Obituary: Vincent J. Colletti - Class of 1927

MADISON - Vincent J. Colletti, age 98, passed away on Sunday, March 25, 2007, at the home of his sister and brother-in-law, Mamie and Lee Stafford. Vince was born on May 11, 1908, in Piana di Greci, Sicily, the son of Domenica (Capaci) and George Colletti. The family immigrated to the United States when Vince was one year old, settling first in New Orleans, and then the Green Bush area in Madison. After graduating from Central High School, he began studies at the University of Wisconsin in the field of engineering, where he was an active member of the UW rowing team. His studies were halted two years later when his father passed away at a young age. Vince, the oldest of eight children, quit college to help care for his mother and siblings. Vince married Florence McAusland on Aug. 12, 1940. She predeceased him in 2004. Vince served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and was stationed in North Africa, Italy and India, where he helped to design and construct air strips for U.S. troops. He held many different jobs as a young man, and worked the majority of his adult life as a surveyor for the Dane County Highway Department. Vince was a handyman, dedicated gardener, a master story teller and avid fisherman, who was known to fish most days of the year. Fresh vegetables and fish were plentiful on all of our dinner tables (accompanied by stories, of course). He was a member of the Local V.F.W. club, and the Italian Workman's Club. Though Vince and Florence never had children of their own, he had numerous nieces and nephews, many of whom have kept very close contact over the years. He also volunteered his time to the youth of Madison as a Boy Scout leader. His mission in life was to serve his family, and he did that with honor. Vince is survived by his sister, Mamie Stafford (husband Lee, and children Tom, Jim, Donica, Sue and Bill); brother, Peter (wife Rosalie, and children Laurel and Linda); and brother, Joe Colletti (wife Lorraine, and children Joe, Janie, Gary, Holly and Patty). He was predeceased by his parents; his wife; sister, Mary Novick (survived by son Jon); sister, Ann Ledin and husband Victor; brother, George Colletti and wife Josephine Clementi Colletti (survived by sons George and John, and daughter Judy); and brother, Vito, who lost his life in battle in France during World War II. He was also predeceased by his sister-in-law, Lorraine (Peter) Colletti; nephew, Victor Ledin; and niece, Bonnie Colletti. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 2007, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., with a short service at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice in Vince's name. Vince, you gave so much to all us over your almost 99 years, we were so glad to be able to give back to you. Thank you to Mamie and Lee Stafford, and Joe and Lorraine Colletti for opening your homes to Vincent over the last few years. Our memories will remain forever. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsn State Journal on March 27, 2007

Note: Vincent Colletti's class year based on information in the 1924 Tychoberahn, which lists him among the 9A students (freshmen expected to graduate in 1927).

Obituary: Frank J. Rane, Sr.

