Charles Anthony Mistretta (1941-2026)

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles Anthony Mistretta. Chuck was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His wife and family were always his top priority.

Chuck loved life and his many interests included fishing, golfing, piano, classical music, reading and most of all spending time with family. He loved to travel with Darlene, and they explored the world together. A highlight of each year was an annual trip to the North Woods of Wisconsin with family. A source of joy and pride in his later years was helping to mentor his youngest grandson in basketball. He also loved to host friends and family members on frequent Canadian fishing trips.

Chuck earned a doctorate degree from Harvard University and began his career as a Professor of Medical Physics at the University of Wisconsin, Madison retiring as Professor Emeritus. He is famous throughout the world for his research in medical physics and radiology and his many advancements in medical imaging.

His pioneering invention of Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) revolutionized vascular imaging worldwide and remains the gold standard for diagnostic angiography. This and subsequent landmark contributions were licensed by major medical device companies and translated into products that continue to benefit patients across the globe. He received patents, awards and accolades too numerous to mention including a Nobel Prize nomination.

For over five decades, he has been the most generous and supportive of colleagues – devoted to the success of junior faculty, clinicians and collaborators. His humility, kindness, and selfless advocacy have launched countless careers and fostered a spirit of collaboration.

Chuck was integrally involved in the activities of his children, never failing to attend important events and celebrated all their successes. He was a board member for the family ministry Outreach for World Hope and traveled to Guatemala with numerous mission teams to serve the poor.

Chuck will be dearly missed and remembered with love.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peters Catholic Church, 5001 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, Wisconsin on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 11:00 am with a visitation at the church from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Entombment will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 11:00 am at All Saints Mausoleum in Des Plaines, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations be made to Outreach for World Hope – outreachforworldhope.org.

For more information or to leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N. Sherman Avenue

608-249-8257

Charles "Chuck" Mistretta

January 05, 1941 - June 09, 2026

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