William A. `Bill` Bance , Age 80


June 20, 1945 --June 28, 2025

William A. Bance, age 80, of Baraboo passed away unexpectedly Saturday, June 28, 2025 at his home from natural causes. 

William “Bill” was born June 20, 1945 in Rock Island, Illinois to William George and Mary (Tenley) Bance. Bill answered the call of his country by enlisting in the US Army Reserve in September 1962, serving until September 1965. Bill was united in marriage with Marcela “Marcie” Barajas on September 23, 1967 and was blessed with four children: Windy, Michael, James and John. They shared 35 years of marriage before her passing on August 31, 2002.

 

While in Rock Island, Bill worked for Montgomery Elevator prior to he and Marcie operating Lou’s Restaurant from 1974-1981. At this time, they moved their family to Wisconsin where he served as Director of Public Works for the City of Mauston from 1982-1986 until holding the same position for the City of Sparta from 1986-1989. In 1990, they moved to Baraboo, where Bill was the City of Baraboo Building Inspector and Zoning Administrator until his retirement in 2008. While working in Baraboo he worked his way up the chain with the Southwest Wisconsin Building Inspectors Association, eventually serving as President. During his employment with the City of Baraboo, Bill met Jan Marquardt Boardman and the two were married September 10, 2004. This union was blessed with 21 years. Yes Bill, it was your 56th wedding anniversary!

 

Bill loved his Lord, his family, building with his hands, playing cards and had a life-long passion for GOLF! After retirement he joined the Ardyth’s Sew-n-vac family until 2024 as a vacuum repairman extraordinaire.  

 

He is survived by his wife, Jan; children, Windy (David Denney) Bance, Michael Bance, James Bance, John (Georgiana) Bance and Mark (Taylor) Boardman; and grandchildren, Jordan, Marlee, Cazzie, Maria, Cole, Blake and Mila along with Andre, Bella, Chloe, Corbin and Gray. He is further survived by his siblings, Stan (Rachel) Bance, Jim Bance, Rose Ferkel; sister and brother-in-law, Judy (Rod) Blum and Mike (Jeannie Kowing) Marquardt; special friends George and Sue Moore, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Marcela.

 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 12 noon at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father John Blewett officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Military Honors will follow at the church.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital as this was a cause close to his heart.

 



Condolences

Pamela Zeman June 30, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Sending condolences and prayers to Jan and family for the loss of her dear husband. Our thoughts are with you.

Dale & Jackie Ramsey June 30, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

We were so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Dale & Jackie

JoAnn Lane June 30, 2025

Friend Lone Rock , Wisconsin

Oh Jan, My heart is breaking for you and your family. Sending my love.

Sheila and Paul June 30, 2025

Friends Baraboo , Wisconsin

Bill was such a kind and gentle soul. His smile was as bright as his joking nature. He will truly be missed by many!

Sue & Stan Pasky July 01, 2025

Friend Shorewood , Illinois

Our hearts are so heavy with the news of Bill's passing. Jan, may God give you comfort in your happy memories. And, know you are surrounded by love.

John and Karen Draeger July 01, 2025

Work Magnolia , Texas

Windy, We are so sorry for your sudden loss. Praying for you at this difficult time.

Mark Knowles July 01, 2025

Friend Salome , Arizona

Sorry for your loss bill was my best building inspector Mark & sharon

Sharon Madland July 01, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

I was so sorry to hear of Bill's passing, my condolences to the whole family.

Amy July 01, 2025

Friend Baytown , Texas

Windy, I am so sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and your family. Love you friend!

Betty krueger July 01, 2025

Acquaintance Baraboo , Wisconsin

I knew Bill when he worked for the City n had some nice chats with him. He was always there to give answers n Info. Always had a smile . Bill was the nicest guy. My prayers to the family and loved ones.

Dennis and Penny Quandt July 02, 2025

Friend Dothan , AL

Jan I am so sorry for your loss,Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Family. Den and Penny

Erna Hurley July 02, 2025

Acquaintances Baraboo , Wisconsin

Jan, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family at this difficult time.

Chad Boardman July 02, 2025

Friend Ukiah , California

We’re so sorry to hear about your loss, Jan. Please know that our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. We hope you find comfort in the love that surrounds you and the memories you hold close. If there’s anything we can do to support you, please don’t hesitate to let us know. With love, The Boardman Family. Chad, Lizzy, Andre and Bella

First Name Ronald & Dixie Last Name Marquardt July 02, 2025

Friends BARABOO , Wisconsin

Jan so sorry to hear this sad news. We are sending our deepest sympathy and prayers of comfort to you and your entire family.

Lynn & Dick Hoffman July 05, 2025

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

We're so sorry you lost your husband. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.