John H. Hale, a respected and beloved member of the Oconomowoc, Wisconsin community, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, March 22, 2021. Born on August 11, 1953, in Platteville, Wisconsin, John Hale lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his profession, and his faith. His unexpected passing has left a void in the hearts of many who knew him.
John Hale’s journey began in Platteville, where he graduated from Platteville High School in 1971. Driven by a passion for building and creation, he pursued higher education at UW-Platteville, earning a degree in Construction Management in 1975. This academic foundation paved the way for a successful and fulfilling career in the construction industry.
For an impressive 35 years, John Hale dedicated his professional life to Oscar J. Boldt Construction Company, a Wisconsin-based, family-owned business known for its commitment to its employees. Rising through the ranks, he achieved the position of Group President before retiring in May 2015. His time at Boldt was not just a job, but a source of deep satisfaction and camaraderie. He cherished the relationships forged within the Boldt community and felt privileged to be part of a company that valued its employees so highly. Among the numerous projects he contributed to, the construction of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Genesee Depot in 2006 held a special place in John Hale’s heart. This project was more than just bricks and mortar; it was an experience that deepened his spiritual faith and commitment to God.
Even after retirement, John Hale’s dedication to St. Paul’s Catholic Church continued. He served as the chairperson of the Building and Grounds Committee, a role he embraced with enthusiasm and devotion. For 36 years, he and his wife were active members of the St. Paul’s parish, contributing their time and talents to their faith community.
Beyond his professional and spiritual commitments, John Hale was a man of diverse interests and passions. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including golfing, hunting, fishing, and traveling. Golfing was more than just a hobby; it was a way to connect with friends, especially his son, Patrick, his favorite golfing partner since Patrick was just four years old. As an avid car enthusiast and a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers, John embraced Wisconsin’s sporting culture. The family cottage in northern Wisconsin was a beloved retreat where he shared his love for fishing with his children and grandchildren, passing down cherished family traditions. His hunting grounds in Linden, Wisconsin, provided another space for connection, where he pursued deer and turkey hunting with his brother, nephews, and friends. Proud displays of his hunting and fishing achievements – a trophy buck, a 28-inch walleye, and a prize turkey – adorned the walls of the family cottage, testaments to his outdoor skills and memorable times spent in nature.
John Hale possessed a remarkable ability to build or fix almost anything. His toolbox was not just for personal projects; he readily offered his skills and helping hand to family, friends, and fellow parishioners. One particularly heartwarming project was a custom-built bulldozer bed for his grandson, a testament to his love and creativity. Family was the cornerstone of John Hale’s life. His 44-year marriage to his wife, Jean (Doyle), exemplified unwavering love and devotion. Together, they explored the world through travel and built a strong family foundation. His love for his children, Audrey (Brian) Roach and Patrick (fiancée Christine Hou) Hale, and his grandchildren, Evelyn, Lia, and Nathan Roach, was boundless. He was their steadfast supporter, encouraging them in every endeavor.
John Hale is survived by his wife Jean, his children Audrey and Patrick, and his grandchildren Evelyn, Lia, and Nathan. He is also remembered by his sisters Thellis (Jack) Winder, Bonnie Hale, and Judy (Craig) Wyman; sisters-in-law Judy Hale, June Doyle, Mary (Ted) Graber; brother-in-law John (Deb) Doyle; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Irene (Richard) Hale, his brother Larry Hale, and his nephew Shane Hale.
A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate the life of John Hale was held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Genesee Depot on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Prior to the Mass, a visitation was held at Pagenkopf Funeral Home in Oconomowoc on Friday, March 26, 2021. Following the Mass, a private family burial took place at St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery. The family kindly requested that memorials in John Hale’s name be directed to the St. Paul Parish Building Fund or to any charity of the donor’s choice, reflecting his spirit of generosity and service.
John Hale’s life was a beacon of light to those around him. His memory will be cherished and live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, dedication, and unwavering spirit. His legacy is one of love, service, and commitment to family, faith, and community.
