"Hi Jim, Libby, and Family, I just noticed in the latest Badger Insider Magazine that your Dad James Bradley died this past May. I am very sorry you lost your Dad. I hope you can eventually think of your Dad with a smile instead of sadness. Sincerely, Dirk Seibold"
In loving memory of
James Richard Bradley
October 17, 1925 - May 18, 2017
James R. "Jim" Bradley of Madison and Fish Creek, Wisconsin, and Naples, Florida passed away May 18. Jim was born on October 17, 1925, to Louis and Floretta Bradley. He married Arlene Parman of Madison on January 26, 1952. He graduated from Madison West High in 1943, the University of Wisconsin in 1950, and the Indiana University Savings and Loan Graduate Program in 1966. Jim was a member of the Downtown Madison Optimist Club, the Madison Club, Nakoma Country Club and Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. He served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II and the Korean Conflict. Jim was past president and board chair of Home Savings Bank in Madison. He chaired several committees of the Wisconsin League of Savings Associations. He was active in community affairs, serving as president of the Methodist Hospital Foundation, president of the Downtown Madison Optimist Club and as a board member of Downtown Madison, Inc. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of Madison Masonic Lodge 325 and the Zor Temple. Jim was a member of Midvale Community Lutheran Church.
Jim possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of Madison, a city he truly loved. For many years he helped plan reunions for his West High Class of 1943. For the past several years he enjoyed monthly breakfasts with his West '43 classmates. Jim had a life-long passion for bicycles and was the owner of SPEED-O-BYKE, Inc. In recent years he revived the brand and assisted countless individuals in restoring their prized vintage "SPEED-Os", which were children's bicycles popular during the 1930s.
All those whose lives Jim touched knew him to be a kind, generous and truly caring individual. He will be remembered as a devoted husband and a loving dad who enthusiastically supported the interests of his four sons and their families. Jim is survived by his wife, Arlene; four sons, Jim (Libby Askins) of Madison, Tom (Robin) of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Tim of Pasadena, CA, and Bob (Cindy) of Farmington Hills, MI; eleven grandchildren, Kate Schmitt (Ben), Claire, Will (Laura), Nathan (Nenette), Sarah Cotey (Michael), Graham (Maria), Reed, James, Sam, Max, and Emma; and two great-grandchildren, Nora and Benson Schmitt. Jim was preceded in death by his mother, father and sister, Mrs. Laurence Gibbs.
Cherished memories will be shared at a private family gathering. The family would like to express its deepest gratitude for the care and compassion provided by the exceptional staff of Agrace HospiceCare.
Tributes
""Silence is filled with the echoes of life, be comforted by your memories" Mrs. Bradley and Family, Heartfelt sympathy to all of you. it was such an honor to know Mr. Bradley. Truly one of the finest lindividuals in Madison. Blessings, Jeff & Mary Annen"
"To Jim Bradley Sr. family: I served as CEO of the state trade association of savings and loans and savings banks for30+ years. Jim was one of the first S & L execs I met when I arrived in the state. He served as Chairman of key association committees. I knew him as a proud patriot and veteran who loved his family, the savings and loan business, the state and America. He was the consummate gentle man, a strong leader and greatly respected in the business. His deep integrity was readily apparent. He was always there to offer his assistance and to listen. Stella and I also very much enjoyed a number of quiet dinners and discussions with him and Arlene. The love they shared was also always readily apparent. They were a neat duo. I will miss Jim and we send our sincere sympathy. Just know that Jim had an express trip to heaven. Wm Brouse, Brookfield, WI"
"The volunteers, flight team and board of Badger Honor Flight mourn the loss of their hero, James Bradley. We are thankful for his military service and proud to have served him on his trip to Washington, D.C. on May 4, 2013."
"I wanted to express my condolences for your loss. He was truly a wonderful man! He will be remembered by all of us! "
"Bob: Sorry for your loss and my prayers will be there for you and your family this week. My regards to your entire family in these difficult days. If there is anything I can do to help, please let me know. Srini Myneni"