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Sheila Wasserman Obituary

WASSERMAN, Sheila Ruth (Wharton) Born Boston, MA, April 22, 1931, to Patent Attorney Nathaniel P. Wharton and Deeda Levine Wharton. She died of cancer at her home in Bayside, WI, on December 10, 2010. Beautiful, gifted, and adored wife for 54 years of Dr. Arthur Allen Wasserman (former executive with the Allis-Chalmers Corp. and Dean of the Cardinal Stritch University's College of Business and Management, Milwaukee, WI). Devoted mother of Robert David Wasserman (JoAnne Mary Fait), Richfield, WI, and James Leonard Wasserman (Susan Ploszay), Delafield, WI, and doting grandmother of Haley Marie Wasserman, Aaron James Wasserman, and Jack James Wasserman. Also leaves behind siblings, Dr. Ralph N. Wharton of New York City, Dr. Lennard Wharton of Short Hills, NJ, Attorney W. Paul Wharton of Salt Lake City, UT, and Pre-school teacher Elsa A. Freedman of Mystic, CT, and their families, along with many loving cousins and friends. Attended John D. Runkle School and Brookline High School in Brookline, MA; studied two years at Smith College, Northampton, MA, as a Sophia Smith Scholar; completed her B.A. in History and Government, Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa, at Radcliffe College, Cambridge, MA; obtained her M.A. in Teaching at Harvard University, holding a Ford Foundation Fellowship. She taught Junior High School in Newton, MA and in Idaho Falls, ID; worked for several years as TV's Miss Romper Room of Idaho Falls. She raised her two sons through early childhood in Pittsburgh, PA. Later she served as a news reporter in Milwaukee, WI, where the family has lived since 1968, except for a three-year period in London, England, and one year in Birmingham, AL. In 1993, at age 62, she earned the J.D. degree from Marquette University Law School, Milwaukee, WI, having served as a law intern for the then Chief Judge of the Milwaukee County Court, and having won the American Jurisprudence Award in Dispute Resolution. From 1994 to 2010, she served at the Children's Court Center as a defense counsel for juveniles, taking assigned cases as a private attorney from the Wisconsin State Public Defender Office. She was a member of the American Association of University Women, the League of Women Voters, and the Association of Women in Law. In 1992, she was listed in Who's Who among Students in American Colleges and Universities. Memorial services are being planned.

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Published by The Gazette from Dec. 11 to Dec. 12, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Sheila Wasserman

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James Miller

January 7, 2011

I first met Sheila through Rotary several years ago when she was already in her seventies. My memory of her, nevertheless, is of her youthful enthusiasm for everyone and everything around her. She always made me feel that I was the one she had been waiting to see and talk with. She clearly had a strong, focused, practical commitment to helping others improve their lives. At the time of her death she was a mentor for a young person who is one of the first in her family to go to college. We'll all miss her.

January 2, 2011

Sheila was a shining star. I met her briefly only once at our daughter's wedding 7 years ago. She was absolutely delightful-full of joy. sweetness and noted sensitivity. Our deepest condolences. Barbara & David Mateen

Constance Culpepper

December 27, 2010

I was very fortunate to have worked with Sheila. Sheila was a very kind and caring woman. Sheila was full of life and she enjoyed working with her clients. I am going to miss her and her famous "Right Oh" phrase.

Christie Christie

December 21, 2010

I feel so fortunate for having met Sheila when we had cases together at Children's Court in Milwaukee. I'll always remember our "road trip" to Sheboygan on one occasion to see a client we had in common. She made work fun. Sheila, you always made my day with your sweet personality and good heart. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Joan Kramer

December 21, 2010

We extend our sympathy and are sorry we were unaware of Sheila's illness. May your family find Peace knowing Sheila is resting in a better place. Peace

December 20, 2010

We are so grateful that our paths crossed when living in London. Sheila was so full of life - always had a smile on her face - ready to enjoy the next adventure. Together

Joanette McNeil

December 19, 2010

I was so priviledged to know Sheila for a brieftime when our husbands were at Allis Chalmers, and sorry to lose contact over the years. Reading the obit, I can see why as she continued to grow in so many areas and fill her days with accomplishments. It has been 40 years since I last spoke with Sheila, and still remember her as one of the best friends I ever had.

December 18, 2010

One can't help but be impressed with all Our Dear Friend, Sheila did with her life. Sheila was such a wonderful friend---you always had the feeling you were her most prized friend--when in reality she was yours. So much to remember about Sheila--not the least of which was her endless cup of coffee, her coat with the belt hanging loose and her reputation in London of always being the last one on the bus. Our love goes to Art, Jamie & Robbie--how lucky we have all been to be a part of Sheila life. Mary & Jim Doyle

LeeAnn Stobbe

December 18, 2010

Sheila and I met on the WRC tennis court. We became best friends for 42 years. She was brilliant and I am her "down-to earth" friend. We helped each other rear our children. Our family visited hers in London. We played tennis and shopped and lunched in Milwaukee. I will miss her so much. Our sincerest condolences to Art,Robert,Jamie, and all Deeda's perls and their families.

Arthur Wasserman

December 16, 2010

Sheila Ruth Wharton Wasserman
A public Memorial Service and Visitation will be held on January 15, 2011, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. at the Wisconsin Memorial Park’s Chapel of the Chimes, located at 13235 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield, WI 53008 (Tel: 262-781-7474). The memorial service will start promptly at 1:00 p.m. with visitation to follow. (Her obituary was published in the December 12 issue of the Milwaukee Journal//sentinel, the New York Times, and the Boston Globe.) Donations in her memory may be made to the Marquette University Law School at P. O. Box 1881, Milwaukee, WI 53201-1881; or to the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee at 521 N. 8th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233-2404; or to the American Cancer Society, Midwest Division, Inc., at P. O. Box 776, Pewaukee, WI 53072-0776.

