Clifford Stai

Stoughton - Clifford R. Stai passed away at home on Aug. 4, 2015 at home surrounded by his family. He was born January 16, 1922 in Stoughton WI , son of Jens and Olivia (Hoel) Stai. Clifford was the baby of 10 children, all raised on the farm in the Wheeler Prairie School area. Cliff only completed eight grades but was very intelligent gaining knowledge by working with his father and other employment off the farm. He obtained his drivers' license at the age of 13 without taking a written or driving test so he could be of further help to his father. Clifford married Helen L. Thorson on December 13, 1941, and have been told that was a very, very cold and snowy day. They worked the family farm together and when their children were old enough to help, they pitched in and knew their help was needed. Cliff did work at Uniroyal, Inc., Highway Trailers and Stoughton Trailers LLC. He enjoyed working so much he retired from Stoughton Trailers LLC three different times. During this time Helen learned to drive the corn picker so a load was ready for Cliff to take to he corn storage bins. Cliff and Helen traveled with the Stoughton Weekenders to many states and enjoyed each trip with lots of memories. They also went to "Weekly Garage Sales" looking for deals and did manage to bring a number items home. They also enjoyed playing cribbage at home and uecher with their card clubs. When Helen had many health problems, he took total care of her until her death in May 2007. After that, being alone set in and he finally went to the "Koffee Kup" in Stoughton and became a regular 10 am entering the back door. He enjoyed his many friends he gained and looked forward to breakfast with Paul, Dorothy and Kenny plus a number of other Thurs. evenings were "pizza Nights" since 2001 with Larry and Carol at Marsalas then later at Nellos. Another stop that evening turned into the VFW Post 328 gaining more friends. Going to the First Lutheran Church he knew many of the congregation whether it was relatives, neighbors or friends. He always had something to say and did it with a smile. Many holidays, birthdays, family reunions were held on the farm and always with lots of fun, food and laughter. His method of driving was kept everyone on their toes. He also was very caring and offered help where ever needed.

Clifford is survived by his children, John (Pam) of Kihei, HI, Carol (Larry) of Edgerton, grandchildren, Eric (Anne) Fosdal , Amy (Scott)of Stoughton, Kathryn Fosdal of Edgerton, Matt Stai of Madison. Step grandchildren, Dave (Sherry) Shelley of Plainfield, IL, Laura Soma, Minooka, IL, Robert Shelley, Steve (Lynn) Shelley of Edgerton, great-grand children, Derick Fosdal, Megan and Dayne Anderson of Stoughton, step great-grandchildren, Jason (Allison), Tom (Monica) Shelley, Stephanie (Conery) Bruton all of Plainfield, IL, James (Jennifer) Moretti, Brookfield, IL., Tana Soma, Minooka, IL., Peter, Jamie (Amelia) Shelley of Edgerton, and many nieces a nephews. Also his cats, Speedy and Farmer who were very faithful to Cliff. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, David, three brothers, Nip, Lyman, and Arnold, six sisters, Emma Pieper, Edna Brickson, Eleanor Freberg, Ruby Hansen, Cora Swanson and Hazel Green.

Cliff has given everyone who knew him many great memories and will be missed dearly.

A memorial service will be held August 15, 2015 at First Lutheran Church, 310 E. Washington St., Stoughton at 11 a.m. with visitation from 10 a.m. until service. A luncheon will follow service in the fellowship hall of the church. Burial will be at a later date.

Family would like to thank the staff of Agrace Hospicecare for their support and care of Cliff. In lieu of flowers, send memorials to Agrace Hospicecare in memory of Clifford.