William Ranum

Ranum Sr., William H. "Bill" MADISON William H. "Bill" Ranum Sr., age 91, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2008. He was born on July 1, 1916, in Daleyville, the son of the late Sherman and Josephine (Mellom) Ranum. Bill and his family grew up in Arena and he graduated from Arena High School. He entered the U.S. Army in 1941, and served in both Puerto Rico and France during World War II. After the war, he settled and farmed in the Arena area until 1957, when he started working for Madison Public Schools as a custodian and then grounds leadsman. He married Margaret Blotz in 1959, and they would have celebrated their 49th anniversary in July. Together he and Margaret raised six children in both Madison and at the weekend cabin on the Wisconsin River. Bill had great respect and admiration for nature and the outdoors which he shared with his family. This included time fishing and exploring the river, hunting, and trips to Alaska with his sons. He spent much time at the Ridgeway "farm," where he involved all of the family including the grandchildren in learning about, and helping with his great passion of gardening and working in the dirt. After retiring, Bill also developed his talents as a painter and artist and had time to travel with his wife to Texas during the cold winter months and spend time with additional family. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Margaret; six of his children, Bill (Mercy) Ranum of Waunakee, Bob (Treva) Ranum of Kentucky, Becky (Dave) Rennhack of Arena, Anita Ranum of Madison, Steve (Kristin) Ranum of Waunakee and Richard (Tina) Ranum of Germany; many grandchildren, which he enjoyed greatly; a brother, Russell of Delaware; and family members Wendell James and Edna Ranum. He was preceded in death by infant twin daughters, Mary and Marie; three brothers, Ben, Ken and Bob Ranum; and a sister, Dorena James. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. DENNIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 505 Dempsey Road, Madison, at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, May 27, 2008, with Monsignor James Gunn presiding. Military rites will be conducted by the Madison Veterans Firing Squad. Burial will be in St. Bridget Catholic Cemetery, Ridgeway. Visitation will be at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., on Monday, May 26, 2008, and also on Tuesday, at 10 a.m. until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to HospiceCare Foundation. Much thanks to Dr. Albert Musa, for the years of dedicated care. Also special thanks to the staff of HospiceCare, for all of their care and support.