
John Michael "Jack" Hall, Jr.
January 03, 1924 - April 03, 2026
Obituary
MIDDLETON - John Michael (Jack) Hall, Jr., of Middleton, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3, 2026, in Madison, Wis., at the age of 102.
He was born on January 3, 1924, in Madison, Wis., to John and Rose Hall. The eldest of three children, Jack attended West High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1941 and served with distinction in the 36th Infantry Division across the European theater during World War II. Upon his return, he married Irma Ruth Trotalli on July 9, 1946, and pursued his education through the GI Bill, graduating with a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He began his career at J.J. Fitzpatrick Lumber Company before founding Hall Lumber Sales in 1958. Jack often credited his success to Irma's unwavering support and dedication. Jack and Irma were married for 56 years. In the early years, Irma managed the office and cared for their three children, Michael, Greg and Sandy. This allowed Jack the time to focus on building Hall Lumber Sales and JMH Properties. Both businesses grew steadily alongside his brother, Jim, sons and daughter, with Jack continuing to work well into his 90s.
Jack was a builder of homes, companies, legacies, and most importantly, of people. He cared deeply for those around him, felt a profound sense of responsibility to his fellow human beings, and was committed to leaving the world better than he found it. A fierce advocate of independent thinking, he lived by the values of fiscal responsibility, personal accountability and community service. His quick wit, sharp intellect, and unique perspective made every conversation with him memorable. Jack was a proud supporter of several causes centered around Veterans support, education and improving the communities of Madison and Middleton. He was an early supporter of Troy and Bock community gardens, upholding his belief that everyone deserves access to fresh food.
One of Jack's greatest joys was travel. His family was fortunate to journey with him to remarkable destinations - Western Europe, Bahamas, and across the continental United States. The memories made on those trips, born of his generosity and his desire to share the world with those he loved, will be treasured always.
Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Irma; parents, John and Rose; sister, Mary; and brother, Jim.
He is survived by his sons, Michael (Marsha) Hall and Greg Hall of Middleton; daughter, Sandy (Jim) Wiederholt of Mount Horeb; grandchildren, Abby (Siddharth) Ghodke, Jonathan (Nicole) Hall, Elizabeth (Brian) Pulvermacher, Jackson (Staci) Hall, Tyson (Danielle) Hall, Stacy Dvorak (Ross Gencheff), and Maggie Hall; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Oakwood for the compassionate care he received over many years, and to the staff of the Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital for their exceptional skill and dedication.
A celebration of life will be held at PLEASANT VIEW GOLF COURSE, 1322 N. Pleasant View Road, Middleton, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
In lieu of donations, please bring your favorite memory of Jack to share with the family. If unable to attend, online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761