Joseph Bong

Madison - Joseph John "Joe" Bong, age 86 left us on Feb 9th, 2016, while being cared for at the VA Hospice Center in Madison WI, surrounded by his family he peacefully moved beyond this world. He was born on October 12, 1929, in Madison the son of John and Mary (Harrington) Bong.

Joe was a lifelong Madison resident who begrudgingly marveled at all the new construction around town. He had a remarkable memory sharing Madison's past and his childhood with us. Since the passing of our Mother, Elizabeth 10 years ago, he enjoyed the company of his daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends. He was a story teller that kept us always wanting to hear more. Our Dad leaves with us many many memories that will see us through our grief.

He proudly served in the US Army (1947 - 1949) His many tattoos served as a display for his pride of country and of family. He was looking forward to the upcoming presidential election, cheering on Bernie Sanders. Things he cared most about; his family, people in need (especially the homeless in Madison), animals and politics to name a few.

His date of departure fell on one of his granddaughters, (Tanya's) birthday ... The circle of life.

He is survived by his daughters, Diane Griffin, Sonya Quamme, Debra Baker, Loreli Bong and Lindy Bong; brother, Leonard (Sharon) Monday; 14 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; sisters, Rosemary Bong and Cecilia Gassen; sister -in-law, Barbara (Ron) Bollig and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind some people who were very special to him, Cathy Cerro (friend) and Debbie Frank (friend).

Joe will be welcomed at the gates of heaven by his parents, his wife, Elizabeth, his daughters, Shirley Nehmer and Sharon Hothchkiss, his Granddaughter Tanya Westedt.

A funeral service will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3325 East Washington Ave. Madison on Monday, February 15, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. Burial will follow at Blooming Grove Cemetery in Madison. A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and again on Monday from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service.

As a family, we would like to thank the entire staff at the VA Hospice Center. Your kind and respectful care of our Dad made our time there so much easier to bear. Also to Caroline and Melissa from Agrace HospiceCare, your support meant the world to us all....Thank you.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services
3325 East Washington Ave. Madison
(608) 249-6666