Ulamae Knutson Bullington

Madison -- Ulamae Bullington (Knutson) died peacefully on November 24, 2010, following a long and gradual decline in her health. Born March 15, 1919, Ulamae was a daughter of Reuben and Orlista Knutson who were long time residents of Madison before their deaths some years ago. Her sister Evelynne also preceded her in death in 2004.

Ulamae graduated from Stevens Point High School in 1936. She then attended school at Stevens Point Teacher's College, graduating in 1940 after earning a degree in education. Her formal education was completed in 1965 when she earned a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction at UW-Madison.

During World War II Ulamae was trained as a civilian Morse Code operator and was subsequently sent to Scott Field, Illinois in 1943 to train Army Air Corps Radio men in that skill. She then spent several years in California before resettling in Wisconsin to take up teaching as a profession.

Ulamae married widower Chester Bullington in 1954, assuming the role of mother for his three children. She and Chet then had a child, Scott, in 1955. One of Ulamae's favorite stories was to describe how she ""had"" four children in one year.

Following her long and distinguished teaching career as an English instructor at Madison West High School, Ulamae and Chet made a major life-changing decision in 1971 -- deciding to purchase the Lake Motel in Turtle Lake, Wisconsin. They moved to the north country to run that facility and there learned the ins and outs of running their own business. They continued in that capacity until 1980 when they sold the motel and retired, moving to nearby Almena. In retirement, they enjoyed a rich life, developing and sustaining many lasting friendships while participating in card playing, singing, fishing, contributing to potluck dinners, and socializing with their many friends.

After Chet died in 1996, Ulamae moved to Barron, Wisconsin for several years, and then returned to Madison in order to be closer to her children. In Madison, she re-established contacts with old friends, former neighbors, and many teachers who had been colleagues during her teaching years at West High.

Throughout her life Ulamae demonstrated a love for a variety of musical styles, with a special appreciation for the classics and jazz. During her college experience she developed a love for the string bass, and often regaled her children with stories about playing in a dance band and the rewards of those public performances. She was also a very talented pianist and always had that favorite instrument close at hand, playing for herself or for family members and friends who happened to be around. Most recently, she played occasionally at her assisted living facility, having brought her cherished, custom made piano with her to that establishment.

Ulamae is survived by her four children, daughters Barbara Bonzo of Altadena, California, and Gail Merry and husband Bob of Oregon, Wisconsin and The Villages, Florida, sons Bruce and his wife Lisa of Tallahassee, Florida, and Scott and his wife Jennifer who are Madison residents. In addition to her children, Ulamae leaves 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the caregivers at the Sebring Assisted Living Facility, St. Mary's Care Center, and Hospice services for their warm and solicitous care of Ulamae while she was a patient. A family memorial service will be held later.