Nick Graebel

Richard Read "Nick" Graebel died on Aug. 3, 2011.

He was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Dorothy Read and Richard Paul Graebel. He grew up in Springfield, Ill., and spent his summers in Tomahawk with family and friends. He moved to Madison in 1963 and became a firefighter in 1964. During his 41 years of service, he rose to the rank of lieutenant and became known as "The Commander." He was known for his generosity, humor and for respecting both sides of any argument.

Richard thoroughly enjoyed his time on earth. He was known for taking the scenic route and enjoying all of the views whenever he left the house. He was a bike commuter before it was Madison cool. He loved singing and was a longtime member of Madison Maennerchor, a German singing group. 

He belonged to Madison Turners and served on the board for many years. It was Richard's mission to be the best father, grandfather and citizen he could be. Madison will not be the same without the big grandpa swinging kids on his shoulders, chasing them around and breaking out into song.

Richard is missed by his wife, Ilse; son, Pascal of Mount Shasta, Calif.; daughter, Isolde (William Lorman) of Middleton; sister, Mary (John) Hofmann of Green Bay; six grandchildren; and many friends and acquaintances.

A celebration of Richard's life will take place on Oct. 8, 2011, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at TURNER HALL, 3001 S. Stoughton Road in Madison; 608-222-4922.

'58 Dinners in Springfield

Hi '58s:

On the 4th Thursday of each month, a group of the '58 SHS girls get together and have dinner at a nice restaurant here in Springfield. There were 11 of us the last time, including one husband: John Maloney, who graduated with us also. He comes with his wife, Donna Haycraft Maloney. 

I am attaching a picture from our "outing" at the Old Luxemburg Inn on July 28th for the blog. It is blurry, but you can see when it is enlarged, who all is there. 

Picture: From the nearest person on the right and going back around the table:  Dottie Huddleston Fitzgerald, Connie King Mohan, Betty Klecamp England, Kris Hockenyos Tipps, Janet Bailey Kerner, Mary Houghton Elberson, Donna Haycraft Maloney, John Maloney, Marilyn Markwell Ruch, Diane Smith (Bill) Hester (Carole Crouch Ball was not present for the picture, but did come later).  

We are open for any other 58'ers who wish to join us. Just call or email me or Carole. Phone numbers are in the latest red book from 50th reunion and current email addresses are on the SHS site. We don't turn SHS guys away as you can see by John attending our "get together" dinners. He enjoys the group as much as we do. 

Thanks,

Janet Kerner