Obituary: Joseph Justiliano - Class of 1935

MADISON - Joseph Justiliano, age 97, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2013, surrounded by his loving family. Joe was born on Aug. 29, 1915, in Madison, to Maria and Jacob Justiliano. He grew up in the Bush neighborhood in Madison and was always proud of his Sicilian heritage. He was active in sports, playing football, basketball, and ran the mile in track. Joe graduated from Madison Central High in 1935. After graduation, he started his career as a women’s shoe salesman. Joe later enjoyed retirement by traveling to Florida. Joe was a member of St. Peter Parish in Madison. Also, a member of the Elks Club, The East Side Club, Moose Club, and the Italian Workman’s Club. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Irene (Poloni) on June 22, 1940, who gave him three beautiful children, Veronica, Jo Ann, and Joe. He is survived by his children, Jo Ann Suchomel (Ron) of Sun Prairie, and Joe Justiliano (Pat) of Oconomowoc. His grandchildren, Brian Suchomel, Eric (Lisa) Suchomel, Brenda (Rick) Hansen, Mike Justiliano, and Julie Justiliano. And great-grandchildren, Dylan, Tyler, Zack, Caden, Maddie, and Halle. He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene, in 1984; infant daughter, Veronica; mother and father, Maria and Jacob Justiliano; and siblings, Mary, Vito, Nick and Ann. Also, his Poloni family, who meant so much to him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2013, at ST. PETER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5001 North Sherman Ave., with Msgr. Charles Schluter presiding. Burial will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church on Saturday. Even into his 90s, Joe remained active, always finding time to take his hikes. We know he is at peace and is finally reunited with his love, Irene, after hiking the last 29 years without her. A special thanks to Roxy, Cheryl and the staff at Harmony Living Center in Sun Prairie for all their love and support, and to Agrace Hospice for making his last weeks so comfortable.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 13, 2013. Submitted by Sandra Sabroff Weber.

Obituary: Nicholas "Pops" Gandolph (Gandolpho) - Class of 1942

MADISON - Nicholas "Pops" Gandolph (Gandolfo), age 89. On Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013, Nick decided it was time to move on to a better place. Nick was going to do it his way. He was born on Aug. 16, 1923, to Sicilian immigrants Guiseppe and Giacoma (Greco) Gandolfo. Nick was one of eight siblings. After his mother died when he was three, he was raised and cared for by his devoted sisters who were dedicated to keeping the "famiglia" together and out of the orphanage. Nick grew up in the Greenbush, and as a young boy, he learned to collect coal along the railroad tracks that was used to warm the family's stove. Nick loved the "Bush." Brittingham Park was his favorite place, and he attended Doty School. A graduate of Central High School in 1942, Nick was a superior athlete. He lettered in football, basketball, and track. Right after high school, he answered the call of duty to serve his country. Being too young to enlist, his sister had to sign off for him. Nick fought in World War II in the Pacific Theatre. On Jan. 31, 1951 (the coldest day ever recorded in Madison), he married his sweetheart Dorothy Donna Klein. As a military wife, Dorothy enjoyed traveling from base to base with their young children. Nick went on to have a long, distinguished military and reserve career, retiring with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Nick was proud to serve his country. Following his service, he worked many years as a social worker for Dane County. Immediately after his retirement in 1989, Nick was off to the Peace Corps to volunteer in Jamaica. Nick was a life-long member of the Italian Workman's Club, where he devoted many years to bettering the Italian Community. Nick was also a member of the VFW, the DAV, and the American Legion. In the military, Nick was a paratroop diver. In real life, he was a passionate "Dumpster Diver" and curb hunter. He enjoyed spending time with his family and attending many social "appointments." Nick also enjoyed riding his bicycle all over the city. That man loved his bike! He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy of 62 years; children, Nick Greco, Tony Gandolfo (Jacalyn nee Piazza), his precious daughter Karen Lee Myers, Steve Leonardo, and Vince Vito; grandchildren, Jovita Gandolfo (David Brody), Gina Gandolfo, Joseph and Lucas Myers; great-grandchildren, Ayla and Eja Gandolfo-Brody; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by Ma and Pa; his sisters, Elizabeth, Rose, Jeannine, and Victoria; his brothers, Joseph, Leonardo, and Phillip. At Nick's request, there will be no memorials or visitations; he wished for no cards or flowers. Over the years, people can become forgetful. Not Nick. He never forgot where he came from, or how he got there. And, he knows right where he's going. So, Nicolo-Sugar-Pops-Nono-Grandpa: "Arrivederci." Don't look back.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 3, 2013. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Diane Janice (Schultz) Strassman - Class of 1970

