Michael Richard Peerenboom

1967 - 2024

Michael Richard Peerenboom, age 57, of Oshkosh, WI passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center in Milwaukee, WI. He was born on April 16, 1967 in Neenah, WI to Richard "Dick" and Boni Peerenboom.

Mike graduated from Oshkosh North High School in 1986 and was the second generation to be the sole proprietor of Glen Valley Farm in Oshkosh, WI.

Mike had a deep-rooted love for the American Saddlebred horse. He followed in his parent's footsteps and continued to build a lasting legacy for Glen Valley Farm and for the Saddlebred breed as a whole. He has left his own imprint on the industry, including the breeding, raising, and training of the Saddlebred Horse, as well as hosting The Glen Valley Classic Horse Show. Mike loved horses and sharing his knowledge with others. He had an inherent talent with, and natural understanding of, the horses he worked with. A big part of his life was teaching and mentoring others, sharing his passion and allowing them to explore their own. Mike's lesson program at GVF helped make dreams come true, allowing the next generation of horse enthusiasts to learn and grow. He enabled them to practice, attend competitions, and create lasting bonds. Bonds not only between horse and rider, but within the group, becoming a family unto themselves.

Mike's parents owned and operated the Fountain Tavern in Oshkosh, WI for many years, and friends and family regularly gathered there. "Follow me to the Fountain" was a common phrase heard as Mike was about to hop into a classic car like the Coupe or the GTO. You would not be surprised to see Mike driving the T-bucket through the park while blaring the "Footloose" or "Beach Boys" cassette tape, smirking behind Elvis sunglasses.

Mike and his father loved to restore classic cars. They lovingly rebuilt them and spent countless hours bonding over their shared passion. Dick was Mike's father, best friend, and idol. The time they spent together was priceless.

Mike was known for his bright clothing (button up Hawaiian shirt, neon swim trunks, and a captain's hat), colorful classic cars, and vibrant personality (including his dance moves). He was also known for the humor that was as iconic as the farm he loved. He was a one of kind personality, a jokester who lived for a good laugh, and people were naturally drawn to him. He saw the good in everyone and was always selflessly willing to help anyone in need. Mike was in the business of horses and people, using his knowledge to bring them all together.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Boni Peerenboom. Mike is survived by a large group of loved ones that he considered family. He touched the lives of an unimaginable amount of people in a meaningful way. Mike was a loving partner, son, brother, uncle, cousin, mentor and beloved friend to many.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at the Fountain Tavern 3696 Stearns Drive, Oshkosh, WI 54904. A special thank you to the first responders, the staff at Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh, WI, and the staff at St. Luke's Medical Center in Milwaukee, WI, for their phenomenal and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in his honor.


Fox Cities Funeral Home
3026 Jackson Street
Oshkosh, WI 54901
(920) 966-9000