Obituary: Joseph J. Namio

MADISON - Joseph J. Namio was born in Palermo, Sicily on September 13, 1916, the first son of Frank and Anna (Montaperto) Namio. He came to the United States when he was twelve years old and graduated Central High School. Joe was a member for many years of Nakoma Golf Club where he loved to golf. He also loved to hunt with friends. His professions consisted of barber, million dollar insurance club and Village Bar owner, but he was best known as restaurateur/owner of Namios Supper Club for 34 years. Joe loved people and made them feel that they were special and part of his family when they were in his restaurant. He set the standard of excellence in Madison for food and service. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Caroline (Vitale) Namio; a daughter, Josephine "JoJo" Terzich; a brother, John J. Namio; a brother-in-law, Stephen J. Caravello; and a niece, Geraldine A. Royko. Survivors include his three daughters, Anna "Dede" (Richard) Munz, Jane (Fluffy) Lien, Kathy (Stan) Reed; a sister, Angeline M. Caravello; a brother, Sam J. Namio; a sister-in-law, Ethelyn (John) Namio; granddaughters, Susan (Dan) Lloyd, Debbie (Ed) Clark, Lisa King, Tina (Jamie) Andruss; grandsons, Jeff Lien, Joey (Teresa) Terzich; great-grandchildren, Christopher (CJ) Ehle, Tyler Clark, Jordon King, and Andrew King. Family and friends are invited for visitation at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 6021 University Avenue on Friday, September 1, 2006, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. The memorial service will be private. The family would like to give a special thank you to the caregivers at St. Mary's Care Center. Also a special word of appreciation to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Gray for their loving care and friendship shown to Joe. The family wishes to acknowledge the wonderful care provided by Doctors John Butler and David Sorber, and Teresa Patwell N.P. Joe requested that there be no flowers. Memorials may be made to the Peter and Ellen Johnson HospiceCare Center 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711 Rest in peace dear father. You were one of a kind and we loved you dearly. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service, 6021 University Ave. (608) 238-8406

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 31, 2006