Ralph Preez

Preez, Ralph C. MADISON - Ralph C. Preez, age 79, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2007, at St. Marys Hospital from complications following open heart surgery. He was born on Jan. 26, 1928, in Madison, the son of Joseph and Ethelyn (Johnson) Preez. Ralph married Sara Chille on April 25, 1953 in Madison at the Lake Edge United Church of Christ chapel, that was moved to Buckeye Rd. from Truax Field. Ralph graduated from East High School in 1945. He then joined the Navy and served three years. Ralph worked for the City of Madison Parks Department for 37 years. He was Past Master of Commonwealth Lodge 325. He worked with the stage crew with Madison Consistory. He was a member of the Zor Shrine, including 24 years on the Zor Shrine Camel Patrol. Ralph was a lifetime member of the Madison Elks Club as well as the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7591. He was currently serving as commander of the Blackhawk American Legion Post 553. Every Wednesday, Ralph volunteered at the Veterans Hospital where he had surpassed 2000 hours of service. Most weekdays Ralph could be found at the YMCA swimming and socializing before checking in at the VFW, Menards and Farm and Fleet. On weekends, Ralph enjoyed watching on television, the NASCAR races and golf tournaments. During his retirement, Ralph spent many years woodworking and golfing. Most recently, he loved traveling with the Badger High Rollers bus tours. Ralph was a collector of many things including coins, pens, caps, and special mementos. His family will miss Ralphs ever present place in his corner chair working crossword and cryptogram puzzles. Ralph is survived by his wife, Sara; his daughter, Ronda (Justin) Plathe; his grandchildren, R.J. Preez, Georgia-Rae and Vince Plathe; sisters-in-law, Anna (Don) Faust, Lois (Norm) Kvammen, Margaret Kerber; and special nieces, Susan (Hank) Sommers and Linda (Greg) Jenkins. He is further survived by dear cousins the Carlisle family; and many other nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; an aunt, Marion "Mayme" Lang; a brother, Eugene; and his beloved son, Randall C. Preez. Masonic services will be held on Wedensday, Nov., 21, 2007, at 1 p.m. at the GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr. Funeral services will follow at 1:30 p.m. with the Reverend Paul Shupe presiding. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the services at the funeral home. Memorials may be made in Ralphs name to any of his special organizations, including the VFW Post 7591, the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, the American Legion Post 553 or to the Shriners Childrens Hospital. We are so proud of you and we will carry you with us in our hearts. Your honesty and candor will be missed. We Love You.