Charles Magestro

MADISON - Charles Carmelo “Charlie” Magestro, 93, of Cottage Grove, passed on to eternal life Thursday, November 14, 2024, peacefully at home. Charlie was born “Santo Carmelo Magestro” on November 1, 1931, in Cudahy, Wis., to the late Palma and Frank Magestro, who migrated from Sicily. Charlie was the seventh of eight children in his family. He was raised in Milwaukee and graduated from South Division High School in 1951, where he was a multi-sport athlete achieving varsity awards in football, basketball, track and baseball all in the same year. While in high school, Charlie represented the Milwaukee Athletic Club and won the Lightweight Championship in the Golden Gloves. Charlie earned a Boxing scholarship to UW-Madison from 1952-1955, becoming team captain his senior year. His team won two NCAA Boxing Championships in 1952 and 1954, and Charlie fought for two individual NCAA championships in 1954 and 1955.

The fighting spirit and his never quit mentality that he developed in the ring endured and persevered throughout his lifetime. After he graduated college, Charlie went on to serve in the ROTC and earn a master’s degree in psychology. His career involved that of guidance counselor, ownership of Mothers Bar, The Guitar Bar, various rental properties, teaching and coaching for 23 years at Marquette Middle School and coaching at Madison East High School.

As a coach, Charlie made a mark helping and inspiring many young athletes around the Madison area. He served as an important father figure and mentor to many. His life mission was to help others become the best they could be at their chosen endeavor.

On May 27, 1972, Charlie was united in marriage with his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy Kyle Wilcox Magestro. They enjoyed spending time together, raising their children in faith seasoned with overwhelming love. Charlie coached his children’s athletic teams, while looking for every opportunity to pass on his strong values of loyalty, love for family, pride, respect and toughness to his children along with their good friends. We will remember Charlie and honor him by carrying out these values along with his famous lesson -- We all can accomplish our goals if we practice the “3 D’s,” Desire, Determination and Dedication (along with a positive attitude).

Preceded in death are his cherished siblings, Gusty (Sara) Magestro, Mamie Loveall, Mike (Franka) Magestro, Benny (Amelia) Magestro, Angie (Julian) Wesley and Vincent (Jackie) Magestro; brother-law, Wilbur “Buzz” Beaton; beloved sons, Charles “Chuckie” Magestro and Richard “Rick” Wilcox.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Magestro; sister, Frances Beaton; his children, Steven (Patty) Magestro, Tim Magestro, Debbie Lickert, Julie Conn, Gina Koji, Tom (Jessica) Magestro, Jay (Janet Hamilton) Wilcox, Cindy (Brad) Patzner, Tony (Jennifer) Magestro and Troy (Joni) Magestro.

He was the grandfather of Stephanie Magestro, Abigail Magestro, Brandon Magestro, Grayson Magestro, Garren Magestro, Jenna Magestro, Kayleen Edwards, Randy Conn, Ryan Conn, Brett Farley, Valerie Pruett, Liam Koji, Alex Koji, Heath Koji, Jarred Koji, Jennifer Etter, Jade Magestro, Rocky Magestro, Talan Magestro, Colton Wilcox, Kyle Wilcox, Tyler Magestro, Kylie Magestro, Elliana Magestro-Kennedy, Giada Magestro and Analia Magestro; and is also survived by many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

The family is thankful to their friends, family, caregivers, Sylvia Weber and Therese Stehling of Heartland Hospice for the care and support they have so graciously provided. Charlie’s family, lifelong friendships and memories were very important to him and the love and support that has been received is truly appreciated.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH, 109 South St., Waunakee, at 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, with Father Simon Tipper officiating. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024, with a special time at 6 p.m. for those who wish to stay and share stories and memories of Charlie. Another visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Saturday.

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

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420