Artie Montini, 62, of Medford, left this world far too soon on February 19, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved more than anything.
Born to Arthur and Kay, Artie grew up in Lannon, Wisconsin, but his true home was always “da woods.” There was no place that brought him more peace, more joy, more life than being out there—hunting, fishing, just breathing in the trees and the quiet. He lived for those simple moments, the ones where the world slowed down and nothing else mattered. Artie was a man who kept things real and uncomplicated, never chasing fancy things, just the basics: time in nature, time with the people he cared about, and the freedom to live on his own terms.
One of his proudest moments came as a young man—he was a key part of the 1981 Sussex Hamilton Chargers team that won the WIAA State Baseball Championship. That victory meant the world to him; he carried those memories like treasure and loved sharing the stories with anyone who’d listen. After high school, he never let go of the game—he kept playing softball for decades, showing up year after year at Sussex Lions Daze tournaments and other local tournaments, right up until he was 57. You’d see him out there on the field, still giving it his all, and loving every minute. When the games ended, you’d find him at the beer tent, cold one in hand, surrounded by friends, telling stories, laughing that big, easy laugh of his, making everyone feel like they belonged.
His heart belonged first to his family. Artie shared a deep, unbreakable bond with his girlfriend Patches, who was his best friend and constant companion. He was the proudest dad to Anthony (Samantha) Montini and Dylan (Logan) Dewees, and the most devoted grandpa to Reagan, Broderick, McKinley, and Frankie—his grandkids lit up his world in ways nothing else could. He cherished his father Arthur (Debra), his siblings Perry J. Montini, Kristen “the girl” (Anthony Schupp) Montini, Amanda (Al) Stippich, and Salvatore (Kate) Montini; and a huge extended circle of nieces, nephews, and friends he called family. Those friends were the ones who shared countless hours laughing, playing cards, watching games, or just sitting together—because Artie knew real love showed up in the everyday, loyal moments.
He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Kay, and his grandpa, Lloyd.
Artie’s laugh, his own brand of humor, his easygoing way—made everyone around him feel lighter. He reminded us all to strip away the noise and get back to the basics.
In his honor, the family asks that you come as he would have—jeans, camouflage, flannel or Hamilton Charger gear—and hold close the words of his favorite song, Luckenbach, Texas:
“The only two things in life that make it worth livin’… Maybe it’s time we got back to the basics of love.”
Artie, you showed us how to live simply, love deeply, and find heaven right here in “da woods.” We miss you already.
Visitation and sharing will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home in Sussex, with gathering from 5:00PM until sharing at 7:30PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are deeply appreciated.
Immediately following the service, please join the family at Whiskey Corners in Menomonee Falls, to share in a toast in memory of Artie.
