Craig Butenhoff

Craig Butenhoff, 76, of Madison, WI, passed away peacefully at his assisted living home in Beloit, WI on June 10, 2025.  He was born October 2, 1948, in Wausau, WI, the son of Doug and Esther Butenhoff.  He is survived by his two children, Nik (Sarah) Butenhoff of Rockford, Illinois and Trevor Butenhoff of Portland, Oregon.  He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Bradley, Jonathan, and Norah Butenhoff.  He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and wife Deb Butenhoff who he married in 1973. 

Craig was a proud and devoted husband and father who worked tirelessly to provide for his family.  He discovered a passion for interacting with people and retail while working at the New Morning Boutique and the Golden Hanger in Wausau, WI.  In 1975, he opened the men’s clothing store, Jazzman, in Wausau and in 1980 relocated the business to State Street in Madison, WI.  Although Craig retired in 2019, his presence is still felt at the store today.

Craig had a laugh you could pick out of a crowd and made you want to join in.  Whether you were a family member, friend, employee, customer, or even a complete stranger, Craig would find a way to make a connection with you and share a laugh.  In his daily life and as co-owner of Jazzman he was truly a people person.  He treated everyone like a friend with respect, dignity and compassion.  Craig made sure that every person who worked, shopped, or visited the Jazzman felt like they were an important part of the store.  In his free time he enjoyed hanging out with friends at a Brewers game, curling, or enjoying a good fish fry.  Maybe it was the laugh that drew people towards Craig or perhaps it was his genuine personality, but anyone who met him knew they had a friend for life.

A celebration of life will be held Monday June 23, 2025, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Pooley’s (5441 High Crossing Blvd. Madison, WI 53718).  The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in Craig’s honor to PBS Wisconsin or Wisconsin Public Radio.  Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared on our website.

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