Phyllis Mae (Oakleaf) Buzogany

Phyllis Mae Buzogany (Oakleaf), age 91, passed away peacefully in the morning on September 23, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. A loving wife, an incredible loving mother to her three children, a devoted nurse, a passionate equestrian, and a tireless advocate for others, Phyllis lived a life marked by compassion, strength, and unwavering positivity.

Born on October 15, 1933, in Williamson, New York, to Ernest and Irelene Oakleaf, Phyllis grew up with a deep love for animals and sports. She was the captain of her high school basketball team and developed an early passion for horseback riding that would remain central throughout her life.

She married Dr. William Buzogany on May 17th, 1959, in Williamson, NY, and moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where they became a family. She found the most joy in life in raising her three children. On weekends, the family enjoyed their time at Lake Camelot, and Phyllis spent endless hours watching birds and chasing away squirrels from the bird feeders at their family cabin.

After earning her nursing degree at Genesee Nursing School in Rochester, New York, she dedicated over 30 years to serving as an emergency room and surgical nurse. Beyond her nursing career, Phyllis found immense joy in teaching horseback riding. She shared her expertise at various stables and later became an instructor with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Equestrian Program. Her love for horses extended far beyond the arena-she was instrumental in starting Three Gaits Inc., a therapeutic riding program designed to serve individuals with disabilities.

Phyllis's commitment to service also led her to become a board member of the Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF). Her advocacy work reflected her generous spirit and desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Phyllis was an avid supporter of professional and collegiate teams alike. She cheered passionately for the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, and Wisconsin Badgers-attending games whenever she could.

In addition to her many pursuits, Phyllis cherished time spent with friends at her weekly Bridge Club gatherings.

Phyllis is survived by her beloved husband William Buzogany; daughter Bonnie Buzogany; sons William Buzogany (Nicole) and Robert Buzogany (Linda); grandchildren Grace Buzogany, Lila Buzogany, Jalyn Buzogany DeMoss, and Tyler Buzogany.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ernest and Irelene Oakleaf; sister Eleanor Peck; and brother David Oakleaf.

Phyllis will be remembered for her courage, strength, and resilience in the face of adversity, her athleticism, kindness, generosity, and selflessness. Her legacy lives through her family, friends, and the lives she touched.

In Memory of Phyllis, donations to the Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF) (Breakthrought1d.org) or the Dementia Foundation (alzfdn.org) would be greatly appreciated.

Private funeral services will be held for immediate family members.

A special thanks to Virginia, So, Michelle, Lys for their compassionate and loving care for Phyllis.