Madison Loses Jeff Erlanger

You couldn't get far along State Street if you were with Jeff Erlanger. Everyone knew Jeff, and he knew everyone, so multiple stops per block were in order if you were with Jeff, his service dog, and his inevitable pretty female aide. Street people, cops, storekeepers, professors, and city officials all greeted Jeff with a joke, a story, or an idea.

The State Journal's story got it right:

Jeff Erlanger's philosophy, summarized in an award-winning ad he filmed in 2002 for Wisconsin Public Television, was: "It doesn't matter what I can't do -- what matters is what I can do."

Jeff's passing is a loss for Madison.  May his memory be a blessing for his family and friends.

- Barry Orton and Paul

Update 1:04 pm. Here is a link to Wisconsin Public Television and Jeff's appearance on Mr. Rogers. And more.

Comments

[Steve]

The video of Jeff Erlanger mentioned in the State Journal comment is available for viewing here:

http://www.wpt.org/blog/2007/06/our-neighborhood-loses-friend.html

[Stu Levitan]

Just got back from Jeff's funeral at Temple Beth El. Huge affair -- as crowded as a Rosh Hashanah service. Lovely eulogies from friends and family. Family receiving visitors this afternoon 2-4:30 at 3902 Plymouth Circle; minyan service tonight and Saturday, 7 pm. May his memory be for a blessing.

[Dan Sebald]

That's too bad. I recall talking with Jeffrey (and Corduroy) a couple times. A big turnout at the funeral isn't a surprise.

[Alan Weisbard (The Wise Bard)]

We've been doing a lot of talking about who not to name schools after. Can you think of a more inspiring choice for namesake of the former Vang Pao Elementary than Jeff Erlanger?

[Barry Orton]

Alan, I've got to agree that Jeff would be an inspired choice.