MADISON - Erwin Jabs passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, at the age of 89.

He was born in Tatarczysko, Poland on October 23, 1935. There were many Germans living in Poland at that time, and the atrocities of war forced several people to find refuge elsewhere, including the Jabses. In search for a better life, his parents lead the family through West Prussia to western Germany. Along the way, Erwin’s younger brother Herbert was born, but the difficult trek took its toll causing his premature death in 1945 at the age of one. Adolf, Emilie, Erwin and Hilda eventually found safety and comfort at a farm in Stoughton, Wisconsin in 1952 where sponsors gave them an opportunity to settle and thrive in their new country.

After completing high school, Erwin ventured into the area’s soccer community and was one of the original founding fathers of the Madison Soccer Club 1956. The team won their first state championship in 1958, and he was a proud part of that success. Today’s Madison 56ers are the result of these beginnings and various metamorphoses with the passing decades.

In ’58 Erwin’s life changed significantly when he met the love of his life, Käthe Carstensen, who had emigrated from Germany that year. Also, he joined the United States Army and was sent to Germany to carry out his duties as an Infantryman. In 1960, after returning to the USA, Erwin and Käthe married. In Madison, they were dedicated parents for their three children: Herb, Wally, and Erika. Dad was outgoing and sociable while mom was more reserved, but despite their differences they had a devoted and loving bond and shared many common values and virtues throughout their 61 years of marriage.

Dad had various employments including Gisholt and Sears Roebuck but spent most of his career in construction as a drywaller. The last place he worked before retirement was at Steele Construction, where he was appreciated as a hard-worker and as a gentle and kind human being. Erwin found a best friend in Jim Steele and he always spoke highly of the Company and the staff.

Erwin was adored by almost everyone who met him. He was caring, considerate, empathetic, as well as generous. Many will surely miss his warm smile and huge heart.

He is survived by his son, Wally Jabs (Michele); his grandchildren, Cece and Keeley; his daughter, Erika Esser (Keith); and his sister, Hilda Jeschke. He was preceded in passing by his wife, Käthe; his oldest son, Herb; and his parents; Adolf and Emilie Jabs.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025. Burial will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dane County Humane Society in his memory. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Erwin Jabs

October 23, 1935 - May 30, 2025

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