristin (James) Brue of this area were born to the couple. Alton died in November of 1935. Marjorie, with her two children, continued living at Willow Valley. In January of 1947 she married Curtis P. Greenwald. Marjorie and Curtis are the parents of John (Glenna) Greenwald of Cleveland, Ohio. In 1976, after the sale of the farm, the Greenwalds purchased a home on Blue View Drive in Mt. Horeb. Curtis died in 1982. Marjorie was a talented artist, avid reader, and loved to play Scrabble. She was an active member of Perry Lutheran Church and its Dorcas Circle. Other interests included the Senior Art Group and the Mt. Horeb Historical Society. Besides Alton and Curtis, her son, Theodore, and parents, Marjorie was preceded in death by three bothers, Donald, who died at four months, Richard (Virginia) Neller of Neenah, and Robert (Alvina) Neller of Appleton. Marjorie is survived by her children; three grandchildren, Bill (Diane) Brue of Stoughton, Dan (Marcia) Brue of Daleyville, and Nancy Brue (Dr. Stephen) Penaskovic of Spokane, Washington. Also surviving are six great-grandchildren, Sarah, Nathan, Laura, and James Brue, and Catherine and Amy Penaskovic; one brother, Dr. James (Patsy) Neller of San Diego, California; and a brother-in-law, Dr. James (Shirley) Greenwald of Fitchburg. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 24, 2000, at PERRY LUTHERAN CHURCH in Daleyville. Visitation from 1:00 p.m. until time of service on Sunday at Perry Lutheran Church with Pastor Jonathon Kosec officiating. A coffee hour will follow the committal service. ELLESTAD FUNERAL HOME, 500 N. 8th Street, Mt. Horeb is serving the family.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 22, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: David Lee Loniello - Class of 1960

MADISON [Wisconsin] - David Lee Loniello, age 58, lifelong Madison resident, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 3, 2000. He was born on April 28, 1942, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, the son of Cecil and Jennie (Gianquinto) Loniello. He graduated from Madison Central High School. He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church. He participated in many city sports for several years. He served in the United States Army from 1964 until 1966. He enjoyed doing various volunteer works with UW-Madison athletics. He is survived by a sister, Angela Loniello of Madison; three brothers, Joe Loniello of Marshall, Fred Loniello of Pamona, California, and Russ Loniello of Palm Springs, California; six nieces and nephews, Greg, Chris, Amber, Kevin, Lisa and Fred. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial Mass will be held at ST. PETER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5001 N. Sherman Ave., on Friday, September 8, 2000, at 11:00 a.m., with Father Roger Nilles officiating. David will rest in peace with his parents at Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Madison. Ryan Funeral Home 2418 N. Sherman Ave. (608) 249-8257

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 6, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Note: David Loniello's class year is based on information in the 1960 Tychoberahn

Obituary: Ruth W. (Rogers) Holland

FALL RIVER/MADISON [Wisconsin]- Ruth W. Holland, age 100, passed away on August 31, 2000, at Columbus Hospital. She was born on February 17, 1900, in Albion, Wisconsin, the daughter of Fred H. and Eddith May Rogers. Ruth graduated from Central High School in Madison. In 1938 Ruth married Daniel Holland; he preceded her in death in 1940. Ruth worked as a professional secretary for the Wisconsin Conference of the Seventh Day Adventist Church for 35 years. She was a member of Madison Seventh Day Adventist Church and the Loyal Order of Moose. She was also a member of the Traveling Drill Team. In the early 1920s Ruth won a car for being the most popular girl in Madison. Ruth was the oldest of seven children. She is survived by three sisters, Adeline Hanson of Fall River, Margaret Peterson of Waunakee, and Betty Wake of Yuma, Arizona; and a dear friend, Ginny (Darry) Campbell of Fall River. She is also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1940; a sister, Thelma Baltzer; and brothers, Ralph and Williams Rogers. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 5, 2000, at 11:00 a.m. at MADISON SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH, 910 Femrite Drive, with the Rev. Raymond Plummer presiding. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park. Friends may call on Monday, September 4, 2000, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, and also on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the services at the church. Memorials may be made to Madison Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 1, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Gloria (Brockert) Vike

