James E. Christoph

COTTAGE GROVE-James E. Christoph, age 84, of Cottage Grove, passed away on Monday, April 30, 2012, at St. Mary’s Hospital.

He was born on May 5, 1927, in Pittsburgh, Pa., the son of George V. and Alicia C. (Killian) Christoph.

He married Annie “Elaine” Gallagher in November of 1948, in Madison. James attended school in Cottage Grove and Deerfield. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. James worked on the family farm until he went to work for U.S. Rubber / Uniroyal in Stoughton for more than 30 years, retiring in 1990. He was a member of the American Legion. James enjoyed regional traveling, reading, railroads, gardening and opera. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, telling stories, and talking about current issues.

James is survived by his children, James T. (Kathleen) Christoph of Cottage Grove, Steven Christoph of Madison, John Christoph, David (Debra) Christoph of Waunakee, Timothy (Beth) Christoph of Madison, Joel (Debbie) Christoph of Gainsville, Ga., Daniel Christoph of Madison, William Christoph of Madison, Anne (Michael) Skornia of Sun Prairie, and Richard Christoph of Madison; sisters, Georgia Dunn-Kutz of Denver, Colo. and Patricia Nelson of Appleton; sister-in-law, Marjorie Christoph of Madison; 14 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Elaine; brothers, Phillip and Charles; sister, Barbara Bless; and three brothers-in-law.

A Celebration of Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 7, 2012, with the Rev. Jerry Amstutz presiding.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cottage Grove EMS, 4030 County Road N, Cottage Grove, WI. 53527.

Jim’s family would like to thank the staff at St. Mary’s Hospital and Cottage Grove EMS for the care and support given to him.