Aldine Sponem, age 96, of Madison, Wis., passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on November 18, 1929, to Adolph and Nettie Sponem, Aldine lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, kindness, and quiet strength.

On February 25, 1951, he married the love of his life, Avis (Wahl) Sponem, in Blanchardville, Wis. Together they built a beautiful life and shared 75 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to one another.

Aldine graduated from Mount Horeb High School and spent much of his life doing what he loved most-- farming. Beginning in 1951, he dedicated himself to dairy farming, working tirelessly to provide for his family and care for the land. After retiring from farming, he continued serving his community as a bus driver for Verona Public Schools until 1996.

Outside of work, Aldine found joy in many hobbies and talents. He was an avid bowler for many years and loved square dancing with his beautiful wife. He also had a remarkable gift for woodworking, creating pieces that reflected both his craftsmanship and patience.

More than anything, Aldine was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He fiercely loved his family, and they were the center of his world. His smile could light up a room, and his warm presence made everyone feel welcome. He leaves behind not only cherished memories, but also a lasting example of love, humility, dedication, and generosity.

Aldine is survived by his beloved wife, Avis Sponem; his children, Vickie (Mike) Smith of Rolling Meadows, Ill., Steve (Karen) Sponem of Mount Horeb, Wis., Judy (Scott) Wheeler of Nashville, Tenn., and Alan (Christine) Sponem of Madison, Wis.

He was a proud grandfather to Tony Solberg, Mandy DiMola, Kristin (John) Markovich, Lyndsey (Ryan) Miskoski, Travis (Megan) Sponem, Michelle (Phil) Bastiani, Dustin (Nikki) Sponem, Ashley (Scott) Mansfield, Alex (Kelli) Wheeler, Alicia (Mike) Squatrito, and Sean Sponem. He was also blessed with 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph and Nettie Sponem; and his siblings, Gerald Sponem, Harold Sponem, Roger Sponem, and Vera (Sponem) Eidsmoe.

A celebration of Aldine’s life will be held at PRIMROSE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 8770 Ridge Drive, Belleville, at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, with Pastor Jason Hill presiding. A burial will follow at East Primrose Cemetery. Immediately after the burial a luncheon will follow at the church. A visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

Aldine’s family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the family he cherished so deeply and the countless lives he touched with his gentle spirit and loving heart.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Camacho Mount Horeb

Funeral & Cremation Care

500 N. Eighth St.

(608) 437-5077

Aldine Adolph Sponem

November 18, 1929 - May 17, 2026

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