Michael "Mike" M. Koller

Michael M. Koller passed away, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, after having lived with 3 different cancers the past 22 years. Mike’s mantra was “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…it’s about learning to dance in the rain”. 

I was born on August 15, 1942 at the Cmejla Hospital in Kewaunee, WI to the late Wilbur and Ione (Worachek) Koller. I joined an older brother, Jim, and later our sister, Sally, came along. I grew up on a farm south of Kewaunee on County Road J and attended the Carlton Graded and later Kewaunee High School, class of 1960. I joined the United States Navy and was in the Seabees, MCB4 and was deployed to Spain, Haiti, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba during the missile crisis as well as Argentia, Newfoundland. I was honorably discharged in 1962 and went to work for the Corps of Engineers in Kewaunee, WI later transferring to Duluth, MN. During my 34-year tenure I acted as deckhand, marine oiler and engineer on many tugs. I helped build 2 break walls on Lake Michigan and repair locks on the Illinois River. A highlight of my career was when I was selected to join the crew on the riverboat Sgt. Floyd for our nation's Bicentennial in 1976 visiting 225 cities and towns along the inland waterway hosting over a half a million visitors.

After retirement, I enjoyed hunting trips to Canada and in many states. I was on the board of directors and a life member of the Brown County Sportsmen’s Club, a life member of the De Pere Rifle Club, and a member of VFW Bellevue Post 9677. I was a KCBS Master BBQ judge judging over 50 events in 9 states. 

I am survived by my daughter, Robyn, my granddaughter, Cali (Matt Luecke) Janelle, 2 great-grandchildren, Ruby and Lennon, my brother, Jim and a sister, Sally Koller Brault, nieces and nephews, many close cousins, my domino playing friends, my shooting buddies and many acquaintances from Resurrection and St. Matthew Parishes. I was preceded in death by my grandson, Wesley Janelle in 2018.

Visitation will be held at Resurrection Parish (333 Hilltop Dr., Green Bay, WI), Monday, August 5, 2024 from 9 to 11 AM. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 AM, followed by full military honors. He will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery, Kewaunee, WI.

In lieu of flowers, I ask that memorials be given to Bellin Cancer Center (1580 Commanche Ave., Green Bay, WI) or to the charity of your choice.

Mike's family would like to express their gratitude to the entire team at Unity Hospice and Bellin Cancer Care for their care and compassion.