MADISON - James “Jim” Dolderer, age 91, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 25, 1931, at St. Mary’s Hospital to Joseph and Catherine (Buechner) Dolderer. He grew up on the east side of Madison where he lived his whole life.

Jim graduated from Madison East High School in 1949 as class Vice President. He remained active in planning reunions until just a few years ago. He met his wife, Arlene, playing shuffleboard at Ball Park Tavern. He told us that he realized she was the one for him after two or three dates.

Jim served in the Korean War in the U.S. Navy then the U.S. Air Force from 1949 to 1953. He served on the City of Madison Fire Department for 32 years, from 1955 to 1987 and retired as a Captain and Arson Investigator. He then served the Town of Madison Fire Department to help set up their investigation and inspection programs until 1991.

Once he retired, Jim spent much time with his kids and grandkids, spoiling them, watching their sports activities, and hosting Saturday lunches for the entire family every week. He was a lifetime member and volunteer at St. Dennis Catholic Church and their annual festival. He was always there to give someone a ride, especially his wife, Arlene, and grandkids. He somehow always found time for his daily exercise up until he was 90. He was so gentle, generous, kind and a wonderful family man and friend to all who knew and loved him. He will be so missed by everyone, especially his three daughters and their extended family.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Diane (Brian) Bower, Linda (Rory) Padfield and Mary Seay (Dale); six grandchildren, Andrea (Nate) Garn, Jenny (Mike) Thompson, Katie (Sam) Wells, Brett (Abby) Bower, Marissa (Francisco Lopez) Seay, and Wesley Seay (Elizabeth); seven great-grandchildren, Rayna and Greta Garn, Oliver Thompson, Bowen and Hawkin Wells, Lettie Bower and Trey Lopez. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Dolderer; and his sister-in-law, Ann Dolderer. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene (Cliff) Dolderer who passed away two days after their 65th wedding anniversary in 2018. Also, by his parents, Joseph and Catherine Dolderer; brother, Bill Dolderer; sister-in-law, Judy Dolderer; and his great-granddaughter, Arlena Jane Wells.

A memorial service and burial will be held for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

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

James Dolderer

June 25, 1931 - April 21, 2023

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