George Bielefeld

MADISON- George William Bielefeld, age 86, died peacefully at Meriter hospital on January 26, 2014, after a short stay there. He was born in Marinette, WI on June 28, 1927, the son of Lucy (Stephenson) and Henry B. Bielefeld. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Robert H. Bielefeld, and his sister A. Jane Bielefeld. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Betty Gysbers Bielefeld, sons Bill M. Bielefeld and Rob S. Bielefeld, a daughter Kris (Mike) Kassmier, grandson Chance Anders Bielefeld, two nephews Bill and Bob Bielefeld, and great niece Kim Reeves.

He attended Ephraim Public School and graduated from Gibraltar High School. He attended Lawrence University and UW-Madison Law School. He served his country in the U.S. Merchant Marine and as a Paratrooper in the U.S. Army. His career included 13 years at Commercial Credit Corporation, one year with Yegen Associates, and 30 years with Rayovac, where he retired as Credit Manager and Assistant Treasurer.

George was a strong believer in the principle of giving back, and after receiving two units of blood during a stay in the hospital, ultimately became a 35 gallon blood donor over his lifetime. His son Rob, and daughter Kris, were members of the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra. George became an active fundraiser for WYSO, later serving on the Board of Directors. It was during his time, as President of the Board, that WYSO made its first trip overseas. After retiring, George became an avid traveler and visited places all over the world, including a memorable trip for his 75th birthday, with son Bill, to the family's namesake Bielefeld, Germany. But mostly his life revolved around the light of his life, his wife Betty. He adored listening to her flute playing as she taught, practiced and performed in her home studio. George loved nothing more than celebrating any and all occasions to the fullest with family and friends. He will be dearly missed by those whose life he touched.

A memorial service will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, on Monday, February 3, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to WYSO's Scholarship Fund, Madison Symphony Orchestra, or the Dane County Humane Society.