Obituaries
Roman Gerard Vetter
October 13, 1960 - March 14, 2025
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Obituary For Roman Gerard Vetter
Roman G. Vetter III, of Madison, Wisconsin, passed away on March 14, 2025. The seas parted when this long anticipated baby boy was born October 13,1960 to Beatrice E. and Roman L. Vetter, and his six doting sisters. Roman attended Blessed Sacrament Grade School and Madison West High School. A graduate of U.W.-Madison, Roman earned degrees in both Economics and Finance. Near fluent, Roman enjoyed conversing in German with his beloved Great Aunt Cora, Grandmother Frances, his father and Bernard’s father, Gerhard and Uncle Heinz. Roman was ambitious and resourceful as a young man. Roman honed his salesmanship skills during high school working at Sears where he made lifelong friends. In college, he began a painting business then moved on to purchase several rental properties in Madison. Roman then earned his real estate broker’s license and enjoyed 40 years with the Stark Realty family. Roman had an avid interest in architectural historic preservation, serving as both member and director of the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation where he was the Foundation’s Liaison to both real estate and development communities.
Roman cherished family vacations at the Vetter “Green Cottage” on Lake Namakagon in northern Wisconsin. Roman’s interests were many and varied. As a boy, Roman aspired to emulate his Grandfather Roman Sr.’s legacy as a performance magician, in the “Harry Houdini tradition”. He was an avid storyteller, quick-witted in conversation and delighted to host and cater to family and friends, especially when in Palm Springs. Roman was fascinated with all things aviation and earned his pilot’s license in his twenties. He also enjoyed world travel and fine dining in the company of dear friends. Always stylish, Roman sported his Fedora hat and collected magic rabbit topped walking canes that played a “supporting role”. Roman delighted in driving his collection of vintage vehicles. He was often accompanied by his beloved Seal Point Siamese cat, Miss Mimi, who pawed for control of the wheel.
Roman leaves behind his six older sisters: Janine Maly, Victoria Vetter, Janette Klubertanz, Bernadette Vetter, Mary Vetter (Daniel Zutter) and Gera (John) Raymond, his life partner Bernard Friedrichsen, his sister Renee (Jeff) Kerbs, and brother Eric Friedrichsen. Numerous nieces, nephews and their families mourn the loss of their cherished and adored Uncle Roman. His vast network of cherished friends meant the world to Roman, too many to list. You know who you are! The family is forever grateful for your love and support.
Roman was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Bea and Romie, Grandparents Frances and Roman Vetter, and Della and David Clapp, his Great Aunt Cora, his brother-in-law Gene Maly, and Bernard’s parents, Gerhard and Ginette Friedrichsen.
Roman’s family wish to thank the caring medical staff at UW Hospitals, Clinics, and Home Care Direct. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to any charitable cause in honor of Roman.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuenralservice.com
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Condolences
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March 31, 2025
I am heart broken to hear of Roman's passing. He was a true fixture in Madison life for so long. And I'll cherish our last encounter not long ago. A huge bear hug from the sweetest, dearest, smartest guy with the perfect name. May his memory be for a blessing. Patty Elson
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March 31, 2025
My condolences to Bernard and the Vetter family. Roman was such a great man. He will be missed by many.
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March 31, 2025
This makes me sad. He was one of my favorite friends going back to when we worked together at sears.
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March 30, 2025
My deepest sympathy for Roman's partner and family. I am so very sorry to hear this. I have not seen Roman for many years but still remember his kindness and clever sense of the absurd with great fondness. Rest in peace my dear friend.
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March 29, 2025
To Romans family: Prayers and blessings for Roman. I knew Roman through work on his properties and a long standing friendship and association with his Dad,Romie Just an excellent man and family.
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March 28, 2025
My condolences to Bernard and Roman's family. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
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March 28, 2025
What a great photo of Roman! To the family of, I am so sorry for your loss. Roman was a great man with a heart of gold. I will miss him greatly. Toni (Vetter) & Dennis Sieg. Fly high little Romie!!
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