Late music director, UW Marching Band assistant honored in McFarland

A man with a special connection to McFarland High School and the University of Wisconsin Marching Band was remembered on Friday for his passion for students and teaching music.

Bill Garvey was the school’s longtime music director. He died on Thursday.

On Friday, high school students wore red to honor him and took a photo with the entire student body, spelling out his name, “Bill.”

“Bill had a passion for McFarland and for UW and he expected everybody to work hard and do well. And just don’t disappoint,” said teacher Dan Klecker. “And that was Bill.”

Garvey just finished his 35th season as a field assistant for the UW Marching Band. He played in the group during his four years at the UW and was the tuba section leader.

In addition to leading the band, Garvey coached several sports, most recently girls’ basketball.