Brian E. Vandewalle

Brian E. Vandewalle, 77 years of Washington Island, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at his home.

He was born November 23, 1948 in Mishawaka, IN, the son of the late Rene and Elsie (LaCluyze) Vandewalle. Brian graduated from St. Josephs High School and received his undergrad from Ball State in Architecture. He received his master’s degree in city planning. On June 3, 1993 he married Susan Hoeft in Kohler, WI.

Brian was the founder and CEO of Vandewalle and Associates, Milwaukee and Madison. He was a serial entrepreneur making meaningful differences to many cities as they rejuvenated their former industrial centers. He was the founder of Lakeside Street Coffee House in Madison, Island Wheat Beer, Death's Door Spirits and restored and relaunched the Washington Hotel and Restaurant on Washington Island. He was also a dedicated mentor to generations of employees, many of whom continue his work in communities throughout the country. His guidance, encouragement, and belief in others shaped not only careers, but lives.

Surviving family includes his wife, Susan; daughter, Elisha Vandewalle of Madison; son, Seth Vandewalle of Madison; three step-daughters, Kristin Matthews of Provo, UT, Jessica (Brian) Sawyer of Belmont, NC, and Lindsay (Griffin) Feddersen of Menomonee Falls; ten grandchildren; three brothers, Tom (Jane) Vandewalle of South Bend, IN, David (Sharon) Vandewalle of South Bend, IN, and Neal (Carole O'Conner) Vandewalle of San Diego, CA.

Preceding him in death was his parents; and two sons.

Private graveside services will be held Saturday July 18, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Washington Island Cemetery.

Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC in Sister Bay, is assisting the Vandewalle family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Brian may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

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