Michael "Mike" Geniesse

Michael Gerard Geniesse, age 53, passed away in his home on June 21, 2020. He was born in Green Bay, on March 16,1967, to James and Mary (Schmitz) Geniesse where he graduated from Preble High School in 1985. He then attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and graduated in 1989 with a degree in business and finance. At this time Mike fell head over heels for the love of his life Cheri Hardell and married her on March 28, 1992.

Mike was one of the kindest and most devoted men especially when it came to being a husband and a father. Mike loved the simple pleasures in life, like a cold Guinness on St. Patty’s Day, or a game of cribbage or cigar and a PBR with his (adult) children. What he loved above all that was the people surrounding him in good times, especially his beloved wife.

When Mike wasn’t happily spending time with his family and friends, he worked at Community First Credit Union as a Mortgage Originator for years. He was an incredibly dedicated employee, helping hundreds if not thousands of people in the community get into the home they loved. He will forever be remembered for his joking yet genuine personality. He was a legend and hero to all who loved him.

Mike is survived by his wife of 28 years, Cheri and 4 children: Nicholas (Molly) Geniesse, Mitchell Geniesse (Madelyn Wheeler), Elaine Geniesse, and Jameson Geniesse; siblings Patrick (Susan) Geniesse, Paul (Nancy) Geniesse, Anne Beck, Peter (Joan) Geniesse, and Robert Geniesse; in-laws Thomas and Sue Hardell, Terri (Todd) Deanovich, Kari (Craig) Koenigs, Patty (Jerid) Winkler, and Tommy (Maria) Hardell; many beloved nieces and nephews, including godchildren, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents James and Mary Geniesse, uncles William and John Schmitz, George Mistele, Richard Mann and aunt Mary Louise Schmitz.

Due to extenuating circumstances with this year’s events, there will be a private viewing and service for family and close friends only. There will be a showing for the public on Sunday, June 28th from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Wichmann Funeral Homes, Tri-County Chapel, 1592 Oneida Street, Menasha, WI 54952.

We would like to thank all our incredible family and friends who have reached out to us in this time of need with loving words and gestures, and also to the people of Wichmann Funeral Homes for helping us during our time of grief and loss.