Gregory J. `Greg` Befera , Age 76


December 18, 1948 --January 30, 2025

Gregory “Greg” Befera, age 76, of Baraboo, passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his family.

Greg was born on December 18, 1948 to O.J. and Linda (Offre) Befera in Hibbing, MN and grew up in Baraboo. He graduated from Baraboo High School in 1967 and continued on to St. Norbert College graduating in 1971. After college, from his love of golf he became a Golf Professional, working at various golf courses in WI, TX, and IL. After giving her golf lessons at Itasca Country Club in Itasca, IL he met and married Fran Tirjer on March 2, 1979. They stayed in the Chicago suburbs with their five children before moving to Baraboo in 1989.

Greg became the Golf Professional and General Manager at Baraboo Country Club for over two decades. His talent as a player was matched only by his gift for teaching. He particularly enjoyed working with the kids in his Jr. Golf Program. In 2010, Greg and Fran bought Pine Trail Golf Course in Portage until 2014, when he retired. He then enjoyed working as a driver at Oak Park Place in Baraboo.

Greg’s other passion was being the Athletic Director and Boys’ Basketball Coach at St. Joseph’s School for 35 years – right up until two months of his passing. He provided a steady and reassuring presence to his young players leaving a lasting impression that undoubtedly aided in shaping their character. Greg had a charismatic personality that made it nearly impossible not to like him. He had the ability to make those around him feel at ease. In addition to being a devoted husband and caring father, Greg will be remembered for his unparalleled loyalty, admirable work ethic, and deep love for his family and friends. It was a rarity to ever find Greg rattled.

Greg is survived by his wife of 45 years, Fran; his children, Natalie (Chris) Johnson, Joe (Melissa) Befera, Michael Befera, Chris Befera, Lindsay Befera; he is the proud grandfather of, Savannah, Robbie, Tanner, Chase, and Madison; brother, Tom Befera; sisters, Mary Befera and Susan (Marc) McKinney; other relatives and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, O.J. and Linda Befera.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Baraboo with Father Luke Powers presiding. A time of gathering will be held at the church on Friday at 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Private inurnment will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Greg will be deeply missed, but forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Greg’s name to St. Joseph Catholic School.

The family would like to thank Agrace Hospice Care for their kind and caring services.

 



Condolences

Leslie Pogreba February 03, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Fran and family, so sorry for your loss!!

Steve Lien February 03, 2025

Friend Rotonda West , Florida

Fran & Family, So sorry to hear about Greg’s passing. A great guy on all accounts. I miss talking with him in the BCC clubhouse and sharing stories about the Andy Griffith Show. A great supporter of junior golf which I always respected. It was a pleasure to coach the boys in HS golf. He will be missed…take care.

Vanessa M Gazzola February 03, 2025

Niece Shorewood , Illinois

So sorry Auntie Fran, Uncle Greg will be missed. Love you, Vanessa

Thomas Quinn February 03, 2025

Friend Baraboo

I am so sorry to hear. God Bless you all at this time. He coached all my boys and was just a wonderful man and most level headed coach or parent I ever met. RIP

Jerry Jessop February 03, 2025

Friend/Family Friend Bozeman , Montana

Great family, good friend. Godspeed and God Bless You, Greg.

Shelley Mordini February 04, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Greg was an amazing basketball and golf coach. He coached my son and loved the guidance and knowledge he shared. Greg will be missed.

Pete Keys February 04, 2025

Grateful former player Middleton , Wisconsin

Keeping the Befera family and all of those connected to Coach Befera in my thoughts. He was a truly impactful man. I count myself lucky to have been coached by Greg in many sports, beginning with youth basketball at St. Joseph's. The way he coached and connected with young people helped shape our identities—not just as kids, but also as adults and parents. I am deeply grateful for the example he set.

Laurie Berendes Stout February 03, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

I’m very sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers

Annette Cottrill February 03, 2025

Friend and classmate West Bend , Wisconsin

My caring and prayerful thoughts are with you, Fran, and your family. Greg was a part of my world from Kindergarten through High School graduation. I will always remember him fondly.

Tony and Laurie Bries February 03, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Our Deepest sympathy to you Fran and the whole family. Tony always loved a good game of golf with Greg. He taught our kids to golf and we remember his words, brush brush, brush, when chipping. He also coached our son in basketball and what a positive experience that was! Eternal rest, Greg.

Kevin and Rosie Krueger February 03, 2025

worked with Linda Wisconsin Dells , Wisconsin

We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.