MADISON - Frank J. Rane Sr. died on Sunday, March 25, 2007. He was born on Nov. 9, 1922, in Madison, the son of Joseph and Concetta (Bongiovanni) Rane. Frank was a lifelong resident of Madison, graduated from St. Joseph's Grade School, Madison Central High School, attended Madison Vocational School (MATC), and after leaving the Service he attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army Air Force. He served with the 45th Air Depot Group and the Ninth Air Force Command stationed in England, France, Belgium and Germany during World War II. As a member of the 45th, his unit was awarded six commendations for meritorious service. After a short stint at the University of Wisconsin, together with his wife (Naomi), he owned and operated a grocery and liquor store in Madison's Southside where they enjoyed a very rewarding association with the neighborhood for 43 years. Some of his fondest memories were of the friends from that neighborhood that added purpose to his life. He owned and operated Arbor Liquors on the West Beltline Highway in 1966. He and his wife also owned and operated the Rane Barrel on Gilman Street, selling it in 1975. He maintained fond memories of the wonderful UW students that frequented this establishment. He served two terms as president of the Optimist Club of South Madison and five years as president of the Italian Workmen's Club. As a longtime member of the Italian Workmen's Club, he served on and chaired for many years the committee responsible for the annual celebration of Columbus Day. He served seven years as honorary chairman of the earlier (fifty-two) annual reunions of the 45th Air Depot group, which he faithfully attended to the last in 1999. He was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. No. 1318. He was also a life member of Madison Elk's Lodge No. 410, where he served as trustee as well as on the Social Quarters Committee, an important part of contributing to the success of Madison Elk's Lodge No. 410. Advancing through the chairs, he was elected as the exalted ruler for the 2004-2005 term. In 2005 he was again elected as the exalted ruler for the 2005-2006 term. In the 108 years that the Elks Lodge was chartered, he was the fourth member to have been asked to serve two terms. While a member of the Elk's, he was associated with the finest people with whom he was privileged to work and socialize. He served as co-chairman of the Consumer Protection Committee during the administration and at the request of Madison Mayor William Dyke. He was honored by his peers, members of the Italian Workmen's Club, as the Columbian of the Year in 1996. He, with his lifelong friend, Nick Stassi, was instrumental in having placed a marker on the corner of Regent and Park Street in memory of the "true heart" of the long-gone but not forgotten neighborhood known as the "Greenbush". Throughout his life he contributed to many worthy organizations when asked. He wants to be remembered for his sense of humor and his deep compassion and caring about people. His greatest desire was to promote harmony and understanding among people he cared about. He was extremely proud of his heritage. His only regret in dying was having to leave behind the wonderful friends and memories that made his life so enjoyable and worthwhile. He is survived by his loving wife, Naomi. Her love and devotion gave meaning and purpose to his life. Of all the women that he knew during his lifetime, she had no equal. He is further survived by his sons, Phillip (Nancy) Rane and Frank J. Rane Jr. (Bev) whom he truly loved and was extremely proud. He had a deep and abiding love for his grandchildren, Susan (Dr. Richard) Steinfeld, Stephanie (Richard) Chamberlain, Steven (Elizabeth) Rane, Christina (Mike) Derene, Andrea Rane and Thomas Rane; and great-grandchildren, Jacob (Jake) Steinfeld, Adam Steinfeld, Austin Derene, Taylor Derene, Mason Phillip Chamberlain and Jordan Cara Chamberlain. He is also survived by a brother, Anthony (Elizabeth) Rane of Abbeville, Ala.; and a special nephew, Joseph (Leona) Rane whose interest in his uncle was more of a son than a nephew. Many nieces, nephews, great-grandnieces, great-grandnephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews further survive him. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Sam (Frieda) Rane, James (Mary) Rane, John (Marilyn) Rane; nephew, Jon (Jack) Rane; and a sister, Mayme Rane Fuss of Madison. There will be a visitation at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road on Thursday, March 29, 2007, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., wherein a memorial service will be held at the funeral home by the Madison Elks Lodge No. 410 at 7 p.m. A Memorial Mass will be held at ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1905 W. Beltline Highway on Friday, March 30, 2007, at 11 a.m. with Father Brian J. Wilk officiating. There will be no procession to the gravesite. He requested no flowers, instead donations be made to the Italian Workmen's Club Scholarship Fund or to the Madison Elk's Lodge No. 410 Scholarship Fund. His family is grateful for the care provided by HospiceCare. He requested his body be cremated and interred in Sunset Memory Gardens. His fondest wish was that he be remembered by his family and friends as he lived. Epithat Here rests his head upon the lap of earth, A youth to fortune and to fame unknown: Fair science frowned not on his humble birth, And melancholy marked him for her own. Large was his bounty, and his soul sincere; Heaven did a recompense as largely send; He gave to mis'ry (all he had) a tear, He gained from heav'n ('twas all he wished) a friend, No farther seek his merits to disclose, Or draw his frailties from their abode, (There they alike in trembling hope repose), The bosom of his Father and his God. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 27, 2007

