John Meier

Madison - John William "Big Dad" Meier, age 83, died peacefully on January 14, 2012, at Agrace HospiceCare. John was born on December 13, 1928 in Madison to Edith (Herring) and Rueben "Jack" Meier. He grew up on the East Side, attending Central High School and the UW - Madison. As a young man, John was industrious: raising rabbits, selling Christmas trees and working alongside his father, who owned Madison's first drive-ins, King Burgers.

On April 18, 1953 he married Donna (Bresnahan) and together they started their 59 years of marriage and family of five. John was an entrepreneur that saw success in owning The House of Heilmann, Mousehaus Cheesehaus, various real estate ventures and The Kollege Klub in downtown Madison, the latter of which is on its 3rd generation of Meiers at the helm.

A true Badger fan, John was one of the founding members of The Mendota Club. He made every football game, home and most of away games, from 1961 until 2008. He helped organize the first "Butch's Bologna Bash" and supported many sportsmen and sports fans at the Kollege Klub.

John is survived by his wife, Donna; his sons, Bruce (Amanda), Michael (Susan Gallo); and his three cherished grandsons, Austin, Jordan and Max Meier. Also surviving John are his brothers, Don (Betty) and Dean Meier; sister-in-laws, Shirley Meier and Ruth Meier; his wife's brothers, Art (Judy) and Dan (Darlene) Bresnahan; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his beloved daughter, Lynda Jo; his parents; and two brothers, Jim and Charles Meier; as well as his in-laws, Clem and Ella Bresnahan.

John was known by all as "Big Dad", not only for his impressive stature, but for his ability to lead, advise and guide others like a knowing father would. Students, employees, friends and family all knew exactly where they stood with "Big Dad", some of which were also fortunate to see the gentleness and love that the same man bestowed.

A celebration of John's life will be held Wed., Jan. 18, 2012 at 1:00 p.m at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A visitation will be held prior to the celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The family would like to thank the Meriter 11th floor Heart and Vascular Unit nurses for their kind and gentle care of John. Also, in lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donation in John's name be made to Agrace HospiceCare Madison, 5395 East Cheryl Pkwy., Fitchburg, WI 53711

"Never fear! Big Daddy's here!"