Bradley William `Brad` Downie

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.