OREGON - The beautiful life of Diane Janice (Schultz) Strassman, age 60, ended Feb. 23, 2013. She was surrounded and comforted by her family as she was listening to one of her favorite musicians, Tina Turner. Born April 16, 1952, in Madison, the third child of Donald and Eleanor (Lawry) Schultz, she graduated from Central High School in spring of 1970 and married her high school sweetheart Donald Strassman on Aug. 21, 1971. Diane and Don made life long careers together running an electrical business in the Madison area; Diane played a critical role as office manager of their self-started business, Capital City Electric. This allowed Diane to have a dual career as a stay-at-home and work-at-home Mom. Diane was often known to be up in the wee morning hours working the books for the business so that she could spend the days and nights providing a warm and loving home for her two children, and her four grandchildren who were the light of her life. Extended friends and family were always warmly welcomed into the home and many people think of Diane fondly as a "second mom" to them. Diane is famous for her singing skills, especially her ability to be the life of the party and find fun entertaining songs on Karaoke nights. She was a wonderful cook and enjoyed creating dishes with her husband to share with the family. She truly enjoyed sitting outside and looking at the birds and her flowers and sipping a martini with the love of her life, Don. Most of all she loved being with family - she will be greatly missed for her unconditional love for all people from her husband, to her daughters, to her sons-in-law, to her nieces and nephews, brother and sisters, and all of the friends of those people...Diane had one of the most kind and genuine hearts anyone has ever seen. Her smile, warmth and true passion for caring was contagious. We will let it be known though that if you were to enter into a snowball fight with her, you were bound to lose! Although Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS) made these things terrifically difficult for Diane to enjoy and partake in, everyone around her was moved by the strength and courage that she had to beat the disease for as long as she could. She is a gem, a true gift to the people who met her and to whom she was able to touch through the gift of her own life. Survivors include her husband of 41 years, Donald "Don" children Lynea (Aaron) LaVoy, Ashley (Brian) Anderson; grandchildren, Evelyn, Nolan and Alivia LaVoy, and Audrey Anderson; mother and father, Donald and Eleanor Schultz; brother, Gerald (Joan) Schultz; and sisters, Gloria (Tom) Swayzee and Karen (Dave) McGaw. She is further survived by her brother-in-law, David (Cheryl) Strassman; and sisters-in-law, Cindy (Roger) Beck, Cathy (Marva Becker) Strassman, Mary (Mark) Grosse, Christina (Jim) Nygren, and Lisa (Tom) Robson. Diane was preceded in death by her mother and father-in law, Grace and August Strassman. Funeral Services will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL HOME, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013. A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and also on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions are welcome to the family in lieu of flowers. The family would like to thank Agrace HospiceCare for their support and care, with special thanks to mom's Valentine's Melissa, Amanda and Jessica. Diane requested that people not wear gloomy colors to her services! Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com Gunderson Oregon Funeral & Cremation Care 1150 Park St. (608) 835-3515

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 25, 2013. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968) 

 Diane Janice (Schultz) Strassman is a Madison Central High School alumna because she attended CHS for several years prior to transferring to James Madison Memorial High School, where she graduated in 1970, because Central closed in 1969.

Obituary: James Franklin, Jr. - Class of 1969

MADISON - James Franklin Jr. [age 63], also known as "Jun" passed away on Feb 11, 2013 at the Hyland Park of Sun Prairie Assisted Living facility after a very long illness.

