William “Bill” John Budensiek, a respected member of the Goodhue community, passed away on October 18, 2025, at the age of 91. He died at Goodhue Senior Living, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to his family and community.
Born on March 7, 1934, in Red Wing, Minnesota, Bill was the son of Roy and Edna (Kackman) Budensiek. Raised in Zumbrota, he graduated from Zumbrota High School before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. Bill served as a Staff Sergeant during the Korean Conflict from 1952 to 1956, where he not only fulfilled his military duties but also met his future wife, Socorro Pacheco. The couple married on November 30, 1955, and together they raised three children.
After his military service, Bill embarked on a career at IBM, where he worked from 1956 to 1971. Subsequently, he transitioned into full-time farming and also contributed his expertise to Golden Harvest Seed. Throughout his life, Bill remained an active participant in local affairs, dedicating 43 years to the Minneola Town Board as a Board Supervisor.
His commitment to community service extended to his involvement with the Stary-Yerka VFW, Post 5727, in Zumbrota, where he served as a long-time member and trustee. Bill had a profound love for the outdoors, engaging in activities such as hunting and fishing. He was associated with several conservation organizations, including Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, the Zumbro Falls Gobblers, and the North West Wild Turkey Federation.
Bill was a lifelong member of the Congregational Church in Zumbrota until its closure. He later became a devoted member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Goodhue. After moving to Goodhue Senior Living, he continued to be an active member of that community, participating in various groups and activities.
Family and friendships were paramount to Bill. He cherished his daily coffee club at the VFW and enjoyed festive gatherings, such as his Hucklebuck parties, which sometimes lasted all night. His generosity and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character. Bill was particularly proud of his family, which included his daughter, Cristal LaCanne of Zumbrota, and his son, Art Pacheco of Lake City, Florida. He is survived by six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, with another on the way.
Bill is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Socorro, and his son, Albert, as well as several siblings and his parents.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on October 27, 2025, at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Goodhue, with Reverend Eric Hanson officiating. Visitation will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on October 26, 2025, at the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Larson Chapel in Zumbrota, and one hour prior to the service at the church. He will be laid to rest at the Zumbrota Cemetery.
Online condolences can be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com. Bill Budensiek’s legacy of service and love for his community will be remembered by many who had the privilege to know him.
