Joseph Schleicher

It is with sadness that the family of Joseph A. Schleicher (age 94) announces his passing on September 6, 2020. He died peacefully at home with his family by his side and was laid to rest in a private burial at Sacred Hearts Cemetery in Sun Prairie, WI. Due to COVID-19 public health restrictions, the family is postponing a traditional in-person celebration of life until it is safe for larger numbers of people to gather. In the meantime, the family encourages his extended family and friends to reach out in safe ways. The many heartfelt cards and supportive phone calls already received are much appreciated.

Joe was born on July 6, 1926 in the Town of York, Columbus, WI. As a young man, he was a farmer with his dad and brothers in Columbus before moving to Madison where he was employed by Manchester Store for several years. He then joined the US Postal Service where he worked for 24 years before retiring and volunteering as the custodian at his local parish, St. Patrick’s Church in Cottage Grove. He was active in the parish in other ways for many years, including as an usher and a charter member of the Knights of Columbus where he participated in a number of charitable fundraiser events. Joe was an avid card player, Packers and Brewers fan and light on his feet dancing polka and waltzes every chance he could get. He loved to laugh and tell jokes (some were better than others!), but they all made you smile.

Joe was the youngest of six sons of William Schleicher, Sr and Mary Alvina (Klecker) Schleicher. He is survived by his loving wife Mary (Riedl) whom he married on August 27, 1960 at St. Charles Borremeo Church in Cassville, WI. He is also survived by their son James (Carrie) Schleicher and their children Timothy (Mikayla Chmielewski), Mariah, William and Marissa; daughter Sharon (Bob) Stephenson and their children Melissa (John) Norton and Kristina Stephenson (Logan Morrow); and son Thomas Schleicher (Celeste Milligan). Joe is also survived by Katie (Joe) Solem, April Caravello, and Juliet Alford, the children of his fourth child, Beth Caravello, who preceded him in death. He is also survived by seven great grandchildren as well as many nieces & nephews and brothers- & sisters-in-law. Joe was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers Clarence (Victoria), Vernon (Isabel), Leo (Alvina), William Jr. (Mary), and Raymond (Rachel). Memorials may be made in Joe’s name to the Colonial Club, 301 Blankenheim Lane, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 www.colonialclub.org, which supports the well-being and independence of older adults. Online condolences may be made at www.newcomerfh.com.