He was born on Oct. 24, 1949, in Birmingham, Ala., the fifth of eight children born to James and Clara Franklin who came to Madison, in 1951. James Jr. attended Franklin Elementary School and was a [1969] graduate of Central High School where he excelled in track. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army where he was promoted to the rank of Master Sergeant and served his country for 13 years.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Franklin Sr.; grandparents, Joseph Franklin, Eddie Jackson, Callie Jackson, Yancy Hill, Ollie Williams, Mary Lou Williams, the first born Franklin baby brother, Robert Franklin, and a younger sister, Callie Franklin-McIntyre. He leaves to mourn his passing his mother, Clara Mae Hill-Franklin of Madison; two sisters, Rosemary Franklin-Smith of Philadelphia, Pa., and Linda Franklin of Madison; three brothers, Joseph Franklin of Oshkosh, Larry (Doris) Franklin of Everett, Wash., and Jerome Franklin of Madison; Jun’s one and only son, Michael Franklin of Clarksville, Tenn.; and a host of grandchildren nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and acquaintances.

A memorial service will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, at MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH, 2019 Fisher St., Madison, WI 53713 from 12 noon until 1:30 p.m. Cress Funeral & Cremation Services 3325 E. Washington Ave.

 Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 24, 2012. Submitted by Janet Stevens (Class of 1965) and Michale Vahldiek (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Frederick J. Hall - Class of 1944

EDGERTON - Frederick J. Hall, age 86, passed away at the Edgerton Memorial Hospital on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013. He was born on June 21, 1926, in Madison, the son of John and Marie (Haack) Hall. [He was a 1944 graduate of Madison Central High School.] Fred was united in marriage with Beverly J. Weiser on May 18, 1991, at the Wisconsin State Capitol. He was employed with the City of Madison with the Madison Police Department, retiring as a Captain. Fred was a veteran of the Army Air Corp serving in World War II. Fred loved travelling and made many trips to Hawaii, Las Vegas, Florida and many other destinations. He enjoyed the theatre and was an avid fan of the Fireside Theatre and the Madison Civic Center. He rarely missed watching a Packers game, a Badgers football game or a Brewers game. Fred looked forward to Sunday family dinners and sharing stories about his life. He is survived by his wife, Beverly of Edgerton; his sisters, Genevieve Carlson, Lorraine Marvin, and sister-in-law, Gertrude Hall from Madison; his stepchildren, Craig DeVoy of Fort Atkinson and Shari Smith of Madison; his grandchildren, Craig, Julia and Devin; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Angeline; and brother, Bill. Honoring his wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. He was entombed at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Madison. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road, Madison (608) 238-3434  

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 24, 2013. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Obituary: Marian Rae Mitchell - Class of 1963

MADISON - Marian Rae Mitchell, age 67, passed away peacefully at Karmenta Nursing & Rehab Retirement Home on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013. 

Marian was born in Madison, on Nov. 19, 1945, to parents, Raymond and Dorothy Mitchell and was baptized and confirmed at the South Shore Methodist Church. 

Marion is a [1963] graduate of Madison Central High School. After school, she worked as a daycare teacher, for hotels and had a passion for sewing. Marian would make wonderful embroidered gifts for her friends and family. She loved to frequent the library to escape into the fantasy of books. 

Marian's family would like to thank the staff at Karmenta for the care they have given her the past few years. Marian was preceded in death by her parents; her niece, Teresa; her nephew, Danny; her brother-in-law, Mr. "B"; her great-niece, Jessica; her aunt, Jewell and uncle, Milford and her aunt, Minnie and uncle, Weldon. 

Marian is survived by her sister, Holly; her nephews, Randy, Allen and Jamie; and her nieces, Jolene and Lisa. She is also survived by great-nieces and nephews; her great-great-nephews; and by her uncle, Melvin and aunt, Lila Ruth. 

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. Marian will be laid to rest next to her parents at Forest Hill Cemetery, Madison, following the services. A visitation will be held at 10 a.m. until the time of services Wednesday at CRESS FUNERAL HOME. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434 Please 

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on January 27, 2013. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Obituary: Earl Edward "Buck" Church - Class of 1966

MADISON - Earl Edward "Buck" Church, age 64, passed away peacefully with all of his family by his side on Jan. 21, 2013.

