Michael Joseph Janssen

Michael Joseph Janssen (Mike), 61, passed away on March 12th in his home surrounded by his loved ones. He put up a great fight for the past five years after being diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. Mike was born on November 9, 1962 in DePere, Wisconsin. He graduated from Abbot Pennings High School in 1981 and then attended Butler and Purdue Universities.

Mike was a kind, humble, and intelligent man who always made others feel comfortable and welcome. He had a great sense of humor and a wonderful smile. He was a long time member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church where he participated in many activities such as Men’s Club, CHRP team 30, softball, and coached many of his children’s teams. When he wasn’t coaching, he was pacing the sidelines of every game. For the last 13 years he worked for Specialties Company, which he thoroughly enjoyed and prior to that he was in the publishing business.

Mike was a homebody who enjoyed gathering with friends and family for cookouts, corn-hole and to watch his prized Green Bay Packers. He loved to golf and loved the beach. Mike married his wife Julie in August of 1984 and they spent a beautiful 40 years together raising their four children. They had a great love and respect for each other and made a great team.

He was a loving and generous father who was always available to help with whatever was needed, and to listen and advise. He gave the best hugs. He loved his grandchildren dearly and was so proud to be their Papaw. Nieces and Nephews were a huge part of his life and were often found hanging out with him in “his garage”.

Mike was happiest making memories with his beloved family and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Tom Janssen and father and mother-in-law, Jim and Ret Long. He is survived by his loving wife, Julie Janssen; devoted children, Ashley (Cody) Bradshaw, Jessica (Nate) Marine, Michael Janssen and Jenna Janssen; his grandchildren, Emmitt Bradshaw, Dylan Janssen and Ruby Marine; his loving father and mother, Gerald and Mary Jane Janssen; siblings, Julie (Rick) Gasaway and Pat (Alison) Janssen and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

A visitation for Mike will be held on Tuesday, March 19th from 4- 7 pm at Leppert Mortuary – Carmel Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20th at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.

Memorial contributions in Mike’s name are suggested to The National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.