Russell T. Griesbach

Russell T. Griesbach, age 87 of Appleton, passed away on Monday, January 09, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on the family farm in Greenville on November 22, 1935, the ninth of ten children born to the late Alois and Sophia (Gresl) Griesbach. He worked with horses on the farm from a young age developing a hard work ethic. He also liked to visit the local blacksmith.

On January 10, 1959, he married Laurel Walter, and missed their 64th wedding anniversary by one day.

Russ was a self employed farmer and builder, building spec homes, remodeling and flipped homes. Also enjoyed volunteering for Rebuilding-together with Laurie until his tools wore out.

He loved magic tricks and was inventive. Russ built his own ice boat, a chicken plucker, a sail bike and an agitating chicken egg cleaner (that one did not work so well). He also liked dancing (polka and CW), biking, skiing, hiking, singing and going south to fish at Padre Island with his brother and sister-in-law. He also went on Mission trips to Honduras, New Mexico, and the Appalachians.

You would have thought Russ had 9-lives. He was hit by a car as a child, fell 30ft off a roof, a ski accident, and was hit head on in a collision. He had some electrical thrills and had many skil saw mishaps. With each incident his faith and trust in the Lord increased, he said God is trying to get through to me.

His faith was very important to him. He was humble, loved God and had an infectious laugh.

Russ is survived by his wife, Laurie, children; Tim (Sara) Griesbach, Connie (Don) Steudel, Shelly (Jim) Schaenzer, Melody Genke and Anne McCray, 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and a sister, Joan (Sam) Jansen. He is further survived by his sisters in law; Dorothy, Evelyn and Laverne Griesbach and Mary Walter as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Preceding Russ in death are his parents, and his brothers and sisters; Roman (Loraine) Griesbach, Mildred (Norbert) Sigl, Harold Griesbach, Gerald (Tita) Griesbach, Sally (Frank) Hardy, LeRoy (Eunice) Griesbach, Orville and Donald Griesbach. Also a very special grandson Justin Genke.

Family and friends may visit on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at St. Mary Catholic Church, N2385 Municipal Dr. Greenville beginning at 9:00am until 10:45am, with the Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers and other expressions of sympathy, a memorial fund has been established.

The family also wishes a special thanks to Compassus of Green Bay (Hospice care).

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