Elizabeth "Betsy" Ann Kacizak

Elizabeth "Betsy" Ann Kacizak

August 31, 1967 - May 05, 2025

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Obituary

EDGERTON - Elizabeth “Betsy” Ann Kacizak, passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025, following a spirited battle with leptomeningeal metastatic breast cancer.  When faced with a terminal diagnosis that came with a horrendous prognosis, Elizabeth never wavered in her conviction to defeat this devastating disease.  Family and friends got to see true courage and bravery as they cheered on Betsy’s amazing spirit.


Elizabeth was born in Madison, Wis., on August 31, 1967, to Robert and Wanda (Anderson) Kacizak. Betsy was raised in Monona, Wis., where she attended the Monona Grove School District, graduating in 1985.


Following high school, Elizabeth attended the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.  While at College, Betsy followed in her mother’s footsteps by becoming a “legacy” of the Kappa Alpha Sigma sorority.  Elizabeth was very active in the “Greek” life and made many life-long friends at Platteville.  Betsy did, eventually graduate in 1990 with a B.S. in Speech Communication.  In 1999 Betsy earned a Master of HR Management Degree.


Elizabeth worked a number of years at the UW Credit Union, before accepting a position with the University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Business. Starting as a recruiter for the Master’s Program, Elizabeth spent many years traveling to Universities across the country, recruiting the best and brightest students for the UW School of Business Master’s Program.


Elizabeth took a short leave from the University to work for GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) in Washington DC. While working for GMAT, Betsy was able to collaborate with many Universities across the country to help administer admissions testing.  


Ultimately, Elizabeth returned to the University of Wisconsin, where she retired as Assistant Dean, MBA  and Master’s Program at the Wisconsin School of Business, UW -Madison.


Betsy made many friends as she made her way through life and if you were lucky enough to be one of those friends, you knew you had a loyal friend for life.  Elizabeth had a passion for travel and adventure that extended far beyond all of her business travel.  Betsy filled more than one passport and was privileged to visit many distant countries and experience many cultures.


Elizabeth will surely be missed by many friends and family.  Betsy is survived by her brother, Brad (Kelli) Kacizak; niece, Allison Kacizak; and of course her beloved cat, Riley.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Wanda Kacizak; maternal grandparents, Lawrence and Delores Anderson; paternal grandparents, Ann and Walter Kacizak; uncle Ron Kacizak; and cousin, Jennifer Kacizak.  Elizabeth leaves behind a long list of close friends and extended family.


A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.  


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to UW Carbone Cancer Center or Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson Stoughton

Funeral & Cremation Care

1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St.

(608) 873-4590



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Elizabeth "Betsy"
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A Memorial Tree was planted for Elizabeth "Betsy" Ann Kacizak
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Stoughton
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Sandra Kubat
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Working with Betsy at UW-Madison was such a pleasure. She was a force and I truly enjoyed our time in the MBA Programs Office. Sending my best to her family, friends and colleagues.
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Maxine Thalmann Patchin
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I am so sorry to hear of Betsy’s passing. I met her in UW-P, we were sorority sisters.
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Tonya Elliott
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Betsy and I worked together many years ago at the UW Credit Union. She was always so upbeat and positive. I absolutely loved working with her. She was very young back then, full of energy, fun and with such a brilliant future in front of her. I remember thinking that she was such a rare and special kind of person. Always dressed to the 9's and kind to everyone. There were 3 of us that worked extremely closely as the management team for the then "main branch of UWCU. We instigated some positive changes for our CU; we loved our job, valued our leaders and did above and beyond what was expected for our members. I personally miss those exciting times; but above and beyond that my heart is broken for Betsy's family and friends. Their loss is profound; because Betsy was a most unique person and a force to be reckoned with. Sweet Betsy, may you safely rest in the arms of your Creator. You will always be a beautiful memory in my life. Tonya Cook Elliott
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Rebecca Estrada
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Betsy was a wonderful coworker and friend. I worked with Betsy at GMAC, and our friendship continued after she returned to Madison. She was always happy, positive and full of life and energy. She showed me how to live life to the fullest, no matter your situation. I will miss you Betsy!
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Barb
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Betsy was one of my supervisors when I first started working at the Business School. I adored working for her. Her work ethic and dedication were truly inspiring. Her gentle and steady leadership brought out the best in people. After I left the business school, we still remained friends. Sending comfort to her family, friends and colleagues.

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