Paul Bredeson

MOUNT HOREB- Dr. Paul V. Bredeson, age 69, of Mt. Horeb passed away on February 9, 2016 at UW Hospital. He was born on October 16, 1946 in Rockford, Illinois, the son of Alvin and Clarise Bredeson. He married Mary Bredeson (Rhoads) on September 2, 1967 in Rockford, Illinois.

Paul had a long career in education as a teacher, principal, and professor. After he earned his Ph.D. in educational administration from the University of Wisconsin School of Education in 1982, Paul went on to a long and impactful career as a university professor and mentor at multiple institutions. In all his roles he brought his quick intellect, collaborative spirit, strong work ethic, and deep values of quality and service to others. As a university professor and Department Chair at UW, Paul was known as a smart, caring, and engaging colleague who was always willing to help in a project, class, or committee. Over the years Paul published dozens of articles, chapters, and books on the principalship and staff development, sharing his wealth of knowledge and leaving a lasting legacy for the future.

Paul received many awards and honors during his time as a professor, and served as president of multiple professional organizations. More recently, in 2011 Paul was awarded an honorary doctorate from Umea University in Sweden, and spent 2012-13 as a Fulbright Roving Scholar for Norway's upper and lower secondary schools.

Paul is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife, Mary, two children, Erica (Kurt) Schlicht of Middleton and Christian (Amy) Bredeson of Anaheim, California. He is also survived by his twin grandchildren Maxwell and Kyra Schlicht, his brother Gary (Helen) Bredeson of Oregon, Illinois, sister in law Nancy Rhoads of Palm Harbor, Florida, brother in law Bill (Robin) Rhoads of Desert Hot Springs, California, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends around the world.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Allen Bredeson and Steven Bredeson.

The Celebration of Paul's life will be held at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 7337 Hubbard Ave, Middleton on Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 2:00pm. There will be a private burial service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Paul's memory and giving sprit by donating to the Middleton Outreach Ministry.

Paul will be remembered by his family, friends, and colleagues all over the world for his contagious zest for life and a laugh that would light up a room. "Laughter connects you with people. It's almost impossible to maintain any kind of distance or any sense of social hierarchy when you're just howling with laughter. Laughter is a force for democracy." He will be deeply missed by those whose lives he touched.

Cress Funeral Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
(608) 238-3434