MADISON [Wisconsin] - Gloria Vike, age 70, passed from this earth to her heavenly home on Sunday, August 20, 2000. Gloria was born on December 27, 1929, to Willis C. Brockert and Erna McDonald. She was a graduate of Central High School. Gloria was employed by Sutherland Lumber for many years. She will be remembered for her young-at-heart attitude and her ability to develop friendships from those that were fortunate to spend time with her. Gloria especially loved being with children and they enjoyed being with her in return. She also enjoyed dancing and listening to music at VFW Post 7591, and she particularly enjoyed listening to her son play his guitar and sing. Gloria was a member of the Monona Senior Band. Gloria is survived by her son, Marc L. (Kari) Vike, and a granddaughter, Nicole Vike, all of Lake Mills; sisters, Marjorie Johnson of Madison, and Darline (George) Bradley of Mazomanie; her close partner, Gus Olson; many nieces, nephews and friends; and her step-mother, Madeline Brockert. She was preceded in death by her husband, LaVerne Vike; and her parents. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 24, 2000, at OUR SAVIORS LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1201 Droster Road. The Rev. Brad Homan will preside. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Friends may call from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service on Thursday at the church. Gunderson East Funeral Home 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420


Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 22, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Russell A. Schmitt - Class of 1929

MIDDLETON [Wisconsin] - Russell A. Schmitt, age 90, died on Sunday, August 20, 2000, at Meriter Park Hospital, after a brief illness. He was born on August 16, 1910, in Madison, Wisconsin, the son of Arthur P. and Elizabeth (Pleus) Schmitt. He graduated from Madison Central High School in 1929, and served in the U.S. Navy, stationed at Pearl Harbor. Russell worked for Madison Gas and Electric as a troubleshooter for many years until his retirement. Mr. Schmitt was a standout baseball pitcher for various teams, the old industrial leagues, in Madison. He was married to Louella Kutz on December 12, 1932, in Madison, and she preceded him in death on October 20, 1981. He married Etta Myers in Middleton on June 4, 1984. Russ was a member of the Madison Elks Lodge No. 410, and Sonny Simon VFW Post No. 38616. Russ enjoyed entertaining his many friends at his home on Lake Mendota, and fishing. He had a quick wit and spoke what was on his mind. Survivors include his wife, Etta of Middleton; two brothers: Bill (Janet) of Black Earth, Wisconsin, and Jack of Pardeeville, Wisconsin; one nephew, Steve (Julie) Schmitt of Black Earth; two nieces: Carey (Gary) Vogt of Germantown, Wisconsin, and Marilee (Erik) Thoreson of McFarland, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents; infant sister; and his first wife, Louella Kutz. Funeral services will be held at JOYCE-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 5701 Odana Road, Madison, at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 23, 2000. The Rev. Kendell Nordstrom will officiate, with burial in St. Luke's Cemetery, Middleton. Friends may call at the funeral home after noon until the service time on Wednesday, August 23, 2000. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Madison Elks Lodge No. 410. Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home 5701 Odana Road (608) 274-1000

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journall on August 22, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Joseph L. McGraw - Class of 1930

MADISON [Wisconsin] - Joseph L. McGraw, age 88, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 19, 2000. He was born February 25, 1912, the son of J. Charles and M. Christine (Cordary) McGraw. Joe graduated from the former Central High School in 1930. He teas a musician playing saxophone, clarinet, and bassoon in band and in orchestras. Joe enjoyed traveling the country playing in theatres and concerts and dances. he was drafted into the Army during World War II On March 12, 1942. Joe participated in the battles in northern France, the Rhineland, and the Ardennes. He received decorations and citations of the European-African Middle Eastern Ribbon with two battle stars, the Purple Heart, and the Good Conduct Medal. Joe was wounded in action in Luxembourg on December 22, 1944. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant from Company C, 707th Tank Battalion on October 20, 1945. Joe was a devoted son, brother and uncle. He is survived by his niece, Mary E. McGraw of Madison: and two nephews, Clifton J. McGraw and William J. McGraw. Joe was preceded irk death by his parents; and a brother, John F. McGraw. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 23, 2000, at OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE CATHOLIC CHURCH, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison. Burial will follow in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Wednesday.
Cress Funeral Service (608) 238-3434

Originally published in The Capital Times on August 21, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Jean M. (Joyce) Ferger - Class of 1947

