Earl Shrago

Dr Earl Shrago, MD, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on January 14th 2021.

Earl grew up in Omaha, NE attending Central H.S and Creighton University.  Then he went to the University of Nebraska at  Lincoln for medical school.  During medical residency at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago IL, he met his future wife Anita Shrago (Lien).  In 1955, they were married in San Francisco, where Earl was stationed with the Navy, during the Korean War.  After his honorable discharge from the Navy they began their family in Chicago, before moving to Madison, WI.

Earl was a Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin. He was one of the founding faculty members of the department of Nutritional Sciences and he taught at the medical school.  He never really retired, continuing to go to “the office” until COVID kept everyone at home.

We are fortunate that he and Anita opened our eyes to the wider world. His work took us to London, England where we lived and traveled for a year.

He enjoyed the simple things of life. Work, family, reading and the Packers.  As he was a voracious reader, one of our lasting memories is of  him reading a book.  His memory was amazing.  Even towards the end his mind was still sharp, but he acknowledged it slipping.  As he'd say “Getting old ain't for sissies”.

Earl is survived by his children, Kim Busch of St. Louis Park, MN., Ross of Middleton, WI., Devon (Giampi) Merlino of Palermo, Italy, and Sam (Dave) Koenig of Mt. Horeb, WI.; grandchildren Max (Emily) Busch,  Lucas (Erin) Busch, Hannah Busch,  Pietro and Gabe Merlino, Lauren, Maggie, Kristen and Jack  Koenig;  and great-grandchildren Charlotte and Everly Busch.  Earl was preceded in death by his wife, Anita; his parents, Beulah and Abraham; and brother Herbie.

The family would like to thank Dr. Lisa Kaufman and Nurse Carmen of UW Health Clinics for excellent care, as well as to Nicole and Wendy of Agrace Hospice Care and Jennifer of Cress Funeral Home.  Also, to his breakfast and luncheon friends and all his colleagues at the University.

If so inclined, please donate to the charity of your choice.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406