Joshua Buzzell
May 17, 1989 - September 26, 2025
Obituary
Joshua “Josh” Buzzell, 36, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 26th, 2025, surrounded by love from his family and the tireless care of countless dedicated medical staff.
Josh was born on May 17, 1989, in Puyallup, Washington. He spent most of his life in Washington and Alaska, before making La Crosse his home; where he built lasting friendships and continued his life’s work in helping others.
Josh devoted his career to supporting children and adults with cognitive and behavioral challenges. He worked at Rainier State School in Buckley, Washington, and later at Chileda Residential Care Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin where he poured his heart and soul into helping his clients and coworkers succeed.
Those who were privileged to know him will remember his understanding, kindness, and willingness to sacrifice so others could thrive.
His impact will endure for generations through the lives he touched.
Josh fought courageously throughout the final year of his remarkable life, and the word “quit” was never in his vocabulary. His loved ones extend their deepest gratitude to Madison University Hospital, with special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff who provided such compassionate care during the past seven months.
He is survived by his mother, Donna (Dodgeville, WI) and his brother, Scott Bradford of La Crosse. Josh also leaves behind countless friends, relatives, and colleagues across the United States, all of whom were touched by his warmth, kindness, and unwavering compassion.
A Celebration of Life will be held on November 8, 2025, at 11:00AM, at First Congregational Church, 2503 Main St, La Crosse with visitation at 10:00am until time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Josh’s name to the Autism Society of America, the American Heart Association, or Donate Life America. To view his obituary or leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com
“Awake my dear, be kind to your sleeping heart. Take it out to the vast fields of light and let it breathe.”
We love you Mighty Mouse, always and forever. GO CUBS GO!
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Verona Chapel
220 Enterprise Drive
608-845-6625
Events
Visitation
Sat Nov 8, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT
First Congregational Church • 2503 Main St, La Crosse, WI 54601
Celebration of Life
Sat Nov 8, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT
First Congregational Church • 2503 Main St, La Crosse, WI 54601
Photos
Memories
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Callie Denning
Friend •
Josh and I were friends, roommates, coworkes, and the best team. I'll always remember our game nights, our inside jokes, and the amazing days fishing together. Thanks for being my best friend, Josh
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Matt Hutter
Classmate •
Josh was my first roommate at UAF. I remember playing Rockband with him and watching him play Metal Gear Solid. He was super into sports and sport journalism when he transferred out from UAF. He was a great guy and fun to hangout with.
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Chris VanHoof
Friend •
I worked with Josh when he was an Attendant counselor and investigator at Rainier School. He was always willing to help those he worked with. He was wonderful with the clients and in return they loved and respected him. He was a kind and generous person. He will be missed. with.
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LaTasha Rakes
Coworker •
I used to work with him at options unlimited. He was a great guy!
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Baylie
Friend •
My favorite memories of Josh were always the times we used to have at game nights. I especially remember one specific game night where we all made homemade mac and cheese and he made an amazing baked mac with jalapeno chips on top. Another favorite memory with Josh was playing Speak Out on another one of those game nights. The Josh I knew was so caring to everyone around him.