Obituary: Aaron "Red" Schuster - Class of 1941

MADISON - Aaron "Red" Schuster, age 84, passed away quietly after a long battle with Alzheimer's at St. Mary's Care Center in Madison. He was born Dec. 24, 1922, in Madison to Cecile (Epstein) and Isadore Schuster. Aaron graduated from Central High School in 1941 and served in the U.S. Army in the European Theater from 1943-1946. In September 1948 he married Shirley Mead in Madison. From 1951-1961 he owned and operated a furniture store in Mineral Point and later was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Madison until his retirement in 1984. He was an avid golfer and he looked forward to many years of playing golf multiple times a week. Aaron was a member of Beth Israel Center. Aaron is survived by his wife of 59 years, Shirley. He is also survived by his sons, Mark (Mary) of West Bend, and Michael of Verona; and daughter, Michelle Caro of Verona. He had five grandchildren, Angela, Emily, Adam, Dustin and Jordan; and a great-grandson, Kevin. Aaron was a warm and caring husband, father and grandfather and will be truly missed. He was preceded in death by his mother and father; and sister, Esther Shapiro. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Beth Israel Center, 1406 Mound St., Madison, WI 53711; or the Alzheimer's Association, 517 N. Segoe Road No. 301, Madison, WI 53705. A special thanks to the staff at St. Mary's Care Center for the great care he received over the past three years. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9, 2007, at FOREST HILL CEMETERY, 1 Speedway Road, Section 36, with Rabbi Kenneth Katz officiating. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on May 9, 2007

Obituary: Charmayne (Robbins) Brown

WAUNAKEE - Charmayne Brown, age 78, passed away unexpectedly from a stroke on Friday, April 27, 2007. She was born on July 1, 1928, in Waukesha, the daughter of Alice Oehler-Jones and Delmier Robbins. Charmayne grew up in Waupun and later moved to Madison. She graduated from Central High School with her future husband, Brad. They were married on May 24, 1947, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison and were happily and lovingly married for just under 60 years. Charmayne was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. Survivors include her husband, Brad Brown of Waunakee; two daughters, Barbara Keating of Madison and Betsy Brown (Wendy Williams) of Flagstaff, Ariz.; two grandchildren, Genna (Craig) Roller and Steven Keating; and five great-grandchildren, Jory Keating, Misty, Alizabeth, Samantha and Tabitha Roller. Charmayne's life was enhanced by her two pets Shih Tzus, Pookie and Debbie. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Augusta and Albin Oehler; her mother, Alice; and father, Delmier. Memorial services will be held at the GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL HOME, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, on Thursday, May 3, 2007, at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be in Sunset Memory Gardens. A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday from 11 a.m. until time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dane County Humane Society or a Charity of one's choice. Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Centers 7435 University Ave.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 30, 2007

Kay (Chechik) Ansfield - Class of 1925

Ansfield, Kay - Died April 11, 2007 at the age of 99. She resided in Hollywood, FL since 1978. Born in Russia, she moved to Madison, WI where she graduated from Central High School in 1925 and received a BS degree in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin in 1929. After her marriage to Dr. David J. Ansfield in 1930, Kay resided in Milwaukee, WI where she became active in Hadassah (served as president), affiliated with ORT, Council for Jewish Women, Sisterhood of Temple Emanuel B'ne Jeshurun and became active with the youth group at the Temple. Kay was preceded in death by her husband Dr. David J. Ansfield in 1991. She leaves behind her son Dr. Paul (Sandy) Ansfield of Oshkosh; daughter Miriam Ansfield, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Services were held in Hollywood, FL.

Originally published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on April 29, 2007

Note: Kay is listed as Kathyrn in the Tychoberan and other Central records.

Obituary: Marie M. (Duffey) Esser - Class of 1931

MADISON - Marie M. Esser, age 94, died on Thursday, April 26, 2007, at HospiceCare, after a short illness. She was born on July 27, 1912, in Highland, the daughter of John J. and Mary (Wall) Duffey. She married James Esser on Sept. 7, 1938, at St. Raphael's Cathedral and he preceded her in death on March 27, 1997. Marie moved from Highland when she was in sixth grade, attended St. Raphael's Grade School and graduated from Central High School in 1931. She then went to Stemp Business School and retired from the State Medical Society. She also enjoyed the fashion world and had been employed by many Madison department stores. She was a member of the Catholic Women's Club, President of the Rosary Altar Society at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Madison and was a member of Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Catholic Church, Sun Prairie. Survivors include her son, Gerald (Deanna) Esser of Madison; three grandchildren, Steve (Heidi) Miller of Denver, Colo., Michael Miller of Appleton and Marianne (Jon) Baer of Milwaukee; five great-grandchildren, Alexis, Cole and Connor Miller, Kyle Miller and Nathan Baer; a former son-in-law, Thomas P. Miller; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James; a daughter, Mary Kay Miller; a sister, Margaret Rohr; and three brothers, C.J. Duffey, Ed Duffey and John Duffey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at SACRED HEARTS OF JESUS AND MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 221 Columbus St., Sun Prairie, on Wednesday, May 2, 2007. Father Michael Radowicz will officiate with entombment in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends and relatives may call at the JOYCE-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 5701 Odana Road, on Tuesday, May 1, 2007, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., where a rosary service will be held at 7 p.m. Friends and relatives may also call at the church on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of services. Memorials may be made to the Mary Kay Miller Scholarship Fund, Apostolate to the Handicapped or HospiceCare Inc. Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home and Cremation Services 5701 Odana Road (608) 274-1000

