Remembering Former Alder and Dedicated City Servant, Jim Wexler

Dear Middleton Community,

This morning, our City family received heartbreaking news: Former Alder and longtime Senior Center team member Jim Wexler passed away last night. His loss is felt deeply across the City organization, throughout the Senior Center, and in every corner of Middleton, where his steady presence and service helped shape the community we know today.

Jim devoted his life to public service—quietly, consistently, without seeking praise. Over 27 years as a Middleton Alder, including ten years as Council President, he helped guide major decisions, policies, and community investments that still benefit us today. His work on Finance, Personnel, License & Ordinance, EMS, Transportation, Recycling, and the Plan Commission left an unmistakable imprint on the City’s direction. For more than two decades, when Middleton needed thoughtful leadership, Jim was there—prepared, principled, and focused on the greater good.

But Jim’s service didn’t end at the dais.

For nearly nine years, he brought warmth, patience, and reliability to the Middleton Senior Center—first as a receptionist and attendant, then as an administrative assistant, and always as the kind of teammate who made the building feel welcoming simply by being in it. Today, the Senior Center felt noticeably quieter, and staff are grieving the loss of someone who was not just a colleague but a friend.

And many residents will remember Jim in other ways, too:
• As a crossing guard who safeguarded students for 14 years.
• As an usher at Breese Stevens Field, the Madison Mallards, and other venues—greeting people with the kind of kindness that made even a crowded event feel personable.
• As someone who dedicated more than 40 years to civic life, helping people come together, stay safe, and feel connected.

Jim was woven into the daily rhythm of Middleton. He showed up—year after year, season after season—in roles big and small, always believing that community is something we build together.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jim’s family, friends, colleagues, and to the many residents whose lives he touched.

Thank you for holding space for one another during this difficult time. 

With most profound appreciation for a life well lived and a legacy that will long remain.