Philipp Maersch

Philipp (Phil) Mathias Maersch, a dedicated educator, avid skier, and beloved family man, passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the age of 89, after a courageous year-long battle with prostate cancer. His life was a testament to the power of education, the joy of music, and the importance of family.

Phil's unconventional educational path took him from Sheboygan, Wisconsin to South Bend, Indiana where he entered Moreau Seminary after the 8th grade. To the great benefit of Phil's four future children, he left the seminary 1-year short of ordination and in 1958 he graduated with a BA in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, followed by a master's degree in education from Johns Hopkins University.

His passion for teaching mathematics flourished in high school classrooms, where he inspired countless students. In the 1980s, Phil's forward-thinking approach led him to establish the computer education program at Kohler High School. He convinced the school board to invest in Apple 2E and Commodore 64 computers, introducing students to BASIC programming and emphasizing practical applications like compound interest calculations to instill financial literacy.

Music, theatre, and photography were among Phil's interests. He exposed his children to the cultural richness of Milwaukee and Chicago Symphonies and numerous theatrical productions. His own theatrical flair shone through when he played the lead in "The Schoolhouse Mouse" with the Kohler Players in the mid-1970s. Phil served as the advisor for the Kohler High School yearbook, The Kohian, during his tenure as a teacher there, having darkrooms at both school and home.

Phil's zest for life was infectious. From sledding with his kids or jumping off his garage roof during the Blizzard of 1978 to crafting elaborate cardboard vehicles for the Kohler Doll Buggy Parade, he was always ready for adventure. Phil enjoyed golfing and skiing frequently in his retirement, even volunteering at PGA events in Colorado and Wisconsin.

Phil met the love of his life, Gloria Woodyard after moving to Austin, Texas. Together, they were active members of the Austin Ski Club, embarking on numerous ski trips across the country. Phil's passion for skiing continued until he was 87 years old.

Phil is survived by his wife of 10 years, Gloria Woodyard, his children Karl, Sue, Pete, and Dave, and their respective families. He also leaves behind stepsons Bruce, Randy, and Michael Greenberg, as well as 14 grandchildren. His first wife of 27 years, Patricia (Patty) O'Keefe, also survives him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Catherine and Fred Maersch, his brothers Paul and Steve Maersch, and his second wife, Shirley Greenberg.

Phil Maersch's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as an educator, a father, and a grandfather. His enthusiasm for learning, his love for the arts, and his playful spirit will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.