William Karl von Kaas

William Karl von Kaas of Madison, WI passed away at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg, WI on July 30, 2026. He was born in Milwaukee, WI on Sept. 2, 1931. He had several health problems in the last few years. We would like to thank the Agrace staff for their compassionate care; especially Michelle and Jessica for providing him with their help the last few months.

He received a B.S. degree from the UW-Madison and he had a passion for great literature. He was a research analyst for the State of Wisconsin and worked there for most of his working career until his retirement.

He was married to Suzanne Nisbet, who preceded him in death. He is survived by a daughter, Laura von Kaas and her special friend; Dave Carlson, both of Stevens Point, WI. He was preceded in death by his father, Herman K. von Kaas, mother Lucile (Lepper) von Kaas, and sister, Barbara (von Kaas) MacCloud.

William will be greatly missed by so many people he helped thru the years with his kind and generous actions. He was a scholarly man who read many books, newspapers, magazines, anything to gain knowledge on many subjects.

William was an avid sailor with many ports of call. He loved cars, car shows, and antique shopping. He loved listening to a vast variety of music; especially classical and jazz.

Following William's wishes, there will be no funeral service.  A private family burial will take place at Lake Ripley Cemetery in Cambridge.  A celebration of William's life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 1-4:00 pm at Texas Roadhouse, 7104 Watts Rd., Madison, WI  53719.  Please write down a memory or story on a card, or bring in a photo to share with William's family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in William’s name to:

*Wisconsin Automotive Museum, 147 N. Rural St, Hartford, WI 53027, info@wisconsinautomotivemuseum.com (262) 673-7999

*The Wisconsin Maritime Museum, 75 Maritime Dr. Manitowoc, WI 54220, wisconsinmaritime.org, donate now

*The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, 350 East 3rd St, Dubuque, IA 52001, info@rivermuseum.org, donate now.

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