December 16, 2010

I am privledged to have met Sheila for a brief moment in time as her RN on the pm shift. What a wonderful woman and what a life she led.... She will be missed! My heart goes out to Art and his children. Amy Ludowese RN

Jeremy Lowell

December 15, 2010

Our sincerest condolences. We have nothing but the fondest memories and beautiful thoughts when we think of our dearest Aunt Sheila. May the family find peace as quickly as possible and may you find the strength to carry on in her spirit. Love and kisses, Lori, Jeremy, Ian, Ariel, and Alec Lowell

December 15, 2010

Art and family:
It broke my heart to read that Sheila passed. I shall never ever forget her. From the very first day I met Sheila and Art, it was as though we knew each other for years. She took a kind interest without judgement to listen and learn about my troubled Grandson. I am so, so sad for your loss of your genuine, warm and loving wife and mother. I shall never forget Sheila Wasserman, ever! You were fortunate to have had her in your lives.
Warmly,
Beth Chancellor
Milwaukee, Wi.

diane bates

December 14, 2010

I heard of Sheila's passing.I was honored to have worked with an honest, caring,strong,humbled, dignified person! Thank You for always recognizing the human spirit in "our" humanity.

December 14, 2010

I was very sorry to learn of our loss of a great and wonderful woman. It was my privilege to know Sheila for a number of years, having met her through her husband, Art, while I was a member of the University Community Orchestra. I will remember her fondly for her charm, her intelligence and her great concern for others. Sandy Sandvoss

cheryl mendelson

December 13, 2010

Sheila...my wonderful friend in law school...we were forever together, through outlines, study groups and mock trial...I will cherrish those memories and the strength of our continued friendship over the years...it had been a few years since we had talked, but your voice and who you are are with me forever. Love you,

Shannon (Fait) Arrieta

December 13, 2010

One of my fondest memories of Sheila is waving to her from my Cobeen Hall dorm room. I enjoyed my undergraduate years at Marquette while she was in law school. Her love of learning and service can inspire us all for years to come!
Not only did she know how to articulate the most descriptive and thoughtful sentence to compliment someone, but her beautiful handwritten letters could also make you smile!

Cheryl Wentland Davis

December 13, 2010

Mere words cannot express what a fantastic person the world has lost in Sheila Wasserman. At Marquette Law School, she took the "1L" stress in stride. We sat next to one another during first year (and graduation) and I enjoyed talking to her and getting to know her. She truly seemed interested in what others had to say, always had a kind word for everyone and despite the stressful environment, never ceased to put a smile on my face. I have spoken and thought of her often, despite the fact that I have not seen her since 1993. My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this difficult time. She was well loved by all who knew her and will truly be missed. Her list of life accomplishments did not surprise me; Sheila could do anything well with style and grace, yet still make it look like a walk in the park! Rest in peace, Sheila.

William Edwards

December 13, 2010

We are saddened to hear about Sheila and would like to share our sincere condolences to the family. We have known Rob and Joanne for many years - -- and the closeness he had with his mom. Now as I read about her - - - to understand why I value my friendship with Rob and Joanne. Mindy and I hope that things will go as as possible under these very difficult circumstances - - and that we are thinking of you. Best, Mindy, Bill and Michael

Angela Dickerson

December 13, 2010

Wonderful Attorney at children court, always made me smile with her boston accent "right to". Will miss Mrs Wasserman

Lindsey Grady

December 13, 2010

As amazing as the accomplishments in the written obituary are, they pale in comparision to the person she was. Atty Wasserman brightened my day, each and every time that I saw her. She connected with and brought joy to everyone regardless of age, background or stature. It was a privilege to know her. I will never hear the word "Dah-ling" again without wishing she was still walking among us.

Mary Ann Hand

December 13, 2010

Sheila was a wonderful person. Her presence at Children's Court will be greatly missed. My thoughts will be with the family as they celebrate the life of an amazing woman. I wish I had seen her on Romper Room!

Lindsey Grady

December 13, 2010

As amazing as the accomplishments appear on the obituary, they pale in comparison to the person. Atty Wasserman was a person who brightened my day each and every time I saw her and who gave hope to everyone or every age, background and stature. I will never hear the word "Dah-ling" again without wishing she was still walking among us.

Rosie Llanas

December 13, 2010

I am very sadden by this news. Sheila was one of the classiest women that i have had the great honor knowing. I will miss our talks about her travels and laughter about her spanish speaking endeavors. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Adam Shaiken

December 13, 2010

My thoughts, prayers and condolences are with you all.

Patrice A. Baker

December 12, 2010

Hands down, Sheila was one of classiest persons I have ever met. She treated all of her colleagues, clients and court staff with kindness and respect. She was surely, one of a kind.

Craig Pradarelli, M.D.

December 12, 2010

Shelia won every case that I worked with her as an investigator.

Marguerite Lawless

December 12, 2010

I have thought of Sheila so often, she was a former customer of mine when I was a Hairdresser in Bayside over 25 years ago. I shall always cherish her smile, how she overfowed with Love for her family and the wonderful visits we would have, especially when one of us was running late [usually both of us!}. You are all in my Heart and Prayers. Marguerite {Mahalek} Lawless

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