Tina & Jerry Neuman February 03, 2025

friends Baraboo , Wisconsin

Fran & Family: We are so sorry to learn of Greg's passing. We certainly will miss seeing him at "The Oakes". Seeing you both there, always offering smiles and bringing joy to us and to our loved ones when we visit; as well as other residents. May God hold you even closer during this difficult time. Sending prayers of comfort.

Mary jo Schara February 03, 2025

Friend Baraboo

I so sorry Fran, thinking of you all. Sending Prayers.

Joe Marone February 03, 2025

Friend of Family Platteville , Wisconsin

Saddens me to hear about Greg's passing, but happy to know he'll be blessed by the presence of family and friends who have preceded him in heaven. I spent a significant portion of my youth in the Befera house on Iroquois Circle. It was a second home, whether Greg was making pizzas for Monday Night Football, firing up the Wurlitzer or leaving notes in the basement laying out new rules for the pool table, signed, "The Management". Condolences from my family to all the Befera family. Love you all very much!

Kristy February 04, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

My dearest Friend Fran, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Steve & Claire Letourneaux February 04, 2025

Friend Portage , Wisconsin

Our deepest condolences to Greg’s family. Eternal rest grant him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. Comfort and peace to you all. +++

Anne Hutchens February 04, 2025

Grateful friend from Baraboo community. Baraboo , Wisconsin

Feel comforted by the thoughts and prayers of God’s people during your time of gathering and heart healing.

Peter Bildsten February 04, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Greg will be missed by his wonderful family, and by the golfing community and his many friends in Baraboo. He was a man of honor and had a great sense of humor (thanks, O.J.). Farewell, friend.

jay englund February 04, 2025

friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin

I'm deeply sorry for your loss. Greg coached my son's basketball team this year. He was kind, thoughtful and a wonderful influence on the boys.

Rick & Heidi Osgood February 04, 2025

Friends Baraboo , Wisconsin

The positive impact Greg had on everyone he met was incredible. His growth of youth golf in Baraboo will be felt for ever. Our sympathy to you and your family Fran. Isaiah 40:31

Wes Burchett February 04, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

So sorry to hear. What a awesome guy he was. Always willing to give advice to help the game. My condolences to the family all of who are very special.

Tom and Linda Steinhorst February 04, 2025

Friends Baraboo , Wisconsin

We want to pass along our deepest sympathy to the entire Befara family. I feel so fortunate to have gotten to know Greg through having his kids in school and in sports. He was always positive, patient, friendly and willing to help and such an asset to our community. He was also a great mentor to so many youngsters thru his golf and basketball connections and truly touched and enriched countless lives. I feel fortunate to have known Greg.

Joey Kirsch February 04, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

One of the first and best person/friend when I came to Baraboo. So sad...I send my love and deepest regrets to all The Befera's!

Ron and PamCowan February 04, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Dear Fran and Befera family, Greg's passing is so sad. What a great person with a living example of integrity to all those around him; he will be so missed. God's peace to the Befera Family. Pam and Ron Cowan

Bill Pappas February 04, 2025

Fellow golfer McFarland , Wisconsin

I only knew Greg through golf and the times I spent golfing in Baraboo. I coached high school golf in Madison and knew his passion for young golfers! Prayers to Greg’s family

Thomas C Jacobs February 04, 2025

BHS Golf Team Beaver Dam , Wisconsin

Had the honor of playing on the BHS Golf Team with Greg and Danny Hillcoat. Two of the best players to play for BHS. He came back to and served, the Community and the Country Club in leadership roles. I will sadly miss him!

Richard Hause February 04, 2025

friend and classmate BARABOO , Wisconsin

Greg was a very amazing class mate. He always had a smile for everyone. He will truly be missed.

Carla Cross February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Such a positive, outgoing and cheerful presence at Baraboo Country Club. Dick and I and several of our kids remember him fondly.

Tammy Gunderson February 05, 2025

Friend Columbus , Wisconsin

Fran and Chris, I am so sorry to hear of Greg's passing. I only met Greg a handful of times and he was always very friendly and funny. Savannah of course talked about him very fondly and he was an awesome grandpa to her. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family.

Penny Grasley February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Fran and Family, I am sorry hear about Gregs passing. I just met him a couple of times and in those meetings. He was was the most easiest person to talk with. I have tell you his smile made me feel like friend he knew me for long time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for your loss.

Debby Penzkover February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Fran, Savannah and family. I am so sorry for your sad loss. May God comfort you all and give you peace in the days to come.