Obituary: Eric Russell Schwartz

DARLINGTON - Eric Russell Schwartz, age 56, of Darlington, passed away on Saturday, March 24, 2007, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison. He was born on June 17, 1950, in Madison, the son of Russell and Helen "Ginny" (Frontz) Schwartz. Eric attended Central High School in Madison. He was united in marriage to Jean Ann Loken on Aug. 20, 1969. Together they had two children: a son, Kevin Schwartz of New Lisbon; and a daughter, Jaci (Tom) Bennett of Shullsburg. At this time Eric worked for Chrysler Corporation of Belvedere, Ill. Eric also worked as a police officer for the City of Darlington, and Lafayette County Sheriff's Department. He was an active member of the community as a volunteer fire fighter, and a member of Rural Medical as a volunteer emergency medical technician. On Sept. 30, 1994, he was united in marriage to Barbara Ann Heyer at the Fayette United Methodist Church. He worked at FS Corporation as a delivery driver and at the time of his retirement he worked for Monroe Truck Equipment as a warehouse attendant. Eric is survived by his wife, Barb at home; his mother, Helen "Ginny" Schwartz of Verona; five children, Kevin Schwartz of New Lisbon, Jaci (Tom) Bennett of Shullsburg, Dustin Heyer of Arizona, Jackie Heyer and Jessica Halvorson, both of Stockton, Ill.; seven beloved grandchildren, Cody Bennett and Xzander Gregory-Russell Bennett of Shullsburg, Cody J. Ryan of Cuba City, Alexus Bennett of Belmont, Ceara Bennett of Freeport, Ill., Xavier Heyer of Darlington, and Angel Warfield of Stockton; two brothers, Rick (Chris) Schwartz and Craig Schwartz, both of Fitchburg; two nephews, Jim Schwartz of Fitchburg, and Austin Heller of Stockton; a niece, Kelsie Schwartz of Fitchburg; and many, many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Russell "Bucky" Schwartz; and his grandparents. Eric enjoyed fishing, camping, and was an avid NASCAR fan who always rooted for Dale Earnhardt. He enjoyed spending time with his family, and his German Shepherd, "Bonnie", his faithful companion. Eric will be sadly missed, and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Funeral services will held on Thursday, March 29, 2007, at 11 a.m. at ERICKSON FUNERAL HOME in Darlington, with the Rev. Larry Hakes of Darlington United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be at Union Grove Cemetery in Darlington. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 2007, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at ERICKSON FUNERAL HOME, ericksonfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Eric's name.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 27, 2007

Mary Louise (Gabbei) Wohlferd - Class of 1932

MADISON - Mary Louise Wohlferd, born in Madison, on Sept. 9, 1917, departed this earth on Thursday, March 15, 2007, at age 89. The daughter of Paul and Mathilda (Schwingel) Gabbei, she graduated from Madison Central in 1932 and married Robert S. Wohlferd on April 20, 1940. During World War II they were stationed in San Francisco, where she worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad. Upon returning to Madison, she worked many years for S. A. Mahlkuch and Sherman Geib, Realtors. Mary was a life long member of Saint John's Evangelical Lutheran Church where she was very committed, singing in the choir, working many hours with her friends at Blanket Workshop and volunteering for numerous other duties. She was an honored volunteer for friends of WHA-TV and enjoyed gardening, cooking and her friends. She is survived by her children, Stephen of San Francisco, Calif., Monica (Wally Breitman) of Sonoma, Calif. and Mark of Middleton; granddaughters, Tiranie (Aaron) Teschner and Angela; great-granddaughters, Rhiannon and Cecilia Teschner; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert; brothers, Harold and Roger; and her sister, Roselyn. A funeral service is set for 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 23, 2007, at ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 322 E. Washington Ave., Madison, with Pastor Ken Smith presiding. A luncheon will follow at the church. A private interment is planned for later. Memorials may be made to St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Life's Weaving My life is but a weaving Between my God and me; I may not choose the colors, He knows what they should be; For He can view the pattern Upon the upper side, While I can see it only On this, the under side. Sometimes He weaveth sorrow, Which seemeth strange to me; But I will trust His judgment, And work on faithfully: 'Tis He who fills the shuttle, He knows just what is best; So I shall weave in earnest And leave with Him the rest. At last, when life is ended, With Him I shall abide, Then I may view the pattern Upon the upper side; Then I shall know the reason Why pain with joy entwined, Was woven in the fabric Of life that God designed. Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Centers 7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 18, 2006

