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Daniel Nerad Obituary

Daniel A. Nerad

Nov. 28, 1951 - Nov. 28, 2023

MADISON - Daniel A. Nerad, age 72, of Madison, WI, passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, of interstitial lung disease.

He was born on November 28, 1951, in Marinette, WI, the son of Norman and Sidnee Nerad. He married Jean Borowski on December 3, 1978, in Green Bay, WI.

Dan grew up in Kenosha, WI, the second of three boys. He began his college education at the University of Wisconsin - Parkside before transferring to the University of Wisconsin - Madison where he completed Bachelors and Masters degrees in Social Work. In Madison he met Jean, to whom he was married for nearly 45 years until his death. Dan and Jean moved to Green Bay to start their careers and family.

Dan began working as a school social worker for the Green Bay Area Public School District in 1975, where he worked until 2008 while also earning his Doctorate from Cardinal Stritch University. He finished his career in Green Bay as Superintendent of Schools from 2001 to 2008. Dan then worked in the same role as School Superintendent at the Madison Metropolitan School District from 2008 to 2012, and finally at the Birmingham, Michigan School District from 2012 to 2018. Always one to contribute, and never one to sit still, Dan continued working in consulting and volunteer roles until his death.

Dan was a strong believer in the power of education to improve lives and advance social justice. His curiosity and open-mindedness led him to read innumerable books on the topic and continue to learn until the end.

While Dan was honored to serve as a School Superintendent, his favorite roles in life were Dad and Grampy. Dan was incredibly proud of the two children he and Jean had, Emily and Ben. His grandchildren, Louella and Maxine, brought great joy to his life. In better times, he was happiest visiting them in Los Angeles, or rewarding them with toys in exchange for doing yard work.

Dan was an avid sports fan, especially of the Packers and Badgers. In his retirement, Dan continued to hone his cooking skills and became a wonderful chef, entertaining often with friends and family.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Jean; his daughter, Emily Michaels (Nic); his son, Ben; his grandchildren: Louella and Maxine Michaels; and brothers: Bob and Michael. Dan was preceded in death by his father, Norman Nerad; and his mother, Sidnee Nerad.

Dan's family will be holding a private funeral service to honor his memory. However, the family warmly invites friends, colleagues, and all who knew Dan to a larger memorial service to be held in the summer of 2024. The Nerad family will share further details about the summer memorial closer to the date, but also encourages anyone interested to please email [email protected].

Memories of Dan can also be shared to this email address.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dan's name would be greatly appreciated and can be made to the Green Bay Area Public Schools Education Foundation, Madison Public Schools Foundation, or the Birmingham Education Foundation.

The Nerad family would like to thank the many healthcare providers who assisted Dan in recent years, in particular: Dr. Amy Malik, Dr. Eric Marty, Dr. Christopher Nestleroad, and Agrace Hospice doctors and nurses.

You may also share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406

Published by Madison.com on Dec. 3, 2023.

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5 Entries

Michael Fischoff

January 30, 2024

I met Dan when we were undergraduates at UW Madison. We then entered the MSW program together. It turns out that we shared our first year field placement at the Dane County Mental Health Center. On occasion we were co therapists which deepened our relationship. I recall asking Dan what his 2nd year field placement was and he replied that he had just gotten into the Innovative School Social Work placement led by the dynamic Mike Heus. He said that he believed it was filled but I should see if a spot could be found for me. Thankfully, I was able to get in! Dan and I had a great year together and even collaborated on our Plan B (end of placement) paper.
The rest is history. Dan ended up in the Green Bay Public Schools and I in the Wausau,WI school district as School Social Workers. Dan became more involved with what makes for an effective school system, rising to the position of Superintendent! He went on to become Superintendent in Madison followed by a stint in the Birmingham, MI school district. A most impressive career!
In 1978, Dan and Jean were about to get married and encountered a unique situation at the last minute. Knowing my family background, Dan asked if I would take on an important role in the ceremony. I was honored to do so and to this day feel proud that I was able to be there for my good friend, Dan Nerad and his dear wife, Jean.
My wife, Donalee and I share our deepest condolences to Jean, Emily and her family, Ben, brothers Bob and Michael and the entire family.
Rest in Peace my friend.
Michael Fischoff

Ellen Thiede

December 4, 2023

Dear Jean and family,

Hi Jean. I was shocked to hear of Dan's death. I m sure you remember me. I was a teacher in the School Age Parent Program.Jean, it will be very hard for you and your kids. I know because my husband Bob died two years ago. Some days I get very lonely. Love, Ellen Thiede (P.S. if you feel like talking, my number is 920-499-3484.)

Dennis Richards

December 4, 2023

It was privilege to work with Dan while consulting for the WASB. Dan was creative, energetic, and a committed educator.

Jan Tilkens

December 4, 2023

Dan was a blessing we will never forget. Words cannot fully express the respect we had for him as a wise counselor and a gentleman. We are so sorry for your loss.

Jim Haney

December 3, 2023

A gentleman, learned scholar and good friend. Gone, never to be forgotten.

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