 He was born on July 18, 1948 in Madison. Earl enjoyed his family, children and grandchildren. He loved Christmas the most, fishing, motorcycling and spending time in Wisconsin Dells with Sandy. He really enjoyed life to the fullest.

 He is survived by his wife, Sandy; his children, Michelle (Dave) Neumann, Sherry (Norbert) Sasek, Danielle (Greg) Miller and Tony Church; and the mother of his children, Lenille Church. He was also very proud of his grandchildren, Christopher, Justin, Brianna, Aaron, Angela, Brandon, Bailey, Dylan, Devin, Leshia, Terrell, Latasha and Cami and a soon to be born great-grandchild. He is also survived by his little sister, Pam Menning and we can’t forget his best friend, Duke (his dog) who was there to keep him company.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Angela; parents, Earl E. Church Sr., and Frances Splittgerber and his sister, Patricia Lichtenberg.

There will be a celebration of life at EVANGEL LIFE CENTER – Great Room, 4402 Femrite Drive, Madison on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013, at 11 a.m. Pastor John Clark will officiate. A luncheon to follow at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 2109 Bartillon Drive Madison.

In lieu of flowers or monetary gifts, please make donations in his memory to the Diabetic Foundation. Our family would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to the doctors and nurses at St. Mary’s Medical ICU, where they took exceptional care of our dad and we are forever grateful. Papa, we will always love you and we will miss you dearly. Love, Michelle, Sherry, Dani and Tony. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3325 E. Washington Ave. (608) 249-6666

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on January 23, 2013. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968)

Note: Earl Edward Church's class year is based on information in the 1966 Tychoberahn, which includes his photo amongst those of the graduating seniors.

Obiruary: James E. Lalley - Class of 1962

MAUSTON - James (Uncle Jimmy) E. Lalley, age 68, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013, unexpectedly but peacefully surrounded by his family at UW Hospital-Madison.

Jim was born on May 19, 1944, in Madison to the parents of Daniel and Elizabeth Lalley. Jim graduated from Central High School and retired from many years of service to the State of Wisconsin.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Daniel and Elizabeth and brother John. Jim spent his entire life dedicated to helping others and was a great mentor to his special nephews and nieces.

Jim is survived by bothers, Daniel of Madison, David (Deborah) of Madison, Gerard and a sister, Sandra (Gary) McConochie of Madison. He is also survived by nephews, Ken (Jeanne) Lucht, Jason Lucht, Joe Lalley and Dan (Crystal) Lalley; and nieces, Jennifer Lucht, Dawn Lalley, Lisa Lalley and Jennifer Johnson; along with great-nephews, Jason Jr., Jacob, Dominic, Colin, Jaden, Irie, Zaiden, Joey and Gabe; and great-nieces, Jersie and Autumn.

 To honor Jim's wishes there will be no service or visitation. A small family gathering will take place in Mauston. The Crandall Funeral Home in Mauston is assisting the family. Memorials can be made to the American Lung Association. Special Thanks to the UW Hospital Cardiac Unit for their compassion and care of Jim and his family during this difficult time. "Jim, may you rest in PEACE."  

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on January 22, 2013. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968). 

 James Lalley's class year is based on information in the 1961 Tychoberahn, where his photograph is included amongst those of the juniors.

