Lange was well known in the Milwaukee Latino immigrant community in the Southside of Milwaukee, and marched along with thousands of immigrants and allies to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform.
By H. Nelson Goodson
Hispanic News Network U.S.A.
October 17, 2026
Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On October 9, William "Bill" Francis Lange, 91, passed away, his family announced. Lange was well known in the Latino community for his immigrant and workers rights advocacy, including becoming the co-founder along with his wife Joanne Therese of the New Sanctuary Movement at Voces de la Frontera in Milwaukee.
Lange and wife also marched along side thousands of immigrants and allies for Comprehensive Immigration Reform during the May 1st annual immigrant march sponsored by Voces de la Frontera.
According to Lange's obituary, Bill was a tireless advocate for worker and human rights. For 17 years, he worked at Briggs & Stratton and was a member of Local 232, the union representing workers. He then worked with the Milwaukee County Labor Council encouraging the faith community to advocate for worker rights. In recent years, Bill and Joanne led the New Sanctuary Movement for Voces de la Frontera. As a part of his advocacy work, Bill wrote a blog covering topics from immigration, to worker rights and faith. He and Joanne were regular participants at the vigil honoring George Floyd on Vliet Street and Hawley Road. They also joined the Jericho Walk, a weekly protest at the ICE office downtown.
Voces de la Frontera released the following statement, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of William “Bill” Lange, a true man of faith and co-founder of Voces’ New Sanctuary Movement. Bill stood alongside immigrant families and workers with compassion, courage, and a deep commitment to justice."
A celebration of life will be held at St. Benedict the Moor Parish, 930 West State Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 29, 2026. Visitation from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM. Mass at 10:30 AM.
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