Justen Robert Waldburger

Justen Robert Waldburger, age 22, lost his long, hard fought battle with depression and addiction on Sunday, June 15, 2025.

Justen was born to Joseph C. Waldburger and Shasta N. Hoffhein on June 23, 2002, in Madison, WI. Justen was the star of our lives. Even as a baby he helped guide our path. There aren’t words to describe how much of an amazing young man he was.

Justen was always on the run, even as a baby he had to have constant movement by always being in his swing. He only cried when he needed, giving him the nickname “Squawk box”.

Growing up you would always find him outside exploring. He would find bugs, climb through sewer drains, and his all-time favorite exploring abandoned buildings. Always coming home covered in scrapes, bruises, and dirt. He just enjoyed nature, traveling, and discovering what the world had to offer. Often dragging his friends along for his adventures.

Justen attended school through the Madison Metropolitan School District and graduated in 2020 from Robert M. LaFollette High School via the Operation Fresh Start program. While attending school he found his love for music while playing the euphonium in the pep band and All-City Honors Band.

Justen found a connection with music that I could never understand, but his Dad and him did. They shared many evenings having “jam sessions” and bonding over their love of music.

After graduation, Justen tried to find his way into adulthood but struggled trying to find his place in this big world. He tried attending classes at Madison Area College, changing different professions, and running from the demons in his head. Despite this, Justen always put other people’s needs in front of his own. His empathetic nature was his best quality but ultimately led to his downfall. He will always be known for his “Justy hugs”

Justen is survived by both parents, their significant others: Christie Miller and Alan Gibson, sister: Audriana Hoffhein, brother: Ashton Hoffhein, Great Grandma Rose Hoffhein, Grandparents: Richard (Suzie) Waldburger, Carol Faust, Randy and Barbara Hoffhein Aunts: Tammy Amelse, Toni (Brent) Sullivan, Lydia Hoffhein, Uncles: Robert Waldburger and Kyle Hoffhein. Cousins: Brandon Amelse and Kelsey Resch, Lacey Waldburger; several great aunts and uncles, his most beloved pets Lucy, Baguette, and Brandy, lots of extended family, and several supporting, loving, and long term friends.

Justen is proceeded in death by his Grandpa Robert Faust, Grandma Patricia Waldburger, and Great Grandma Lyda Cregger.

To best memorialize Justen we ask everyone who knows of someone who is struggling with mental health or addiction to offer their assistance in seeking help. We ask everyone to help prevent another family from suffering such a horrible tragedy. 

HELP STOP THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC.

In lieu of flowers we ask people to send donations in Justen’s name to Rodgers Behavioral Health or the Victoria Bug Zoo in Victoria, BC.

We would like to thank Justen’s friend James Manly for his support in Justen’s attempt to recover and Stella Larson for her support during this tragedy.

“Spike” we will love you always and forever. Love Always, Mom and Dad

Funeral services will take place at 1PM on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Cress Funeral Service, 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie, WI, 53590.

A visitation and luncheon will take place from 11AM until the time of service.

A private burial will take place at Natural Paths Sanctuary.

Cress Funeral Service

1310 Emerald Terrace

Sun Prairie, WI 53590