Danny Ransom

Madison - On Wednesday, March 28, 2012 we unexpectedly lost our beautiful, beloved son, Danny Ransom.

Danny was born on July 20, 1993, in Brookfield, to Ginny and Scott Ransom. He was a senior at James Madison Memorial High School in Madison. His creativity was expressed through his artistic endeavors and love of photography. The beauty he was able to capture in life's simplest moments was inspiring. He was accepted into a number of colleges and was deciding where to pursue his degree in education.

Danny was defined by his lovability and individuality. A hug from Danny, whether it was a greeting or reassurance, was guaranteed to make your day a better one. The supply of hugs was infinite, and he was extremely generous about sharing them. When he entered a room he was noticed by his sense of style, his humor and the energy he radiated, but he was more focused on noticing everyone else. His ability to reach others was unique because he taught us through his actions that we all need to be ourselves - don't judge, live large, and think of others before yourself. If you were to ask Danny, he would be the first one to say, "Be yourself, be real." Danny was also noticed when he left a room...you could tell he was missing and the atmosphere had changed. You can only imagine the void we have in our hearts right now.

Danny will be remembered for his infectious smile, his compassion for others, and the profound impact he had on the lives of so many. The outpouring from friends has been overwhelming with the countless examples of how Danny made people feel good about themselves. Danny's life and spirit will live on in all of us, and knowing his decision to be an organ donor will help the lives of other young people.

Danny struggled with anxiety and was courageously trying to conquer his challenges and was receiving in-patient support at Rogers Memorial adolescent hospital in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin at the time of the tragedy.

His big, beautiful, blue eyes and contagious smile will never be forgotten by his mom and dad, Ginny and Scott, his big brother, Scottie, and his younger sister, Rachel. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Douglas and Coralee Keehn, paternal grandfather, James Ransom, Sr., Aunts and Uncles: Helen (Tom) Carew, Doug Keehn, Jr., Jim (Kris) Ransom, Edie (Steve) Pierce and cousins: Emily and Cora, Stephanie, Eric, and Courtney, and Luke. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Marlene Ransom.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 1 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison. The funeral service will be held Monday, April 2 at 11:00 at the church, with Msgr. Kenneth J. Fiedler presiding. A luncheon will follow the service at church. The family is planning a memorial in Danny's honor.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their support, prayers and love during this time.