Obituary: Richard Marvin "Dick" McMahan

MADISON - Richard Marvin "Dick" McMahan passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2012, in Madison. Dick was born on Nov. 3, 1944, in Madison. He was the son of Michael James and Mabel Irene (Gilbertson) McMahan. Dick was a graduate of Central High School. He served in the Army as a Special Electrical Device Repairman with the 57th Engineering Co./Heavy Maintenance. He was stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Upon his return to civilian life, Dick worked in the construction trades and as an auto mechanic. His most important job was caring for both his parents until their deaths. He sacrificed much in his own life to care for and keep them at home. Dick was preceded in death by both his parents; his brother, Joseph Michael McMahan, in 1998; and his sister, Betty Jean McMahan in 2001. He is survived by his niece, Erin (Ken) Proctor of Madison; and nephew, Sean (Lisa) McMahan of Lakeside, Calif. He also has grandnieces, Kati McMahan and Jade Proctor and grandnephew, Shane McMahan. Committal services will be held at FOREST HILL CEMETERY, 1 Speedway Road, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 20, 2012.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 19, 2012 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968)

Obituary: John A. Lehmann - Class of 1943

MADISON - John A. Lehmann, age 87, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at St. Mary's Care Center. He was born on Sept. 20, 1924, in Mather, the son of Alfred and Edna (Hoover) Lehmann. John came to Madison in 1937, and was a graduate of Central High School. He served during World War II, in the U.S. Merchant Marines from 1943 until 1947. John married Florence Viviani on Aug. 20, 1949, in Madison. He was a power plant engineer for the State of Wisconsin for 38 years, retiring in 1986. John was a member of the Wisconsin Association of Power Plant Engineers, Knights of Columbus, and St. Bernards Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing euchre, spending time with family, dancing, reading, and camping. John is survived by daughters, Nancy (Felix) Kowalewsky, Sue (Paul) Lehmann-Ziebarth, and Karen Lehmann, all of Madison; sons, Tim (Maggie) Lehmann of Madison, and Jeffrey (Sandee) Lehmann of Oregon; six grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence; his parents; and brother, Fred. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2450 Atwood Avenue, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 20, 2012, with Monsignor Michael Hippee presiding. Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass on Friday. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and physicians at St. Mary's Care Center for the excellent care they provided. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 15, 2012. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).  

John Lehmann's class year is based on a list of 1943 graduates published in the Wisconsn State Journal on June 6, 1943

Obituary: Judith Anne (Pedracine) Blue

MADISON  - Judith Anne Blue, age 72, passed away on Tuesday, April 10, 2012. She was born on April 6, 1940, in Madison, the daughter of Joseph P. and Alma (Crooks) Pedracine. Judith was raised by her grandparents, Lawrence and Crescentia Pedracine from the age of three months. She attended St. James, Central High School and Edgewood High School. Judith was married to Fred Banks Sr. from 1960 until 1973. She was married to Roscoe Blue from 1975 until his death in 2002. Judith was one of the first women hired under the WIN program and worked for the City of Madison Parks Maintenance Department in 1973. Most recently, she was the food pantry coordinator at St. Marks for 12 years. Judith was a faithful member of Mount Zion Baptist Church, serving as a Mother of the Church and Wednesday night cook for fellowship dinner. She is survived by her children, Katherine Pedracine, Fred Banks, Crescentia Banks-Foellmi, and LeeAnne Banks, all of Madison; sisters, Elizabeth McCredie, Susan (Wendell) Brookyser, and Mary Jo (Mike) White; 26 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; husbands; brother, Joey Pedracine; and daughter, Mary Ann. Funeral services will be held at MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH, 2019 Fisher Street, Madison, at noon on Friday, April 13, 2012, with the Rev. Richard Jones presiding. Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. A special thank you to Agrace HospiceCare for taking care of our Mother. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 12, 2012 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968)

