Obituary: John Joseph Gervasi - Class of 1938

MADISON - John Joseph Gervasi, age 86, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 5, 2004, at VA Hospital. He was born on Jan. 23, 1918, in Madison, the son of Vito and Maria (Magro) Gervasi. In 1938, John graduated from Central High School in Madison. On June 22, 1940, he was united in marriage to Arlene Bronson. John served for the U.S. Army during World War II and was stationed in Japan. John was an avid athlete and sportsman. He enjoyed swimming, pool, boxing, shuffleboard, golf and was in minor league baseball. For 35 years, John was a successful owner and operator of several bar/restaurants in the Madison area. John was very much a family man and loving both his wife and children unconditionally. He lived life to the utmost. His life was full and surrounded by friends, who loved his jokes, stories, and card tricks. In addition to his wife of 64 years, Arlene, John is survived by his six children, John Gervasi of Madison, Gary (Charlene) Gervasi of Florida, Sheryl Gervasi, Ted Gervasi, Debra Gervasi and Tammy (Bob) Downing all, of Madison; four grandchildren, Charles, Alison, Robert and Ava; a brother, Joseph Gervasi of Madison; and two sisters, Lucy (Sam) Corona and Anne Schiro. He is also survived by numerous other relatives and friends. John was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Kissane; and two brothers, Anthony and Sam Gervasi. A memorial service will be held at JOYCE-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 5701 Odana Road, on Tuesday, June 8, 2004, at 7 p.m. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until the time of services. Private inurnment will be held at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors and nurses at the VA Hospital. Your memory will be with us forever. We love you and we'll always miss you. Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services 5701 Odana Road (608) 274-1000

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 6, 2004