Michael "Mike" Corbett

Michael Corbett, 73, of Appleton, WI, passed away on February 18, 2025, surrounded by family, after a courageous four-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Mike was a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a great friend. 

In 1951, Mike was born in Escanaba, MI, to Francis (Ike) and Mary (Peterson) Corbett. He grew up in the Upper Peninsula, where, like his father, he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He shared these passions with his brothers and friends and cherished their time at the family hunting land. Mike was happy to carry on these traditions later in life with his sons and son-in-law.

Mike graduated from Holy Name High School in 1969 and spent his twenties living life to the fullest and pursuing higher education. A scholarship brought him to the University of Michigan, and he completed his degree at Northern Michigan University.  This set the foundation for a successful 35-year career in IT. Mike started as a computer programmer for General Motors in Flint, Michigan, followed by various leadership positions, most notably with Lawrence University, which later brought the family to Appleton, Wisconsin.

In 1982, Mike met the love of his life, Karen (Oberdorsten) Corbett. They married in 1984 and built a beautiful life together over 40 years. They raised three children, Kimberly, Kevin and Ryan, who were their greatest source of pride. Mike enjoyed taking the family to his parents’ cottage on Corner Lake, where he spent so many glorious summers himself as a child. Later, Mike loved being "Papa" to his four granddaughters; Brielle, Myah, Isla and Madison.

After retiring in 2016, he was able to spend even more time hunting and fishing, as well as golfing, gardening and cheering for the Packers.  Mike and Karen also enjoyed traveling together, visiting places across the U.S. and abroad, including Ireland, Italy, and Spain.  

Mike was a man who found happiness in life’s simple joys. He never cared for fancy things, but instead valued meaningful conversations, family gatherings, and bird hunting with his dogs. He was known for his quick wit and sharp humor, always ready with a smart remark, whether with family, friends, or even strangers. His smile could light up a room, and his presence made everyone feel welcome. 

Mike now joins his beloved parents in heaven. He is survived by his wife, Karen; his children, Kimberly (Derek) Murphy, Kevin Corbett, and Ryan Corbett (fiancée Ava Ramadan); his cherished granddaughters; and his six siblings, Gary (Carla) Corbett, Mary (Al) Ek, Cindy Papen, Don (Donna) Corbett, Tim (Karen) Corbett, Pat (Keith) Jacobson; his two aunts, Margaret Seidl and Joan Tubbs; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.  He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Mike’s final resting place will be at Riverside Cemetery in Appleton, WI. A private committal service will be held at a later date. The family is deeply grateful for the love and support shown over these past years.

A Memorial Service for Mike will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond St., Appleton. Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 3:00 p.m. and will continue until the time of the service. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org) in Mike’s name.

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