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Michael Josephs Obituary
Appleton - Michael R. Josephs, age 61, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, July 1, 2019, at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born March 18, 1958 in Neenah, son of the late Martin and Jerrine (Koepke) Josephs.
Mike attended Appleton East High School and then entered the National Guard for 10 years spending time at Fort Knox. He married the love of his life, Karla Wiegel on November 20, 1976, in Appleton. He was employed for 31 years at New Page Mill in Kimberly and then most recently with Essity Mill in Menasha.
Mike loved spending time with his family; attending his grandkids various activities and relaxing at his "home away from home" at Evergreen Campsites. He was an avid outdoorsman that had a true passion and love for hunting and fishing. Any chance he got, if not relaxing at his "home away from home" would be spent at his land or on a lake somewhere. He also loved to sing karaoke, cheering on his Packers, Badgers and Brewers, bowling and dressing up for the holidays where he will always be remembered as Beetle Juice, Mr. Claus, SuperMikeo, or Mr. Potato Head to name a few.
Mike (Pike) was an incredible human being that touched the lives of many. He developed many everlasting friendships throughout his life and could have a conversation with anyone and will always be remembered for his famous goodbye saying of "Pike Out!" or his birthday wishes of "Happy!" His laugh and smile were contagious and his passion to be the best husband, father and grandfather showed and was what he was most proud of!
Survivors include his wife, Karla; three children: Joshua (Terri) Josephs, Jessica Akstulewicz, Justin (Megan) Josephs; three grandchildren: Jordan, McKenzie and Laney; two brothers: Jeff (Jeanne) Josephs, Bill (Deb) Josephs; a sister, Sue Wienandt (special friend Layne Purdy); Mother-in-law: Marie Williamson and numerous other relatives and friends. As well as his beloved dog; Roxy (aka RoxyShashi or RoxyPoxy).
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, David Wienandt and a Nephew, Eric Wienandt.
The funeral service will be held at Neenah's Westgor Funeral Home on Saturday, July 13, 2019, at 11:00 AM. The visitation will be held on Friday evening from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and again on Saturday from 10:00 AM until the hour of service. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established in his name for Kathy's House, 600 N. 103rd St., Milwaukee, WI 53266.
The family would like to thank Dr. Laura Michaelis, assistant Amber Essenmacher, Dr. Chhabra, assistant Matt Ware and the entire nurses and other staff at Froedtert for the compassionate care they gave Mike. In addition, the family would also like to give an extra special thank you to Kathy's House where countless stays were had, his brothers-in-law: Lynn, Corey and Theo and to his entire family and friends for all your support, prayers and love!
I Love you "My Love" until we meet again! - Karla
Your passion and desire to live and be a great dad and grandpa was like no other. Our lives will never be the same without you! We love you and will keep your memories close and in our hearts forever! - Love your kids and grandkids!
Josephs Strong forever!
Westgor Funeral Home
205 W. Doty Ave. Neenah 722-7151
Condolences: www.westgorfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Josephs
Sponsored by Westgor Funeral Home - Neenah.
Bob Meyer
July 30, 2023
I played basketball with Mike, winning the Junior high championship at the Appleton YMCA during the 73-74 season. He was a customer on the first regular mail route i had. Last time i spoke with him, he asked me if i still had the basketball trophy. Belated condolences to the family and RIP Big Mike!
Pam Leopold
July 12, 2019
To the Josephs family,
I worked with Mike at Essity Tissue. He was a very good worker and an all around awesome guy. He always had a smile on his face and had a great personality! He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May he R.I.P. my deepest sympathy to you.
Pam Leopold
Andy Nirschl
July 11, 2019
I am SO sorry I just found out about this. I worked with Mike for so many years at the Kimberly Mill and then afterward I was lucky enough to get to work with him to help him with getting a new job while working with him at the Job Center as his career planner. He was always so appreciative of everything ever done for him and a great worker as well as just a great all around guy. I always looked forward to seeing him and hearing from him. I remember several times people where I worked would have to close their office doors 'cause we were the two loudest people in the area!!! Fun always and I will miss him!
Dan Talbot
July 10, 2019
Our heartfelt condolences to all of you.
Mike was a great guy and I enjoyed the comradry that we shared over many years of bowling.
Mike was one of those folks who you just enjoyed being around.
He will be missed.
Dan Louie Goerl
July 10, 2019
Pike weve been friends since early 90s thru bowling. Damn we had some GREAT times. My heart, thoughts and prayers go to Karla and families, we all know how much you loved them!!! Our bowling memories are so many but to keep it quick: FUN-LAUGHTER-SHORTS-STEAK!!! Love ya Man! Louie
Laney Akstulewicz
July 8, 2019
My grandpa was one of the best grandpas I could ever have! He was awesome,loving, and cared a lot about family and friends! Love you grandpa
July 7, 2019
I worked with Mike at Kimberly Mill - always a terrific Smile and positive attitude- he loved telling Fishing stories
He had a skill of turning someones most challenging day into a day to enjoy
Blessings to Mikes family
Until we meet again
Bruce Kallin
Pam Grant (Volkman)
July 7, 2019
I love you Mike. RIP Love your cousin Pam
Diana Paul Hucek
July 7, 2019
Josephs Family,
I attended elementary and high school with Josh & my younger sister, Alyssa, was in the same grade as Jessica.
I am very sorry for your familys loss of your wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. I dont know this particular grief personally. Therefore, I cannot begin to grasp the pain youre all feeling at this loss. All I can express to you is my most sincere condolences.
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