Dane County Board Honors Parks Trailblazer Bill Lunney

April 16, 2026
CountyBoardPress@danecounty.gov, (608) 228-9053
County Board

Lunney championed conservation, helping to expand the county’s park system and natural resource areas from approximately 3,500 acres to more than 15,000 acres

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Dane County Board of Supervisors honored the late William “Bill” George Lunney, former county board supervisor, Park Commission chair, and champion of local parks and land conservation. The board commemorated Lunney and his legacy through the passage of 2025 RES-429.

“When you walk through a county park, paddle along a waterway, or enjoy a sunset at Lake Farm Park, you're experiencing something Bill Lunney helped build,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “His vision and dedication shaped the Dane County we know today. We are deeply grateful for his service.”

Lunney served on the county board during two periods, from 1969 to 1974 and from 1979 to 1986, representing districts that included the towns of Madison, Fitchburg, and Middleton, as well as the City of Madison. He also served as chair of the Park Commission for 30 years.

“Bill didn't just advocate for parks; he built a model and a movement,” said Supervisor Analiese Eicher (District 3), who served with Lunney on the Park Commission. “From his work on the county board and Park Commission to co-founding the Foundation for Dane County Parks, he dedicated his life to ensuring that our natural spaces would be protected and accessible for everyone. That work will continue in his honor.”

Together with his wife, Judie Pfeifer, Lunney co-founded the Foundation for Dane County Parks, where he served as president and helped establish a permanent endowment to support the ongoing growth and enhancement of the county’s parks. 

Lunney passed away on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family. His legacy continues through the parks and natural areas enjoyed by county residents and visitors, including William G. Lunney Lake Farm County Park, which stands as a lasting tribute to his public service.

The Dane County Board of Supervisors honors the life and legacy of William “Bill” George Lunney, expresses its deep gratitude for his contributions to Dane County, and extends its heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, and all who knew him.

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About the Dane County Board of Supervisors: The Dane County Board of Supervisors is the legislative and policymaking body of Dane County government. Composed of 37 supervisors elected to represent each county district, the county board’s mission is to effectively represent the people of Dane County, providing services that secure the blessings of freedom, ensure domestic tranquility, promote the general welfare, and perfect the forms of government. Learn more about the county board at https://board.danecounty.gov/.