Bill Buelow

William T. Buelow, 83, of Madison passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Bill was born in Baraboo, WI on March 14, 1942, as the oldest of four children to Harold and Vivian (Johnson) Buelow. Bill was a devoted husband, father and proud grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy shaped by hard work, gentle kindness, careful attention to detail and a deep, enduring commitment to his family.

Bill was a proud member of the Baraboo High School Class of 1960. After graduation, he moved to Madison to attend Madison Business College and later earned an associate degree in Accounting from Madison Area Technical College in 1963. He then served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1966, during which time he was stationed in Germany and recognized with the National Defense Service Medal. He was a longtime member of American Legion Post 501.

Upon returning to the United States, Bill began his professional career at Graber, where he worked for three years. He later joined Madison General Hospital, dedicating 38 years of service before retiring in 2007 from what was then Meriter Hospital. Bill took great pride in achieving the highest professional level possible at the hospital with his associate degree.

During his early career, Bill also worked as an usher at University of Wisconsin athletic events, which sparked a lifelong love of Badger hockey and led to 57 years as a season ticket holder. He enjoyed many passions throughout his life, including woodworking, boating and fishing, photography, birding, hiking, and traveling across the United States. In more recent years, he was especially proud to serve as an official Bald Eagle Nest Watcher. In quieter moments, he could often be found beside the backyard pond, sharing peaceful time with his wife, a Sudoku puzzle or two in hand, as hummingbirds fluttered nearby. For more than 20 years, Bill gave his time and heart, supporting his grandchildren in their many activities across Wisconsin.

On September 16, 1967, Bill married the love of his life, Barbara A. Dechant, in Mount Tabor, Wisconsin. This began their beautiful love story and a 58-year marriage filled with love, compassion and unwavering dedication to caring for each other.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; his daughters, Brenda (Brian) Engleson, Debra (Tom) Greenya, and Dawn (Jeff) Bernamann; and his seven grandchildren, Jeffrey Bernamann, Allison (Logan) Engleson-Smith, Danielle Bernamann, Jackson (Maddy Counard) Greenya, Brandon Engleson, Will Greenya, and Max Greenya. He is also survived by his sisters, Lois Artz and Karen (Clarence) Neumaier, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Margaret Puent and his brother-in-law Gail Artz.

Donations can be made in Bill’s name to the National Audubon Society.

A memorial service will take place at 11AM on Tuesday, January 6, 2025 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 5001 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, WI 53704. A visitation will take place from 9AM until the time of service and a luncheon will follow the service.

The family would like to give special thanks to Agrace Hospice staff for their exceptional care and compassion for Bill.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3325 E. Washington Ave.

Madison (608) 249-6666