Brennen Bucholz

Brennen Bucholz, 54, passed away on June 18, 2025, in Waupun, Wisconsin. Born on August 18, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois, Brennen carried the spirit of his hometown with him throughout his life-cheering passionately for the Chicago Bears, White Sox, and Bulls, and always keeping a game on his TV no matter the time.

Brennen grew up near Chicago and began his education at Proviso West High School before graduating from Green Bay East High School. He went on to earn a degree in criminal justice from Triton College, laying the foundation for a career dedicated to public service.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Brennen completed basic training at Fort Sill and was stationed at Pinder Barracks in Zirndorf, West Germany with the 1st Armored Division-"Old Ironsides." He volunteered for Operation Desert Storm and earned his combat patch after joining the 101st Airborne Division. Following his deployment to Iraq, he returned to Fort Sill where he completed training as a 13F Forward Observer. His Military Occupational Specialties included 13B Cannon Crew Member and 13F Forward Observer. Over the course of his military career, he served in the U.S. Army, Army Reserve, and Illinois National Guard. Brennen was deeply proud of his service and carried that pride with him always. Sadly, exposure to toxic burn pits during his deployment contributed significantly to the health issues he later faced.

After completing his military service, Brennen continued serving others through a two-decade-long career with the State of Wisconsin Department of Corrections. He spent most of those years at Waupun Correctional Institution where he was known for his dedication and professionalism.

Outside of work and service, Brennen found joy in many passions. He loved spending time with his dog and immersed himself in gaming-particularly World of Warcraft-where he proudly maintained every character at max level. As a young adult, he enjoyed comic books and reading widely across genres. A self-taught historian at heart, Brennen took great pride in knowing history and often shared that knowledge with those around him.

He is survived by his father Robert Bucholz; mother Diane Larsen; brothers Bill Trigg and Ian Larsen; as well as close friends Brett Lancour, Thomas Reese, Brent Phare, Amanda Simmons, and Dan Meehan.

Any celebration of life or military honors will be shared via Facebook or private message.

May Brennen's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting tribute to a life marked by service, loyalty, and enduring passion.