Obituary: Jospeh John Spatola

MADISON - Joseph John Spatola, age 79, of Madison, passed on Monday, Sep. 20, 2004. He was born on Dec. 3, 1924, son of John and Lesta Spatola. He married Claribel "Blondie" Christianson. Joseph attended Madison Central High School. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a professional truck driver for many years. After retirement Joseph and Claribel "Blondie" traveled in their motor home. He is survived by his children, Nick, Chris (Karen) Linda (Bill) Godding, Ken (Alane), and Keith; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Kay (Dean) Erickson; a brother, Tim (Margaret) Spatola; and many other relatives. He was preceded in death by his wife, "Blondie;" his daughter, Nina; his brother, Dan (Betty); and his sister, Jean (Bill) Slagg. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, Sept. 23, 2004, at 6 p.m. at CRESS FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICE, 6021 University Ave., Madison, with Father Heitke officiating. There will be a visitation for family and friends from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. at CRESS FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICE. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to the Don and Marilyn Anderson HospiceCare Inc., 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. Cress Funeral & Cremation Service 6021 University Ave. Madison, WI 53705 (608) 238-8406

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on September 22, 2004