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Jon Schlagenhaft Obituary
Stern, Curtiss Jason
Jon Ervin Schlagenhaft was taken prematurely at the age of 50, together with his life partner Curt Stern. Jon is survived by his loving family, his sisters Susan (Philip) Gallion, Jeanne (Tom) Kraker, Mary (Dale) Lazenby, and his brother Mark (Diane) Schlagenhaft, in addition to his nieces, nephews, and extended family. Jon was born in Milwaukee on July 17, 1958. He graduated from Boy's Tech High School. Jon's mother, Lorraine recognized at a young age that Jon had a creative gift, and encouraged him to pursue his talent. After high school he became an assistant designer with Robert Forrest Interiors, and ultimately became the firm's president. Jon and Curt started their own firm, Jon Schlagenhaft Design, in the early 1990s. Jon met Curt in 1987 and the two lived together as life partners for over twenty-one years and built their life and business together. Their French bulldog, Pudgie, and their Amazon parrot Beaker held a special place in their hearts. Jon had a knack for bringing beauty to the simplest things, and was famous for his hospitality. Family and family traditions were extremely important to him. From a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, to a fabulous Easter Sunday brunch, or an old fashioned Fourth of July party, Jon's desire was to create beautiful times to share with those closest to him. Jon loved nothing more than to watch his guests enjoy themselves at the numerous parties he and Curt hosted. His love of family and friends was evident by the way he lived his life. Jon lived his life with no fear and despite his devilish laugh, he didn't have a mean bone in his body. He never asked anyone to work harder than he did. Jon led by example, not instruction. His generosity and soft heart were legendary. Jon's tremendous passion and inherent talent for design, endeared him to everyone who knew him. Jon's very first project was the attic of the family home on Irving Place, which he decorated with incredible treasures that he found in old East side mansions. Jon's career flourished, along with his enormous talent. Jon became a much sought after designer, not only for his brilliant talent, but also for his humble confidence and his uncanny ability to connect with people. He made everyone he worked with feel comfortable, and often his clients became like family. Jon worked with clients around the world, yet his heart and home were always in Milwaukee and Star Lake. Jon and Curt had a tremendous love and appreciation for the arts and they were strong supporters of the Milwaukee community. They served on the board of the Florentine Opera and the Milwaukee Ballet. They also supported the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF), the Wisconsin Humane Society, the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Milwaukee AIDS Foundation, the Betty Brinn Children's Museum, the American Cancer Society, and Jewish Beginnings. Jon and Curt displayed unsurpassed generosity through their involvement and dedication to every cause in which they believed. They hold a very special place in the hearts of everyone who knew them in Milwaukee and throughout the world. A memorial service is planned for Thursday, September 18th in the Windhover Hall of the Milwaukee Art Museum. 700 North Art Museum Drive, Milwaukee Wisconsin. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with services beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Information will be provided at a website that has been created honoring Curt and Jon's life (www.jonandcurt.com Family, friends, and the public are encouraged to post photographs and condolences on the website. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to one of the charities listed above in their name.
Curtiss Jason Stern's life on earth was taken prematurely at the age of 40 together with his life partner Jon Schlagenhaft, 50. Curt is survived by his beloved parents James and Eleanor, his brother and sister, David and Teri, his Aunt Rebecca, Jon's family, and enumerable friends. Curt was predeceased by his late brother Michael. Curt was born in Milwaukee on June 23, 1968 at Mount Sinai Hospital. He graduated from Hillel Academy, Brown Deer High School 1986, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 1998, and Marquette University Law School 2002. Curt began his career early in his life working as a model. He was represented by Rosemary Bishop Talent Agency and Arlene Wilson Management. Curt had a strong entrepreneurial drive and business acumen. He started his first business, Saffi's Boutique in 1989 with long-time high school friend Lauren Taschen (nee Rutledge). Curt met Jon in 1987 and the two lived together as life partners for over twenty-one years and built their life and business together. Their French bulldog, Pudgie, and their Amazon parrot Beaker were the joy of their lives. He was co-owner and managing partner of Jon Schlagenhaft Design (JSD). Curt had an innate business sense and was a guiding force behind the business success of JSD. He managed the business and was a driving force that made JSD an internationally recognized design firm. Curt and Jon had a tremendous love and appreciation for the arts and they were strong supporters of the Milwaukee community. They served on the board of the Florentine Opera and the Milwaukee Ballet. They also supported the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF), the Wisconsin Humane Society, the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Milwaukee AIDS Foundation, the Betty Brinn Children's Museum, the American Cancer Society, and Jewish Beginnings. Curt and Jon displayed unsurpassed generosity through their involvement and dedication to every cause in which they believed. They hold a very special place in the hearts of everyone who knew them in Milwaukee, Star Lake and throughout the world. A memorial service is planned for Thursday, September 18th in the Windhover Hall of the Milwaukee Art Museum. 700 North Art Museum Drive, Milwaukee Wisconsin. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with services beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Information will be provided at a website that has been created honoring Curt and Jon's life (www.jonandcurt.com Family, friends, and the public are encouraged to post photographs and condolences on the website. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to one of the charities listed above in their name. Northshore Funeral Services Jody Michael Armata 414-961-1812
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Memories and Condolences
for Jon Schlagenhaft
Brad Winters
September 23, 2008
My heart goes out to all that knew Jon and Curt. (I still don't want to believe they are gone.)
