Willard "Bill" Van Denburgh Jr.

Willard “Bill” Van Denburgh Jr., age 85, of Ripon, WI, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Meadowbrook Nursing Home in Appleton, WI.

Bill was born on August 21, 1940, in Amsterdam, NY, the son of Willard Sr. and Anna Mae (Bayes) Van Denburgh. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to 1962 based in Hawaii. During his service, he worked as an aircraft mechanic, discovering a lifelong passion for engines. Initially following his service, Bill worked for Green Giant, Speed Queen, and Heritage Wafers before opening his own business, Bill’s Service, where he specialized in small engine repair. He was a Master Technician for Briggs and Stratton and maintained his certification. He managed and also drove the for The Ripon Taxi. On any given evening one could find Bill hanging out at McDonald’s, Webster’s, or Kwik Trip grabbing a bite to eat and enjoying conversation with other customers. 

He was a member of Our Saviour’s UCC in Ripon. One could find him driving the van that transported older members to church services or ushering for the services. Bill enjoyed sharing stories from the past and teaching others. He taught small engine classes to local youth. He was a dedicated supporter of all the various Ripon girls softball teams/leagues for many years, especially throughout his daughter’s playing career. Bill was an avid motorcycle rider who also raced in Hawaii in his younger years. He also enjoyed camping, boating, and fishing.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Wendy Van Denburgh of Ripon, and her beloved pets: Jake, Hunter, Isabelle, and Keagan; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard Sr. and Anna Mae; his brothers, Ivan, Robert “Bob,” Clarence, and Ronald “Bud”; his sister, Mary Taylor; and his faithful dog, Choco.

A memorial service for Bill will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon, with Rev. Dr. Kevin Mundell officiating. Family and friends may visit at the funeral home on Saturday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Jay Page family, especially Kaden Page and Alyssa Swanke for supporting Roxy and finding her a new home. They also express their gratitude to the Milwaukee VA Hospital for 21 years of care, Heartland Hospice, and the team at Meadowbrook Nursing Home.

Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon is proudly serving the Van Denburgh family. Online condolences may be left at divinepassagefuneral.com.

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