Chalis Sherven
October 06, 1925 - October 10, 2017
Obituary
MADISON- Chalis J. Sherven, age 92, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2017, with his family by his side at his son’s home in Stoughton, Wis. He was born on the family farm, in Perry Township, south of Mt. Horeb, on Oct. 6, 1925, the son of Sever and Helga (Hanson) Sherven. Chalis graduated from New Glarus High School in 1944. Soon after, he moved to Madison, where he met and married the love of his life, Celestial Hewitt, on June 4, 1950. He worked at the UW Memorial Union for 40 years as a Storeroom Supervisor. His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, as the Memorial Union established an annual “Outstanding Long Term Service Award” in Chalis’s honor (a distinguished award that continues to recognize the most diligent and influential members of the Wisconsin Union). Chalis was a long time member of Bethel Lutheran Church and a volunteer for the American Red Cross for many years after retirement. He cherished the time spent with family and friends, trips to the family farms, tending to his tomatoes in his garden, and memories of his childhood on the farm. Chalis was well respected in the community and will be remembered by many for his quick wit and warm heart. Chalis is survived by his sons, David (Bonnie) Sherven of Baraboo, and Terry Sherven of Stoughton; three grandchildren, Erik, Carl and Rachel; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Celestial; and all nine brothers and sisters. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 11:30 a.m., on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, with a luncheon to follow. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Chalis will be laid to rest in the mausoleum at Roselawn Memorial Park, during a private family gathering. A very special thanks to the staff at Skaalen Home - River Walk, for all their kind and thoughtful care. Thanks to Hospice Care for their help in his last days. We will always love you and miss you Dad. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Events
Visitation
Mon Oct 16, 2017 @ 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Celebration of Life
Mon Oct 16, 2017 @ 11:30 AM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Photos
No photos of Chalis have been shared yet.
Memories
SB
Signe Burkart
Other •
I so loved talking to Chalis about "back in the day" things. He was such fun to talk to and always had a good attitude. My deepest sympathy to all the Sherven relatives.
Sincerely,
Signe Burkart
ML
Mark E. Lefebvre
Other •
I only met Chalis in the final days of his life, but I will remember him forever. His stories about growing up on the family farm were wonderful. His warmth and wit immediately touched me. He had a smile and a little laugh that hinted at mischief. Knowing him for just a short time was a gift and a blessing. My sympathy to his family.
TS
Tom Smith
Other •
I worked with Chalis from the late 1960s until his retirement. He was an inspiration to all of us and a pleasure to work with. I never saw him in a bad mood. He was always friendly, cheerful and helpful. His smile and sense of humor helped us through many difficult times. I was honored to receive the Chailis Sherven award during my tenure at the Union and I still have it proudly displayed.
I'm sorry I cannot attend his service and extend my condolences personally but I am traveling and won't be in Madison on Monday but Chalis and his family will be in my thoughts and he will always be remembered by those of us who worked with him.
MC
Michael Caliva
Other •
I worked for Chalis at the Memorial Union for many years. He was the best "Boss" ever. He worked right along side us storekeepers unloading semis in the rain, snow, and on icy loading docks. We worked hard but he made it seem fun. He always had time for a story and a good joke. I had a lot of respect for him. My deep sympathy to the Sherven family.
Michael Caliva
JS
Jenny Shapiro
Other •
Chalis was one of the most amazing men to have ever graced this world! It was such an honor to have both known and loved this precious, kind, selfless, and humbled soul. He was a true testament of what is still good and pure in humanity. He touched the lives of so many in only life changing positive ways. He finally is home with the love of his life and the countless many other loved one's that have been waiting for his return to Heaven. The place that this pure blessing of an individual always carried within his entire being. There is deep sadness that we can't see him daily and appreciate the happiness and smiles he always brought.
But the joy of knowing he's where his heart always has been is truly more beautiful. He will always be remembered for what he was and will forever be an angel. Chalis Sherven an inspiration and miracle.
Never goodbye our friend. Until we meet again.
CK
Carel (Sam) Koch
Other •
David and Terry...I just heard about the passing of your father. I am so sorry for your loss. He was truly one of the best men I have ever known. I remember when i was young and he rebuilt his garage and he let me come over to help pull nails out...he wanted to pay me but it was just fun hanging out with him! I also got to see him when I worked at Union South while in school. When he stopped by, he would always take time to talk. And on occasion, he and I would ride the same bus home and I enjoyed our talks we had. He was the best neighbor anyone could ask for. I only wish I had a chance to see him in his later years. I probably haven't seen him more than a handful of times since I got married in 1985, but his memories and his kindness will live on with me forever.