Obituary: Dona J. (Strmiska) Sprecher - Class of 1949

LELAND - Dona J. Sprecher, age 74, died on Wednesday, June 21, 2006, unexpectedly at her home in Leland. She was born in Stanton, Neb. on Dec. 3, 1931, the daughter of the late Carl and Edna (Vollbrecht) Strmiska. The family moved to the Prairie du Sac area during her grade school years, moving to Madison in her high school years. She graduated in 1949 from Madison Central High School. She married the love of her life of 56 years, Edwin "Junior" Sprecher of Leland on Sept. 10, 1949. He swept her off her feet at a New Year's Eve dance in Prairie du Sac and they never stopped dancing. She and Junior have owned and operated Sprecher's Tavern in Leland since that time. Both she and Junior have become an institution in the area with many generations walking through the door of their establishment. She was known in the community as quite the feisty lady who would tell it like it is, always had a good joke to share, and loved to be a matchmaker during her years in the tavern. She loved her garden and flowers throughout the years. She enjoyed raising beagles and traveling to American Kennel Club dog shows with Junior throughout the Midwest; bringing home many trophies and ribbons. She had a zest for travel, visiting many states, Canada and England. Her most memorable experience was landing by helicopter on a glacier in Alaska. She was a loving and attentive mother to daughter, Ann (Kevin) Jensen of Windsor; son, Mark (Colleen) Sprecher of Stevens Point; and daughter, Amy Sprecher of Leland. She is survived by her loving husband, Junior; her children; grandchildren, Todd Wiatrok (Shelia Konichek) of Columbus, Becky Wiatrok of Madison, Cassandra Wiatrok of Baraboo and Lindsy Wiatrok of Windsor; great-grandchildren, Kyla and Nathan Wiatrok; a brother, Robert (Carol) Strmiska of Madison; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, an aunt and uncle, and many treasured friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant sister and brother; a grandson; a nephew, Thomas Strmiska; and several aunts and uncles. Family will be celebrating Dona's life on Sunday, July 2, 2006, at SPRECHER'S TAVERN in Leland beginning at 11 a.m. until the cows come home. Funeral services will be held at ST. JOHN'S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 100 Oak St., Prairie du Sac, at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 3, 2006, with Pastor Fred Rilling officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Salvation Army or St. John's Lutheran Church. We weren't ready to have you leave us, there was still so much to say and do. Thank you for all of the love and lessons you have shared that have made us who we are. You sacrificed so much for us and for that we will always be grateful. You have left special memories that will forever be treasured in our hearts. Hooverson Funeral Home Sauk City (608) 643-6430

