Dr. William Joseph O'Leary

Dr. William Joseph O’Leary, Jr., 88, is now at peace in heaven, having passed away at home on February 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born on March 30, 1936, to Dr. William and Anne O’Leary of South Milwaukee, WI, where he grew up and attended Marquette University, graduating in 1958, and Marquette University School of Medicine in 1962. In 1959, he married his childhood friend and the love of his life, Frances Edith O’Leary (Keyes). They celebrated 55 years of marriage before Fran's passing in 2014.

After completing his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bill and Fran moved their family to La Crosse in 1968, where Bill began his career at Franciscan Skemp, now Mayo Health System. Over his career, he delivered more than 5,000 babies and was deeply committed to his patients. He retired in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of care and compassion.

Bill and Fran shared a love for family, golf, and travel. Many of Bill’s fondest memories revolved around golfing trips with Fran, including visits to numerous courses in the U.S. and abroad, including Ireland and Scotland. He was always willing to share tips and stories about golfing and remembered every course and hole he played. Bill was an avid fan of Marquette basketball and enjoyed watching all sports, cheering on the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers teams.

Bill was known for his warmth and generosity. He enjoyed music, reading and sang in the Blessed Sacrament choir. His contributions to the OB-GYN medical practice were highly regarded by his colleagues and patients alike.

Bill is survived by his six children: Pat (Amaria) O’Leary, Chris (Mike) Griffin, Mike (Karla) O’Leary, Kathy Schappe, Jeanne (Mike) Voss, and Margaret (Tim) Ebner; twelve grandchildren: Shanna (Rob) Sherwood, Kelsey O’Leary, Mitch and Jake (Lauren) Griffin, Riannon and Emma O’Leary, Ben and Brittany Schappe, Mickey (Katie) Voss, Maggie (Erich) Bormann, Jackie and Tyler Ebner; and great-grandson, Noah William Voss. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Anne, his wife Fran, and his sister Sally.

Bill and his family extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Mayo Health System, Mayo Hospice, and Quality Comfort Care for their care and compassion.

A funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 130 Losey Blvd. So., celebrated by Rev. Peter Raj and assisted by Deacon David Allen. Family and friends may visit from 12:00 PM until the time of Mass at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church on Tuesday.

The Schumacher-Kish Funeral Services are assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Blessed Sacrament Parish, Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare in La Crosse, or Aquinas High School.