Willis Germain

Willis Andrew Germain passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, October 26, at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, following a recent medical related event. Affectionately known to his friends as “Willis T”, he was 88 years old when he was delivered to heaven on angels’ wings.

Willie was born on July 8, 1937 in Madison to Andrew and Hazel Germain. He spent his early years on the family’s farm in the Frenchtown settlement of Basco, Wisconsin. During his early childhood on the family farm, he attended St. Raphael’s Grade School during the week and then would return to Basco to help on the farm every weekend. When Willie was 16, the family moved to Jefferson Street in Madison, and later graduated from Edgewood High School, class of 1957.

After high school, Willie pursued his passion for technology, studying electronics at Madison Area Technical College. He began his career with American Hospital, where he serviced electronic medical devices throughout the region and became known for his technical skill and dedication. In 1986, he joined CUNA Mutual Group, where he installed and maintained computer equipment until he retired in 2002. During his time there, Willie developed many lifelong friendships with his colleagues and was admired for his reliability, humor, and kindness.

Willis T was a gentle soul and a loyal friend. He was an avid pilot who owned and maintained his own twin-engine airplane and spent countless hours with fellow aviation enthusiasts at Truax Field. He was also a cherished member of the Davidson and Sunridge neighborhood communities on Madison’s west side, where his warmth and generosity endeared him to many.

An enthusiastic downhill snow skier, Willie was well known among the ski patrol community in Wisconsin and the western states, where he shared many adventures on the slopes. Willie spent a lot of time skiing with his extended family & friends throughout the midwest. He also traveled west with the Davidson’s on many ski trips to the UP, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. Willie also enjoyed many backpacking and camping adventures throughout the years as well. One of his most cherished places to camp was at Peninsula State Park in Door County alongside the Hausmann Family from Madison. Through these friendships, he became an “uncle” to Bart Davidson, who—along with Dan Leetz and Ann Davidson—helped care for Willie in his later years.

Willie also spent much of his free time in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, helping the Davidson family build a home on Fence Lake in Lac du Flambeau. He especially loved working alongside his best friend Dan Davidson (“Double D”) on projects around the property. Together they raised three beloved Jack Russell Terrier Dogs—Fischer, Bode, and Snow—who brought Willie great joy and companionship.

Willie’s extended family would like to express heartfelt thanks to Jeff, Stacy, and the compassionate staff at Chamomile Assisted Living for their loving care over the past several years. They also wish to thank Dr. James Ircink, UW Health East Madison Hospital, UW Health University Hospital, and the team at Agrace Hospice for their exceptional support and kindness during Willie’s final days. Willis was preceded in death by his parents Andrew & Hazel Germain. He is survived by his extended family and numerous friends. A celebration of life for Willis T will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with friends and family. We love you Willis T. and will miss you dearly.