William Melvin Kieffer

William “Bill” Kieffer passed away on Saturday May 9th, at the age of 71, surrounded by the loving presence of his family. Born on July 1, 1954, Bill spent nearly his entire life in Baraboo, Wisconsin, before moving to Waunakee in 2014.

A 1972 graduate of Baraboo High School, Bill was a dedicated athlete, competing in wrestling, football, and track, while also sharing his voice as a member of the choir. He went on to earn his Associate’s degree from UW-Baraboo. He remained a fixture in local industry for decades, working for the family business, Industrial Coils, and eventually retiring from Hammond Power Solutions.

Bill’s commitment to his community was deep-rooted, serving as President of the Baraboo School Board in the 1990’s and participating in many Baraboo events. Bill was active in coaching many Baraboo sports and dedicated significant time and resources to the Baraboo Youth Hockey Association to ensure local kids had a place to play and grow.

Bill was anchored by his relationships. He cherished the wonderful neighbors and friends he made in Baraboo and Waunakee who were so important to him through the decades.

Music was a cornerstone of Bill's life, a passion that stretched from his high school choir days to his legendary home record collection. He was a fervent supporter of live music, frequently attending his nephews’ band performances and events at Driftless Music Gardens.

When he wasn’t immersed in music or community service, Bill was often found hunting and fishing, a pastime he especially loved sharing with his brother, Dan. His happiest moments were spent outdoors, particularly on his cherished annual fishing trips to Canada with his closest friends.

Bill was the devoted husband of Susan Lynn Kieffer (Hause). He is survived by his wife, Sue; his children, Darcie Holmstrom (Mike) and Benjamin Kieffer (Tara Ellenwood); his grandchildren, Isla Holmstrom and Ian Holmstrom; his mother, Dolores Mossman; and his siblings, Daniel Kieffer (Cathy) and Maryanne Lochner (John) along with many other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who became family.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Brown Kieffer, his nephew, Justin Kieffer, and his niece, Julie Kieffer, all of whom he loved dearly.

A service will be held at Baraboo Arts Center, 323 Water St, Baraboo, WI on Thursday May 21st starting at 3:00 pm. Following the service, a Visitation/Celebration of Life will also be held at the Baraboo Arts Center from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Agrace Hospice at (https://www.agrace.org/donate/) or Thunderbird Youth Hockey Association at (https://www.thunderbirdyouthhockey.com/donate)