Franklin Samuel Torcaso

Franklin Samuel Torcaso, age 43 of Madison, died on Friday, June 30, 2006. Frank was born on February 28, 1963 in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the son of Richard (Marlene) Torcaso and Clara (William) Winter. Frank enjoyed his childhood years in the far north woods of Wisconsin before pursuing his career in southern California. He returned to Wisconsin where he established a balanced life of work, family time, community stewardship, and an ever growing circle of friends. Frank shared these endeavors with his spouse of 13 years, Sam Schultz. Frank remained dedicated to his priorities: creating an inviting home environment, contributing to a cohesive Madison neighborhood, and offering a haven for the gathering of friends and family. One of his great talents was his ability to find common ground with new faces and to nurture enduring friendships. Living with HIV channeled Frank’s charitable work toward fund raising efforts and regional events for AIDS care and education. He was directly involved with softball league fundraisers, AIDS Rides, all ACT Rides, Positive Pedalers, Art Space at A.C.N. of Rockford, several national AIDS walks, the AIDS Marathon program and more. Of late, Frank’s focus was to support causes and raise awareness through media by sharing his own experiences and putting a face on AIDS. He was extremely grateful for the fourteen years of intense and dedicated work of AIDS Network and UW HIV Care Clinic. His caregivers appreciate the additional help provided by Upland Hills Hospice. Frank is survived by his spouse, Sam. In addition, survivors include his parents Dick (Marlene) and Clara (Bill); brother Mark Torcaso; sisters Pam Chahdi, Michaela Torcaso, Dawn Newbauer, Angela Handley; step siblings Daniel Pansch, Robert Will, Dan Winter, Diana Bantz, Randee Carroll, Linda Van Dommelen, Laurie Crotteau, Micki Soelheim; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and caring friends who loved him madly. He was preceded in death by brother Tim Torcaso and maternal and paternal grandparents. A memorial service will be held at Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison on Saturday, July 15th at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Deborah Dean-Ware officiating. In lieu of flowers, Frank suggested memorial contributions be given to AIDS NETWORK or FAIR WISCONSIN, both of Madison. “Yet, though I cannot see thee more, ‘Tis still a comfort to have seen; And though thy transient life is o’re, ‘Tis sweet to think that thou has been;” Anne Brontë, from “A Reminiscence” And that Frank lived and loved as we loved him will always be a sweet thought for us -- always.