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Jack Stein Obituary

Stein, Jack H. April 25, 2010, age 83 years, of River Hills. Beloved husband of Joan Stein (nee Steele). Dear father of Lee (Robert) Attanasio and David (Rachael) Stein. Loving grandfather of Jane and Theo Attanasio; Jack Porter and Phoebe Stein. Fond uncle of Ellen (James Borolo) Stein. Further survived by other relatives and cherished friends. Jack was CEO of Stein's Gardens and Gifts. He attended the University of Wisconsin - Madison. A memorial gathering will be scheduled. Please check our website for further information. Contributions to the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, 700 N. Water St., Suite 700, Milwaukee, WI 53202; Cardinal Stritch University, 6801 N. Yates Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53217; Milwaukee Ballet, 504 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53204; or a charity of your choice are appreciated.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Apr. 27 to Apr. 28, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Jack Stein

Sponsored by Express Promotions & Reliable Knitting Blutstein & Polacheck Families .

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Kerry Schlei

July 18, 2017

Please contact me..

November 30, 2013

Rip jack

Lisa Montgomery

March 7, 2012

Joan, David and Leigh I am sorry to hear about Jack I am your great neice Lisa your brother Joe Steele's grandaughter and Jeanne's daughter I just saw this, I am so sorry God Bless you guys. Lisa Carmichael Montgomery

August 8, 2010

My father was a cop and met Jack at the first store, 27th & Howard. It was a right of passage for all the boys in our family to start their working career with Jack & Vic. Later, when I was grown-up and thought I was successful, he again gave me his knowledge which I still follow today.

Barbara Peterson

May 17, 2010

Dear Joan,

So sorry to hear of your loss. Cherish the memories!

Barbara Peterson

Tom Scannell

May 16, 2010

Lee, my thoughts and prayers are with you & David & your Mom. I remember your Father as vital & dynamic; jensen heely, driving the dancing school carpool & watching those old men play incredible tennis! I always admired his success in the live goods industry and have much in common between Milwaukee, Madison & career. God Bless and hope to visit sometime. Sincerely, Tom Scannell - Bougainvillea Growers International.

Jan Balistreri

May 15, 2010

Jack will always live on in our hearts

Mike Rocheleau

May 6, 2010

Joan David and Lee
I am sorry for your loss. I knew Jack through Good Hope Indoor Tennis Club. He took lessons from me. It was a pleasure working with someone who had so much enthusiasm for the game. It was obvious he loved what he did. I remember him sitting and talking business with Herni's Dressing founder Bob Brachman. Jack also shared my enthusiasm for skiing and when I left to move out east for better snow he got the guys together and got me a pair of skis. When ever I get back to Milw. and drive by a Stein's it brings back good memories.
Mike Rocheleau

May 5, 2010

Mrs. Stein, Lee and David:

I am so sorry for your loss you were all so much a part of my early childhood and I keep you in my thoughts forever Mr Stein was an incredible life force in our community and will be greatly lost and missed . my prayers to you all
Victoria Van Antwerpen Carruth

Randy Stayton

May 5, 2010

Truly an icon, I worked at Steins in my high school yearsand truly learned a lot, that was 35 years ago, and I am still in the nursery industry, he will be missed. Sincerely Randy Stayton, Studebaker Nurseries

May 3, 2010

Life without Jack is hard to believe for Roy Butter, a buddy from kindergarten onward. Am writing for Roy, Joan, to say that you are in his prayers and that he hopes that you will continue to join him and us for dinners and special times. Our wishes to you, Joan, for peace and strength. Love, Claudia and Roy

Yvonne Tomas

May 2, 2010

Joan, it was my pleasure to have met you and Jack, wish it wasn't under these circumstances, also my pleasure to take care of him

Harvey Wagner

May 1, 2010

I worked for Jack & Vic at the old 27th Street store when they only had one store. I remember that Jack would always work right with you, many time I was along side of him unloading trucks.I also remember helping them open the store on capital Dr. My deepest sympathy to the Stein family

