William Sather

Madison - William S. Sather, age 85, died peacefully at St. Mary's Hospital on Friday Feb.10, 2017. Bill was born on August 9, 1931 in St. Paul, MN the son of Samuel and Blanche (Heinz) Sather. He grew up in Hibbing, MN with his brothers Robert and Richard and sisters Mary Ann and Frances. He loved to recount the lessons he learned as a boy scout and his daring escapades as a youth.

Bill received his B.A. in 1953 at St. John's University, Collegeville, MN, majoring in Social Science. He talked often of his wonderful experiences there. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army for 2 years, serving in Germany until 1955. After his service abroad he attended the University of Wisconsin - Madison, earning a Master's Degree in Industrial Relations in 1958, followed by a PH.D. in Counseling and Behavioral Studies in 1965. For 35 years Bill worked passionately for disabled people in the field of Vocational Rehabilitation in WI., developing policies and programs designed to enhance the delivery of services. He had a strong sense of social justice and always said that if he hadn't gone into voc. rehab. he would've become a lawyer. Bill had high energy and always needed to stay busy. All his working years he held a second job, and his children were raised with his strong work ethic.

Bill met his wife Kathryne in Sept.1958 through mutual friends. Most of their lifelong friendships were formed during their time spent at St. Paul's Chapel on campus while Bill was attending the University. He and Kay were married in the spring of 1959 and had 5 children. Bill was a fervent man of faith, attending mass daily. He and his wife sang in the church choir, counseled engaged couples in marriage preparation, and Bill also volunteered at a local soup kitchen for many years.

His wife recalls that Bill was such an interesting character and usually the instigator of their fun adventures with friends. And he loved the outdoors. In addition to his obsessive love of tennis, swimming and ice skating on the lakes, the Sather family could typically be found camping in the North Woods, or enjoying regular weekend get togethers with a large gang of family and friends. Bill adored classical music; you could hear him playing his favorite Chopin, Mendelssohn or Beethoven selections on the piano daily. And, if you were camping with us you could hear him on his harmonica playing classic American folk songs. He also had a passion for literature and poetry, impressing everyone with his extensive recall of Shakespeare verses and other favorites.

A spinal cord injury in 2001 did nothing to dampen his optimism and drive. Despite severe mobility limitations, he continued to set and accomplish goals for himself, surpassing doctors' expectations. His family would like to thank Dr. Kostelyna, Ashley Heim, his home health aid of 10 years, and all those from Home Health United who cared for him over the years. His idealism, humor and positive outlook shaped all aspects of his life and those around him.

Bill was preceded in death by his son Tom, and his siblings, Richard, Mary Ann and Robert. He is survived by his wife Kay and his children Mary (Larry) Mulenburg, Barbara, Carol and David, daughter-in-law Janet, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 4-6 pm. on Wed., Feb.15 at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd., Madison. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thurs., Feb.16 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S. Owen Dr., Madison, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to the Catholic Multicultural Center (cmcmadison.org), at 1862 Beld St., Madison, WI. 53713.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
608-238-3434