Dr. Alvin J. Greenberg

Madison -- Dr. Alvin J. Greenberg passed away on Friday, August 28, 2009 at the HospiceCare Center in Madison.   He was born February 8, 1923 to Morris and Molly Greenberg in Flushing, New York.   Alvin was valedictorian of his high school class and served in the Navy in the South Pacific during World War II.   He received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University, attended New York University Medical School, and completed his residency at the Cleveland Clinic.   While living in Cleveland, he met his future wife Phyllis Lee Wagner and her children, Candace and Richard.   Alvin received training in radiation oncology at the University of Michigan.   Son, Gary, was born while living in Ann Arbor, MI.   Alvin was a professor of radiation oncology at Southwestern University in Dallas, Texas from 1963 -1970.   The family then moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where he was on faculty at the University of Wisconsin Hospital.   He lived in Madison for the remainder of his life, despite his son's multiple urgings to move to Oregon after Phyllis died in 2001.   Alvin loved to watch pro football, tennis, and golf.  Music was a love of Alvin's and he always had the finest quality stereo system.   He played clarinet when he was a young man.   Alvin's highest value was education and hoped that all his children and grandchildren would graduate from college.   Alvin loved animals (especially dogs), sports cars, dining out, and beautiful women.   He will be remembered for telling jokes, especially puns, and stimulating conversation.   Alvin is survived by his children and grandchildren.   In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the American Cancer Society -- South District Office, 8317 Elderberry Road, Madison, WI   53717.   In lieu of a memorial service, friends are encouraged to leave remembrances for all to view on-line at www.cressfuneralservice.com.