John F. Komoroske

On November 3rd, John left this world to explore infinity amidst great Love and Light.

John was born in Algoma, Wisconsin February 11, 1937, to Dr. Frank and Sybil (Lidral) Komoroske.

He graduated from Algoma High School and received a Bachelor of Music degree from Lawrence College Conservatory, Appleton and a Master of Music Education degree from VanderCook College of Music, Chicago. John started his teaching career in Hilbert, Wisconsin. It was there that he met the love of his life, Barbara Gehl. They were married in 1963. He and Barbara moved to Sun Prairie in 1964. Leigh and Celeste joined the family soon after and together they built a beautiful life.

John was faculty with the Sun Prairie Public School system, teaching Junior High Students. Bands under his direction performed at State Conventions of the Wisconsin Music Educators Conference, the Wisconsin National Band Association and the Wisconsin Band Masters Association. John touched the lives of thousands of students, many who continued over the years to express gratitude for the love of music he gave them. He would always remember the instruments they played.

John served The American School Band Directors Association as state chairman for two terms, was elected to Phi Beta Mu and was voted Sun Prairie Teacher of the Year in 1977.

John loved fine music, attending the Madison Symphony Orchestra, fine wine, and great food, preferably shared with family and amazing friends. His avocation was cooking and baking. He enjoyed finding and trying new recipes and was well known for baking many varieties of breads.

John loved to travel. This included spending winter months on the Spanish Costa del Sol with Barbara, where they had an apartment overlooking the Mediterranean.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, a son Leigh (Gina) Komoroske, a daughter Celeste Richardson (Michael Hietpas), Peter Richardson (Annette Herboth) and four grandsons, Ben and Sam Komoroske and Sean and Nicholas Richardson.

He was preceded in death by his brother William.

A celebration of John ‘s life is planned for Monday, November 10, at Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 Cty Rd, Middleton. Visitation from 10:00 a.m. - noon. Service with Chaplain Steve Zwettler presiding will follow. A meal after will be served. Live streaming of service available. https://venue.streamspot.com/event/NjE3MDk4NQ==

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in John's memory to the Madison Symphony Orchestra, 222 W Washington Ave Ste 460, Madison, WI 53703 or go to madisonsymphony.org/donate to give online.