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 25, 2005

Obituary: James Francis Balthazor - Class of 1935

BARABOO - James Francis Balthazor, age 89, of Baraboo, passed away on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at St. Clare Meadows Care Center, Baraboo. James was born on June 26, 1916, to Leo and Elsie (Ryan) Balthazor in Fond du Lac. After graduating from Central High School in Madison, he was employed at Tursky's Motorcycle Shop, where he met Cora Morkred, a college student at UW. They were united in marriage on Nov. 8, 1936. After living in Portage a few years, they moved to Baraboo in 1940. Cora preceded James in death in June 1996. On Sept. 8, 2000, James was united in marriage to Thelma Thom. James served in the U.S. Navy for two years during World War II. He served aboard the U.S.S. Kittson as a radar man. The U.S.S. Kittson was deployed in the Pacific Theatre where they took part in the battle of Okinawa. After the war, James began a career in sales with the Coleman Company. He retired in 1982 after 36 years with the company, where his picture hangs in the Coleman Hall of Fame, Wichita, Kan. James was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, a charter member of Golden K and belonged to V.F.W. Greenwood Memorial Post No. 987. He is survived by his wife Thelma, of Baraboo; two children, Patricia (Gene) Melvin of Cerritos, Calf., and Michael (Susan) Balthazer of Columbia, S.C.; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Cora; two brothers; two sisters; and his parents. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2006 at ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 624 East St., Baraboo, with Pastor Myron Schwanke officiating. Burial will take place in Walnut Hill Cemetery with military rites conducted by the V.F.W. Greenwood Memorial Post No. 987. Visitation will be on Friday, June 23, 2006, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the RAGO-BALDWIN FUNERAL HOME, Baraboo, and on Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service Memorials, if desired, may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church or The Michael J. Fox Foundation For Parkinsons Research. Rago-Baldwin Funeral Home 520 East St. Baraboo, WI 53913 (608) 356-4656BARABOO - James Francis Balthazor, age 89, of Baraboo, passed away on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at St. Clare Meadows Care Center, Baraboo. James was born on June 26, 1916, to Leo and Elsie (Ryan) Balthazor in Fond du Lac. After graduating from Central High School in Madison, he was employed at Tursky's Motorcycle Shop, where he met Cora Morkred, a college student at UW. They were united in marriage on Nov. 8, 1936. After living in Portage a few years, they moved to Baraboo in 1940. Cora preceded James in death in June 1996. On Sept. 8, 2000, James was united in marriage to Thelma Thom. James served in the U.S. Navy for two years during World War II. He served aboard the U.S.S. Kittson as a radar man. The U.S.S. Kittson was deployed in the Pacific Theatre where they took part in the battle of Okinawa. After the war, James began a career in sales with the Coleman Company. He retired in 1982 after 36 years with the company, where his picture hangs in the Coleman Hall of Fame, Wichita, Kan. James was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, a charter member of Golden K and belonged to V.F.W. Greenwood Memorial Post No. 987. He is survived by his wife Thelma, of Baraboo; two children, Patricia (Gene) Melvin of Cerritos, Calf., and Michael (Susan) Balthazer of Columbia, S.C.; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Cora; two brothers; two sisters; and his parents. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2006 at ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 624 East St., Baraboo, with Pastor Myron Schwanke officiating. Burial will take place in Walnut Hill Cemetery with military rites conducted by the V.F.W. Greenwood Memorial Post No. 987. Visitation will be on Friday, June 23, 2006, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the RAGO-BALDWIN FUNERAL HOME, Baraboo, and on Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service Memorials, if desired, may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church or The Michael J. Fox Foundation For Parkinsons Research. Rago-Baldwin Funeral Home 520 East St. Baraboo, WI 53913 (608) 356-4656

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 23, 2006 James Francis Balthazor's class year is based on information in the 1935 Orange & Black yearbook, where he is pictured amongst the members of the June graduating class.

Obituary: Jay R. Morey - Class of 1947

SUGAR CAMP/ MADISON - Jay R. Morey, age 76, of Sugar Camp and formerly of Madison, died Feb. 7, 2006, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rhinelander, after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer. Jay was born on June 2, 1929, to the late Jay and Regina Morey. He graduated from Madison Central High School where he participated in track and field and excelled in football. He then joined the Army and served a brief army career during the Korean War. He was then employed at Black Hawk Country Club as bar manager for many years. Jay is survived by his wife, Mary (Duncan) Morey; his children, Chris (Judy) Morey, Jamie (Brenda) Morey, Jean "Misty" Fillner, Shelly (John) Dyreson, Jenny Morey and Curt (Val) Morey; 15 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his step-daughter, Ruth Meroff, and her children. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Jacqueline (Hess) Morey; and a grandson, Connor McGinnis. A short service will be held in the chapel at OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison, at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2006. Internment will follow after the service at Sunset Memory Gardens, 7302 Mineral Point Road, Madison.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 20, 2006

Note: Information about Jay R. Morey's class year is based on information in the 1947 Tychoberahn, where his photo is included among those of the senior class. The label on the photo is "Jay Steven Morey."

