Karl William Marquardt

Karl William Marquardt

September 05, 1937 - March 08, 2022

Obituary

MIDDLETON - Karl W. Marquardt, age 84, of Middleton, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison. He was born on Sept. 5, 1937, in Wausau, Wis., the son of Reno and Nora (Tesch) Marquardt.


Karl was a man of strong faith, knowledge, and integrity.  Karl graduated from Wausau East High School. He received a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and a Juris Doctorate in law, both from the University of Wisconsin- Madison. While in law school, he met the love of his life, Vel, and they were married Aug. 7, 1965.  His career included being commissioned as a naval officer in the Naval Medical Service Corps after graduating from the Officers Candidate School, Chief of Pharmacy Services at the U.S Naval Hospital in Charleston, S.C.  He was a Patent Attorney for Dow Chemical, an Executive Director of the Pharmacy Examining Board, and an Attorney for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture - Trade and Consumer Protection.  Karl proudly served his community in many honorable roles as president of the Waunakee School Board for 12 years and District Expulsion Hearing Officer for the Waunakee Community School District.  He dedicated his time to the Meriter Hospital board as well as the Oakwood Village University Woods Board.  He was a lifelong member of Bethel Lutheran Church and had an active role on the church council, Stephen Ministry, and most recently was involved with the Men’s Current Christian Concerns group.


In addition to his professional career, Karl and Vel brought up a family of four children.  He loved downhill skiing, curling, reading, attending sporting events, and traveling throughout the country and overseas.  He was always present, steady, and strong for his 12 grandchildren.  Karl and Vel developed wonderful friendships and beautiful memories within their Bethel Hiking Group.  Karl instilled great passion for life and learning with every life he touched.


Karl is survived by his wife of 56 years, Velma; sons, Jeff (Dana Day) Marquardt, Thomas (Jill) Marquardt,and David (Rebecca) Marquardt; daughter, Lora (Matthew) Nerland; granddaughters, Julia, Maria, Sophia, and Isabella; grandsons, Isaac, Henrik, Lars, Bergen, Theo, Wesley, Henry, and Lukas; brothers, Merritt (Betty) Marquardt, Judsen (Connie Niva) Marquardt, and William (Beverly) Marquardt; and sister-in-law, Beverly Boos. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Sherill Meyer; and brother-in-law, Rolland Unke.


A service will be held at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 18, 2022. Family and friends who wish to view services via LIVE STREAM may visit Karl’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com at 11 a.m. on Friday. A private burial service for immediate family only will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery in Wausau.  Out of respect for all, during this time of continued health concerns, there will be no visitation prior to, or after, the 11 a.m. service.  


Memorials may be made in Karl’s name to Bethel Lutheran Church, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, WI, 53703. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761





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AD
Ann and Phil Dettwiler
Other •
Karl was a warm, caring, faithful man who held our great respect. We are so sorry for your loss. We send ((hugs)) to all of the family with our deepest condolences. Share memories amongst you often; he lives in each of your hearts.
JM
James Matson
Other •
Dear Vel and Family - Beth and I were so sorry to hear that Karl had passed away. Karl was a wonderful person, a great colleague, and a model of fairness, decency, integrity, kindness and good humor. He will be greatly missed. Despite your loss, we hope that you will find strength, solace and joy. - Jim Matson
MM
Margaret Maly
Other •
I was saddened to hear of Karl’s passing. He was such a kind and compassionate man. I have fond memories of working with him at DATCP. I enjoyed talking with him and getting updates on all of his children. He was so proud of all their accomplishments and successes. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Margaret Maly
MW
Mary David Walgenbach
Other •
The sisters of Holy Wisdom Monastery wish to share their love for Karl and his family. Please accept our condolences and know that Karl was a beloved neighbor and Middleton community member. May Karl's family and friends feel the warmth and beauty from loved ones during this season of loss and healing.
KW
Kathryn Winch
Other •
Karl was a loyal and wonderful friend to my dad, Bob Johnson, from Bethel. Dad had multiple myeloma, and lived at home until he died Christmas Eve, 2012. Karl came weekly to share their faith and friendship. His visits and kindness meant everything to dad and our family. Please accept our heartfelt prayers and sympathy. Blessings, Kathryn Winch
CK
Charles Kernats
Other •
I worked with Karl during my first 5 years in state service at DATCPA. Karl was unfailingly kind, courteous, and compassionate. I hope that his family takes comfort from the respect and affection that he earned from his colleagues.

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