Theodore Stephenson

MADISON-Theodore Ernest Stephenson, age 77, beloved son of Theodore and Vera (Quinney) Stephenson, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2009 at home, with his family by his side. He was born on Oct.28, 1931, in Madison and grew up in Eau Claire. After WWII his family returned to Madison and in 1949 Theodore graduated from East High School. He earned a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and served with the U.S. Army in Alaska during the Korean War. He was active with the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps, and his dance band, the Polka Dots. He and Belle Hudson Harris were married on February 16, 1963. Theodore worked for 37 years as an engineer and administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, retiring in 1992. At the DOT, he initiated or created many programs for the state including the adopt-a-highway program, the motorcycle safety course, weather stations, hiring person with disabilities to work at rest stations, and numerous initiatives to protect and preserve the environment. Theodore devoted many hours to the Bethel Bible Series, teaching Confirmation, working with the Food Pantry and as a greeter with his wife, Belle. He served as Tribal Chairperson and as a Tribal Council member of the Brothertown Indian Nation of Wisconsin. Theodore worked tirelessly for the rights and recognition of the Brothertown and would want us all to work diligently to ensure that the tribe gain federal recognition and see the dreams of generations of Brothertown achieved. Ted was a leader for Boy Scout Troops 420 and 6, and was very proud when his sons earned their Eagle Scout Awards. He received a 25 year service recognition from the Boy Scouts. Theodore was a member of the local BMW motorcycle club and logged many miles motorcycling. He enjoyed dining and dancing at the Madison Elks Club. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Belle; his children, Kristi (Joe Sharkus) of Fitchburg, Martha, John, both of Madison and Amy of Massachusetts: Jeffrey (Julie) of Montana, and Susan (Michael Fetch) of Florida; and his beloved grandchildren, Mitchell, Meghan, Jenna, Justin and Hayden Sharkus. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Jones and brother-in-law Richard Goold. He is preceded in death by his son, Greg, his parents, Theodore and Vera, his brother Wayne and his sister, Nancy Goold. The family wishes to thank the staff of HospiceCare for providing Theodore with excellent care in his final hours. Visitation will be on Saturday, March 14, 2009 from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM at BETHEL Lutheran Church, 312 Wisconsin Ave, Madison followed by the funeral services at 11:30 Am. A luncheon will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brothertown Indians of Wisconsin, 82 S. Macy St., PO Box 2206, Fond du Lac, WI 54936-2206, the Bethel Food Pantry, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, WI 53703-2108, or a charity of your choice.