Vincent T. Lia

Vincent T. Lia, 85 of Jefferson, died on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at Alden Estates of Jefferson.

Vince was born on March 4, 1932 in Kenosha, WI the first-born son of Dominic and Santa (Bisciglia) Lia.  He grew up in the area, attending Kenosha High School and earned a BA in Art Education from UW-Madison.  Vince served his country in the US Army from 1953-1955.  On June 1, 1957 he married Martha Kline at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kenosha.  The couple had 5 children and moved to Jefferson in 1965 when Vince took a position as Art Teacher at Jefferson High School.  The couple enjoyed 22 years of marriage until her death in 1979.  He worked JHS for 32 years and in 1973, earned a Master’s Degree in Art Education.  After retiring in 1997, he received a request from UW-Whitewater, asking if he would like to teach art education classes.   He obliged, maintaining that position for the next 16 years – until the age of 82.  Even after his time at UW-W ended, he continued teaching a class at the Fort Atkinson Senior Center.  His last class was February 13, 2018.  One of his proudest moments as an educator, was when he was chosen “The Secondary Art Educator of the Year”.  Vince was a true Artist.  His education philosophy was defined by his willingness to let people explore.  Vince had a wonderful mind and was thankful that his passion was his work.  To know Vince was to love him!  He had a confidence that summoned respect. His children knew him as a kind and loving father who would sacrifice all to fulfill a need.  Vince the father, teacher, and friend will be missed.

He is survived by: his Children Bart (Beth) of Delafield, Todd of Hebron, Michelle (Tom) Ellingson of Jefferson, and Kris (Randy) Poredos of Fort Atkinson; Grandchildren Matthew, Danielle (Daniel), Abby, Tyler, Landon, Amanda, Anthony, and Andrew; 2 Great-Grandchildren Michael and William.  He is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Daughter Lori Johnson in 2009, Sisters Kathryn Dieck, Lorraine Petersen, and Mary in infancy, and a Brother Ronald.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00PM on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church of Jefferson with Fr. Tom Coyle presiding.  Visitation will be on Saturday from 9:00AM until the time of service at the church.  He will be laid to rest in the parish cemetery.

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