Middleton---Wesley (Wes) James Hemberger, loving husband, father, and “Bumpa”, passed away from complications of a heart attack at UW Hospital on Friday, February 4, 2022.
Wesley was born on November 9, 1947. He was a humble, hard-working man who dedicated his life to his family and work, never forgetting his East-Madison roots. As a mason and small-business owner in the greater-Madison area, Wesley was singularly devoted to his craft and respected by all. His legacy will live on through his craftsmanship on projects across South-Central Wisconsin.
Family was central to Wes’ life, including his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. Wes lived his life for his family, spending every spare moment creating memories at festivals, fall trips to the apple orchard, sporting events, and as an extraordinarily knowledgeable and dedicated antique collector. The happiness of his family was second to none, and he loved to treat everyone to concert tickets, Badger Hockey games, family trips, and countless delicious meals at local establishments, including his favorite, Greenbush Bar on Regent Street. Moreover, his willingness to help extended far beyond his family: Wes’ generosity knew no bounds.
Wesley was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Selma Hemberger, his brothers Elmer and John, sister Karen, sister-in-law Sherry, and numerous aunts and uncles. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 50 years Mary, his daughters, Heather, Kelly (Ken), and Erica, grandchildren, Jeremy (Megan), Ethan, Olivia, and Nathaniel, brother, Richard (Jane), sister, Gayle (Gilbert), and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Wes had a miraculous ability to connect with anyone, sharing stories, jokes, and tales from his youth in Madison. The family is having a private funeral and burial on Friday, February 11th. On Saturday, February 12, we invite those who knew Wes and his family to attend a public celebration of life and luncheon at the Goodman Community Center Ironworks Building, Grace Room, in Madison, at 149 Waubesa St., from 3 pm to 6 pm to share their memories with family and friends.
We would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at UW Hospital for their tireless dedication, care, compassion, and support throughout.
Wes’ absence will forever leave a void in our hearts and lives, but the memories we have of him will remind us daily of the incredible man we had the honor to call husband, dad, and “Bumpa.” Sunday family dinners will never be the same.
If you would like to send flowers, you may send them to St. Bernard's Parish in Middleton on early Friday morning for the private service. Memorials can be made in Wesley’s memory, and will be dispersed at the family’s discretion.
Cress Funeral & Cremation Services
3610 Speedway Road
(608) 238-3434
Saturday, February 12, 2022
3:00 - 6:00 pm (Central time)
Goodmand Community Center IRONWORKS
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