Herbert Raymond Hodge

MADISON–Herbert R. "Herb" Hodge, age 89, passed away surrounded by his family on Monday, Nov. 9, 2015. He was born on May 15, 1926, in Prophetstown, Ill., the son of Harold and Erma (Sibley) Hodge. He graduated in 1944 from Prophetstown High School, and attended many class reunions. Herb proudly served in the U.S. Navy, was a Seabee, and then continued to serve in the reserves for almost 30 years. He met Evelyn Kant while at a dance in Freeport, Ill., and were married in 1952. They made Madison their home to raise five children. Herb worked for Sinclair/Arco, now known as BP, retiring in 1981. He continued to keep busy by driving school bus and volunteering for various organizations. Herb and Evelyn enjoyed traveling, dancing, and spending time with family. In 1997 Evelyn passed away unexpectedly. Herb continued to live life and met Mary Lemberger and they were married for 17 years. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and enjoyed bowling, golfing, and dancing. Herb is survived by his wife, Mary Hodge; children, Steve (Sally) Hodge, Brenda (Bill) Sietsema; Debra (Steve) Brown, Jeffrey Hodge, and Kristin Hodge; grandchildren, Erin Hodge, Brad Brown, Jessica (Ken) Lopeman, Laura (Mike) Gundrum; Stephanie (Jason) Schultz, and Alexis Buettner; great-grandchildren, David, Sofia, Lucy, and Lance. He was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn; one brother; and two sisters. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 2 p.m., on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015. Burial will follow at Highland Memory Gardens with Military Honors being conducted. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from noon until the time of the service on Saturday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420