Obituary: Raymond Henry Disch - Class of 1951

MADISON - Raymond Henry Disch, age 74, passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2007, at his home. He was born on Feb. 28, 1933, in Madison, to Henry and Ingeborg (Fladen) Disch. Raymond graduated from Madison Central High School in 1951. He lettered in five sports and was All City in basketball and volleyball. Raymond was a quarterback on the football team, second baseman on the baseball team and was also on the track team. He worked at Oscar Mayer part time, while attending high school and then full time later. Raymond married Dolores Trotalli. She preceded him in death in 1968. He married Jacqueline (Hickman) Recob on Feb. 8, 1972. Raymond became a firefighter on Aug. 1, 1958, and worked for the Madison Fire Department for 35 years, retiring on Feb. 1, 1993, as an assistant chief. He worked at Fire Stations No. 1, 2, 3, and 4, and also the administrative building during his career. Raymond served as a lieutenant, fire inspector, fire training officer, captain, district manager, and deputy chief, before retiring as an assistant chief. He was a member of St. Dennis Catholic Church, Madison Turners and a former member of Madison Elks. Raymond volunteered at St. Dennis Festival and was on the church athletic committee. He managed St. Dennis Grade School basketball, football, softball and CYO high school basketball. Raymond played in various city leagues in softball, baseball, volleyball and touch football. He managed the WTSO fast pitch softball team. Raymond was a UW men's basketball ticket holder for 35 years and a die hard Cubs fan for 60 years. He also enjoyed his annual fishing trips to the Chippewa flowage with his fishing buddies. Raymond was involved with the Senior Olympics after retirement, and played volleyball and ping pong with them. He also volunteered with St. Pauls Pantry on State St. Raymond is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Disch of Madison; nine children, Pamela (Gary) Herdrich, Mark (Michelle) Disch, Robert (Julie) Disch, Robert (Tracy) Recob, Susan Disch, Scott (Amy) Recob, Lisa (Scott) Johnson, Jennifer (Brian) Wiegand and Debra (Kenneth) Wills; 21 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. DENNIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 505 Dempsey Road, Madison, at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 15, 2007, with Father Brian Wilk presiding. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2007. The family would like to thank HospiceCare, especially Maria, Cindy, Neal and Lisa, for all their care and support. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 13, 2007

Obituary: Russell L. Coster - Class of 1929

MADISON - Russell L. Coster, age 95, of Madison, died Saturday, March 3, 2007. He was born Oct. 7, 1911, in Fond du Lac, the son of Roy and Georgia (Powers) Coster. Following graduation from Madison Central High School, he attended the University of Wisconsin. Russell served in the United States Army during World War II. Among his many talents, he was a musician in the Feather Rhythm Band, playing in and around the Madison area for more than 40 years. He married Ann Jones on Aug. 23, 1935, at St. Raphael's Cathedral in Madison. He is survived by eight children, William, David, Mary Seiler, Sarah Jaquish, Janet Coleman, Joanne McFarland, Wally and Dan; 29 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Ann; sons, Tom and Paul; grandsons, Tommy and Jimmy McFarland; and his brother, Harley. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. PATRICKS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 404 E. Main St., on Thursday, March 8, 2007, at 10:30 a.m. with Father Kevin Holmes officiating. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, with military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to ElderCare of Wisconsin. All Faiths Funeral and Cremation Services Madison (608) 442-0477

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 6, 2007

Note: Russell Coster's class year is based on information in the 1929 Tychoberahn, where his photo is included among the June graduates.

Obituary: Phil Ray - Class of 1960

MADISON - Phil Ray, age 64, of Madison, died unexpectedly on Friday, March 2, 2007. He was born on July 10, 1942, to Newell and Ethelyn Ray. Phil was a Naval Veteran and a recent retiree from Madison Metro after 41 years. He enjoyed camping, bowling and was an avid card player, playing cribbage every Thursday at the American Legion Post No. 1318. Phil was also legal guardian of his disabled brother for the past 10 years. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, offering to lend a hand to anyone who needed help. Phil is survived by his wife of 39 years, Fran; his two sons, Michael (Linda) of Sun Prairie and Jim (Jennifer) of Windsor; six grandchildren, Hailey, Hillary, Hope, Jordan, Tyler and Hannah; and 10 brothers and sisters, Paul, Eleanor, Ruth, Russell, Jeanette, Gordon, Susan, Joleen, Cheryl and Rita. Phil was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jim. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 2007, at 11 a.m. at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens with military rites. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, March 6, 2007, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 517 N. Segoe Road, Suite 301, Madison, 53705. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 4, 2007

Note: Phil Ray's class year is based on information provided on the Class of 1960 web site.