MADISON – Willis “Bill” Powers, age 97, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026. He was born on August 7, 1929, in Evenston, Ill., the son of the late Orland Willis Powers and Mary Louise Sutcliffe.

Bill spent his early childhood in the bustling city of Chicago, riding trolley cars and attending a large public school. At the age of 11, his family moved to Black Earth, Wis., where he worked on the family's dairy farm until adulthood. Growing up on the farm, he adopted a whole new lifestyle; milking cows at the crack of dawn each day before heading off to a one-room schoolhouse for his studies, all without indoor plumbing. After a long day, eating popcorn and listening to The Lone Ranger on the radio was a special treat.

Bill graduated from Black Earth High School in 1947. A few years later, he proudly served in the U.S.

Army, from where he received an honorable discharge. He worked for Hult's Capital Garage in Madison and then made a career as a bus driver for Madison Metro, where his safe, reliable, and courteous service to the community was well praised.

While driving his bus route, Bill met the love of his life, Judith Beckman. In 1966 they were married at Trinity Lutheran Church and shared 60 memorable years together. Bill enjoyed camping on their land near Pardeeville, traveling - especially out West, and yearly fishing trips to cabins in Northern Wisconsin, creating lasting memories with family and friends. A gifted cook, family gatherings gave Bill an excuse to fire up the grill; his “2 ½ beer” chicken was the best. A true Wisconsinite, he loved a good Old Fashioned and watching the Packers and Brewers play ball. He loved working puzzles and never missed working a daily crossword, noting that it helped keep his mind sharp. A true talent, he thoroughly enjoyed Leather Crafting, creating beautiful pieces of work. Bill enjoyed country music, Western literature, including the works of Louis L'Amour, and of course a good Western movie!

Known for his quick wit and endless supply of one-liners, Bill could bring a smile to anyone's face. He will be fondly remembered for his deep devotion to family, as well as his kindness to friends and neighbors alike. His warm spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bill is survived by his wife, Judith Powers; daughters, Michelle (Martin) Swetmore and Stephanie Powers; grandchildren, Chad (Ellen) Swetmore, Ryan Miller, Randi (BJ) Burton, and Ben Swetmore; six great-grandchildren; brother, George Powers; and brother-in-law, Jim (Tery) Beckman. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael Powers; and siblings, Marian Parkin and Harold Powers.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Willis "Bill" Powers

August 07, 1929 - October 10, 2026

Share memories of Willis