BARBARA PERKINS

April 29, 2010

Dear Aunt Joan:
Our prayers are with you and your family. May God comfort you during this very difficult time. We love you and we wish so much that we could see you sometime. We will miss Uncle Jack. Mother's 80th was the last time we were all together. ...Please let us know if you ever come through the Atlanta area. We hope you are able to rest and feel peace soon. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you. Love, Barbara & Bob

patricia collins

April 29, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Bradley Patterson

April 29, 2010

Aunt Joan, and Family,
I am so very sad and sorry to loose such a great man, father, grandfather, and husband. I always looked up to "Uncle" Jack with the utmost respect and admiration, for his work ethic and his love for his family. Growing up, I always heard wonderful stories about "Aunt" Joan and "Uncle" Jack, and visited them occasionally. My only wish is that I knew him better, and remembered our interactions throughout the years. "Aunt" Joan, if you read this, I love you so much, and I will be praying for you and the rest of the family during these difficult times. You all have been in my prayers from the start, and will continue to be. I hope I will be able to visit you (Aunt Joan) soon, to give you a hug that I have been holding in for so long! May God Bless your family and keep all of you strong!
- Bradley Patterson (Mother Barbara Steele - Gwen Steele's daughter)

Herbert Simon

April 29, 2010

As decent and sincere a man that exists, he will be sorely missed.

marisa de angelis

April 29, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

marisa de angelis

April 28, 2010

my deepest sympathy to the stein family

Paul Gromala

April 28, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to Joan and the rest of the Stein family. I,ve worked for Steins for about 4 years as their Estate manager. Jack taught me alot about gardening,the importance of staying out of debt,and Life in general.
One of my favorite quotes of Jack's
"Kopf" (German for head) "you were given it for a reason kid, Now use it"
There will always be a special place in my heart for you "B.B." and you will be greatly missed.

A few more quotes: "You know I hate yelling at you kid,(cause)You're so big"
"Be careful up there on that ladder,I don't want you falling on any of my plants"
" Make sure you don't get any of your blood on my proprety"
All of these being said with a great big smile on his face.

I am so fortunate to have had the pleasure of working and learning from one of the greatest men I've known.

Bonnie Shea

April 28, 2010

My deepest sympathy to the Stein family, and heartfelt appreciation for providing me with a job I have loved for 32 years.

Tom Eastman

April 28, 2010

I first met Jack in 1974 when I broke into the lawn & garden industry as a "rookie" salesman. From the first time I met him, Jack was friendly, supportative, approachable, and always displayed a warm sense of humor. He was always a man of his word.

Several years ago, I told him how much I liked his new Jaguar, he threw me the keys and said, "Take it for a spin!" Of course I did'nt, I thought,
what would I do if I had an accident?

Whenever I saw him over the years he would take time to chat and ask how I was doing. The last time I saw Jack was on March 24th, he once again
invited me into his office to visit and always asked if I was still doing business with Stein Gardens & Gifts. Jack was always kind to me and
I will truly miss those brief chats. I wish to extend my deepest, heartfelt sympathy to the Stein family and friends.

BIG-BILL

April 28, 2010

JOAN,MY THOUGHTS,PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND FAMILY.

Amy Bartholomew-Aanstad

April 28, 2010

I worked for Stein's for about 10 years back then (27th street) and Jack was a wonderful person to work for! Everything I learned from working at Stein's I use today.
He was a great teacher, listener and boss. He will always be in my memories!
My deepest sympathy to the Stein family.

louise wisinski

April 28, 2010

Thank you for bringing so much beauty into the world.

Collette Peters

April 28, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Stein family. I worked at the Green Bay store before transferring to the Bellevue store and have only met Jack a few times at a few of the Stein outings through work. He was a great man! God Bless!

steve sedlar

April 27, 2010

I worked for jack and vic in the mid seventies and used to drive jacks porsche to the car wash ,i think he loved to see my face when i was asked to take it to the car wash ,i enjoyed working for them and always felt appreicated by them ,god bless you jack

Jerry Krueger

April 27, 2010

My deepest sympathies and condolences to the Jack Stein family. I for Jack at the Brookfield store when I was 15yrs old in 1966..... He taught me alot about work ethic, and he had a great sense of humor.. I enjoyed working for him because he always showed his appreciation for a job well done Again my deepest sympathies... Jerry Krueger (Kewaskum, Wi)

Rebecca Van Beek

April 27, 2010

I had the pleasure of working for Jack for 4 years in West Bend. My mother-in-law still is a dedicated worker there. Jack was a great man and knew how to throw a wonderful party for all his employees at the Milwaukee Zoo every summer. We enjoy it every year and always loved seeing him there with all his great employees. May you all find peace in the coming days... and forever!

