Lowell Bakken

Lowell Bakken, age 90, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, in Madison, the city where he was born on April 11, 1935, and proudly spent his life.

Lowell graduated from Madison West High School in 1953. In 1954, he entered the United States Marine Corps, serving his country with honor, and was stationed at Camp Lejeune until 1958. After completing his military service, he returned home to Madison, where he met the love of his life, Judie Skidmore. They were married on September 1, 1962, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 63 years.

Lowell earned his teaching degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and dedicated 34 years to education at LaFollette High School, where he made a lasting impact on generations of students. In addition to teaching, he shared his passion for athletics as a football coach for many years and served as head golf coach for much of his tenure at LaFollette. He was also a respected basketball official, traveling throughout Wisconsin to officiate games at both the high school and collegiate levels.

An avid Wisconsin Badgers fan, Lowell maintained a lifelong connection to UW athletics. He was the University of Wisconsin football clock operator in the press box for an extraordinary 50 years. In recognition of his dedication, he was honored with the opportunity to serve as the clock operator for the 2018 National Championship Game in Atlanta, a moment of great pride for Lowell and his family.

An exceptional golfer, Lowell enjoyed the game throughout his life, finding great joy in competition, camaraderie, and time spent on the course. He was a lifelong member of Bethel Lutheran Church, where his faith and sense of community remained central to his life.

Lowell is survived by his beloved wife, Judie Bakken; his son, Tom Bakken (Kelly); his daughter Jill Vitale (Dave); his brother Jim Bakken; and his five grandchildren, Sean, Aidan, and Christian Bakken; Ellen and Claire Vitale, who were a constant source of pride and happiness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delphin and Marie Bakken; his sister, Marlene Olson, and brother-in-law, John Olson; and many cherished aunts and uncles.

A funeral service will be held at Bethel Lutheran Church on January 31st at 11:00 a.m., with visitation prior to the service from 9:00 to 11:00. A luncheon will follow the service. Memorials may be made in Lowell’s name to Bethel Lutheran Church.

Lowell will be remembered as a devoted husband, son, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, veteran, and friend. He was a steady presence whose dedication to family, faith, education, and Wisconsin athletics left an enduring mark.

Please share your memories of Lowell by posting here in his guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434