Harold I Pelton

Harold (Harry) Ivan Pelton, age 78, of Neenah, passed away on October 27th under the loving care of his family and the staff at Oakridge Gardens Nursing Center in Menasha. Harold was born in Janesville on November 16, 1927, to Meredith and Rosella (Fish) Pelton. Harold graduated from Janesville High School in 1945, and Milton College in 1949, at the age of 21. He married his soul mate, Helen Lorge, during a blizzard on Thanksgiving Day, 1950, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Menasha.

Harold was a teacher and administrator in the Menasha Public Schools for 43 years, serving as Vice Principal at the high school and Principal at Butte Des Morts Junior High School and Maplewood Middle School. He was passionate about public education and felt privileged to be in a position to teach and guide students. His passion extended to the welfare of fellow teachers, as he worked tirelessly as a leader of the Menasha Teachers Union for many years. He was also a real estate broker for many years, most closely associated with the Clovis Grove development in Menasha.

Harold enjoyed people, laughing, playing cards and woodworking. In recent years he made many good friends as a member of The Friendly Singles Group. He had great times with his poker buddies every Tuesday afternoon. His greatest joy was his family and friends.

Harold is survived by his four children: Jean (Roger) Herman and Jill (Ken) Schleinz of Neenah, Mark (Connie) Pelton of Waunakee, and Amy (Scott) Wisner of Hortonville. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Michael Herman, Sarah (Mark) Brown, Katie and Paul Schleinz, Emma and Elizabeth Pelton; and his brother, Richard (Barb) of Madison, three nieces and a nephew. Harold was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, and his parents.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Dr. James Richter and the wonderful staff at Oakridge Gardens. Their care and compassion was a great comfort to Harold and his family.

Memorials will be directed to an education scholarship to be established in Harold’s name for graduates of Menasha High School.

Funeral Services will be held at 6 P.M. Monday October 30, 2006 at Wichmann Funeral Home Tri County Chapel, 3212 S. Oneida St., Menasha, with Deacon Pete Reinl officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday at the funeral home from 4-7 P.M. and also on Monday from 4:30 until the time of services.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
Tri County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida St.
Menasha 831-9905
www.wichmannfuneralhomes.com