Chris Custer February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Fran, I am keeping you and your family close in my thoughts and prayers. What a beautiful tribute to Greg.

Gary Wegner February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

So sorry for your loss, Fran. Greg was someone you simply enjoyed every time you were with him. Great smile and easy going manner. Hope that you can remember all of the good times that you enjoyed together.

Steve Letourneaux February 05, 2025

Friend Portage , Wisconsin

Knowing Greg was a pleasure. I was indeed always comfortable with Greg. His soft smile was infectious. We at Saddle Ridge were blessed to have him so involved in our community. Eternal rest to him and the love and peace of our God be with his family.

Bill Guthrie February 05, 2025

Friend Portage , Wisconsin

Greg and I go back almost 60 years. He was my quarterback my junior year,. He was a great leader and showed the utmost class of anyone I've known. In the last 6 years we reconnected and a great friendship started. I will miss him immensely. To Fran and family you have to be so proud. Stay strong through all of this, it's what Greg would want. Sincerely, Bill

Michael & Cheryl McIntyre February 05, 2025

friend Munster , Indiana

Our deepest condolences to the entire Befara family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Steve mason February 05, 2025

Friend Madison , Wisconsin

I’m so sorry to hear this sad news, Greg was a person everyone wanted to be friends with. I’m lucky enough to think of him that way. I have fond memories of the early AM tee times at BCC, Gunsmoke would be on the TV. Greg seemed to know all the lines. He’d recite them ahead of time and we’d laugh. My sympathies Fran to you and your family.

Susan Sprecher February 05, 2025

Family friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

I have known Greg and the Befera family since grade school. He was a year ahead of me, his sister was a classmate. From the days at St. Joe’s to the times at Delma’s Pizza Parlor that his family ran and watching his own family grow, I always admired and respected Greg for the genuine and kind man he was. Fran, I know few couples who had the kind of connection you and Greg did and raised their family with such loving support. Greg always made you feel comfortable and happy when you talked to him, like he was really interested in what you had to say. He was approachable and always had time for a chat. Your family can feel blessed that he cared for you with such loving support. I know the days ahead will be difficult and sad, but I hope the happy memories you shared will hold you up and bring you peace. I’m so grateful to have known Greg and will think of him fondly. Remember, he’s only a heaven away. Susan Sprecher

Ricky A Mislivecek February 05, 2025

Friend West Baraboo , Wisconsin

Our family sends our deepest condolences to the Befera family. Greg was a pleasure to speak with and play golf with. He will be missed by all!

Joseph Vittengl February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

I was saddened to hear about the passing of Greg Befera. I met Greg back in 1989 when he was a golf pro at Baraboo Country Club. He was not only a talented golf professional but also a genuinely good person who made a lasting impression on those around him. His passion for the game and his kindness were evident in everything he did, both on and off the course. Greg coached my son, Luke's first youth basketball team, 4th grade at St. Joseph’s School. Luke had a blast! Greg truly showed his commitment to mentoring and shaping young athletes. He gave so much of himself to St Joseph's Church/School and Baraboo community. His guidance and generosity will be deeply missed.

Sean Bridwell Family February 05, 2025

Cousin Austin , Texas

We are do sorry for your loss! My mother Marlene Befera Moran was fond of Greg! He will be missed. All our love and prayers Sean, Patti, Joey and Jordan Bridwell

Wayne & Sharon Maffei February 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

So sad to hear of the passing of your beloved husband, dad and granddad. He was a true friend to all he helped at St. Joe's. May happy memories help guide you thru your grief. Prayers and blessings to you all.

Jennifer Scharenberg February 06, 2025

Coworkers Montello , Wisconsin

I send my condolences, Greg was a great man to work with and I'm sorry for your loss

Theresa langdon February 06, 2025

Coworker of White Lake County Club Montello , Wisconsin

I remember Greg as my golf teacher when he worked at the White Lake County Club between Montello and Princeton. I also have worked with Greg at the country club. He was so kind, nice, patient, and always had a smile on his face, every time I say him. I'm so very sorry for your loss of a wonderful and amazing man. I hope my memories of Greg help with your loss of him.

Rita Garrison February 06, 2025

Friend Waunakee , Wisconsin

So to hear of Greg’s passing. He was one of the good ones. Prayers for peace to family and friends at this time of loss.

Rita Garrison February 06, 2025

Friend Waunakee , Wisconsin

So sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. He was one of the good ones. Prayers for peace to family and friends at this time of loss.