Obituary: Edward G. Debs - Class of 1933

MADISON/ WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. - Edward G. Debs, age 91, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2006. He was born Feb. 17, 1915, to Joseph and Edith Debs in Elroy and lived in Madison since moving there in 1921. He graduated from Central High School in 1933. He was employed by the post office until serving his country during World War II as a member of the U.S. Army in the Philippines. After discharge he returned to his job at the post office and served 30 years until his retirement in 1971. He and his wife, Carol, have enjoyed their winters in West Palm Beach, Fla., for the last 30 years. Edward enjoyed traveling, camping, was a passionate trout fisherman and a long time member of Trout Unlimited. He was also a life member of Madison Elk's Club No. 410. Edward is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Carol; children, Jane (Craig) Smith of Delafield, Susan (Eric) Van Abel-Oltmann of Ventura, Calif. and Ron (Andrea) Debs of Middleton; four grandchildren, Jennifer Smith of Milwaukee, Kimberly (Jake) Spitz of Pewaukee and Katie and Matthew Debs of Middleton; two great-grandchildren, Erik and Sonia Spitz of Pewaukee; brother, John (Esther) Debs of Huntsville, Ala.; and many nieces and nephews. Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Edith Debs; first wife, Irma Meyr; second wife, LaVerne Hoffman; brothers, Marvin and Leo Debs; and sisters, Josephine Day and Alice Markowitz. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother and friend; he will be missed. It was Edward's wish that a service not be held, but family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at HOWARD-PRICE FUNERAL HOME, 754 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, Fla., on Monday, Nov. 27, 2006, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. The family thanks the kind and caring people at University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Care Center, 600 Highland Ave., K4/658, Madison, WI 53792-6164 and requests any memorial contributions be made to the Center in lieu of flowers.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on November 26, 2006