Obituary: Daniel C. Roberts - Class of 1964

MADISON - Dan Roberts, age 66, died on Friday, Dec. 28, 2012, at University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. After living years with myeloma, Dan was stricken with an unrelated, rapid-onset infection. He was surrounded by his family at the end. Dan was the youngest of three boys born to Frank and Marjorie Roberts. For one year, brothers, Dan, Rich and Phil rode together to Madison Central High School on a motorcycle and sidecar. After graduating from the UW, Dan's professional career was devoted to public service and unionism. As a research analyst, he organized other state professionals and served as president of Professional Employees in Research Statistics & Analysis. Under his leadership, the union affiliated with AFSCME became AFSCME Local 144. He served as research director for AFSCME Council 24. It was during that time, in 1980, that he organized a rally at the State Capitol in reaction to Ronald Reagan's election. While organizing the rally, Dan met Carol who became his friend and 23 year later, his wife. He returned to state service, where he became an early member of the Wisconsin Professional Employees Council, chartered in 1993 as AFT Local 4848. He later served on the Local's Executive Council. Dan's other avocations included photography, freelance writing and tinkering with his VW Vanagon. He kept his extended family united in spite of where the family members located. He provided them support and regular contact throughout his life and often travelled to visit, driving and camping with Carol in the Vanagon. His loyal dog, Buddy was always by his side. Dan was generous to those in need - - inviting the homeless to stay in his home for a bit, or take a shower. He also contributed to local and international agencies. He was a regular contributor to the Human Rights Campaign, PLAN international, WPR and Progressive Dane. Dan is survived by his wife, Carol Weidel; son, Cory Roberts (Robyn Acker); brothers, Richard Roberts (Susan) and Phil Roberts (Sharon); stepdaughters, Laurel Redmon (John Thuesen) and Kristin Redmon (Bernadette Rappold); granddaughter, Maeve Redmon Rappold; and Buddy. His parents, Frank and Marjorie predeceased him. Memorials can be made to support housing for the homeless. Donations can be made online at omhouse.org or by check to "Occupy Madison Inc." 30 N. Hancock St., Madison WI 53703 Friends and family will share memories at a memorial gathering at BUNKY'S CAFE, 2425 Atwood Avenue, Madison at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013. All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services Madison (608)442-0477

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on December 30, 2012. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968) 

 Note: Daniel Roberts' class year is based on information in the 1964 Tychoberahn, where his photo is included with those of the graduating seniors.

Obituary: Craig Carleton Hill

MADISON [Wisconsin]  - Craig Carleton Hill, age 59, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2012, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg, after a brief and courageous battle with lung cancer.

Craig was born on Oct. 23, 1952, the son of Jerry and Berdine Hill, and grew up on the south side of Madison with the Arboretum as his playground. He attended Central High School until its closing in 1969, graduating from West High a year later but always thought of himself as a Central High alum and a Southsider through and through. After high school, Craig enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving aboard the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam Conflict. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post No. 1318 and a 35 year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local No. 159 as a master electrician. He was thankful to have had the opportunity at the end of his life to spend the last few months traveling with his family and was proud to complete his lifelong goal of visiting all 50 states. Craig was an avid outdoorsman, who especially loved hunting and fishing. He will be eternally grateful to Mud and Helen Lee and their family for sharing their cabin with him during deer season for the past 47 years. In 1979, he married "his best pal" Peggy Polk at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. His first son, Jeremy (Becca Hayward) of Chicago was born in 1983, followed by Hunter (Amanda Fath) of Madison in 1985. He was always very proud of "his boys'" achievements.

He was survived by his wife; his sons; sisters, Linda Hill of Madison and Maren Hill of Stoughton; his brother, Jay (Chris) Hill of Madison; sisters-in-law, Mary (John) Witte, Judy (Gary) Weimer, Theresa (Paul) Streib, and Anne (Bruce) Andrysczyk; brothers-in-law, John (Nancy) Polk, Jim (Sue) Polk, and George (Peggy) Polk; and too many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews to list. He is also survived by his faithful hunting partner, Mollie, his English Springer Spaniel. He was preceded in death by his parents; his maternal grandparents, Emil and Alice Reinholtz; paternal grandparents, Stan and Helen Hill; his uncles, Don Spaith, Stan Reinholtz, and Stan Hill; brother-in-law, Mark Hlavek; in-laws, Glenn and Ruth Polk; niece, Bridget Polk; and previous Springer Spaniels, Famous and Babe.

A Celebration of Craig's Life will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL HOME, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m., with a short service at the end of the celebration, on Sunday, Aug. 5, 2012. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in order to fund the beautification project on the Southside. Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care 2950 Chapel Valley Road (608) 442-5002

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 3, 2012 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968) 

Craig Carleton Hill  is a Madison Central High School alumnus because he attended CHS for several years prior to transferring to West because Central closed in 1969.