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 29, 2007

Obituary: Helene M. (Abel) Hozeny - Class of 1928

MADISON - Helene M. Hozeny died Wednesday, April 25, 2007, at Alterra Clare Bridge House after a short illness. She was born in Madison, Sept. 16, 1910, to Joseph and Crescence (Grimm) Abel and lived most of her life in that community. Helene graduated from Central High School. She was an accomplished violinist who won many state and regional prizes during the 1920s and 1930s. She also enjoyed playing the piano, singing, walking, reading and long automobile rides with her husband. She was known for her sly wit, quick mind and extraordinary energy. Helene was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was an alto mainstay of the Blessed Sacrament Church Choir for many years. Helene particularly enjoyed holiday gatherings with her whole family present. In her working life, Helene was a stenographer at the state Department of Transportation and an executive secretary at the UW-School of Nursing before retiring in 1976. She married Walter J. Hozeny, June 21, 1945. Their marriage was truly a loving partnership until his death in 2002. Surviving are her son, Tony (Joanne Cullen) Hozeny and daughter, Betsy (Pat) Ryan, both of Madison; grandchildren, Jesse Hozeny, Abigail Ryan, Brigid Ryan, Katy Ryan, Caitlin Hozeny and Frankie Hozeny; sister, Eleanor Jensen of Belleville; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and sisters, Elsie Daniels, Marie Einberger, Devota Baudler, Regina Schrodt and Amanda Dieter. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 28, 2007, at BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLICH CHURCH, 2115 Rowley Ave., Madison, with a visitation at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the HospiceCare Foundation Inc., 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. Please do not send flowers. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 26, 2007

Note: Helene M. Abel's graduation class year is based on information in the 1927 Tychoberahn which lists her as a member of the 11A - June Class of 1928.

Obituary: Marion H. (Krueger) Schwengel - Class of 1938

MADISON - Marion H. Schwengel, age 86, passed away on Saturday, April 14, 2007, at St. Mary's Care Center after a long illness. She was born on Dec. 14, 1920, in Reedsburg, the daughter of Herman and Ella (Wischhoff) Krueger. Marion was united in marriage to Clarence Schwengel on Oct. 19, 1941, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Madison. Mrs. Schwengel has been a resident of Madison since 1926. She was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Madison. Marion graduated from Madison Central High School, a member of the Class of 1938. She was a talented homemaker staying at home raising her sons. Many area brides have Marion to thank for making their wedding dresses. She loved to work with her hands, sewing, knitting and making quilts. After her sons left home she was employed at Woldenberg's Women's Apparel and the Phillips Company as a sales clerk. Marion will be missed by her beloved family including her husband, Clarence of Madison; her sons, C. Bruce (Judi) Schwengel of Lodi and Paul (Paulette) Schwengel of Jackson Port; granddaughters, Michelle (Dr. Peary) Ragala of Hawaii and Erika (John) Skarda of Lodi; numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Paul, Donald and Harold; and sister, Selma. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 18, 2007, at 11 a.m. at ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 322 E. Washington Ave., Madison with the Reverend Ken Smith officiating. Burial will be held in Sunset Memory Gardens in Madison. Friends are invited to call on Wednesday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials to St. John's Lutheran Church would be appreciated. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3325 E. Washington Ave (608) 249-6666

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 16, 2007

Obituary: Steve F. Varese

MADISON - Steve F. Varese, age 87, died on Tuesday, April 3, 2007, at HospiceCare. Steve was born on June 11, 1919, in Madison, the son of Italian immigrants, Joseph and Sara (Caravello) Veresi. He grew up in Madison's Greenbush neighborhood, graduating from Central High School. On June 6, 1942, Steve married his lifelong partner, Alice Karls of Dane. They had two sons, Joseph and Scott. Steve was employed for 25 years as a trainman and conductor with the Milwaukee Road. In 1956, he and his wife opened Steve's Liquor Store at 3618 University Ave. by converting the family living room into a storefront. The business grew and he later opened a second store on Mineral Point Road. Both stores continue to thrive today as a family business, much to his satisfaction. Throughout his career in business, he was known for his friendly, welcoming smile, his warm regard for customers and the Tootsie Rolls he handed out to their children. Inside the family, we knew a more quiet man who loved and cared about his family. For many years after his retirement, he could be found chatting with his buddies at Hilldale Mall. He also enjoyed his cigars, fishing and solitary moments at his cabin north of Madison, where Jim Beam was no stranger. Among his most treasured memories was his trip to Sicily where he visited relatives from the old country. He was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Church and the Knights of Columbus. Steve is survived by his loving and caring wife of 65 years, Alice; his sons, Joseph (Mary) of Madison, and Scott (Kathy Atkins) of Cross Plains; his grandchildren, Katie (Wayne) Crokus, James, Emily, Dane, Leilani, Cody and Sean; and his sisters, Frances Bordson and Conchera "Bea" Troia, both of Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents; his twin brothers, Jerry and Jim who died in infancy; brothers, Sam and Joseph; sister, Mary Di Piazza; and a brother and sister, Russel and Martha, who also died in infancy. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 10, 2007, at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 602 Everglade Drive, Madison with Monsignor Donald J. Heiar officiating. A visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Monday, April 9, 2007, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, and also from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church on Tuesday. In later years, Steve was forced into a five-year battle with Alzheimer's, requiring extensive care and hospitalization. We, the family, are keenly aware and deeply appreciate the special attention and many acts of kindness he received from dedicated staff while a resident at Oakwood Village, the Stoughton Hospital Geriatric Unit, Oak Park Place and HospiceCare. In lieu of flowers, a contribution to HospiceCare or the Alzheimer's Association would be appreciated. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on April 5, 2007

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