Karl L. "Cully" Bast

1932 - 2025

Watertown, WI - Karl "Cully" L. Bast , 93, passed away on December 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and a playful spirit that made everyone around him feel like a kid again.

Born on December 5, 1932, in Watertown, WI, to Arthur and Ruth (Schumacher) Bast, Karl attended St. John's Grade School and was a life-long member of the church serving on several committees. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1951. Cully grew up with a strong work ethic that carried him through his early career as a bricklayer in Madison and Milwaukee. He took pride in building things that lasted and brought that same dedication to the Watertown Unified School District, where he served as a custodian and maintenance worker. Cully met Arlene Templeton at a party in 1956, and the two were united in marriage on November 20, 1958.

Cully was an avid hockey player whose passion for the sport spanned more than 33 years. He played goalie for the Madison Cardinals, the Wagon Wheel Cardinals (semi-pro), the Fond du Lac Bears, and capped his career with the Madison Cardinal Senior Men's team. He was humble, and few people knew the extent of his accomplishments: his teams won nine state tournaments and one national title, and he was named MVP in three USA Hockey National Tournaments. After retiring from play, he served on multiple USA Hockey National Tournament rules committees. His achievements earned him a place in the Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame in 1992. Hockey left its mark on him-literally-costing him a few teeth, which he later used for endless laughs as he popped them out to delight (and startle) his grandkids.

Outside of hockey, Cully poured his energy into the many things he loved. He played softball and was a member of the church dart ball league. He thrived outdoors, spending summers golfing, taking long bike rides, and working side by side with Arlene in the garden, keeping their yard as tidy as his tools. A talented woodworker, he repaired treasured pieces for his family and created doll furniture with his granddaughters. Winter never slowed Cully down-he spent countless days ice fishing and chatting with friends on the lake, and he was always the first to fire up the snowblower, and eager to help a neighbor.

Cully is survived by his loving wife, Arlene; children Mike Bast and Karla (Tom) Rath; grandchildren Erica (Charles) Hamilton, Emily (Billy) Doherty, and Jake Rath; great-grandchildren Henry, Grace, Tommy, and James Hamilton, and Blaire, Morgan, and Jack Doherty; brother Paul (Shirley) Bast; brother-in-law Don Templeton; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law Milo and Grace Templeton; sister Lorraine (Rodney) Wilke; and sister-in-law Gemma Templeton.

A special note of gratitude to Pastor Nick Quinnett and Pastor Jerry Ewings of St. John's for their many visits over the years.

Above all, Cully will be remembered for his impish grin, the twinkle in his eye, and his silly sense of humor. His joyful spirit will remain a bright light in the lives of everyone who was lucky enough to have known him.

A private family burial will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice. Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Watertown is serving the family. Online condolences may be left at www.HafemeisterFH.com.