Timothy James Strohbusch

Timothy James Strohbusch, age 43, of Madison, WI, passed away unexpectedly on April 8, 2025.

Tim grew up in Cambridge, Wisconsin, where his parents, Ann and Phil, owned the Strohbusch Ben Franklin. It was through working at this store during high school that he got to know his coworker and future wife, Meghan. Tim attended college at UW-Stout and UW-Milwaukee and earned a degree in Education and then enjoyed working for many years as a middle school Social Studies, Science, and Technology teacher. Tim was endlessly curious about science and technology, and enjoyed sharing his interests with his students.  He genuinely loved spending time with kids, and his students appreciated his sense of humor, enthusiasm, and unique perspective.

Family was everything to Tim. Growing up, he was very close with his sister Jill (Tootsie) and brother Paul (nickname censored). Among their favorite memories were sharing time at the fireworks stand, working Maxwell Street Days and Cambridge Country Christmas, performing fireplace talent shows and playing their own invention of Spong Ball. Tim and Meghan began dating in high school and were married in 2007 at Olbrich Gardens.  Together, they had great experiences travelling through Europe, Thailand, and Peru; but one of their favorite spots was camping at Rock Island State Park.  Tim also treasured spending time with his friends playing music, hanging out at the cabin, and playing in his croquet league. Above all, he was a devoted husband and father. His love for his family was unconditional, and spending time with them was his greatest joy. Whether snuggling on the couch, watching The Office, taking them to Kwik Trip, playing in the pool, or just talking about random stuff; spending time with Ellis and Olive was the best part of his day.

Tim described himself as an unconventional thinker, someone who employed humor in all he did, someone with empathy who valued difference even if he didn’t agree.  Conversations with him were often profound, playful, and perspective-shifting.  His love for music, especially playing his guitar, brought him joy and comfort.  Tim also loved art, especially photography, painting, and making a mess.  He was always a tinkerer, working on projects involving repurposing or repairing technology, and providing friendly tech support to others.

To his friends and family, Tim was full of energy, laughter, and love. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in the memories he created and the lives he touched. Tim is survived by his wife, Meghan; children, Ellis and Olive; parents, Ann and Phil; brother, Paul (Sarah); niece, Emerson; nephew, Luke; sister, Jill (Chris), and Benjamin Franklin “Benny the Beagle.”

The family will gather for a memorial service 4/16/2025. All are welcome to attend a reception in celebration of Tim’s life to be held from 5:00-7:00 @ Oakland Cambridge Presbyterian Church, 313 E. Main Street, Cambridge.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to causes that Tim cared deeply about such as organizations that support the homeless or provide services for children.