Bill > SJR69

This resolution honors the life and public service of Representative Terry Willkom, a Wisconsin politician and business executive who passed away in May 2025 at the age of 82. Born in Boyd, Wisconsin in 1943, Willkom graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and served in the Wisconsin Assembly from 1971 to 1976, becoming one of the youngest majority leaders in state history at age 32. Throughout his career, he held numerous professional roles including deputy secretary of health and social services, director of the Northern Center for the Developmentally Disabled, and president of Cray Computer. The resolution highlights Willkom's innovative approach to balancing legislative work and family life, being the first known Wisconsin legislator to move his family to Madison during the work week. He was known for his integrity, ability to work across political lines, and involvement in various legislative committees. Beyond his professional achievements, Willkom was a family man, married twice, a father to three children and two stepchildren, and a grandfather. The resolution also notes his personal interests, which included tennis, fishing, hunting, and raising Irish Setters, ultimately remembering him as a dedicated public servant and loving family man.

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/joint_resolution/sjr69