Obituary: Dr. Charles Allen Neuhauser - Class of 1950

MONONA/ MADISON - Dr. Charles Allen Neuhauser, age 74, died on Tuesday, June 13, 2006, surrounded by his family, at St. Mary's Hospital after a brief illness. He was born on Feb. 19, 1932, in Milwaukee, to George and Esther (Schulz) Neuhauser. Charles moved to Madison when he was a year old, attended Washington Grade School and graduated from Madison Central High School in 1950. He attended UW-Madison, where he played on the UW baseball team as a catcher, and graduated from UW-Medical School in 1961. After active duty in the U.S. Army, he served many years in the 44th General Hospital Reserve Unit. Charles married Carol Mack on July 14, 1955, and was fortunate to celebrate their golden anniversary with family and friends last summer. He was a respected physician at East Madison Clinic, which later became Dean Clinic, and finished his career at Dean Arcand Park, eventually retiring in 1992. The patients under his care often commented to his family that he was "the best" and they missed his personal and professional care after his retirement. These comments brought much joy to his family that Charles had made a positive impact on other's lives. He loved spending time with his family and shared his love of his hobbies with them. Many fun times were spent together hunting, fishing, camping, golfing and gardening. Charles was a Monona youth baseball coach for many years and an avid fan at his kids' and grandkids' many sporting events. He continued playing his favorite "thinking man's game" (baseball) with the old City Industrial League, played recreational softball in Monona with many dear friends and was a charter member of the WAGA golf league with other good buddies. Charles is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carol; a daughter, Chris (Greg) Percy; two sons, Curt (Sue) and Eric (Kim); five grandchildren, Tyler, Michael, Brett, Cameron and Kendra; a sister, Judy (Paul) Baumgartner; mother-in-law, Caroline Mack; and many other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Lois Mott. Memorial services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 17, 2006, with the Rev. Susanne Burwell presiding. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Salvation Army or charity of donor's choice. The family wishes to thank the many doctors who worked so diligently on his behalf and to the staff at St. Mary's for their wonderful care. Like a ship that's left its moorings And sails bravely out to sea, So someone dear has sailed away In calm serenity; But there's promise of a greater joy Than earth can have in store For God has planned a richer life Beyond the unseen shore. "Charles will be dearly missed by his family. We wish him peace." Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Obituary: James Earl "Jim" O'Connor

MADISON - James Earl "Jim" O'Connor, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, June 13, 2006, at the Don and Marilyn Anderson HospiceCare Center. He was born on Nov. 10, 1917, in Madison, son of John and Edith (Hagen) O'Connor. Jim graduated from Central High School. He operated O'Connor's Cafe on Williamson St. Jim was an antique dealer for many years. He loved to dance, travel and listen to Lawrence Welk. Jim is survived by his children, Thomas (Joyce) O'Connor of Madison, James O'Connor of California, Terry (Judy) Winters of Portage, Mich., Patrick O'Connor, Peggy (John) Mark, Mickey (Dick) Lindquist and Kathie O'Connor, all of Rockford, Ill.; 18 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, John O'Connor. Funeral services will be held at IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1021 Spaight St., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 17, 2006, with the Rev. F. Peter Brinkman presiding. Private burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 15, 2006

Obituary: Philip R. Ellis - Class of 1938

MADISON - Philip R. Ellis, age 85, passed away on Saturday, June 10, 2006. He was born on July 9, 1920. Philip was a lifelong Madison resident. After graduating from Central High School, he joined the Army and served in Europe in World War II. Philip had retired from the UW-Madison after 38 years of service. He was a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Church and Knights of Columbus No. 4527. Philip is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty; his children, Susan (John) Miller of Fitchburg, Tom (Gayle) Ellis of Verona and Sally (Al) Newell of Fitchburg; grandchildren, Michelle (Dale) Rosson, Jay (Carolina) Ellis, Jill (Chad) Wiggin and Ava Newell; and great-grandchildren, Trenton and Leann Rosson, and Jon Ellis. He is further survived by other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandsons, Thomas and Jon Ellis, and Alex Newell; and sisters; Phyllis Ellis and Bernice Wurster. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 14, 2006, at OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE CHURCH, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Officiating will be Monsignor Kenneth Fiedler. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to HospiceCare, Inc., or the Ronald McDonald House. Cress Funeral & Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 11, 2006

Note Philip Ellis's class year is based on information in the 1938 Orange & Black yearbook where he is listed among the June graduates.

