Dr. William Fletcher

Dr. William Ogden Fletcher Jr. (1959-2024)

Dr. William “Bill” Fletcher, age 64, peacefully passed away on June 4, 2024. His final days were spent at home, surrounded by his family and collection of Native American art.

Over the last decade Bill overcame colon cancer then survived both a liver transplant and bone marrow transplant. He ultimately succumbed to leukemia, which was an unlucky byproduct of the colon cancer treatment years ago. He was grateful to have his wife Judy by his side as his caregiver through all the years of health struggles.

He was born to Ruth and William Fletcher and grew up in Genoa City, Wisconsin. His older brothers Don and Jay await him in heaven and he leaves behind on earth his dear sister Terry. He received an undergraduate degree from Valparaiso University before attending Harvard Medical School where he met Judy, his wife of 35 years, who was working as a nurse during one of his rotations. Bill then completed his internal medicine residency and cardiology fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Bill is also survived by his daughters, Lauren and Audrey (and their husbands). He always put his family’s happiness above his own. He was a devoted father and husband who worked tirelessly to give his family all the comfort and joy in the world. In the last few years, he also flawlessly stepped into the role of grandfather to Lauren’s children who loved going for boat rides on his lap and reading books together.

He built an incredible career where he was known for his sharp intellect and compassionate care as a cardiologist in Appleton for almost 30 years. Bill leaves behind countless beloved coworkers and grateful patients, all of whom felt like family to him.

Bill was always particularly proud of his Muscogee Native American heritage. He greatly valued ancestry research and collected art from many Native artists. In lieu of flowers, Bill asked that you consider a donation to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Scholarship Foundation Program. More information can be found at creeknationfoundation.org.

A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church, 325 East Franklin Street Appleton, Wisconsin, on June 22, 2024 at 11:00 AM. Friends and family are welcome to gather for visitation at the church beginning at 9:00 AM. A luncheon will follow the service, which everyone is welcome to attend as well.