Marian Jean Schmale

Middleton - Marian (Larson) Schmale, 94, passed away Oct. 17, 2015 at Brookdale of Middleton surrounded by her family. She was born April 10, 1921, daughter of Francis (Smith) and Joseph Vessely. Marian graduated from high school in 1939 in Hamilton, OH, then attended the University of Cincinnati. She met Vern Larson in Miami FL, were soon married, then moved back to Middleton to start a family. They opened Larson's Restaurant located in downtown Middleton, a very popular eating spot whose clientele included Frank Lloyd Wright. They later managed the Ivy Inn restaurant and the Sterling Motel. Later, in 1977 Marian married Elmore Schmale, with whom she shared many years of happiness until he passed in 2004. They loved social get togethers and hosted many a euchre party for their friends. Mom had a heart of gold, she loved her family and put the family unity above all else. She also was a huge sports fan, never missing a Badger men's football or basketball game on TV, and was an ardent Brewers and Packers fan. Mom always had much grace and an artistic side as well, having become quite proficient at the piano as a young girl. She was very involved with the Middleton Community Church where she dedicated many hours of service, particularly helping with food catering. She also opened her home to a woman's study group from the church, which met regularly there. Mom continued working throughout her life. She had a degree in bookkeeping and did the books for various businesses, the longest being at Rhodes Travel in the 1970's and 80's. She also worked at Bergmann's Pharmacy as a clerk for some years, and then for the Department of Revenue processing tax forms every year during tax season up until she was 89 years old. Throughout the years mom served as a Girl's Scout leader, was a member of Eastern Star, and the organization Women in Construction. Marian is survived by her four children, Janet (Bill) Teeple of Fairfield, IA, Jeanne Brooks of Greeley, CO, Jeff (Diana) Larson of Middleton, and Jim Larson of Madison; stepdaughter Judy (Burt) Thompson of Chico, CA; grandchildren, Jesse Giovale of Greeley, CO, Cassandra (John) Stucki of Arena, and Courtney Larson of Madison. Funeral services will be held at the MIDDLETON COMMUNITY CHURCH, 645 Schewe Rd, Middleton, WI, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, with the Rev. Jim Iliff presiding. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Our family would like to thank Brookdale of Middleton for the care and devotion given to mom. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.