Bill Jeffery Buhse

Bill Jeffery Buhse, affectionately known as "Wild Bill" in his younger years-and later as "Mild Bill," as he liked to say-passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on October 14, 2025, at his home in Rothschild, Wisconsin. He was surrounded by love and care from his daughter and full-time caregiver, Darcie Burtch, and son-in-law, Eric Burtch, as well as his beloved furry companions, Grit, Grace, and Milo.
Born on July 22, 1959, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Bill Buhse and Virginia Knapp, Bill spent most of his life in the Wausau area. He graduated from Wausau West High School and later found his calling working in cemetery services. Starting as a grave digger, he worked his way up to Foreman-a role he took pride in through years of hard work and dedication.
On October 3, 2019, Bill suffered a traumatic brain injury while on the job. He spent 823 days in a brain rehabilitation facility and then returned home to live an additional 1,331 days, cared for with love, patience, and compassion.
Bill was a man of strong faith and deep devotion to Jesus. His relationship with God was the foundation of his life, and he faithfully watched church services every Sunday on TV. He found joy in nature, action and comedy movies, and rock music-especially the sounds of AC/DC, Metallica, and his all-time favorite song, Stranglehold by Ted Nugent.
He was also an avid fisherman-an angler at heart-who found peace and purpose on the water. One of his proudest legacies was passing down that love of fishing to his daughter Darcie, who became an angler just like her dad.
He often joked about how life had changed him, saying, "The W is upside down-I'm Mild Bill now." Though he had a tough and rugged presence, he carried himself with quiet strength, grit, humility, and grace. You could always count on him to have a Cream Saver tucked in his front pocket and a comb in his back pocket-simple things that became signature parts of who he was.
He is survived by his children:
Darcie (Eric) Burtch, Shonda Buhse (fiancé Justin Schwartz), Angus Buhse, Lindsey (Todd) Childs, Brittany (Wesley) Knox, Chelsey (Matt) Berens, Ashley (Justice) Latzig, Brianna (Mark) Rothenberger, and Nathan Buhse.
He is also survived by his siblings:
Bryon (Gail) Buhse, Brad (Greta) Buhse, and Brenda (Steve) Petcher.
Bill's legacy continues through his grandchildren: Kayla, Malachi, Cartter, Kaydence, Elijah, Lilyann, Brooklyn, Chad, Isaac, Isabele, Grayson, and Vivian; and his great-grandchildren Serenity ("Tinkerbell") and Alianna ("Squish").
He was preceded in death by his son Chad Buhse, Father Bill Buhse Sr, Mother Virginia Hanke, Step-father John Hanke, and brother Burt Hanke
He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his resilience, and his unique sense of humor. Bill's life was marked by transformation, strength, and love-and those who knew him will carry his memory in their hearts forever.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Bill by living with strength, faith, and kindness.
A Special Thank You
To Darcie Burtch and her husband, Eric Burtch, whose devotion and sacrifice gave our father six years of comfort, dignity, and love. You gave up your lives to give him the best possible care, and because of you, he left this world surrounded by warmth, peace, and family. Your love made all the difference, and we are forever grateful.
Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society is currently assisting the family. Online condolences can be made at MWCS.WS.