William Robert Dietzman

EVANSVILLE / STOUGHTON - William R. Dietzman, born on October 20, 2012, in Madison, Wis., passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 12, 2026, after falling ill during spring break, leaving behind a world that he shaped with his routines, his attachments, and his unmistakable spirit. His life began with challenges-both physical and emotional-and he was entrusted to his parents who were learning to steady themselves while helping him find his own balance. Together, they built a life anchored in predictability, structure, and the comfort of knowing what to expect. In that shared pursuit of balance, William grew into a child full of curiosity, humor, and deep, meaningful connections.

William’s love of animals began on his grandparents’ farm, where he found joy in the simple, meaningful moments-especially when baby goats arrived or his grandfather had new calves. He eagerly helped bottle-feed them. Some of his happiest memories were riding on the hay wagon during baling season alongside his cousins, pitching in to help unload. He cherished the outdoors, especially camping and fishing trips, and even embraced ice fishing in the winter-as long as there was a warm shanty to sit in. In 2020, William became a lifetime member of Whitetails Unlimited, a milestone he was proud of, and he looked forward to the day he could share hunting experiences with his dad and uncle.

This dynamic young man’s long-standing fascination with garbage and recycling trucks became one of the defining joys of his childhood. In December 2024, he experienced a moment of pure wonder when a Waste Management crew visited his home. They spent time talking with him, gave him a full tour of the truck, and gifted him an assortment of treasures-including the now-famous WM chapstick. That day was one of the brightest in his memory, and it reflected just how much he loved everything about garbage and recycling-especially the pride he took in his assigned duty of taking out the trash and recycling at school.

Swimming was another place where William came alive. He loved taking lessons and proudly aged out of Goldfish Swim School in Fitchburg. Emotional regulation was difficult for him, but he worked hard to understand himself. Yoga-tism helped him learn to recognize emotions as they surfaced and to move through them with intention. His therapist, Julia, was a patient and steady guide-someone who knew how to challenge him without overwhelming him, and who supported both William and his mom with compassion and clarity.

William also participated in Experiential Therapy at Heartland Farm Sanctuary, working closely with Toni. Together they explored what truly grounded him and brought him quality of life. His list was simple and sincere: animals, swimming, and garbage/recycling trucks.

Most recently, William joined VBX Fitness, a weightlifting and agility gym designed for kids who benefit from extra support to stay safe, focused, and regulated. The owner, Meshan Adams, brought his therapy dog, Mellow, to every class. Mellow quickly became one of William’s favorite companions.

As new members of Prairie Athletic Club, William and his mom had already enjoyed three swims together, and he was excited to begin swimming classes scheduled for April 25, 2026.

His sudden illness on the Wednesday of spring break felt especially cruel, interrupting a season of growth, joy, and new routines. Routines were the backbone of William’s daily life-the source of his confidence, security, and sense of safety. Those who loved him worked tirelessly to build a world where he could thrive.

William is survived by his mother and father, Lesli Dietzman (Mark Matthias) and Jeremy Dietzman; his grandparents, Alice and Jerry Johnson, Billy and Tammy Black, Bob and Sue Dietzman; great-grandmothers, Jeanne Schwass-Long, Dora White and Ruth Dietzman; godmother, Angie Johnson (Lee); godfather, Zachary Dietzman; numerous aunts, uncles, great-aunts, great-uncles and cousins; and a community of caregivers, teachers, therapists, and friends who helped shape his world and who will forever carry his memory.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, Robert Dietzman, Francis Long, Charles "Bud" Correll and Lowell Gehrke; great-grandmother, Arlene Gehrke; and cousin, Emily Weisensel.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON STOUGHTON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St., Stoughton, from 10 a.m. until 12 noon on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Attendees are welcome to wear whatever feels most comfortable as we come together to honor William and share the memories that meant the most to him. Casual conversation and the sharing of stories are warmly encouraged.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Benny Iskandar at UW American Family Children’s Hospital, who has served as William’s neurosurgeon since 2012, for his many years of dedicated and compassionate care. They also offer deep appreciation to the Evansville School District for their unwavering support, understanding, and partnership throughout William’s educational journey. A special thank you is extended to the PICU team at American Family Children’s Hospital for the exceptional care and kindness they provided to William.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William’s honor by visiting https://secure.supportuw.org/give/ and select UW Neurosurgery Pediatric Hydrocephalus and Congenital Anomalies Fund - 112580491 or Heartland Farm Sanctuary (https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/heartland-farm-sanctuary/hfs-general-donations).

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

Gunderson Stoughton

Funeral & Cremation Care

1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St.

(608) 873-4590