Obituaries

Allen Lidtke, age 76, died peacefully on June 9, 2024. He was born on November 4, 1947, in Beaver Dam, WI, the son of Willard Lidtke and Marion (Paul) Lidtke. His love of agriculture, and all things mechanical, started at an early age as he grew up on his family’s farm in Fox Lake. He loved to visit his uncle’s car dealership, Lidtke Motors, and spending time with his two brothers, Tom and Richard.

After graduating from Waupun High School, Al graduated from The University of Wisconsin Madison School of Agriculture where he added to his group of lifelong friends. Legend has it that he snuck pony kegs into Camp Randall in the 1970’s! Al worked at International Harvester and Meier truck company, before spending the rest of his career at Don Miller in Madison.

Al met his future wife, Judy, at a friend’s party and they were married in 1976. Al was a wonderful father to his girls, and he always made time for them and found ways to make their lives special in every way. He loved spending summers in Northern Wisconsin at his cabin, where he enjoyed fishing, building campfires, and listening to rock and roll’s greatest hits on WJJQ every Saturday night.

Al enjoyed Badger football and traveling the world with his wife, family, and friends. His favorite places to visit were Isla Mujeres, Mexico and Palm Springs, CA. Al was an avid gardener, earning the nickname “Mr. Better Homes and Gardens,” taking particular pride in his roses, his orchids, and his lawn.

Survivors include his wife, Judy and his girls, Suzanne Lidtke and Sarah Lidtke. He is further survived by brothers Tom (Ellen) Lidtke and Richard Lidtke. Brothers and sisters-in law: Steve Haag, Karen (Terry) Johnson, Ron (Dee) Hagg, Sheila (Bob) Carmichael, Greg (LuAnn) Haag, Bruce (Mary) Haag, Patty Benedict, Jo Ann (Jim) Day, Mark (Tammy) Haag, and Scott (Jackie) Haag, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Willard and Marion Lidtke, his mother and father-in-law, William and Ethel Haag, sister-in-law Judy Lidtke, and brother-in-law Bob Benedict.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Al’s family asks you to donate if you wish to Wisconsin Public Television, or a charity of your choice. Al will be greatly missed and most remembered for his sense of humor, unwavering patience, and tremendous kindness.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.