A former Wisconsin state lawmaker and member of the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame died this week at the age of 95. Walter John Chilsen served for more than two decades in the Wisconsin state Senate.
Republican Walter John Chilsen was elected to the state Senate in 1966 and served the 29th Senate District until 1990. He was the first news director and anchor of WSAU-TV — now known as WSAW-TV — when the station first signed on in 1954.
Chilsen dedicated his life to public service, retiring just last year after 17 years on the Town of Weston Board of Supervisors.
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Town Chairman Milton Olson said he was an honest, considerate man who welcomed compromise.
“Walter John was a very thorough individual as he thought things through and had a very level head,” said Olson. “I really appreciated all his wisdom from the Legislature and so forth that he knew when he came to the town.”
Olson said he was saddened by Chilsen’s passing, noting he had seen him just 10 days earlier.
“He signed my nomination papers for next spring’s election, and he was doing quite well,” said Olson. “I never suspected that he would be going this quick.”
In addition to his service at the state and local level, Chilsen also made an unsuccessful run for Congress against former U.S. Rep. Dave Obey.
In a Facebook post, Obey said Chilsen was “an honorable practitioner of politics.”
Chilsen said in an interview last year that he feared Republicans and Democrats no longer try to compromise.
“We argued on the floor, harshly many times, but then we got together and had a drink together, and visited,” recalled Chilsen. “On reflection I think I have more long-lasting friends who are Democrats than Republicans.”
Olson said Chilsen knew how to work with people who had opposing viewpoints.
“He knew how to compromise, and I think find out the root of the problem and bring both sides together,” he said.
Funeral arrangements are pending. He leaves behind his wife Rose of 65 years and their eight children.
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