Obituaries

Madison - Paul Rene Stenseth passed away from a brief illness on January 5th, 2023 at Meriter Hospital in Madison, WI.

Paul was born on August 15th, 1944 in Chippewa falls, WI to Morgan and Eleanor (nee Paul) Stenseth. He is survived by his partner of 28 years, Nancy Braem, his sisters Ann (Bill) Schneider, Bettendorf, IA; Kay (Jim) Gunn, Chippewa Falls, WI as well as three generations of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Paul graduated in 1963 from McDonell High School in Chippewa Falls, followed by a bachelor’s degree from Stout State University in 1968. He continued his education earning an MA and MFA in Art from UW-Madison.

Paul began his career teaching art, while continuing his graduate studies. Between teaching jobs, he would drive his VW bus to San Francisco or Key West to live and work. Other travel took him to the Netherlands, Greece and Spain. It was the late 60’s & 70’s and he embraced adventure. Paul lived on his own terms. He was spiritual, though not religious, and comfortable accepting life’s mysteries.

His ancestral heritage included Native Americans on his mother’s side. This may explain how he was drawn to nature, He loved gardening and taking nature walks with Nancy. He loved animals and believed they were as important as people, maybe more so, and was a keen observer of their world. ” Thank goodness for four-legged creatures”, he would often say. Though interested in the physical world, he was not particularly materialistic. A generous spirit, he was always giving stuff away. His kind heart was well known. He could also be pugnacious, critically analyzing and arguing his point. Yet, he loved to make you laugh.

His work as an artist eventually transferred to the built world and he was proud of being successfully self-employed for three decades. His work can be seen in many architectural projects using his signature paint and plaster finishes.

Paul and Nancy shared an interesting and vibrant life. Nancy is grateful to all who have extended kindness, compassion, and support during this time of mutual grief.

If anyone wants to make a contribution in his memory, the most important cause for him was helping animals, and donations may be made to the Dane County Humane Society.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Paul at a later date.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services 2418 N. Sherman Ave. 608-249-8257