Michael James Riedl

Michael James Riedl, age 77, passed away on November 4, 2023, following a lengthy illness, surrounded by family members. Mike was born on October 18, 1946, in Appleton, WI to the late George E. (Mike) and Merle Rossberg Riedl. Mike was a 1965 graduate of Appleton High School. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1969, majoring in Psychology and Sociology.
On February 3, 1968, Mike married Patricia Mary Sherman, daughter of the late Claire and Catherine Sherman. They resided in Appleton throughout their lives. Following the sudden passing of Patricia's parents and youngest sister (Elizabeth Sherman) in July of 1970, Mike and Pat raised Pat's brother's and sisters, including James Patrick (Pat's 3-year-old brother), and 5 other siblings. Together, Mike and Pat had 3 children: Jeffrey Riedl, Elizabeth (Betsy) Riedl, and Brian Riedl.
Following graduation from college, Mike worked as Director of the Sheltered Activity Center where he made his huge heart available to his clients, often going out of his way for them. Later, he was Personnel Manager at Zwicker Knitting Mills, and then returned to the Human Services field to become the Director of Villa Hope, and then Villa Phoenix. He retired from Villa Phoenix due to health issues, but then returned later to work again at Villa Hope for several more years.
Mike enjoyed 50's and 60's music, and his 1959 Chevy that he had when he was in High School. When they were younger, Mike and Pat enjoyed hosting volleyball parties in their back yard. Mike liked to cheer for the Packers and the Badgers. He enjoyed watching his children participate in sports, as well as coaching Brian's soccer team. He was especially proud of his children's college and career achievements. He looked forward to visits from his children and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed time with his best friend since college, Karl Schroeder, and going for rides around town, and out to lunch.
Mike is survived by his best friend, and former wife, Pat Riedl, and his children: James Patrick Sherman of Boone, North Carolina and James' children, Frank, Nikolaus, and Nyah; Jeff (Jody) Riedl of Green, Ohio and their children, Abby and Luke; Betsy Riedl (and partner Tony Prudom) of Appleton, and her daughter's Allison Riedl, and Meaghan Kuehn; and Brian (Sarah) Riedl of Oakton, Virginia, and their daughters Emily and Katelyn. In addition, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews; Brother's-in-law Michael Sherman of St Paul, Minn; Mark (Chris) Sherman of Appleton; Peter Sherman of Ames, Iowa; Sisters-in-law Mary (Bill) Donofrio of Jacksonville, Fla, and Katie (John) Voight of Ellison Bay, Wi.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, and Aunt and Uncle, Helen and Arlin Jennerjahn, as well as grandparents Otto and Amanda Rossberg. He was also preceded in death by Pat's parents, his brother-in-law Paul Sherman, his sister-in-law, Elizabeth, and his best friend, Karl Schroeder.
Mike's family would like to thank Dr Eugene Rigstad, the staff of Apple Creek Place, Heartland/Promedica Hospice, and his Community Care Team for all their support and care for Mike throughout the years.
Visitation for Mike will be held Saturday, November 11, 2023, at ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH (912 N. Oneida Street, Appleton) beginning at 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Funeral will follow at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established.
Mike will be dearly missed by those who knew him.
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