Martin Herbert Bekkedal

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Martin Herbert Bekkedal, affectionately known as "Buzz," on September 17, 2023, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was 82 years old. Buzzy will always be remembered as a “true gentleman” and a “really nice guy.”

Buzz was born on July 16, 1941, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Martin Verdel "Bek" and Katherine (Herbert) Bekkedal. His grandparents were Martin Hanson and Amanda (Anderson) Bekkedal of Westby, Wisconsin, and Dr. Ralph Henry and Gertrude (Sharpnack) Herbert of La Crosse, Wisconsin. Growing up, he shared many cherished moments with his sisters, Maren and Ingrid, and created lasting memories with all his friends. Buzz attended Westby High School, where he graduated in the Class of 1959. Buzz was Freshman and Senior Class President, a member of the senior Student Council, and lettered each year in Varsity Football, Basketball, and Track & Field. He also participated in the HS Annual, Mixed Chorus, Badger Boys State, was a Senior Homecoming attendant, a member of the Lettermen’s Club, and even had a speaking role in a class play his senior year. Buzz truly did it all.

He furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1964. GO BADGERS! Buzz's professional journey took him to various places, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin, St. Louis, Missouri, Dearborn, Dexter, and Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Jacksonville, Florida. He had a deep passion for Big 10 football, proudly cheering on the Wisconsin Badgers and Michigan Wolverines. However, his heart always remained close to his roots in Wisconsin. His interests extended to Westby history and genealogical trees, reflecting his strong connection to his family’s Norwegian heritage.

In a love story that spanned over five decades, Buzz was married to his best friend, Margaret Mary Peterson. Their enduring love and commitment were an inspiration to all who knew them. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Ingrid Sadler, his aunts, and uncles. Buzz is survived by his beloved wife, his children, Martin William Bekkedal (Carrie Millican) and Catherine Elizabeth Cimerman (Andrew), and his grandchildren, Martin "Liam" Bekkedal, as well as twin granddaughters due in February 2024. He is also survived by his sister, Maren Johnson, of Tacoma, Washington, many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and a multitude of friends.

Buzz was an active member of Christ the King Catholic Church for over 30 years. He dedicated his time to various ministries, including church rectory support, music ministry, and youth ministry, leaving a lasting impact on his community. It was never a surprise to see Buzz singing at funerals and volunteering at weekend Masses, as a cantor, a choir member, a parent, and volunteer.

A memorial service to celebrate Buzz's life will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 10 AM at Christ the King Catholic Church, officiated by Msgr. James R. Boddie. A private graveside burial is scheduled for Summer 2024 in Westby, WI, with interment at Westby-Coon Prairie Cemetery, and an open reception will follow. Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home is entrusted with the Florida arrangements; Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home & Crematory is entrusted with the Wisconsin arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Westby Historical Society in honor of Buzz's passion for preserving history and heritage. Donations can be made online at https://westbywihistory.com/ or mailed to P.O. Box 42, Westby, WI 54667.

“If you want to be a Badger, just come along with me, By the bright shining light of the moon.”