Obituary: Catherine "Katie" Endres Spangler Wagner - Class of 1942

SUN PRAIRIE - Catherine "Katie" Endres Spangler Wagner, age 88, died on April 4, 2012, at the Prairie Gardens Assisted Living Facility. Katie was born on March 1, 1924, in Cross Plains, the daughter of Michael and Gertrude (Boehnen) Endres. After graduation from Madison Central High School in 1942, she married Paul Spangler on Jan. 4, 1944. Paul passed away in 1972. She later married Francis Wagner on Sept. 7, 1973. Katie worked as the deli/bakery manager for many years at Sentry Foods and as a waitress for more than 20 years at Herremann's Restaurant and Supper Club. She was a founding member of St. Albert the Great Catholic Church. Katie's greatest accomplishment, however, was her family. Katie enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre, bingo, gaming, bowling and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Katie is survived by her husband, Francis of Sun Prairie; five children, Pauline (Bill) Wentland of Windsor, Gloria (Mike) McCann of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Mary Kay (Jim) Robinson of Fairport, N.Y., Richard (Lisa) Spangler of Stoughton, and Lois (Bob) Frank of Steamboat Springs, Colo.; 11 grandchildren, George, Jackie, Mark, Tom, Doug, Paul, Bryan, Katie, Nikki, Mackenzie and Scott; 18 great-grandchildren; a brother, Michael (Anne) Endres of Sun Prairie; two brothers-in-law, Wesley Gest of DeForest, and Peter Broome of Houston, Texas; four sisters-in-law, Mildred Krull of Lake Mills, Mary Grinsteiner of Kimberly, Genevieve (Dick) Halvorson of Madison, and Barb Endres of Monona; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Katie was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Paul Spangler; a grandson, Randy Wentland; five sisters; and three brothers. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed in Katie's memory to St. Albert the Great Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. ALBERT THE GREAT CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2420 St. Albert the Great Drive, Sun Prairie on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at 11 a.m. A visitation will be held at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie on Tuesday, April 10, 2012, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and also at the church on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. Inurnment will be held at Sun Prairie Memory Gardens at 1:45 p.m. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Prairie Gardens Assisted Living Facility and the staff of Agrace HospiceCare for all the care and love they gave to Katie. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 8, 2012. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Elaine (Seldal) Krasny - Class of 1967

MILWAUKEE - Born to life December 1948. Born into Eternal Life on March 28, 2012.

Soul mate of George. Companion to Ginger. Cherished daughter of Betty and the late Russell Seldal. Beloved sister of David (Barbara) and Dale (Gayle). Further survived by other relatives and friends.

Elaine graduated from high school in 1966. She went on to study at UW-Madison where she met George. Private services were held in Milwaukee.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 8, 2012 (submitted by Sidney Iwanter, Class of 1967).

Note: According to a list of Class of 1967 graduates published in The Capital Times on June 9, 1967, Elaine Seldal graduated in that year (not in 1966 as stated in the obituary).

Obituary: Marlow O. Norsetter - Class of 1958

MADISON - Marlow O. Norsetter, age 71, of Madison, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Friday, March 23, 2012. He was born on July 24, 1940, in Madison, the son of Ollis and Helen (Vale) Norsetter. Marlow was a 1958 graduate of Central High School where he lettered in hockey when the sport was new to the high school. He was united in marriage to Susanne Kneebone on June 20, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa. He worked in the lathing industry for 23 years, operated Red's Enco Service Station for five years and was self employed d/b/a Norsetter Remodeling until he retired. He loved hunting, fishing, ATVing and his 1932 Studebaker, "Rockne". Marlow also enjoyed coaching youth hockey for the South Side Hockey Association. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Susanne; sons, Phil (Sandra) Norsetter and Jeff (Jennifer) Norsetter; daughter, Kellee Norsetter; nine grandchildren, Philipp, Michael, Kyle, Jeffree, Nicole, Erik, Ryan, Cole and Jonah; three great-grandchildren, Jordyn, Oliver and Robert; many sisters and brothers-in-law; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, David Norsetter. A memorial gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2012. The family wishes to thank the wonderful doctors and nurses at St. Mary's who took such great care of him. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive. Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 25, 2012. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Kenneth Raymond Sticha - Class of 1948

APPLETON - Kenneth Raymond Sticha, age 81, died peacefully on Wednesday, March 21, 2012, at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay.

 Ken was born July 14, 1930, in Chicago, Ill., son of the late Anthony and Margaret (Kraus) Sticha. Ken was a 1948 Madison Central High School graduate and received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1953. Ken was united in marriage on Feb. 2, 1952, to Lenore DeWaide, his high school sweetheart at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Madison. They shared 52 wonderful years together. He served his country in the United States Army from 1953-1955 as a Stevedore Officer with the transportation corps during the Korean conflict.

Following his military service, Ken moved back to Wisconsin with his family and was employed with the Kroger Company and later on at the Nash Finch Company (S.C. Shannon Co.) for several years as a buyer merchandiser. He retired from Nash Finch in 1994. Ken also was employed after retirement with Fox Valley Auto Auction for 15 years. He was a faithful member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church of Appleton. Most important to Ken was spending time with his family and many friends, but he also enjoyed going fishing.

He is lovingly survived by his three children, Tony (Celeste) Sticha of Green Bay, Paul (Jean) Sticha of Stevens Point, and Sue (Jim) Gault of Wilmette, Ill.; three grandchildren, Sarah and Ryan Sticha, and Jennie Gault; three great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Phyllis Sticha of Madison.

 Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Lenore, on Sept. 15, 2004; two brothers, Edward and James; and his parents.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2012, at the STAR OF HOPE MAUSOLEUM, 3131 N. Richmond St., Appleton with Pastor Dennis Ellison officiating. Inurnment will be in the mausoleum. Ken’s family will receive relatives and friends at the mausoleum on Saturday from noon until the hour of service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Appleton or a charity of your choice.

 Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 23, 2012. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Josephine Marie (DiLorenzo) Scheel - Class of 1942

MADISON - Josephine Marie (DiLorenzo) Scheel, age 88, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, having suffered from Alzheimer’s.

