Richard G. Jessup

MADISON – Richard “Dick” Jessup, age 60 of Madison, passed away after a short battle with lung cancer on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2011 at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg, surrounded by his immediate family. He was born Dec. 14, 1950 in Portage, Wisconsin, the son of Harold and Nell (Jerome) Jessup. He graduated from Portage High School in 1969 and then attended the University of Wisconsin- Madison. He went on to be a successful restaurant owner and entrepreneur. Most recently, he worked for Madison Newspapers. Dick loved life and was an amazing artist. He always wanted to live large in everything that he did and tried to find the fun in every situation. He always had a smile on his face and in his eyes. Dick loved his family, dancing, gardening, cooking and being the life of the party. He is survived by his life partner, Debb Jessup; three children, Jamie (Vicki), Seth and Whitney; two grandchildren, Nathan and Nadine; a brother, Tom (Yvonne); and numerous nieces and nephews. Dick was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Eileen. Dick was a non-traditional man so there will be no formal visitation or service, but per his wishes, his family will host a “Celebration of Life” at Monkeyshine’s, 6209 McKee Road, Fitchburg on Friday, September 16, 2011 beginning at 6 p.m.