2015 Senate Joint Resolution 11
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: the life and public service of Jerry Van Sistine.
Whereas, former state senator Jerry Van Sistine was born on August 16, 1926, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and died on January 20, 2015, at the age of 88 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease; and
Whereas, Jerry graduated from West De Pere High School, served his country for three years during World War II in the United States Navy, and then enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree; and
Whereas, Jerry married Joan Kaufman, who preceded him in death in 1985, and then later married Karen Bauknecht, who provided constant care and support through his journey with Alzheimer's; and
Whereas, Jerry taught school for two years and then entered the construction business, where he was a foreman for 25 years with Selmer Construction; and
Whereas, while at Selmer Construction, Jerry became involved in a local zoning issue and decided to run for the office of Ashwaubenon town supervisor, which led to a distinguished career in public service that spanned more than 30 years; and
Whereas, Jerry represented the 30th Senate district as a Democrat from 1976 to 1992, was elected the Senate's assistant majority leader, and was known for his ability to compromise and work with people on both sides of the issues; and
Whereas, after losing his Senate seat in 1992, Jerry returned to Ashwaubenon and remained active in local politics and community groups such as Syble Hopp School and Miracle League Baseball, and he participated in the Legacies Arts Project, which empowers individuals with memory impairment to express themselves through creative means; and
Whereas, Jerry also enjoyed spending time with his dog Drake, playing bingo, and cheering for the Packers and the Brewers; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the senate, the assembly concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin legislature do commend Jerry Van Sistine for his devoted public service and his many contributions to his community, express their sorrow at his death, and extend their condolences to his family and friends; and
Be it further resolved, That the senate chief clerk shall provide a copy of this joint resolution to Jerry's widow, Karen, and to each of his three children.