She was born on Oct. 8, 1923, in Madison, the daughter of Angelo and Anna (Trapino) DiLorenzo. Josephine graduated from Madison Central High School in 1942. She graduated from beauty school in 1944. Josephine married Floyd (Doc) Scheel on May 22, 1948. She opened Jo’s Beauty Salon on Sept. 9, 1958, and operated it until 2005. Josephine’s granddaughter, Reanna has recently reopened the salon renaming it Reanna’s Salona. Josephine was the president of the Wisconsin Hairdresser Association in 1960. She enjoyed traveling, especially to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with her husband, to Italy to visit family, and to the many hair shows all over the country. Josephine also enjoyed playing blackjack at Ho-Chunk Casino. Jo was a trend setter ahead of her time. Her family was always her number one priority from the beginning, raising her children while working from the Beauty Shop in her home, an accomplishment her children and grandchildren will forever be grateful for. Jo was a strong feisty wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and relative never to be forgotten. She carried herself with grace and charm quietly adding a loving touch to all she did. She made her mark in this world and is now continuing on in the next. We will miss her style and laughter. We Love You!

She is survived by her husband, Floyd (Doc) with whom she had a long love affair of 63 years; daughter, Sherry Nelson; son, Greg Scheel; grandchildren, Shawn (Kristi) Doyle, Shane (Lynne) Doyle, and Reanna Nelson; great-grandchildren, Aaron, Hannah, Jack and Simon Doyle; sister-in-law, Phyllis Coaty; and brother-in-law, Robert Scheel. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Rodney Scheel in 1990; grandson, Tyler Nelson in 2005; two brothers, Vincent (Jimmy) and Anthony (Tony); two sisters, Virginia Voigt and Rose Cardy; and brother-in-law, Ken Scheel.

A memorial gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., with a time to share memories at 5:45 p.m., on Saturday, March 24, 2012. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rodney Scheel House, 2815 Hauk Street, Madison, WI. 53704. A special thank you to Agrace HospiceCare.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 21, 2012. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: - Robert "Bob" Marble - Class of 1951

MONONA - Robert “Bob” Marble, age 79, passed away on Thursday, March 8, 2012, at his home.

He was born on Oct. 30, 1932, in Madison, the son of Ray and Edith (Beckett) Marble. Bob graduated from Central High School in 1951. He was a proud member of the Wisconsin National Guard from 1949 to 1957. On Thanksgiving Day in 1953, Bob married Helen Jorgensen. After 30 years of employment, Bob retired from Oscar Mayer in 1981. He then worked as a locksmith for Capital Lock and Security until he retired in 1994. In 1994, Bob and his brother, Gerry, started Blue Marble Enterprises, an endeavor they had long planned. Bob also enjoyed working with youth in the Explorer Scouts and 4H, singing, woodworking, and making candy. He was famous for his peanut brittle.

He is survived by his loving wife, Helen; daughter, Vicki (Bryan) Miller; sons, Daniel, Lionel (Betty) and Sam; six grandchildren, Heather, Sarah, Marcus, Zachary, Ronald and Henry; two great-grandchildren; brother, Gerald (Davilee); and sisters, NayDean Davidson and Nieta McConnell. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Genny Hackbart; and daughter-in-law, Judy Marble.

Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 5 p.m., on Wednesday, March 14, 2012. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the time of service on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Bob’s family.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 11, 2012 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968).

Obituary: William C. "Willy" Teasdale - Class of 1969

MADISON/ FITCHBURG - William C. "Willy" Teasdale, age 61, passed away on March 5, 2012, at his home in Fitchburg, with his beloved wife of 26 years by his side. He was born Dec. 20, 1950, in Madison, son of Charles and Virginia Teasdale. He graduated from Central High School in 1969 and proudly served in the U.S. Army before being honorably discharged in 1979. He was the 3rd generation owner/operator of the Silver Dollar Tavern for the past 38 years, member of the Madison Elks Lodge No. 410 for 26 years, and a life member of the VFW Post 1318. He took great pride in his home. He especially enjoyed landscaping and remodeling projects with the assistance of his friend, Tip. To make his home more joyous, he was extremely devoted to his two pets, Henri and Gracie. As he crosses over the rainbow bridge, he will whistle and Henri will be rejoined with his master. His favorite pastime was his passion for golf, which he enjoyed with his wife, friends, and his league play at Foxboro. There were many scores below 80. He also enjoyed professional sports and was known to make a wager from time to time. He is survived by his wife, Ellie Teasdale, of Fitchburg; sons, Charles Teasdale (Kris) and Brian Teasdale (Michelle) of Waunakee; daughter, Tanya Teasdale; grandchildren, Cierra, Ashley, Hannah, Parker, and Peyton Teasdale of Waunakee; and brother, John Teasdale of Madison. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Susan Shaw; and brother, James Teasdale. "He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature" (Socrates).  

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 6, 2012 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968)