Shirley Sweet

Madison - Shirley Sweet, age 93, died peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, July 10, 2011, at HospiceCare Inc. in Fitchburg. She was born May 18, 1918 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of David and Bessie (Lepgold) Koppel. While attending the University of Wisconsin she met her husband Melvin. Shirley and Melvin were married for 62 years until his death in 2000. She was a professional singer during the Big Band Era and performed on TV and Radio in Madison. Shirley worked for Temple Beth El and was honored for 50 years of service in March of 2011. She also volunteered for many organizations including 25 years at UW Health.

Shirley is survived by her sons, Thomas (Marsha) Sweet and Rick (Shari) Sweet; five grandchildren, Wendy (Jeremy) Gebben, Rebecca Walker, Laura Bishop, Jesse (Julie) Sweet and Deborah (Hirsh) Goldberg; six great grandchildren, Sam, Charlie, Alex, Adam, Ariel and Hannah; a brother, Erwin Koppel; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Melvin.

Funeral services will be held at TEMPLE BETH EL, 2702 Arbor Dr., Madison, on Wednesday, July 13, 2011, at 12:00 noon with Rabbi Jonathan Biatch officiating. Visitation will be held at the synagogue on Wednesday, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Larry Kohn Chair of Jewish Learning at Temple Beth El, 2702 Arbor Drive, Madison, WI 53711 and HospiceCare Inc. 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711.