William Joseph Brown

MADISON - William Joseph Brown, age 87, died Wednesday, April 6th, 2016 at his home in Madison, Wisconsin. Bill was born on February 3rd, 1929 in Chicago, Illinois. He was united in marriage to Joyce Carol Zahradka on July 26, 1952. Bill began his career in broadcasting as a weatherman and studio announcer at the Iowa State University owned television station in Ames, Iowa. Bill moved his family to Madison, Wisconsin and joined WISC-TV as an anchor and eventually became News Director for the station. After fifteen years, Bill and Joyce decided to start their own business. They opened an upholstery shop and dry cleaning business and together they worked at the family owned business while raising their four children. Bill loved nothing more than to spend time at his favorite fishing spot on the Wisconsin River (Okee). He passed that love of the outdoors on to his children and grandson, Elliott. Bill will be remembered for his many years as the face of WISC-TV's News Department, his outgoing personality, and his ability to connect with people. Bill is preceded in death by Joyce, his wife of 60 years. He is survived by their four children: sons, Keith (Wendy), Jeffrey (Danna), David (Carol), and daughter Valerie (John) Reams; grandson Elliott (Krysti) Reams; his sisters Patricia Bojan and Cathy Marrese.
We thank the staff of Middleton Village for the exceptional care and compassion provided to Bill, his family, and his friends during his stay there.

A private gathering to celebrate Bill's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 16, 2016 in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.