La Crosse is one of the largest cities in Wisconsin, but it’s known for far more than that. One of the community’s most notable institutions was the G. Heileman Brewing Company. Founded in 1858 by Gottlieb Heileman, the brewery quickly earned local star status for its best-selling Old Style beer. Today, locals come to Oak Grove Cemetery to view Mr. and Mrs.Heileman’s graves. It is one of several sites in the cemetery that reflects the city’s illustrious history.

The Heileman-La Crosse Connection

After arriving from Germany, Heileman settled for a time in Milwaukee, WI, where he opened a bakery. He eventually met Johanna Bandel, a fellow German native who he eventually married. Together they moved to La Crosse, where they raised their family. Heileman befriended John Gund, with whom he founded the City Brewery. Gund left the company after a time, at which point Heileman assumed complete ownership and renamed the business. He ran the G. Heileman Brewing Company until his passing in 1878, at which point Johanna assumed ownership until she died in 1917. Together they contributed to the development of the area’s now legendary brewing culture.

The Grave Site

Both husband and wife are buried at Oak Grove Cemetery. Heileman’s procession saw over 160 carriages bringing bereaved guests to the funeral. His pallbearers were local brewers. The grave site is one of several stops on the fascinating walking tour offered by the area institution. The tour itself is free, and visitors are welcome to guide themselves through the grounds to find graves and learn more about these fascinating pillars of the community.

As the final resting place to some of the most influential and notable residents and business owners in La Crosse, Oak Grove Cemetery is often referred to as “The Silent City.” It’s a testimony to the many luminaries whose grave sites are included in the walking tour. The grounds exhibit a quiet serenity and delicate beauty, due in great part to its tree-lined corridors and well-kept lawns. For more information about visiting the cemetery, visit the website. You can also call them to speak with a staff member at (608) 782-6956 or find them on Facebook.