Bud DeBoer

Bud DeBoer

May 12, 1934-June 23, 2021

Bud DeBoer, age 87, of Kenosha, WI passed away on Wednesday, June 23rd, at Crossroads Care Center (Kenosha, WI).  Bud was born May 12, 1934 in Onalaska, WI to Peter and June (nee Smith) DeBoer.  During his youth, he was raised in Holmen, WI; and was educated at schools in LaCrosse, WI; Coon Valley, WI; and Meridian, WI.  He attended high school in Durand, WI.    

On January 6, 1954, he married the love of his life, Geraldine (nee Becker), in Rock Creek, WI.   United in marriage for over 67 years, they brought six children into their lives – Russell (Theresa), Deborah (deceased at infancy), James, Howard, Susan (Michael), and Nancy (Michael).  His grandchildren include Beau DeBoer, Dustin (Rebecca) DeBoer, Brynn (Dean) Tawwater, Amanda (Tom) Scolo, James Bronson DeBoer, Danielle (Kris) Becker, Jennifer (Ben) Rothwell, Dana DeBoer, Shane Mattner, Cody Mattner, and Heather Mattner.  Bud’s great grandchildren include Morrison Tawwater, Agatha Tawwater, Hailey DeBoer, Addison DeBoer, Taylor DeBoer, twins Riley and Maci Scolo, Brook Becker, Lexi Rothwell, and Odin Rothwell. 

Bud was very industrious – with a career that spanned building silos for Madison Silo, and later worked as a car carrier for Kenosha Auto Transport, Speedway, and Arco for many years.  He later founded and operated Bud’s Service Center, Ltd. (Kenosha, WI) in 1964 until his retirement in 1988.  He later continued working in sales at various markets around the country.

Bud and his devoted wife, Geraldine (Geri), enjoyed many years of traveling and flying (as a certified pilot) and was a member of the Stick & Rudder Flying Club (Waukegan, IL).  His hobbies also included boating, waterskiing, camping, snowmobiling, rooting for the Green Bay Packers, and enjoying winters in Lake Havasu City, AZ and summers at River Bend Resort (Watertown, WI) – enjoying time with family and friends, sunsets, bon fires, and golf cart rides with his “granddog” (Lincoln).  Bud was a lifetime member of the Moose Club, visiting many club locations throughout the country; a former Elk’s Club member, and formerly was Director of the Wisconsin Towing Association as well as a member of the Wisconsin Petroleum Association.

Bud was proceeded in death by his parents (Peter & June DeBoer), siblings (Phyllis Hoch, Joyce Ekern, Marjorie Schmaltz, John DeBoer, and Gordy DeBoer), daughter in infancy (Deborah DeBoer), and granddaughter (Danielle Becker).  Bud is survived by his wife (Geraldine DeBoer), five children, two sisters – Mary LeBorne (Riverside, CA) and Paulette Paulson (New Auburn, WI), along with many dear grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.    

In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Mooseheart for children in need, American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association, or Victory Baptist Church would be appreciated. 

Bud’s family would like to extend a heartfelt appreciation to the loving staff of Kindred Hospice for all their care and compassion, as well as Crossroads Care Center. 

In closing, a visitation to celebrate Bud’s life will be held on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Victory Baptist Church (3401 Springbrook Road; Pleasant Prairie, WI) from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM.  The funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM at Victory Baptist Church, followed by a burial service at Saint George Cemetery (Kenosha, WI).

Thoughts for Bud DeBoer;

  • Ruth L Leis says:

    Thinking of all of Uncle Bud’s family at this sad time. I remember him as being a jovial person with many, many stories to tell! We remember him fondly.
    Love and Prayers,
    Ruth Schmaltz Leis
    Daughter of Margie DeBoer Schmaltz

  • Laurie J Hamel says:

    We have so many wonderful memories of our Uncle Bud. He was a “larger than life” character and always made sure that we had a great time when visiting Kenosha. We’re so glad that our families got along, and even though we lived more than 2000 miles apart, that we were able to spend so many holidays and family vacations together. He will be missed, but NEVER forgotten. Love you Uncle Bud.
    Barbara (Hoch) Kendall, Laurie (Hoch) Hamel, & David Hoch

  • Our most sincere condolences to all the Deboer family.We pray to the Lord God that give you strength and comfort in this difficult time.Always will be grateful that Mr Bud give me the opportunity to live in his home,he trust me as tenant and he always give me good advises.Thanks God for his life.We see you in heaven Mr. Bud you will be miss a lot.

  • Jamie Bilderback says:

    Thoughts and prayers to all of you in your time of loss. Bud was larger than life and was a fun person to know. Love to you all!
    Jamie Bilderback (granddaughter of Warren & Jeanette Hulke).

  • Dear Aunt Geri & family, Regardless of age or circumstances, it is always difficult when a loved one dies. May our God bless & give all of you peace with many loving & fond memories. With much love & prayers,
    Steve & Mary Schmaltz Deyo

  • Rodney Day says:

    Spent many memorable years with Bud & Geri in Arizona both at The Main Event in Quartzsite Arizona and while residing in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. He will be remembered for his deal making and for his variety of goods at his spot in The Main Event. He will be missed. RIP Bud

  • Geraldine DeBoer says:

    Thank you so much. Bud was doing good until he fell in May. Very nice funeral with many family and friends. God bless all for you kind thoughts. Love Geri.

  • Jeff brommer says:

    Aunt Geri & family, uncle bud will be missed by all of us. Many great memories. He was a good man with a big heart. Always made sure we were taken care of on our vacations out there ! We love you uncle bud!

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