Anne N. Stoelting

MADISON-Anne Nakamura Stoelting left this world listening to her favorite classical music, a constant companion, on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at Agrace Hospice and Palliative Care in Fitchburg. She was born in Urbana, Ill, to Ruth and Frank Nakamura on May 19, 1940. Anne's education included Austin High School in Chicago, Maryville College in Maryville, Tenn., UW-Madison and Madison College, with degrees in history, art history and art. She had been a resident of Madison since 1963. Anne was married to John Stoelting from Aug. 1976 until his death in 2005. Following early life values and directions, she was always grateful for the privilege of serving the UW-Madison as a program manager, researcher, writer and artist for departments and units dedicated to expanding social, economic and educational opportunities for all. Anne was always proud to serve The Wisconsin Idea, which holds that the boundaries of university service extend beyond the university campuses to the boundaries of the state. In addition, multiculturalism was a leading inspiration. Colleagues appreciated that extra effort in her graphic design as a commitment to the organization's identity and mission. A job was never done until effective visual community fully articulated intent and purpose. Anne's constant passion was enjoying and supporting the performing arts. In Madison, her philanthropy and volunteer work sought to extend participation in the arts, especially the experience of music to everyone, including youngsters. She believed that music was the universal language that could unite diverse cultures and mindsets. In addition to generously supporting local and national groups dedicated to the arts, she supported organizations that served the environment, education, health initiatives and economic and social justice. As a visual artist, Anne observed daily pathways for the opportunity to appreciate color and composition, especially in the continuously changing Midwest palettes and forms of nature. As a designer and typographer, she let no road sign, restaurant menu, movie title or sports uniform number escape scrutiny. As an art collector, she especially enjoyed transparent art glass for its brilliance and color. Anne deeply loved Madison and Chicago as well as, the excitement of exposure to new places and cultures. She appreciated involvement in neighborhood concerns as the strength of resident relationships with Madison city management. Anne took lifelong pride in being a progressive Democrat. Added to her treasured enjoyment of music were her love of dining out, the downtown food carts, dogs, bears and the good people she was privileged to have in her life. A Chicago sports fan, Anne would wait a lifetime to see the Chicago Cubs play and win the World Series. The Wisconsin Badgers fulfilled countless big dreams. She is survived by her sister, Brenda (Bruce) Matson; niece Jenny (Patrick) Palsgrove; and nephew, Brian Matson. Anne was blessed to share the pleasure of John's sons and daughter; Eric (Laurie deceased), Paul (Carol), Mark (Leanne) Stoelting and Laurie (Bruce) Jenkins; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Frank Nakamura.  A private service will be held in the spring. Interment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery. Donations may be made to Goodman Community Center, 149 Waubesa St., Madison, Wis. 53704 or Lussier Community Education Center, 55 S. Gammon Rd., Madison, Wis. 53717. Anne's wish for family and friends is: "TAKE TIME TO CELEBRATE YOUR LIFE BY OFFERING A KINDNESS TO SOMEONE ELSE. THEN DO IT OFTEN." Cherish your voice in your city, state and nation and vote in every election. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420