Berwyn Braden

MADISON -- Berwyn “Buzz” Bartow Braden, 88, died at home on July 23, 2016 with his family by his side.

With equal parts gratitude and grief, we honor Buzz and the invaluable life lessons he taught us. He created an incredibly full life pursuing a myriad of passions: from scuba diving, skiing, and racquetball to cycling, camping, and breeding Boxer show dogs. Badger football, men’s basketball and Waunakee girls’ basketball teams were fortunate to have his proud (and loud) support. Buzz fed his wanderlust with travels across the country and around the world. His wide-ranging curiosity about people and places, along with his fascination with the English language, made him an avid reader and engaging conversationalist.

Buzz was born to Florence Lucille Bartow and George Clark Braden in Pana, Illinois on Jan. 10, 1928. After graduating from Pana High School in 1945, he proudly served as a member of the United States Marine Corps (“Semper Fi”). He enrolled in Carthage College in 1947 and transferred to UW-Madison in fall 1948. He married Barbara Brellenthin in 1949 and settled in Lake Geneva, WI to raise children and begin his long, successful, and colorful careers in the hospitality industry and legal field.

At the age of 23, Buzz took over management of the Lake Geneva public beach and Riviera. Later, he owned and managed several establishments including the Top Deck and Hayloft restaurant. During the time he ran these venues, he booked and promoted big name entertainment such as Louis Armstrong, Chubby Checker, and the band Chicago.

Buzz earned his J.D. from UW Law School in 1959 and worked in private practice in Lake Geneva for 56 years. During this time he argued before the U.S. Supreme Court, served two separate terms as city attorney for Lake Geneva, and was distinguished for professional excellence as an AV rated lawyer by Martindale-Hubbell. In addition, he was active in the Lions Club and became president of the Lake Geneva Chamber of Commerce in 1953.

In 1983, Buzz married Betty (Huettner) Sell and made his home in Madison for the next 33 years. During this time, he enjoyed connecting with family and friends at his Door County and Aruban “homes away from home.” He retired from practicing law in 2015.

Buzz played an important role in the lives of many people: his wife Betty and 9 children and step-children—Scott (Arlene), Mark (Karen), Matt, Sue, Ralph (Ginny), Ladd (Caroline), Brad (Rick), Jenny (Jamyang), and Becky (Shawn); siblings Jack (Carol) and Kelli (Neil); 14 loving grandchildren; and 19 adorable great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two siblings, Marjorie and Gary.

We will miss Buzz’s unfailing intellect, charm, generosity, and grace. He was tough, but full of warmth. He was opinionated, but open to change. He was resilient. He maintained his quick wit throughout his journey. Buzz was one of a kind and he will continue to live in our hearts and minds. Always.

The family is grateful for the competent and compassionate care provided by his Meriter/UW Health medical and Agrace Hospice support teams.

A private celebration of Buzz’s life will be held by close family.