John Douglas Anstett
John Douglas Anstett , Age 67
John Douglas Anstett
December 9, 1958 – April 20, 2026
NORTH FREEDOM - John Douglas Anstett, age 67, of North Freedom, passed away on April 20, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, after a long life marked by health complications and multiple surgeries.
John was born on December 9, 1958, in Baraboo, to Edith M. (Schulze) Anstett and Fredrick (Fred) Anstett. He grew up in North Freedom and graduated from Baraboo Senior High School in 1977. In June 1977, John met the love of his life, Sandy Washburn, and they were married on October 11, 1980. Together, they built a life full of love, family, and community.
After high school, John worked at the Badger Army Ammunition Plant, the Baraboo Street Department, and in the Public Works Departments for the Villages of West Baraboo and North Freedom. In his retirement years, he also worked briefly at Baraboo Bluff Winery. John dedicated 20 years as a volunteer firefighter with the North Freedom Fire Department, a role he held with pride and devotion.
John had a wide array of passions and hobbies. He loved hunting, cutting wood to keep a warm home, and spending time on the family farm. He enjoyed taking his dog, Charlie, on truck and UTV rides. Known for his clever nicknames, he affectionately called his father “Moon,” his mother “Buck,” his wife Sandy “Stubby,” his daughter Ashley “Squirrel,” and his son Nick “Hammerhead.” John was a thoughtful planner who approached life with practical intelligence and always had a smile to share.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his son, Nicholas (Nickie) Anstett; his daughter, Ashley Anstett; and his two grandchildren, Reid and Ryker Anstett; as well as his faithful companion, Charlie. He is further survived by his siblings, Frank (Lois) Anstett, Dennis (JoEllen) Anstett, Susan (Terry) Burroughs, Cindy (Mike) Kaufman, and Julie (Paul) Hasenstab; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fredrick and Edith Anstett; his daughter, Andrea Anstett; and his grandparents.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026 at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home in Baraboo. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday, April 26, from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m., and on Monday, April 27, from 10 a.m. until the time of funeral services. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in North Freedom. In honor of John, guests are encouraged to dress casually and, weather permitting, bring their classic or sports cars to celebrate his life.
Memorials may be made in John’s memory to the North Freedom Fire Department or the Sauk County K9 Unit.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate teams at Reedsburg Ambulance Service, Baraboo Ambulance Service, St. Clare Hospital, and St. Mary’s Hospital for the care and support given to John throughout his journey. A sincere thank you is also extended to Anna and the staff at the Anticoagulation Clinic for their dedication, kindness, and attentive care.
Condolences
Deb Phippen April 21, 2026
Friend North freedom , Wisconsin
I am so very sorry
Nic Emery April 21, 2026
Friend Poynette , Wisconsin
Sorry for your loss
Pam April 21, 2026
Neighbor North freedom , Wisconsin
I never knew about the nicknames for you guys ..so fun ...we will miss seeing him always keeping busy in the yard ..and the daycare kiddos will miss his sense of humor ..RIP John
Rose zvertein April 21, 2026
Friend North Freedom , Wisconsin
So Sorry for your loss.
Nancy Lynn Hoffmann April 21, 2026
Friends Rock springs , Wisconsin
Sandy and family. We're sorry for your loss. He is always with you and will make you smile when you need it. Hug's.
Pat Anstett April 21, 2026
family Cumberland Gap , Tennessee
Praying for Family.
Nancy Lynn Hoffmann April 21, 2026
Friends Rock springs , Wisconsin
Sandy and family. Sorry for your loss.
Eric Sorge April 21, 2026
Friend North freedom , Wisconsin
Your family just lost such a great person. My heart goes out to all of you. Your family and North freedom has truly lost someone that made a difference. Condolences from the Sorge Family Eric Sorge.
Ellen Pickel April 21, 2026
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
Hugs and prayers go out to Sandy and family. Very sorry for your loss.
Brenda Emery April 21, 2026
Friend North Freedom , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear of John's passing, way too young. Sending prayers for peace & comfort during this difficult time Rest easy John
Terry Baxter April 22, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
What a great guy! Our prayers are with the family.
Jim and Barb Mayhew April 22, 2026
Friend Middleton , Wisconsin
Dennis, so sorry to hear of Johns passing. We send our condolences to you and the family.
Russell J Balfanz Jr April 22, 2026
Friend and co worker at Badger AAP Prairie Du Sac , Wisconsin
So Very Sorry for your loss
Lisa Antalik April 22, 2026
Friend Summerfield , Florida
Sandy & family, I have such fond memories of John & the time I spent as part of your family. My sincerest condolences~ "CHEETAH" ( another Anstett nickname- love it)
David Pentecost April 22, 2026
Friend of Nicholas Anstett Mulberry , Florida
Nick, and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm praying for you and your family. Losing a close family member is very difficult, so please take the time to grieve, and remember.
Alice Hamilton April 22, 2026
Class mate Waunakee
We are sorry for your loss.
Debbie Anstett April 22, 2026
Cousin Plover , Wisconsin
Thinking of you dear cousins as you struggle through your grief. I’m still in Arizona while our house remodel finishes up. And David will be on his annual Lake Erie fishing trip. John would approve. I’m sorry we won’t be able to attend the services, but will be thinking of you all. Hope to see you on May 22nd at the burial service for my folks. With deepest sympathies, Debbie
Erin Anstett April 24, 2026
Cousin Mount Pleasant , Wisconsin
To All Family Members and All who knew and loved/Cared for John. Thinking of Everyone and hoping for strength during these times. May your Best memories help carry you through this. I am unable to be there in person, but my Sincere Love and Prayers are being sent.
René April 25, 2026
Friend from Switzerland of Frank & Loise Nebikon
My sincere condolences to the family and loved ones. May you find strength and comfort during this difficult time.