Calvin L. Siegrist passed away peacefully on Monday, May 11th. Cal is now reunited with his beloved wife, Judy.
Together, Cal and Judy were a wonderful pair. Where Judy had a bold and vivacious personality, Cal was calm, strong, and self-possessed. Cal's bright blue eyes couldn't hide his sly sense of humor and love of mischief.
Cal was born October 24, 1927, and grew up in Hilbert, WI. From an early age, Cal developed his skills as a musician. Calvin joined his father and brothers in several bands, playing at dance halls all over the countryside.
After a stint in the U.S. Army during World War II, Cal earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music at Lawrence College, and eventually earned his Master's in Education at UW-Oshkosh.
Cal took his first teaching position at Peshtigo High School, where he met Judy Brown, the love of his life. Judy and Cal were married in 1955, sharing over 59 years as a devoted couple.
In 1963, Cal became the first band director at the newly opened Bay Port High School, where he co-wrote the Bay Port fight song, "Loyal to Bay Port." After Cal retired from the Bay Port School system in 1990, he continued working as an educator in the music programs at the Oneida Nation School, Holy Family, Annunciation, Holy Cross, and St. Matthews grade schools.
During his retirement, Calvin was often approached by former students, who expressed their appreciation for the positive influence he had in their lives. Cal was always humbled and honored by their kind words.
Calvin played in the Green Bay Packers Band for many seasons during the Lombardi era. Cal was elected alderman supervisor serving several terms on the city council.
Calvin was an active member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Green Bay. He led the Bethel Brass, a church band that included many family members. Cal used to love to trade jokes and stories with his fellow members of the Bethel Men's Bible Study Group. He was also a 32nd degree Mason, involved with the Beja Shrine Temple, and a member of the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra.
Cal was a wonderful father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Although he experienced tremendous satisfaction in his career as a teacher, Cal found his greatest fulfillment in caring for his loving family, who will miss him forever.
Cal is survived by his children, Cary (Tim Blaser) Siegrist, James (Kathy) Siegrist and Calvin Siegrist II; his grandchildren, Amanda (fiance' Jacob Costea) Maus, Allyce (Chris) Campbell, Danielle Maus, Kyle (Ashley) Siegrist and Greg Siegrist, Hannah Siegrist and Aaron Siegrist; great-grandchildren, Cadance and Calvin Campbell.
Friends and relatives may call on the family on Thursday, May 14, 2015 from 4 to 7 PM at the NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME (340 S. Monroe Avenue, Green Bay, WI). Visitation continues Friday, May 15, 2015 from 10 to 11 AM at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH (1350 Bond Street, Green Bay, WI). A funeral service will follow at 11 AM. Final rest will be in Ft. Howard Cemetery.