Axel Dressler
Axel Dressler
Axel Dressler, 79, of Black River Falls, WI, passed away at Black River Memorial Hospital June 1, 2026.
Axel was born March 14, 1947, in Münster, West Germany, to Christiane and Horst G. Dressler. Born prematurely in an unheated former military barracks during the difficult years following World War II, he was so small that the British Army doctor on duty doubted he would survive. Yet from those humble beginnings came a life marked by determination, curiosity, and a deep love of music.
Axel spent his childhood in Münster and later Kaiserslautern. At age nine, he immigrated with his family to Reedsburg, WI, arriving at the end of July knowing no English and beginning school just a month later. Despite many challenges, he adapted to his new home and embraced the opportunities before him. When he was 14, his family moved to Watertown, where he completed his high school education.
Music became one of the defining passions of Axel’s life. As a young musician, he learned to play the cello and developed a love of music that would remain with him throughout his life. After high school, he first attended the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater before earning his teaching degree in music from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh.
In 1970, Axel began what would become a distinguished 32-year career with the Black River Falls School District. He was hired as the junior high school orchestra director and later moved to the senior high school, where he continued teaching orchestra and became the school’s first cross country coach. After approximately two decades leading the orchestra program, Axel transitioned to directing the high school band. He led the concert and marching bands with enthusiasm and dedication, sharing his love of music with generations of students through performances at football and basketball games and community parades such as Oktoberfest and Cranfest.
Music remained constant throughout Axel’s life. Beyond his work as an educator, he enjoyed performing with local bands, such as Generic and the Discounts. He could often be found lending his talents for community celebrations, teacher gatherings and retirement parties and educational programs, always happy to bring people together through music. He valued the friendships he developed through music and enjoyed spending time with fellow musicians and friends throughout the community, including many memorable gatherings at places like Cozy Corner.
Above all, Axel treasured his family. He shared 34 years of marriage with his wife, Joanne, and took great pride in his children and grandchildren. Whether through music, conversation, encouragement or simply spending time together, he valued the relationships that enriched his life and brought him joy.
Those who knew Axel remember a fun-loving, intelligent and caring man who touched countless lives. As a teacher, mentor, musician, husband, father and grandfather, he left his mark on Black River Falls. Friends remember his steady presence, his sense of humor and his love of sharing music with others.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Christiane and Horst G. Dressler; his brothers, Horst and Peter; and his son, Kristofer Dressler.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Joanne; his son, Eryn (Stephanie) Dressler; daughter-in-law Leslie Dressler; stepdaughter Carrie Fossum Dix; stepsons Eric Fossum and Mike Fossum; grandchildren Wally, Cece and Elliott; step-grandchildren David, Brian, Elise, John, Will, Rachel, Julia, Elliott and Reid; sisters-in-law Karin and Carolyn; nephews Matthias (Jennifer), Jan Peter and Thomas (Bianca); niece Monika; and numerous cousins in Germany.
In keeping with Axel’s wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held.
Those wishing to honor his memory may make a donation to the Jackson County Animal Shelter or the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of La Crosse County (https://www.lacrossecounty.org/adrc/get-involved/donate) in his name.
Buswell Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.