MADISON/ST. GERMAIN - Jean M. Ferger, age 70, died at Howard Young Medical Center in Minocqua, Wisconsin, on Wednesday, August 9, 2000, from complications associated with diabetes. Jean was born on September 7, 1929, in Madison, Wisconsin, to John and Lucile (Crumbecker) Joyce. She attended Holy Redeemer Grade School, Central High School and Edgewood College, where she earned a degree in elementary education. On June 28, 1952, she was united in marriage to William T. Ferger at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. Jean began her teaching career in Stoughton. After taking time off to raise her five children, she began teaching kindergarten in 1967 at Edgewood Campus School, where she continued her labor of love until her retirement in 1992. She received a Recognition of Outstanding Service in the field of education from Congressman Scott Klug during National Education Week in 1992. During her retirement years, Jean enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, volunteer work and her home in northern Wisconsin. Jean volunteered at the Plum Lake Library and was honored as the volunteer of the year in 1999. Jean was a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Sayner, Wisconsin. Jean is survived by her husband, William; her son, Tim (Wendy) Ferger of Wauwatosa; her daughter, Cindy (Bill) Bedford of Fairview, Utah; her daughter, Amy (Gary) French of Madison; her son, Jay Ferger of Kirkland, Washington; her daughter, Liz Ferger of Sheboygan; 10 grandchildren, Tim, Samantha, Donovan and Jonathan Ferger of Wauwatosa, Hannah and Silvia Bedford of Fairview, Utah, and Ryan, Jeff, Kelley and Kari French of Madison; her aunt, Rachel Rice of Sextonville, Wisconsin; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding Jean in death were her parents, John and Lucile Joyce. Funeral services will be held at HOLY REDEEMER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 120 W. Johnson St., Madison, at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 14, 2000. Father Randy Timmerman will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call at JOYCE-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 5701 Odana Road, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 13, 2000. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice. The family would like to thank all of the staff of Howard Young Medical Center for their help and support. Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home 5701 Odana Road (608) 274-1000

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 11, 2000; submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Note: The class year for Jean Marie Joyce is based on information in the 1947 Tychoberahn, where her photograph is among those of the graduating seniors.

Obituary: E. Bowden Curtiss - Class of 1934

Retired Publisher Curtiss Dies

E. Bowden Curtiss, long-time publisher of the Republican Journal in Darlington, died Thursday at Meriter Hospital at the age of 83.

Curtiss was the owner, editor and publisher of the Republican Journal from 1948 until his retirement in 1981. After retiring, Curtiss continued to write columns for the weekly newspaper.

A Madison native, Curtiss was a 1939 UW-Madison graduate in journalism and political science. After graduation, he worked for The Capital Times and WIBA radio in Madison.

Curtiss also served with the U.S. Army in the South Pacific during World War II.

A service will be held at the Steil Camacho Funeral Home in Darlington at 7 p.m. today

Originally published as a news story in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 2, 2000

Note: E. Bowden Curtiss's class year is based on information in the 1934 Orange and Black yearbook, which features his senior photo in the June graduates section.

Obituary: Michael J. Amato - Class of 1934

Born to Life in Milwaukee April 24, 1915, entered Eternal life March 8, 2000 in North Palm Beach, FL at the age of 84. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Frances (nee Vicari) Amato. Proud and loving father of Daniel (Rose) Amato of Columbus, WI and daughters, Angela (Charles) Vagell, Marian (John) Pine and Catherine (Alan) Simcich, all of Florida. Proud and caring grandfather of 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Also survived by his brother, George (Virginia) Amato of Florida, sister, Marian Schiavo of Madison, WI, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many special friends. Preceded in death by his brother, Sam Amato of Madison, WI. Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, March 11, 2000 at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, Singer Island, FL. Entombment Riverside Memorial Park, Tequesta, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer's Community Care Association of Palm Beach, located at 800 Northpointe Parkway, Suite 101B, West Palm Beach, FL 33407, for Alzheimer's Research. Prior to retiring to North Palm Beach, FL in 1979, Mike was a licensed Wisconsin Funeral director, co-owner of the Guardalabene & Amato Funeral Home, member of the Wisconsin Funeral Directors Association, president of the Milwaukee County Funeral Directors Association and member of UNICO. SCHMIDT & BARTELT GUARDALABENE & AMATO Wauwatosa 774- 5010

Originally published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on March 10, 2000

Note: Michael J. Amato's class year is based on information in the 1934 Orange and Black yearbook, which features his senior photo in the June graduates section.