Growing up with my other family just down the block and all the times we had. Though I didn't see Jon or Kurt very often living out of state that mattered little. When i did visit they always found time in their very busy lives to meet and share good times. From Thanksgiving to a lunch visit at Mom and Dads.
I'm sorry i couldn't be there to share and celebrate my cousin and Curts Extra!ordinary life.
I still have the brochure from one of their many restoration projects showing what gifted artists!
As kids Mark and I were going in those row houses on Cambridge ave that where about to be demolished. Well... we thought we might help but Jon...he was busy collecting all the treasures he could find. His vision for his lifes work being formed! I even have one of the Altar candles from Holy Rosary that Jon gave to my mother when they were remodeling and Jon thought to share with his Aunts. Such a generous and thoughtful person that many of us know.
They are special to us because we all were Alter Boys and lit them for Mass.
To my dear cousins and their husbands and all of Jon and Curts extended family/friends know that many of us share your grief . My thoughts are with you all.
Debra Koepp nee Gauthier
September 22, 2008
I went to Holy Rosary with Jon and remember him as a very nice person. My sincere sympathy to his family and to Curts.
Ned Murray
September 21, 2008
I'm sure that when Jon arrives at the Gates of Heaven, the first words he will hear will be "Finally, this place is going to be really beautiful!"
Joe and Donna Bellante
September 21, 2008
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR MARK ( DIANE) SISTERS, SUSAN. JEANNE. MARY AND ALL SCHLAGENHAFT FAMILY.
Joe and I are greatly sadden by Jon's passing.Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.
I did not know Jon very well but met him at Mark & Dianes Wedding. Very warm, friendly, sincere type of guy.Like you knew him forever!
My husband Joe grew up with Mark (Jon's Brother ) and the Schlagenhaft family for many years Grade School up to High School in which he holds on to alot of memories.
Memories keep you going through these very hard times. Hold on to them, they can never be forgotten which warms your heart with love.
It has been 5 months on my Mom's passing away to God's Arms in April of Cancer, 5 weeks after my mom my Father is fighting for his life with lung cancer.
Some days there are tears, other days a warm memory and big smile.
We both want to express our sincere sympathy for the Stern Family as well.
To Jon Schlagenaft And Curt Stern
If We Could Bring You Back Again:
If we could bring you back again,
For one more hour or day,
We’d express all our unspoken love;
We’d have countless things to say.
If we could bring you back again,
We’d say we treasured you,
And that your presence in our lives
Meant more than we ever knew.
If we could bring you back again,
To tell you what we should,
You’d know how much we miss you now,
And if we could, we would.
(They know they are both looking down from the stars with a smile.)
Michelle Diament
September 21, 2008
I had the pleasure of being the contact person for Curts' mobile phone provider. He was always so patient & very dedicated to me whenever he needed anything. He always gave me a great feeling of providing service to him even telling me he'd hire me if I wasn't happy- I'm numbed knowing that such a nice, humble individual lost his life so early. My condolences go out to both families, I'm so sorry 2 lives were taken so early-
Tom Greco
September 20, 2008
Jon was one of my first best friends at a very early age. I remember exploring the woods at Ceasar's pool, and the 2 of us getting up the nerve to "run" past the "haunted house." Although we lost touch over the years, I am very proud of what Jon accomplished and extend my deepest sympathy to Susie, Jeannie, Mary Ellen and Mark. My sincere condolences to Curt's family as well.