April 27, 2010

Joan, I just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and your family at this sad time. My prayers are with you,

Eileen Cripps(Madison)

Rob Tobin

April 27, 2010

Just seeing the picture of Jack brought back memories of a time of my life that shaped my future. Working at the 27th street store was my first job. I remember running errands for Jack and Vic fondly. Even getting their cars washed felt important. My time working for Jack will always be remembered.

April 27, 2010

Our sincere sympathy to The Stein Family. God Bless You! Pamela Pawlak and Family

Di H

April 27, 2010

What a lovely story Mrs. Stein has shared with us about Mr. Stein is the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Mr. Stein sounds like he was quite the man. I too have a story to share about Mr. Stein.

The sighs of the heart that matters

I am the mother of a young man who when living in Milwaukee, performed in the Milwaukee Ballet's "Nutcracker". My son performed two years before and the first year after the major makeover, which was possible because of the Stein's generosity.

My son (age 12 at the time) shared with me this story. He said, he met a wonderful nice grandpa man who patted him on the shoulder told him he did a wonderful job. Perhaps it was because when the Little Drummer Boy walked on stage all by himself, he looked so small in stature the audience went, "Awhhhhhh" during each and every performance. There was even one time my son was sent out on stage and his Drummer Boy mask still was on his head. From the wings the someone frantically motioned for him to pull it over his face. The audience noticed the distraction and how my son abruptly pull the mask over his face. The audience was in laughter, but in a good way.

This stranger grandpa man identified himself to my son as Mr. Stein. My son asked, "Stein, like the place where you get eye glasses?" Mr. Stein replied, not quite young man, the place where people shop for flowers, plants and crafts. My son knew immediately what Steins the nice grandpa man was referring to, replying, "My mom lives at Steins", well that what my dad used to complain about. Ok I admit...once in Steins Garden Center the garden section alone awesome and once I went inside, I did get lost for hours on end walking each isle deciding what else I could purchase to create a new project.

Well, that little boy who was complimented by Mr. Stein is now 24 and that little boy never forgot about how Mr. Stein made him feel.

My son and I offer our sincere condolences and offer our deepest sympathy.

There are those that say, "Many may not remember what you do, many not remember what you say, but many will remember how you made them feel inside.

Though I never knew Mr. Stein, I want his family to know how one of their beloved family members touched a little boys heart and it stuck....even decades following.

Mr. Jack Stein and his family will be in our prayers. God Bless

D.H.
San Antonio, Texas

Lori Morell

April 27, 2010

My deepest sympathy is extended to the Stein family.

Gene Bussian

April 27, 2010

Knew Jack back in our Washington High School days. Always a big smile and very friendly! My sympathies to his family. Gene Bussian

April 27, 2010

Very Dear Joan and Family:
We are so very sorry for your loss of Jack. Jack was a most gracious and generous human being who was respected as a businessman, gentleman and community leader of great vision and intelligence. He created such a wonderful business for shopping for all of us who enjoy creating beautiful herb and flower gardens and finding just the right ingredients for feeding our lovely birds and wildlife. We will miss seeing him at the bridge table. Much Love, Rosalind and Stan Hack

Ron Henley

April 27, 2010

We have lost a great man. May he and his family find the peace they so deserve.

Brian & Nicole Juneau

April 27, 2010

Our deepest sympathies go out to Joan and family. We were long time employees at South and have fond memories of our time spent there. We will always remember his kindness and his work ethic. He will be missed.

Laurie M Reinders

April 27, 2010

Dear Stein Family,
Please accept our sympathies.

Our 4 year old son, Henry is a fan of "Stein's Gardens and Gifts" and requested to write you a note stating: "I'm sorry that Mr Stein died. I love the flowers, like roses and daffodils. I had a Stein's Gardens and gifts birthday party and liked all of the planting. Thank you! I hope you are all not too sad. I will think of Mr. Stein in my garden."

Last year for Henry's birthday all he wanted for his party was to have a "Stein's Gardens and Gifts" celebration. He gave everyone that came spades and seeds that he picked out at Stein's prior to the party. And after the party couldn't WAIT to go back to Stein's to spend his gift card money and make his very own garden look even nicer.

We enjoy our family traditions with Stein's. Every year we go to our local Stein's to buy all of the mom's on our Mother's Day list their spring flowers and garden plants.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Our condolences,
The Reinders Family
Michael, Laurie and Henry
(Grandma Carolyn, too)
Elm Grove, WI

Jaimie Lang/Mitchell

April 27, 2010

I worked at the Mequon store throughout high school and college. It is a wonderful store for young kids to work in and learn. It is a great place to shop in now with my kids. I remember Mr. Stein coming into the store. I am sorry for your loss.

