Third Branch eNews

Justice David T. Prosser Jr., a prominent figure in Wisconsin’s legal and political landscape for more than four decades, passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 81. Known for his service across all three branches of government, Justice Prosser leaves a legacy that shaped the state’s governance and jurisprudence.

Justice Prosser was born in Chicago and raised in Appleton, Wisconsin. A 1965 graduate of DePauw University, he earned his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1968. Early in his career, he served as an attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice and as Outagamie County district attorney, demonstrating his early commitment to public service.

In 1979, Prosser was elected to the Wisconsin Assembly, representing the Appleton area. Over the course of nearly two decades, he served as both Assembly Speaker and Minority Leader, earning respect for his legislative skills and commitment to sound policy. His work with the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws further demonstrated his dedication to creating a coherent and fair legal system.

“His life, from Appleton, to Washington, D.C., to Madison, filled every branch of the government with his passion for service and indefatigable decency. Whether as a staff member, an elected official, or an executive appointee, the public interest was foremost in his mind, and heart,” former Gov. Tommy Thompson said in a statement.

After his legislative career, Prosser continued his public service on the Wisconsin Tax Appeals Commission, where he adjudicated complex taxation disputes with fairness and precision. In 1998, he was appointed to the Wisconsin Supreme Court by then-Governor Tommy Thompson, where he served until his retirement in 2016.

On the bench, Justice Prosser was known for his methodical approach to the law, frequently conducting extensive research to ensure informed decisions. His judicial philosophy emphasized fairness and adherence to the rule of law, a legacy that shaped Wisconsin’s jurisprudence during his nearly 18 years on the court.

Chief Justice Annette Kingsland Ziegler reflected on Prosser’s impact, noting his steadfast commitment to justice and public service. "Justice Prosser’s legacy is one of integrity, intellect, and dedication to the people of Wisconsin," she said. Additional reflections from colleagues, friends, and legal professionals are expected in the coming days.

Throughout his career, Ziegler said Justice Prosser demonstrated a commitment to improving the judiciary. His service on various Supreme Court committees, including the Wisconsin Supreme Court Planning and Policy Advisory Committee, reflected his focus on enhancing the state’s legal framework.

In honor of Justice Prosser’s life and service, Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #247, directing that the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin be flown at half-staff on December 14, 2024. That same day, services were held in Appleton, where Justice Prosser’s distinguished career had its roots.

“Justice Prosser devoted his career to public service, from working for a congressman and his local community to serving as a legislator and his nearly two decades as a Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice,” said Gov. Evers. “His career was unique—he did a little bit of everything—and he spent much of his life seeking new and more impactful ways that he could make a difference in our state. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends, staff, and former colleagues as they mourn his passing.”

Justice Prosser’s long and multifaceted career demonstrates a lifetime of service to Wisconsin. As Wisconsin remembers Justice Prosser’s decades of public service, his contributions to the judiciary and the state’s legal and political landscape reflect a significant chapter in its history.