Tricia Montney (Becker)
September 19, 2008
I have been out of touch with both of these sincerely genuine men for too many years... and had been wondering the last 6 months or so what they were up to. I am so happy to know they were living their dreams and had so many friends to share them with. My condolences to family and friends; heaven now has 2 more angels with big hearts!
Jeni Bence (Wolff)
September 19, 2008
I was a freind of Curts in school. He and I spent many lunch hours together. These times are my most fondest memories of school. I was so glad to spend time with Curt at our class reunion. My only wish would have been to stay in touch with Curt after high school and met Jon. Looking at all the pictures of them together, you can see the love between them. It is truly a blessing that they met. My prayers go out to everyone who has been touched by these two wonderful men.
Betty Sanders
September 19, 2008
To the Stern and Schlagenhaft Families, As a friend of Rebecca, I did not have the opportunity to meet them, yet I have learned what wonderful people they both were and how they touched so many lives in a positive way! They will be missed. My sympathies are with you for your great loss.
Carol Curler
September 19, 2008
On behalf of the staff at McGregor's Blink Bonnie Supper Club we'd like to express our sympathy in the loss of Jon and Curt. We only knew Jon and Curt "at an arm's length across the table" while having the pleasure of serving dinner to them and their friends. But it truly was always a pleasure. They were friendly, fun and we were glad to call them our customers. We're sorry for your loss.
All of us at Blink Bonnie in St. Germain
k s
September 19, 2008
WOW! Two great men are gone in a winds blow. Is it true that only the great die young? I think that may be true. I'm grateful to have met Curt and Jon and I am sorry for all of you who will miss them everyday. Peace be with you.
Liz Hill
September 19, 2008
I had the pleasure of teaching Curt news reporting at UWM. He was a great writer -- and more importantly a delightful and generous person. When he was my student, he gave me a leather plaque for my desk that bore the words that I uttered so often to the class -- "No whining." I always treasured the gift and now it means even more to me.
Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss.
Jack Galezewski
September 18, 2008
Dear Aunt Rebecca and Family,
It is always difficult and painful to lose a loved one. But even more so when it is so sudden and unexpected.
I pray that the Lord and your faith in Him will offer you some comfort in this difficult time.
I am very sorry for your loss.
Joseph and Janet Kim
September 18, 2008
We want to extend our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Jon and Curt. They were both such classy individuals and touched the lives of many.
Randi Walker
September 18, 2008
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
London by Design
September 18, 2008
To family and friends, my condolences on your tragic loss.
The interior design industry in Milwaukee has lost a wonderful and creative talent...we mourn.
Susan Stockton
Anita Heinrich
September 18, 2008
I will always remember Jon and Curt being there for me when I moved to Florida with 4 small children and Jon helped create the beautiful home I live in. Every day they will be remembered and prayed for.
Rob Kozminski
September 18, 2008
Kindness and generosity, commitment and devotion, style and smile...your departure leaves so many voids, Jon. While the world has lost two fine, decent, talented, and gifted people in you and Curt...the heavens have gained two bright stars!
With lasting memories and our heartfelt sympathies to all of those touched by Jon and Curt...you are in our thoughts today and always.
Rob Kozminski and Michael Coulombe, Rhode Island
Jeffrey Hojnacki
September 18, 2008
I had the pleasure of meeting and working with
Jon on the Vucciria sign on Brady Street. We shared some laughs together at the City Hall while appealing to the good senses of the council. In the end we won. He had a great sense of humor throughout. Jon was a great talent that will be missed...
Douglas A. Whiting
September 18, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you. Curtiss has touched many hearts.
Doug Brotherton
September 18, 2008
To the Schlagenhaft and Stern families my wife and I extend our deepest sympathies. While we have never met you, you have been in our thoughts and prayers since the accident at Lakeland Airport. We have a cottage on St. Germain Lake and our plane was the one that landed just minutes prior to the accident. We visited with Joanne and a gentleman and helped them get to the accident site. They gave our 2 yr. old foster girl, Sofie, some pretzels. From their obituaries Jon and Curtis sound like outstanding men that will be missed by all.
s n
September 18, 2008
jon and curtis will be greatly missed i can see there are alot of people whom they have touched. Now they are walking down God's golden streets.
Lisa Paul-Walter
September 18, 2008
My dearest Elenor, Jim, Rebecca and David & Teri,
Even tho we lost touch over the years my heart and prayers are with you more now than ever. My mother "Cece" and sister "Leilani" have always kept me updated with Curtis' life accomplishments, which were always very impressive. He had a heart of gold and made a significant difference in the lives of others.
