With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Leo Earl Shillinglaw, 95, on Monday, July 13, 2026, in the arms of his beloved wife, Rose.
Leo “Bud” was born May 22, 1931, the second of three sons to Earl T. and Erna E. (Baumann) Shillinglaw in Madison, Wisconsin. He graduated from Madison East High School in 1950, where he was a talented athlete participating in Football and Basketball, and was a highly decorated Track athlete. In 2016, Leo was honored with induction into the Madison East High School Hall of Fame.
After high school, Leo served as a Sergeant in the Army and the Air National Guard. On June 1, 1958, he joined the Madison Fire Department, serving 29 years, retiring in 1987 as a Lieutenant.
In 1974, Leo, a member of the Avenue Bar mens’ softball team, met Rose Ellen Murphy, who played for the womens’ team. It was the beginning of their wonderful life together, and they were married on May 23, 1987, at St. Dennis Catholic Church, Madison.
Leo enjoyed golfing and played well into his late 80’s, and was a member at TPC Wisconsin. He was thrilled to get a hole-in-one in 2011.
Surviving Leo are his wife, Rose, his Brother Don (Shirley) Shillinglaw, his Sister-In-Law, Brenda Shillinglaw, Brothers-In-Law: Pat (Mary T) Murphy, Thomas (Jan) Murphy, Jim Murphy, Jerry (Carol) Murphy and Sisters-In-Law: Bonnie Murphy, Monica George, JoAnn Barlow, Margaret (Doug) Ransom, Catherine Barnett, Ruth (Darrell) Myers. He will be missed by a multitude of Nieces, Nephews and friends who will miss his sweet spirit and great sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl & Erna, brother Henry Shillinglaw, In-Laws; Mike Murphy, Mary & Dennis Anderson, Gary George, Richard Barlow and Joanne Zatko.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church, 5001 North Sherman Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53704. Visitation will begin at 9:30am at the church.
Leo’s family would like to thank the staff of SSM Health at Home Hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SSM Health at Home Hospice or Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

Leo Shillinglaw

May 22, 1931 - July 13, 2026

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