Joseph Clausius
April 02, 1947 - June 01, 2025
Obituary
Madison - Joseph R. Clausius, a devoted husband, loving father, and esteemed member of the community, passed away on June 1, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on April 2, 1947, to Joseph Earl Clausius and Helen Gertrude (Thomasgard) Clausius, he was raised with strong values that would guide him throughout his life.
After graduating with a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin Platteville, Joseph embarked on a career at American Family Insurance. He served as a lobbyist and staff underwriter for 33 years until his retirement in 2004. His work ethic and passion for his profession left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. After retirement, Joseph served as an alderman District 17 of the City of Madison from 2007 until 2015.
He was known for his unwavering belief in the importance of community involvement, Joseph had the saying, "Being active in your community is not only rewarding but also an obligation." He dedicated his time and energy to various causes. Joseph was a supporter of the Department of Civil Rights and Madison Police Department. He helped to fix traffic problems and protect city drinking water. He was vice chair of Madison Parks Foundation and was a supporter of the Reindahl Park Splash Pad, Warner Park Community Recreation Center, Madison Skateboarding Park and Imagination Center & Library @ Reindahl Park. He was also very instrumental in helping to bring Hy-Vee to Madison. Joseph was also the Vice President of the Clarendon Hills HOA, volunteer coordinator for the Madison Concerts on the Square, member of the Dane County Youth Commission and was also a City of Sun Prairie Alderman for 8 years. Joseph leaves a legacy of service and kindness that will be remembered for years to come.
In addition to his community involvement, Joseph loved to spend time at Olin Park, Devil's Lake and in Riviera Maya Mexico.
Joseph is survived by his wife, Marlene "Marti" Clausius (Joyce); children, Kim (John) Parker, Mike Clausius, Christine (Dan) Pankow/Gordon and Wendi Olson; 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Brent (Nancy) Clausius; and other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Helen Clausius.
A Celebration of life will be held from 4pm to 7pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N Sherman Ave, Madison, with Words of Remembrance to be shared at 6pm. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N Sherman Ave
608-249-8257
Events
Celebration of Life
Fri Jun 20, 2025 @ 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
Ryan Funeral Home - Madison East • 2418 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
Words of Remembrance
Fri Jun 20, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
Ryan Funeral Home - Madison East • 2418 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
Photos
Memories
BC
Bill Clausius
Family •
I feel like I followed cousin Joe in his political career. Both of us served on the Sun Prairie City Council (not at the same time). He was a thoughful man and represented his constituents well. He will be missed.
KF
Kathleen Falk
Friend •
I am saddened to learn of Joe’s passing. Joe was an Alder and a leader in many organizations during the years I served as Dane County Executive. I had the good fortune to work with him and was honored to appoint him to the Dane County Youth Commission where he was a great leader. His gentle manner and problem solving skills always stood out and helped reach policy solutions. He was a role model in good civics and citizenship that we need so much.
JP
John Poole
Friend •
Joe was a year ahead of me at RCHS and was also a co-worker at Krouskop's Department store in Richland Center. During his last semester at Platteville, we shared a room on West Main Street. I recall one time he gave me a ride back to RC in his very cool Corvette Stingray. A really nice guy all-around. I was surprised and saddened to learn of his death as I read the State Journal this morning. My sympathy.
SS
susan schmitz
Family •
I am so saddened by the passing of Joe. I was fortunate to have met him and worked with him when I was at Downtown Madison, Inc. and he was a council person. We got along so well and became friends. I was so drown to his love of our community and wanting to serve. I loved seeing at Concerts on the Square. I hope you are reading this, Marti, I am so sorry for your loss. I am sorry I will be out of the country on June 20th. Susan Schmitz