Bradley William `Brad` Downie
Bradley William `Brad` Downie , Age 40
Bradley "Brad" William Downie, age 40, of Baraboo, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 14, 2025.
Brad was born in Baraboo, WI on April 2, 1985 to William "Bill" and Laurie (Schroeder) Downie. Brad attended Baraboo High School and graduated in 2003. He was active in several clubs and a multi-sport athlete, but his passion was soccer at which he excelled. His goal-scoring record was held for nearly 20 years. The 2002-2003 edition of Varsity Speed Magazine listed him as a top national player.
Following high school, Brad enjoyed playing on several softball leagues including the Baraboo River Dogs baseball team.
Brad was a true Wisconsin sports fan, often wearing his team shirts and caps and always coordinating shoes. He enjoyed the Brewers and Packers but was especially a Wisconsin Badgers fan. Game day phone calls to dad were a given to discuss predictions, outcomes and particular plays.
Brad loved to cook and would try new and different recipes tweaking ingredients to his taste, which leaned to the spicier side. He was known especially for his ribs which everyone loved and often requested.
Brad was exceptional at finding and preparing various mushroom varieties and could tell you which ones were or were not edible.
Brad held a special place in his heart for the special group of his guys from high school. They would faithfully get together a couple times a year and Brad was always excited to reconnect with them and loved to try a new recipe or concoction for them to try.
To know Brad was to love Brad. He had a best friend in the world type of vibe and got along with everyone. His heart of gold and tenderness was evident wherever he went. He held a special place in his heart for his two grandmas and dearly loved his nieces and nephews.
Brad is survived by his parents, Bill and Laurie Downie; brothers, Bryan (Morgan), Brent (Nina), Brock (fiancé, Alyssa), Brody, and Brandon (Makayla) Downie; grandmothers, Dorothy Downie and Karen Schroeder along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Brad was preceded in death by grandfathers, Robert Downie and Loren Schroeder; as well as his beloved dog, Honey.
We will celebrate Brad's life on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Walnut Hill Bible Church, 1900 East St, Baraboo at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m. with Pastor Dan Gunderson officiating. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Brad’s family.
Brad you are a bright light in our lives gone too soon. Our hearts are broken but our memories of you and the promises of a loving God will sustain us and uphold us until we see you again.
The Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences
Glen & Lequeta September 17, 2025
Friend of family. Baraboo , Wisconsin
We are so very sorry and can not even imagine the pain or loss. We will be praying for your family
Robert September 17, 2025
Squad member Waunakee , Wisconsin
You were one of the first people who befriended me when I moved up to Baraboo in 7th grade, and our friend group still to this day is one of the most sacred things I have. We may have moved, gotten married, and started families, but whenever we got together, we picked up where we left off and had a really good time. I will forever remember the late-night trips to T-Bell, cruising around in the beloved brown 80's Toyota Supra, street ball, and somehow never seriously injuring ourselves will all the dumb and reckless things we did as a group. I'm glad I got to see you this summer, and I wish I could see you again. Love you Bradley.
Greg Lang September 17, 2025
Former teacher Reedsburg
So sorry for your loss.
Linda Johnson September 17, 2025
Friend Sun prairie , Wisconsin
My sincere condolences. May all your happy memories heal your heart.
Debby Penzkover September 17, 2025
Friend Baraboo
Bill and Laurie, Chaz and I are so sorry for your loss of your son. Heart broken for you. Prayers for you all, Love, peace and hugs
Lori and Carter Arndt September 17, 2025
Friend Reedsburg
Dear Bill, Laurie & Family, Our deepest condolences to your family. We are asking the Lord to make himself known to each of you in special ways as you mourn this very difficult loss. Death does not have the final word, thanks be to Christ! For the christian, death is only the beginning where we slip peacefully into his amazing light, which at best can only be described as the unlimited love of our Heavenly Father. Hugging you all in our prayers, Lori & Carter Arndt
Samanthia Brunker September 17, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all. Remember all the good times. And all of the smiles and laughter that have been shared.