A. Summer Pham

April 27, 2010

I remember going to Stein's since I was a little girl. My deepest sympathies to Mrs. Joan Stein and family. He sounded like a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by this community.

Bill Lemorande

April 27, 2010

I was honored to have met Jack only about a year ago. While running for trustee in the village of River Hills, Jack gave me his support and for that I will always love him.
Fair winds and following seas... to an ole Navy man.

April 27, 2010

Fifty years ago Jack helped carry Nancy's and my belongings into our first apartment across from theirs. He and Joan have continued with friendship and inspiration ever since. Thank you. My sympathy to you Joan, Lee, David and the grand kids. May Nancy now enjoy another buddy in Heaven. God Bless.....Rob Wood

April 27, 2010

Jack was a kind and generous man. You two made us always feel at home. We. will greatly miss him. Our prayers are with you Joan, and your family.

Mary and Phil

blutstein polacheck families

April 27, 2010

We are honored to keep Mr. Stein's guest book online forever. He was a true friend, great businessman and excellent husband and father. Our condolences go out to the family, friends and employees for their loss.

Jennifer Chamblee

April 27, 2010

Thank you, Mr. Stein for all you have done both in the gardening world and for the city of Milwaukee. Your stores supported my passion for gardening on all levels. I wish you and your family peace. Bless you.

Michael Fabian

April 27, 2010

I am sorry to hear of your loss. This man's extraordinary vision has brought tremendous joy to so many. My wife is thrilled to be a part of the Stein's family of employees dedicated to his vision. I send my condolences to you and your family.

Susie Boyke

April 27, 2010

As a long time employee of Steins I extend my prayers and sympathy to the family. The gardening world has lost a good friend.

Anne Bernhard

April 27, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Joan. He was a kind and generous person who shared your love for the Arts and the community.

April 27, 2010

We sympathize with you and the community that Jack so loved. He will be missed by his family and friends. love from LJ and Murray Feingold

April 27, 2010

I planted a tree in my yard, purchased at Stein's, in honor of the man who founded a store that I love. Peace and comfort to Mrs. Stein and family.
Sincerely,
Mary

Lori Bottoni

April 27, 2010

I went into Steins yesterday, not knowing that Jack had passed. I was so emanored by the variety of amazing treasures found inside and comforted by the tranquil music playing. Truly a testament to a warm, caring man. May your many memories with him be your treasures to cherish.

Thomas Kocher

April 27, 2010

A fine
gentleman and a Class Act...A Good Man in all that really matters...He will be missed!

~Thomas Kocher, Waukesha, Wis.

Mary Moore

April 27, 2010

I am sorry for your loss. I worked for Jack for many years at the 27th St. store. He helped me both personally and professionally. He will be greatly missed.

Dave Beck

April 27, 2010

Joan and family,

We are so sorry to read of Jack's passing. He was a great friend and a great man. Our prayers are with you, Lee and David.

Sherry and Dave Beck

April 27, 2010

Stein's fertalyzer on the grass, surrounding the Stein's flowers, trees and shrubs and Zoo Day for the employees. A true Milwaukee Legend!

Jim Johannes

April 27, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

karen johannes

April 27, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Jim and Karen Johannes

April 27, 2010

Jim and Karen Johannes send our sympathy to the family. Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

April 27, 2010

R.I.P.

Rev. Don Hands

April 27, 2010

What a giant of a man. A dreamer who enriched our community with his vision and big heart. I am sorry for our collective loss and especially for his family's and Joan's loss. May he rest in peace.

Amanda Kreier

April 27, 2010

We are all very sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you..Amanda A Kreier..Design Supervisor Kenosha Stein's

lucie sable sandler

April 27, 2010

we are so rry for your loss, we have known the Stein family for a very long time, and truly respecdted everything about them all.
our sincere condolences.
lucie and marty sandler
madelaIaine and floyd brown
morry and deanna sable
judie and roger weissman

Jane Stevens

April 27, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

David Schudson

April 27, 2010

I will continue to remember how the enthusiasm which Jack brought to tennis and bridge was frequently contagious.

Karen Bachman

April 26, 2010

Alan and Karen Bachman send our sympathy and warm memories to Joan and family.

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