Woodrow A. Badger
November 2, 1931 - August 4, 2022

Woodrow (Woody) A. Badger passed peacefully from this world on August 4, 2022, at 90 years of age. Woodrow was born on November 2, 1931, to Gerald and Iola Badger in Hardwick, Vermont. He is predeceased by his loving and devoted wife, Willough "Willo" Jean Badger (nee Scherf). Woody is survived by his cherished daughter Cindy (Tom) Papka; and devoted sons Bruce (Julie) Badger and Tom (Lorry) Badger. He is mourned by his beloved grandchildren Jason (Silvija) Papka, Craig (Anne) Papka, Allison (Dustin) Lang, Daniel (Marissa) Badger, David Badger, Lindsey (Kris) Jacob, and Jeffrey (Gina) Badger - along with 11 loving great-grandchildren, of whom he was so proud - Alex, Ryan, Mia, Jacob, Joshua, Blair, Bryce, Marigold, Rosemary, Jordan & Mila. He is further survived by his brother, Gerald (Red) Badger.

Woody was a kind, caring and helpful man.  He was well loved by his family and all who met him.  It was not uncommon for Woody to stop and help strangers with car trouble along the roadside in any weather.  He was extremely gifted in the ability to fix or repair just about anything – and used this skill to be a blessing to everyone.

The State Fair

One summer day in 1953, Woody met a beautiful young woman – Willough and a group of her friends at the Wisconsin State Fair.  On the bus leaving the fair, Woody’s buddies got off at one of the stops, but Woody stated, “I don’t know about you guys, but I’m staying with the girls!” They rode back home together that day.

A few weeks later, while Woody was at the enlisted serviceman’s club, he mentioned to one of his friends that he had met a nice girl named Willo and that he sure would like to see her again.  Well, his buddy’s girlfriend just happened to know Willo!  Woody was able to make contact with Willo and the rest was history. 

Woody was later stationed with the Air Force in France, so Willo traveled by boat from the USA to France and they were married on June 30, 1954 on the military base.  They later moved to England, where their first child, Cindy, was born.  They remained in England for 16 months until their return home to the United States in 1956.  Settling in Milwaukee, Woody had an outstanding career as a mechanic for Pabst Brewing Company for 32 years.  He was considered one of the top mechanics at Pabst, even being called upon to work on the Pabst family cars.  Woody and Willo lived a rich, full life together and were happily married for 66 years until Willo’s passing in 2020. 

Woody had a generous heart of gold. He taught us that there is nothing more important than family. His life motto was, “Do the right thing and you’ll always be happy.”  Woody was a member of St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waukesha.

Woody passed from this world on August 4, 2022 - the first day of The Wisconsin State Fair this year and went to join up with Willo again just as he did 69 years ago.

Remembrances in Woodrow’s name may be sent to:

Pro Health Care Foundation - Hospice Program

725 American Avenue

Waukesha, WI  53188

Please reference that the gift is in the name of Woodrow A. Badger

All generosity is greatly appreciated.