Harlan Thornburg

MADISON-Harlan Thornburg joined his wife of 64 years, Viola Sue (Ripp) Thornburg into his eternal life on Friday, Aug. 12, 2011, surrounded by his boys. He was born on Oct. 12, 1920, in Bettendorf, Iowa, to Harry and Elvina (Hunt) Thornburg. Harlan’s journey through life took him to combat duty as part of the U. S. Army, 29th Infantry in the European and North African Theatres during World War II. Upon his return to the states, he worked at the VA Hospital where he met and married the love of his life, Viola Ripp, on Feb. 14, 1946, in Waunakee. Together they raised five boys in a devoted and loving home. Harlan was an avid sports fan, he enjoyed coffee chats with friends, and spending time raising his family. Harlan is survived by his sons, Peter (Ann), Keith (Diane), Thomas (Connie), Gary and Russell; grandchildren, Keith Jr., Margaret, Christine and Catherine; a great-grandchild, Gavin; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Viola; his parents; and an infant sister. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5101 Schofield St., Monona, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 19, 2011, with Father Bart Timmerman presiding. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be at Green Cemetery, in Ironton. Memorials may be made to HospiceCare Inc. Cemetery: Burial will be at Green Cemetery, in Ironton. Memorials may be made to HospiceCare Inc. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5101 Schofield St., Monona, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 19, 2011, with Father Bart Timmerman presiding.