Carl R DiMartino

BROOKLYN - Carl R. DiMartino, age 62, passed away - radiant until the end - at his home Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018. He went peacefully to be sure, but let's not say he did not make his mark on this world. Many knew him before his long journey with SCA Type 1 and his life was wide and varied. Armed with a rare mix of compassion, brains, and athleticism, Carl had a way of making an impression on anyone he spent time with - he was just so darn likable. He was the perfect amount of funny and irreverent and his genuine nature just made everything easier. Professionally he was a carpenter, IT Manager at MG&E in Madison, and a kind and thoughtful boss. An avid conservationist, Carl's resounding motto of "Preserve, Restore, Reduce" is well known and implemented at his Wisconsin farm on the outskirts of Brooklyn. He was energetic and forward-thinking in the use of green energy and urged others to follow. Carl's zest for life showed up everywhere. Memorable trips and vacations with friends and family were frequent. He performed over 37 parachute jumps. He regularly sailed the Door County area with friends. From his first Honda, to his last Harley Davidson Road King, Carl was an avid motorcyclist for over 40 years and had earned the battle scars to prove it. A friend to animals, Carl hosted a furry family over the years including cats, dogs, and his first mate, "Captain," his and his wife's Amazon parrot. Carl's sense of community was wide. He lived by "Plan the work, work the plan." As a young single father of two, he worked hard to educate himself at MATC and always mentioned what a resource Red Caboose Childcare Center in Madison was for him during those years. Carl was a clear voice in the Wisconsin Solidarity movement and constant progressive presence for his Facebook community. Carl supported his surviving wife of 17 years, Sarah Reid Grapentine, through nursing school and throughout her years as an EMT, knowing that she too was serving a larger whole. Whether shooting hoops in the driveway with friends, playing softball, deer hunting with buddies, or hanging out around a roaring bonfire at his home, Carl DiMartino could see the big picture, but also advise you to not take it too seriously. Meeting Carl for the first time, he could make anybody feel welcome in his home. He was revered by friends as a builder, computer guru, spot-on advice-giver, helping hand, and true blue friend. Carl valued family immensely and would talk about visits from his children and grandchildren for days. He is survived by his daughter, Sara Jo Kirwan; his son, Carl Joseph DiMartino; and four grandchildren. Now, in meeting Carl for the last time, we invite you to remember his laugh, his ready hugs, and his wise words. Or maybe his boob jokes. He would've liked that, too. When asked several weeks ago what he wanted in his obituary, he heartily replied, "I don't care! I'll be dead!" and proceeded to laugh his butt off. Classic Carl. Please join us to celebrate this amazing man! He did not want a traditional service, so we are meeting on Sunday, February 18, 2018, at HEADQUARTERS, 101 Concord Dr., Oregon.  An informal service will be held at 11:30 a.m. with lunch to follow at 12 pm. Socializing and swapping stories will be from 12 p.m. until 4 pm.  Memorials may be made to Red Caboose Childcare Center in Madison.