He is now with his dearest brother Michael.
May the God of Jacob be with both families now to comfort you in your time of sorrow...
Blessings....
Allan Switzer
September 17, 2008
To the Schlagenhaft and Stern families and to their dear friends, we extend our deepest sympathies and sincere appreciation for the tremendous talent, zest for life and the generosity of spirit of Jon and Curt, they will be dearly missed.
William , Renee and Allan Switzer
Mark & Mary Pflieger
September 17, 2008
To the family and friends of Jon and Curt. We are so sorry for your loss. The world has lost two kind friends. The universe has gained two Free Spirits. The stars will shine brighter.
Sincerely,Mark & Mary
Eric Olson
September 17, 2008
Jon & curt will be missed by all that knew them. God bless
Monica Biernat
September 17, 2008
We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of Jon and Curt. You are in our thoughts.
Fondly, Design Atelier
Donna Schuh
September 17, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Jon and Curt. We met Jon and Curt at Star Lake and we feel privileged to have known such thoughtful, caring and talented men. They were generous in sharing fun times with our family and they were extremely kind to our adult daughter, LeeAnne, who has Down Syndrome. Our hearts are heavy and we will truly miss them but will always feel their presence at Star Lake. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends at this difficult time. Sincerely, Jack, Donna and LeeAnne Schuh and Family -- Star Lake, WI. and Palatine, IL.
Robert & Anna Gugliotti (First Class Limo)
September 17, 2008
Jon & Curt's sudden passing came as a complete shock to Robert & I. We drove for Jon & Curt when in NY and became fast friends, They were loving, kind and made us laugh a lot. . How sad for us to have lost two such wonderful guys. Jon & Curt, you will be missed, but never forgotten.
Madeleine Lubar
September 17, 2008
Thank you, Jon, for helping us make our house the beautiful home we love. Your style and smile were a gift.
We will miss seeing you both at parties and events. Your were a wonderful couple and lit up the room wherever you went.
With Affection,
Madeleine and David Lubar
teri vanert
September 17, 2008
i will always remember that zebra carpeting in your living room at the house on 68th street susie,i knew then just how extra special jon was.i am so sorry for your loss,hugs, teri van ert
Thomas & Theresa Vaughan
September 16, 2008
Such warm and generous patrons to this community! Such loving and kind hearts to all in need. Such fun and sharing
friends. Such inspiration for all, and to all! We will miss those infectious smiles and hold dear the times we spent with you both. Our deepest sympathy to the families, and to all whose lives they touched.. Love Tom & Theresa Vaughan
Tim Steinhoff
September 16, 2008
Only met Jon & Curt twice, but they were very kind to my sister Helen, who loved them very much.
Sincerely
Tim Steinhoff
Tim Eberhardy
September 16, 2008
A sad day for the class of '76 at Boys Tech. Thanks for being a great classmate and friend. Glad we made a connection at the 30th reunion.
Elaine Erickson
September 16, 2008
To the famlies of Jon and Curt, may you find strenght to help deal with your great loss. Both will dearly be missed by so many friends and admirers
Jan Uebelherr
September 16, 2008
Jon and I were in the same class at Holy Rosary Grade School. I remember him as always creative and interested in design. And always lots of fun! Racing around the playground, CYO dances, etc.
My sincere condolences to his family, and Curt's. What a loss.
Carrie Weintraub Laura Smith
September 16, 2008
With heartfelt sorrow we extend our condolences to the family and friends of Jon. We are vey greatful for the honor and privilege of working with such an incredibly talented yet humble man.
Sara Rizzo
September 16, 2008
I only knew you and Curtiss for a short time, but in that time I grew to love both of you. It breaks my heart to know I will never see you again or hear your voice.
I will always love you and miss your smiles.
Love You
Eunice Sachs
September 16, 2008
So many fond memories come to mind when we had family gatherings. They were extraordinary people and will never be forgotten.
We must always remember them with a smile and not tears because that this is what they would want.
Shalom, dear cousin Curt and dear Jon.
Geri & Augie Ray
September 16, 2008
All of us at Metropawlis Pet Boutique send our condolences to Jon and Curt’s families and friends. Jon and Curt visited the store often with Pudgie and it was always a pleasure. Their relationship with Pudgie made it evident that they were two very special people.
