Arthur Mayland was born on May 8, 1929, in Racine, WI to Christine and Harrison Mayland. He passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, with his two daughters at his side. He will be remembered as a caring and supportive husband, father, and grandfather. Art was a talented trumpet player, and music was central to his life. He met the love of his life, Kathleen Boyer, when they were playing together in dance bands. They began dating at the age of 16 and had been together for 79 years when Kathleen passed away in 2024. They were married in 1948 and then moved to Madison for Art to attend the UW-Madison.

Art was an active member of the Madison music community. He played trumpet with his own dance band, the Dan Garson Orchestra, as well as many other music combos through the decades. He played with the Capitol City Band for over 50 years. He was still playing his trumpet in the month before his death. Art supported many music organizations in Madison including the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras, Madison Symphony Orchestra, and Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra. He was the Manager of the Mayland Printing Company for over 60 years and was a member of Rotary South and the Ben Franklin Club.

His oldest daughter, Christine, was severely developmentally disabled and Art was a strong advocate for her and other developmentally disabled adults. In the 1970’s, he was President of the Residential Facilities Development Foundation which built Orchard Hill for the developmentally disabled.

Art is survived by daughters Nancy Mackenzie (Mark) and Diane Mayland (Michael Hennessy); three grandchildren, Mary Mackenzie (Barry Fradkin), Margaret Mackenzie, and Austin Stephenson (Autumn Gear); and two great granddaughters, Averie and Adrien Stephenson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen, and daughter, Christine.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate Art’s life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras (WYSO Center for Music Grand Finale Campaign, General Funds). Donate

Please share your memories of Art by posting in his guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434