George Mael

Madison - George D. Mael, age 81, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016 with his family by his side after a lifetime of battling disabling health issues as a result of a life threatening illness as a young teenager. He was born in Middleton on Oct. 10, 1934 to the late Elizabeth and Burdell Mael. Elizabeth died young and George was cared for by his aunts, Rose and Marie, his grandmother Minnie Hoffman and his stepmother Beatrice. At age 13, he defied odds after spending six months in a coma as a result of spinal meningitis. The illness however did cause hearing loss and nerve damage that he was able to keep from limiting his achievements. Despite spending the lengthy time in the hospital, he was able to graduate on time with his high school class in 1953 from Waunakee High School. Upon graduation, he began his banking career at Randall State Bank and worked his way up through many positions, retiring as assistant Vice President with Associated Bank. After his retirement he continued to work part time at First Business Bank as a courier. In addition, he took great pride in his position handling finances for The National W Club for 36 years.

In 1957, George married the love of his life, Loraine Koltermann and on May 25, 2016 they would have celebrated 59 years of marriage. Together they raised five children. George enjoyed yard work, especially his roses, bowling, and playing cards, was involved in various community clubs to include The Elks, Optimists, and was President of the Westside Business Men's Club. He was an avid Badger and Packer fan and enjoyed attending his children's and grandchildren's sporting events. He loved camping and traveling with family and friends. He was also close to his nine brothers-in-laws, their wives and families.

George was preceded in death by his brother Marvin, sister-in-law Ila, nephew Mark and great-nephew Matthew.

Survivors include his wife Loraine, five children; Liz (Todd Peterson), Steven (Stacy), Scott, Stewart, Spencer (Laura), eight grandchildren; Lindsey, Whitney, Zachary, Shelby, Casey, Kailey, Jessica and Tyler, three step-grandchildren; Adam, Grace and Sam, one nephew; Kevin (Cindy), other relatives and friends.

Friends may join the family for a visitation at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd, Madison on Friday, February 5 from 5pm - 8 pm. Additional visitation will take place Saturday, February 6 at Midvale Community Lutheran Church, 4329 Tokay Blvd, Madison from 9 am until the time of the funeral service at 11 am. George will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Agrace HospiceCare or Midvale Community Lutheran Church.

The family would like to thank the staff at Agrace HospiceCare and Middleton Villa for their compassionate care of George.


Cress Funeral and Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-3434