Werner Schorr

Oregon/Madison - Werner P. Schorr, age 84, died on Sunday, July 21, 2013.
He was born on March 1, 1929 to Moritz and Marta (Zbinden) Schorr in Cambria, Wisconsin and was raised with his 2 brothers and 2 sisters in Madison.
He attended West High, joined the army at age 17 serving in post WWII Korea. After the Army he attended Madison Business College on the GI Bill where he learned the skills needed to manage his many small businesses over the years - including Custom Fencing, and Straightline Striping. He worked at Clean Towel Service as a route driver before joining the Madison Fire Department. Over his years with the Fire Department he rose to Division Chief. During his tenure he helped implement the change from an all male force to including women firefighters. He retired in 1986.
His hard work set an example for his family, instilling a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit (starting when he had them collecting worms at night to sell, shoveling and plowing snow, or holding a chalk line for striping).
Werner met the love of his live - Joanie Kaltenberg in 1950 at a wedding dance in Waunakee. He enticed her with charm, and "his" convertible (which she later learned was really his brother Carl's). They married in January 1951 and together they had 6 children and raised their family in Madison.
Family was most important to Werner. He was always loving, a good provider, and coach. Always there to help, counsel and support (from jumping a car, fixing something, or giving advice). Joan and he felt they were so fortunate to have a close family who shared and enjoyed so much together - from family ski trips, camping trips, and family dinners.
Sports and competition were his passion. As a teenager he began ski jumping and became the National Junior Jumping Champion at age 16. He was one of the founding members of Blackhawk Ski Club. His love of skiing he shared with his family and years of wonderful family ski trips followed. Werner was a fierce competitor - even competing in the Nastar Nationals at age 78 in Steamboat, CO along with his son Randy, and grandson Luke. His competitive spirit continued even into family soccer and kickball games. He was passionate about golf, and enjoyed hunting and fishing with the grandkids.
He loved being with and meeting new people. He embraced everyone with his humor and caring nature.
Werner is survived by the love of his life, wife and soulmate of 62 years - Joan, his children Debbi Bembenek (Curt), Randy Schorr (Kristie), Wendy Ragotzkie(Pete) and Doug Schorr (Jo-Anne O'Brien); grandchildren Travis Bembenek (Tamanna), Sara Bembenek (Johel Saborio), Whitney Bembenek, Casey Schorr, Cole Schorr, Austin Ragotzie (Jackie) , Erin Ragotzkie, Meghan Schorr and Luke Schorr. Great grandchildren Emma, Oliver and Taylor. His brother Carl Schorr, and sister Rosie McMahan (Francis).
He was preceded in death by his children Paul and Rick. His parents Marta and Moritz. His brother Al and sister Helen Ritter.
Werner, Dad, Grampa, great grampa- we love you always. We'll miss your hugs.

A Celebration of Werner's Life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2013 at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. until the time of service at 6:00 pm, with a light buffet following the service at Cress.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, the Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America, or the Arthritis Foundation.