William Proxmire
1915–2005 (age 90)
U.S. senator
Biography
William Proxmire served Wisconsin for more than three decades in the United States Senate, where he became known for his thoughtful independence and tireless oversight of government spending. The Golden Fleece Award he created shone a light on wasteful practices, reflecting his belief that every tax dollar deserved respect.
Yet he also championed science and research, steadily supporting NASA, the arts, and public health initiatives because he believed in building a better future. His integrity, humor, and principled leadership left a lasting mark, and his memory is honored at Lake Forest Cemetery.