William J. "Billy Boy" Kumpf

On Thursday, March 27, 2025, William J. Kumpf passed away peacefully just shy of his 100th birthday surrounded by his wife June of 75 years and his adoring family. Billy Boy, as he was affectionately called, was born on July 16, 1925, in Peoria, Illinois to parents William and Anna Kumpf.

Bill developed many loves and passions in life from his family, Military Service, work, sports, music to just life in general.

Although he had many loves and passions, none were greater than the love he had for his family. He met his wife June in 1947 and it was love at first sight. They married in October of 1949 and together they had 5 children. It was clear to everyone who knew him his family was his priority, and he was the most devoted husband and father.

Shortly after graduating from high school in 1943, Bill joined the enlisted in the Army Airforce Core during WWII. After Military Service, Bill attended Bradley University where he received his Bachelor Degree. He then went on to spend over 70 years in the insurance industry serving in a number distinguished and high-level positions. Bill worked well into his 90s, which many credit for his longevity. He ended his professional career as the owner of Senior Care Insurance of which he was most proud.

To say Bill loved sports is an understatement. He was well known for listening to and watching multiple sporting events at the same time. He was a long-time Badger Football season ticket holder and rarely missed a game no matter the weather. It was not uncommon to see him watching the game and listening to the Notre Dame game on his hand-held radio. There were never enough sports or games to watch in his world.

From his earliest years Bill was always hustling to organize neighborhood baseball games. As legend has it, he cobbled together the Kumpf Midgets that went on to win multiple championships. He talked about the Kumpf Midgets till the day of his passing. Some of his fondest childhood memories were attending St. Louis Cardinal baseball games and his love never wavered even when he moved to Wisconsin.

In his later years golf became a family bonding event. He affectionately nick-named himself Sweet Swinging Super Senior plus Scintillating. Many good times and numerous stories were created on the course.

Bill loved music. He was an exceptional dancer and had a voice that could fill the church while singing in the St. Thomas Choir, embarrassing many of his children in attendance.

To a person, it was evident that Bill’s love of life and people showed in everything he did. His greatest gift was his unyielding optimism no matter the situation. His generosity was second to none whether he knew you or not. He always had a twinkle in his beautiful blue eyes and a welcoming smile for everyone. They just don’t make them like this anymore. He will be missed beyond measure.

Bill is survived by his wife June Kumpf, Karen (Tom) Arndt, Mark Kumpf, Debi (Larry) Kumpf, Kevin Kumpf, and Carol (Bill) McCoshen. Grandchildren Brian (Beth) Arndt, David Arndt, Patrick McCoshen, Regan McCoshen, and Cale McCoshen. Great grandchildren Carlyn McCoshen, Donovan Arndt, and Anna Arndt. Bill is preceded in death by his Father William Kumpf, Mother Anna Kumpf, sister Beatrice Shea, and brother Robert Kumpf.

A Celebration of a life well lived will be held Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 4-6 pm at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin, 53705.

Please share your memories of William J. Kumpf by posting in his Guestbook.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406