Linda C. Derleth

Linda Christina Derleth, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. She was 74 years old.

Born July 9, 1950, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Violet and Henry Derleth, Linda carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life—kind, resilient, and full of heart. Her vibrant personality, compassionate nature, and fierce loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

After graduating from Beaver Dam High School, Linda went on to earn her degree from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. She became a high school guidance counselor, a role in which she thrived and touched countless lives. Linda believed deeply in equality, justice, and the power of education, values she instilled in the students she mentored. In every position she held, she brought her sharp intellect and unmistakable social spark.

Linda lived a life rich with experience and purpose. A true adventurer at heart, she traveled extensively—from Nigeria to Europe and across the United States—always seeking connection, meaning, and stories. She lived in many different states, forging deep relationships and memories along the way.

A free spirit through and through, Linda was passionate, spunky, stubborn, and deeply loving. She embraced life on her own terms and was unapologetically herself. She loved the outdoors, camping, was an avid golfer, and treasured time at the family cottage in Fox Lake, but it was her brother and sister-in-law’s cottage in Eagle River that became her true haven—a place of peace and being one with nature.

A proud Wisconsinite, Linda was a devoted sports fan. She rarely missed a Badger football game (often side-by-side with her sister Melody), had a deep love for the Brewers, faithfully tuning into every game on her radio, and spent Sundays cheering for her beloved Packers.

Family was at the heart of Linda’s world. One of six siblings, she deeply valued the close bonds she shared with each of them. She extended that love generously—to friends who became like family, and to the many nieces and nephews whose lives she enriched with her warmth, humor, and amazing home-cooked meals and treats. In her sister Melody’s final years, Linda offered care and love, embodying compassion and grace.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Violet and Henry Derleth; her sisters Carol Hartl, Kim Derleth-Hussli, and Melody Derleth; her brother Frank Derleth; and her beloved niece Heidi Hussli.

She is survived by her brother Hank and sister-in-law Gretchen Derleth, as well as 11 nieces and nephews, 15 great-nieces and nephews, and 3 great-great-nieces and nephews—all of whom she loved deeply.

Linda had the gift of storytelling. Whether you had five minutes or all afternoon, she’d captivate you with tales—woven with humor, honesty, and a signature twinkle in her eye. Her stories were filled with adventure, sports triumphs, family history, and her candid observations on life.  Her laughter, love, and vibrant spirit will be dearly missed and remembered every single day.

In accordance with Linda’s wishes, there will not be a visitation or funeral service; per her wishes, a private family gathering will be held at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, any memorial donations will be donated to the H.H.Derleth Citizenship Award; which is given to a graduating BDHS senior boy and girl and will be award in May 2026.

The H.H. Derleth awards are named in honor of Linda’s father, a cause close to Linda’s heart.  Checks can be made out to Henry Derleth and marked for “H.H. Derleth” and mailed to

Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home, N7991 N. Crystal Lake Rd, Beaver Dam, WI, 53916.