Ernest (Ernie) Godfrey Bischoff, 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 14, 2015 with his beloved wife Yvonne (Kess) Bischoff (Kessenich) at his side.

Ernie was born in Middleton, WI on November 19, 1925 to Helen and Emil (Mickey) Bischoff. He had a brother Kenny and two sisters Shirley Voss and Carol Utter, sister-in-law Eileen Bischoff and special sister and brother-in-law Joanne & Art Stark. His parents owned Mickey's Tavern where they had countless holiday gatherings and included anyone who was without a family for their celebrations and dinners.

Ernie and Kess were friends and classmates at Middleton High School. When Ernie left at age 17 to serve in the Navy in WWII Kess wrote letters to her friends and classmates who were overseas. The ones she wrote to Ernie must have touched his heart. When he returned they started dating and were married on September 30, 1946. The young couple were soon blessed with two darling children, a daughter Sue Ann (Susie) and then a son Denis. They lived an idyllic life in Middleton surrounded by family, friends and neighbors. Ernie was an active member of the Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus.
Ernie worked at Phillips Petroleum and Good Oil for over 40 years. He also earned a real estate and pilot's license. Anything he did he did precisely and with dedication.

Ernie was very good at sports including boxing, baseball and most importantly golf. He and Kess were passionate about the game making many friends here and in Tucson, Arizona where they spent many winters in retirement. He was also a great dancer according to his sister Carol, his wife, children and anyone who has had the pleasure of seeing him dance.

Mostly though, he was regarded as a kind man who never said anything negative about anyone. You could count on him to give you a sweet smile and you could always feel his love for you when you were in his presence.
We will miss you Ernie. You were deeply loved and enhanced the lives of Kess, your children, your friends, the caring staff at Maplewood, your grandchildren Jennifer, Matthew, Lisa and Trevor, Great Granddaughters Samantha and Jackqueline, Great Grandson Michael and most recently your Great, Great Grandchildren Miles, Natalie and Mikko.

A Mass will be held on November 19, 2015 at 11:00 am at St Aloysius Catholic Church, 115 Madison St, Sauk City in memory of Ernie and to celebrate his life. Luncheon and gathering to follow at Cedarberry Inn, 855 Phillips Blvd, Sauk City. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Alzheimer's Foundation.