Obituary: James F. Ninedorf

MADISON - James F. Ninedorf of Madison, died Friday, March 31, 2006. James was born Dec. 18, 1927, in Madison, to Wilbur and Minnie Ninedorf. He graduated from Central High School. On Oct. 13, 1951, he married Priscilla Thompson. Fritz worked for the City of Madison Parks Department. After he retired in 1986, they traveled in their RV full-time. He spent his winters in Laughlin, Nev. and his summers in Madison. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Priscilla; three sons, Greg (Belinda) of Hondo, Texas, Gary (Carleen) of Madison and Brian (Lesle) of Arlington, Texas; six grandchildren, Jennifer (Don) Flanary of San Antonio, Texas, Jacob (Erica) Ninedorf of Hondo, Texas, Caitlin Ninedorf and Brandon Ninedorf of Madison, Daniel Ninedorf and Allison Ninedorf of Arlington, Texas; two-great grandchildren, Hunter Flanary and Austin Ninedorf in Texas; a sister, Phyllis Lingard of Verona; step mother, Hilda Ninedorf and half sisters, Delores (Bill) Tuggle, Darlene Munson, Joanie Ninedorf, all of Madison. A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 12, 2006, at 10:30 a.m. at EAST MADISON BAPTIST CHURCH, 4917 Milwaukee St., Madison. Pastor Greg Whitaker will officiate.

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

Obituary: Bernadine Spielman Bartels - Class of 1938

SARASOTA, FLA. - Bernadine Spielman Bartels, age 86, of Sarasota, Fla., died Wednesday, May 17, 2006. Born March 15, 1920, in Madison, Wis., she was a 1938 graduate of Madison Central High School and worked many years at the Buy & Sell Shop in Madison. Survivors include four daughters, Deborah Mc Laughlin and Diana Gregory of Sarasota, Fla., Marcia Stuber of Hill City, Minn. and Marlene Bosben of Madison; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred L. Bartels in 1987. A private graveside service will be held in Madison at a later date.

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

Obituary: Joseph S. Montalto, Sr. - Class of 1947

MADISON - Joseph S. Montalto, Sr. "Joe" passed away Tuesday, May 30, 2006, after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Madison on Jan. 12, 1929, to the late Joseph and Sebastianna (Tusa) Montalto. He grew up in the Greenbush area of Madison and had many stories to tell about the "Bush". He worked many professions and gave each one his all. He had a great love for life, his children, food and his many friends. He is survived by five sons, Joseph (Diana) of Whitewater, Michael (Cindy) of Middleton, Paul (Linda) of Madison, Philip (Susie) of Deerfield and Steve (Tammy) of Wauzeka; two daughters, Cynthia (E.J.) Carter of Middleton and Ana Marie (Rick) Ziegler of Middleton; four sisters, Fransis Baudette of Janesville, Mary (Stanley) Hinze of Madison, Carmella (William) Conroy of Florida and Rosie Peterson of Fitchburg; many grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Paul and "Sam" Montalto; and two sons, Renado Joseph and Nicholas Antonio Montalto. Funeral services will be held at RESURRECTION CEMETERY CHAPEL, 2705 Regent St., Madison, on Friday, June 2, 2006, at 11 a.m. The family gives special thanks to the Don and Marilyn Anderson HospiceCare Center for their compassionate care and to Elder Care for many years of wonderful care and understanding of Joe, with a special heart felt thanks to Marsha, Mary and Tammy. Dad, thank you for all your love and guidance. We will miss you and all your stories, especially your details about food. We all love you, now you can rest. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Elder Care. Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services 5701 Odana Road 608-274-1000 www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 1, 2006

Note: Joe Montalto's class year is based on information in the 1947 Tychoberahn, where his photograph is among those of the graduating seniors.