David Schmidt
September 16, 2008
Condolences to Jon and Curt's families and friends. They were loved by many and will be dearly missed.
Lisa Peer
September 16, 2008
I did not know Jon or Curt at all. I grew up in Milw. and monitor the death notices. I wish to express my sincere sympathy to the family of each of these men. The description of their lives and contributions is amazing and they were good people.
It is a shame to have lost them so early. I will include them both in my prayers. I just had to express this to you.
Tess beauty supply
September 16, 2008
I am sorry I did not get a chance to know you just by reading the wonderfull things people had to say makes my heart feel sad that the world lost such a wonderfull person.
I will say a prayer for you.
Tess
From Tess beauty supply Milwaukee
Shari Sadek
September 16, 2008
We dearly miss them. Besides creating a beautiful home for us they enriched our lives with the beauty within them. Our hearts go out to Jon and Curt's family and friends. Sincerely Shari and Steve Sadek
Jennifer Bills
September 16, 2008
My condolences and prayers go out to the families of Jon and Curt. I worked with Jon's brother Mark, at W. H. Brady.
Heidi and Steve Beaudoin
September 15, 2008
Curt and Jon, sadly we lost touch with you over a decade ago, but never forgot about you. The two of you made an unforgettable and lasting impression on Steve and myself. You will always be wonderful, loving, and caring angels watching over us. You'll be missed.
Len & Marie Riebau
September 15, 2008
Sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers and thoughts will be with you.
Brigitte Vojcsik
September 15, 2008
May God bless the Families and Friends of Curtiss and Jon in this time of deep Sorrow.
Renee Weissman
September 15, 2008
I didn't know either Jon or Curt intimately. I can only say that their reputation preceeded any introduction---they were both known in the design community as kind, incredibly talented and very, very special. Although their lives were cut tragically short, I hope family and friends can take comfort in the fact that their reputations (and love for each other) made an impact on the world much bigger than most of us can ever hope to leave. If God brings us into the world to learn how to be good, no wonder they were called home early. My deepest sympathy.
Mary Jane Nelson
September 15, 2008
Our friendship with Jon and Curt during the last four years has been an addition to our lives..they always welcomed us to Star Lake with genuine warmth. We were privileged to taste Jon's Schaum Torte and Curt's pecan pie There is a void on this planet with their passing, but the stars in the universe are sparkling with more vibrance. Our hearts are heavy, but we have unforgettable memories..thank you Jon and Curt!! Dick and Mary Jane Nelson - Niagara WI
Greg Stark
September 15, 2008
Miss you both dearly!
Zannah Bradley
September 15, 2008
All of us at Bradley Terrace Outdoor Furnishings send our deepest condolences to the families of Jon and Curt. They were a delight to work with, and we will miss them. They will remain an inspiration to us!
Pamela Henton
September 15, 2008
To the Families of Jon & Curt my prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. May God be with you during this difficult time.
Tamara Martinsek
September 15, 2008
The Wisconsin AIDS Fund would like to offer our condolences to Jon and Kurt's friends, families and associates - their lives brought joy and beauty to everyone they touched and we are forever grateful for their contributions to our community and our lives!
Dorothy Geidel
September 15, 2008
Wishing everyone in the families of Jon and Curt the strength and love of God to be with all of you.
With sincere sympathy
Doroth Geidel and daughter Suzy
Martita Foss
September 15, 2008
It was an honored to have a brief moment with these two terrific men who knew how to life to the fullest
During my summer here at Star Lake, they were a joy be with. My heart goes out to all of their families and friends.
~martita
Betsy Grenzebach
September 15, 2008
All of us at William Switzer and Associates are profoundly saddened and realize the terrible loss to Jon and Curt's loved ones, to the design world, and to the community they so graciously contributed to. We in the Chicago showroom will miss them, but their legacy will live on with all of their wonderful contributions. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Helen Dixon
September 15, 2008
"To Know Them Was to Love Them."
My sympathy to the family and large network of friends of Jon and Curt. This is a tragic loss to all who loved them and to the entire community.
Catherine Davidson
September 15, 2008
May the dance of their earthly visit remain with us always.
Ellen Hayward
September 15, 2008
Wishing the families and friends of Jon and Curt the strength and support of the many who knew, admired and loved them and may the gifts of who they were live on and bring comfort.
Jan and Bob Weiss
September 15, 2008
We love you and will miss you
JUDI COHEN
September 15, 2008
I will miss Jon very much!
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