Glen A. Wilson Jr. “Buzz”
Entered into eternal life on January 12, 2021. Survived by his wife Winona, his children John (Angela) Wilson, Colleen (Tom) Benedict, and Lisa Appelbe. His stepchildren Keith (Mari) Meyer, Lynn Albert, Amy (Dan) Royalty. His grandchildren Kelsey (Jack) Regier, Hayley (Ryan) Rue, Charles James (Caroline), Katie Appelbe, Daniel Wilson, Sally (Jimmy) Halliday, Grace Appelbe (Cara). Step-grandchildren Reilly Albert, Parker Albert, Hugo Royalty and Anna Royalty. Great- granddaughter Charlotte Regier. Many nieces and nephews, other relatives, and many friends. Preceded in death by his parents, Glen A. Wilson Sr. and Lauretta Wilson, his sisters Katherine (Lou) Criez and Margaret (John) O’Brien, and his first wife Sally Wilson.

Buzz was simply put, the best! Those who knew him know what a caring, giving, fun, great guy he was to be around. He had deep faith in God, loved his family more than anything, worked hard, and absolutely loved sports. He was a fantastic and accomplished athlete and received many honors during his life, including being inducted into the Whitefish Bay High School Sports Hall of Fame.

Buzz grew up in Whitefish Bay, WI and excelled in football, basketball, and track, at Whitefish Bay High School earning 9 varsity letters. He played on three Suburban conference football championship teams, including his senior year when, as quarterback, he was named Milwaukee Area Player of the Year and named to the All State football team. In track, he was a two time State Champion in the high jump and placed twice at State in hurdles. He also won multiple Suburban conference championships in the low and high hurdles and the high jump. His efforts helped the Whitefish Bay track team win the State Championship all four years. He also was a starter on the basketball team and one of the leading scorers and rebounders.

Buzz received a scholarship to play football for the University of Wisconsin Badgers and was a part of their powerhouse teams of the early to mid 50’s playing defensive back, quarterback, and kicker. While at Wisconsin, he met and fell in love with his future bride, Sally. He was offered, and signed a contract to play football professionally for the Green Bay Packers, but instead was called into service with the United States Marine Corps. He achieved the officer rank of Second Lieutenant, and while in the service quarterbacked base football teams to two Marine Corp championships, playing against many other pro level players who had also been called into service.

After leaving the Marines, he began a successful career in the life insurance and financial services industry which lasted over 60 years. He earned a reputation in the Milwaukee area as not only an expert in his field, but also for caring deeply for his clients and their families and their well being. In addition, he acted as a mentor to many individuals entering the business, helping them launch their careers.

Buzz spent many years in Whitefish Bay, where he and Sally raised their family, and enjoyed many happy years together. Always active at St. Monica’s Church, and in the Whitefish Bay community. Buzz loved coaching or being involved with so many sports and activities his kids were involved in. He wanted to be with his kids and to enjoy watching them in sports just like his Dad had with him. He was always gentle, patient, inclusive, and going out of his way to help every child involved have a fun experience.

When Sally passed away in 1993, Buzz was lucky enough to meet Nona, and they were married and shared over 25 wonderful years together. Buzz getting the chance to become part of Nona’s awesome family, and to love them as they loved him back.

All in all, Buzz said to tell everyone he was a very lucky man. He was blessed by God with a long life filled with good health, a wonderful family, the love of two wonderful women, a great community to live in and raise his children in, so many fantastic friends, and the ability to give back to others in need. As he said, I have no complaints. He kept a strong faith in the Lord throughout his life. He wanted others to do the same. So, be happy for him! That’s what he wants. He’s home. Here and there think of him, one of your fun memories, smile, crack an ice cold beer, hold it up, and say, as would Buzz, “here’s to ya”. :) Buzz’s was a life well lived!

Due to the current environment, a private Mass was held at St. Monica Parish in Whitefish Bay and private burial at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, Boys and Girls Club, and St. Monica's Parish in Buzz's honor.