BLACK EARTH

Thomas A. "Tom"  Handell, age 77 of Black Earth, WI passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 28, 2002 at his home surrounded by his family.  He was born November 26, 1924 in Mazomanie, WI to  Adolph & Elsie (Weinschenk) Handell. He was married to the former Esther K. Power May 15, 1948 at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Madison, WI. Growing up in Madison, WI, he attended St. Bernard's Grade School and Madison East High School, leaving in the middle of his senior year to join the United States Marine Corps during World War II.  He served in the 4th. Division, 23rd. Regiment, Second Battalion.  He served from January 18, 1943 until November 26, 1945, when he received his honorable discharge as a Corporal.  He was proud to have served at a supply base in Kodiak, Alaska and later in the North Pacific.  He was an avid trout fisherman throughout his lifetime and was active for over 20 years in softball, baseball, basketball, horse racing and dog racing.  He was offered a tryout with the Philadelphia Phillis baseball team in 1946.  He worked at several area businesses, including Madison KIPP for 16 years.  He and his family moved to Black Earth from Madison in 1967.  He worked as a custodian for the Wisconsin Heights School District for 18 years until his retirement.  He loved to have good times with his family and friends, coaching little league baseball for his son's team in Black Earth, and later watching his grandchildren in their sports activities.  He will be remembered as "Moe" by friends from his youth, nicknamed this because of his love for the "Three Stooges" films. 

He will be deeply missed by his wife: Esther of 54 years, his daughter:  Mary (Kevin) Dresen of Mazomanie, his son:  Tim (Yvonne) Handell of Monona, 4 grandchildren:  Tyler, Cally and Keith Dresen and Ian Handell, her sister: Delores (Charles) Powers and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers:  Eugene & William Handell and his sister: Arlene King.

He was a member of St. Barnabas Catholic Church, Mazomanie, and of the Black Earth American Legion Post.

Mass of  Christian burial will be at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, July 31. 2002 at St. Barnabas's Catholic Church in Mazomanie, WI with Fr. Kevin Dooley officiating.  Burial will be at the Church Cemetery in Mazomanie with full military honors accorded by the Black Earth American Legion Post.  Friends may call from 5-8 PM on Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at the ELLESTAD BLACK EARTH FUNERAL HOME, 1337 Mills Street where a rosary service will be at 8:00 PM.