Theodore (Ted) Joseph Szczech, 86, of Madison died on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Ted was born on August 21, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Joseph and Constance (Brożyna) Szczech. Ted grew up in Northeast Minneapolis and graduated from Edison High School in 1957. He then attended the University of Minnesota, where he met Cynthia (Cici), whom he married in 1962. After earning a PhD in electrical engineering, with a minor in mathematics, he worked at the 3M Company as a research scientist and played a key role in the development of Diamond Grade reflective material; a technology now used on traffic signs worldwide.

Ted's passions included playing the piano, fishing, astronomy, camping, hiking, biking, x-country skiing, playing handball, drinking dark beer, and watching football.

Ted is survived by his wife Cynthia Szczech (Christopherson) and son Alexander (Jeannine) Szczech, as well as siblings Douglas Szczech, James (Barbara) Szczech and John (Dianna) Szczech, and ten nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Constance Szczech, brother Edward (Michelle) Szczech, sister Stephanie Stone, and beloved malamute, Tookie.

At Ted’s request, no formal services are scheduled. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and/or Capitol Lakes Foundation.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie

(608) 837-9054