W. R. Fox, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, musician, and friend, passed away April 1, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on July 4, 1945, in Clearwater, Florida, to V.A. and E.N. Fox, and grew up in the Astor Park neighborhood of Green Bay, Wisconsin. He is survived by his devoted wife, P.V. Fox, his son D.N. Fox and daughter-in-law C.A. Fox, and his daughter H. M. and son-in-law K. Sondgerath. He was a deeply proud grandfather of 4 grandchildren.

A graduate of East High School (Class of 1968), he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, followed by a Master's in Music Education from the University of Colorado. He also pursued post-graduate work toward a Doctorate in Trumpet Performance — a testament to his lifelong love of music and learning.

Music was woven into every part of his life. As a young man, he performed with the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra and the Green Bay City Band — the youngest member at that time. He attended summer music programs at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Interlochen, and Northwestern University, 1969 -1971.

W.R. Fox met the love of his life, (Pamela) in Boulder, Colorado while enrolling for music courses at the University of Colorado. They were married in 1969 at the Church in the Wildwood in Manitou Springs, Colorado.  They were married 56 years when he left to be with his Heavenly Father.

He proudly served his country as a section leader and soloist with the U.S. Army Band at Fort Carson, Colorado. He went on to share his passion for music and education with students around the world, teaching in Melbourne, Australia for two years then moved to teaching in Basalt, CO for seven years.   He inspired generations of students in music and performed in pit orchestras in many musical productions. Several community orchestras shared his conducting and trumpet playing skills.

He was a proud Mason and Past Master of the Carbondale Masonic Lodge #82 AF & AM. He was also affiliated with the White River Masonic Lodge #62 in Show Low, Arizona. He took great joy in helping others and was known affectionately as the "mayor of the neighborhood" wherever he lived. He cared for his neighbors, lent a helping hand, and always had a good story—or a practical joke—ready to share.

His hobbies reflected his knack for creativity and restoration. He built and repaired an impressive collection of Lionel trains and antique musical instruments, taking pride in bringing old treasures back to life.

He loved bird hunting and fishing with his parents in Wisconsin.   Later he shared those same joys with his family and friends in Colorado. A true outdoorsman, he loved bird hunting, fishing, and camping. He also enjoyed searching for historical places, collecting bottles and coins and exploring the mountains. He had a special talent for turning everyday moments into adventures. He often invited the neighborhood kids and their friends on his guided adventures — from mountain trail excursions in his 4WD to laughter-filled evenings at home.

He had been a member of several churches over the years, where he sang in the choirs and filled the sanctuaries with music from his trumpet — a sound many came to associate with joy, faith, and celebration as he played at special services and on holidays.

Above all, he was a man of integrity, compassion, humor, and deep love for his family. He delighted in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren, taking every opportunity to show up and share how proud he was of them.

His spirit will live on in the music he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to an orchestra or band charity of your choice.