Obituary: Ralph J. Stothard - Class of 1940

MIDDLETON - Ralph J. Stothard, age 85, passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2008, at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg. He was born on Dec. 17, 1922, to Raymond and Florence (Bolzt) Stothard. The family moved to Madison in 1930. Ralph graduated from Madison Central High School in 1940. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 until his honorable discharge in 1945. Ralph served on the U.S.S. Wyoming in the Atlantic, Convoy Control Unit in the Caribbean, and on the U.S.S. Cyrene, a P. T. Tender, in the Pacific. He and Ouanita Chitwood were united in marriage at St. John's Church in Muscoda, on Jan. 4, 1947. Ralph was employed by the Milwaukee Railroad as an agent/telegrapher for 15 years, followed by employment with Ohio Medical/Ohmeda for 24 years in the Finishing and Production Control departments until his retirement in 1988. He was also employed by Kraemer Air Filter Corp. for 18 years. Ralph was a devoted husband and father, and enjoyed reading, music, marquetry, cooking, and gardening. He is survived by his wife, Ouanita; daughters, Randy Stothard-Kampen of Madison and Jo Stothard of Waunakee; son-in-law, Michael O'Driscoll; and grandson, Rory O'Driscoll, also of Waunakee. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents. In keeping with Ralph's wishes, no services will be held. Contributions may be made to HospiceCare Inc., in memory of Ralph J. Stothard. The family is thankful to the HospiceCare staff for their kindness and help. Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Centers 7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on May 15, 2008