John Joseph Eisenreich

APPLETON – John Eisenreich likely would try to lighten the mood with some of his trademark humor in this moment, but sadness is the profound emotion for those he leaves behind. The final buzzer sounded for Johnny “Buckets” Eisenreich on October 25, 2025, in Appleton, WI, completing a life journey that featured a deep love for family, especially his three daughters.

John was born May 27, 1962, the youngest of Larry and Peggy Eisenreich’s six children. He grew up in his mother’s family home in a lively neighborhood in Green Bay, WI. John attended Annunciation Catholic Grade School and graduated from Premontre High School with the class of 1980. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

John was the proud father of Mallory, Tatum and Brigid. It was through his work that John met, and after a mere seven years, married Denise Dauplaise. While John and Denise later divorced, John participated in a respectful co-parenting relationship that kept their daughters at the center of their world. Together the two maintained family meals and holidays, attended the girls school activities, and shared in the joys of being parents.

John had an entrepreneurial streak that began with a paper route as a kid. After working at Montgomery Wards, a nut and candy dispenser business followed, then ownership of a closet organizer installation business. John’s intellect was a perfect fit for his career as a reporter in the construction industry, where he was often one of the highest performers at his position. After retiring from McGraw Hill/Dodge Reports, John worked part-time jobs at Festival Foods, Mooring House, and the Appleton YMCA.

A born extrovert, John loved interacting with people. John's other "family" was at the YMCA where he loved chatting with his coworkers and members. You could often find John working out or playing basketball at the Y, golfing, biking, attending musical events, or dining out with family and friends. He liked to camp and travel, with Door County being a favorite destination. He also enjoyed participating in 10K runs, particularly the Bellin Runs and Turkey Trots. John was a member of the Appleton YMCA Service Club and volunteered in the St. Joseph Parish Community Meal program.

John is survived by his three daughters Mallory, Tatum, and Brigid Eisenreich, brother Jim (Jackie) Eisenreich, sisters Helen Englebert and Kay Eisenreich, sister-in-law Chris Eisenreich, Denise Dauplaise, and many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill Eisenreich, sister Mary (Terry) Gilliss, brother-in-law Jim Englebert, and niece Megan Ware.

Although John bore his share of internal challenges, he always maintained a good sense of humor and optimism and would want us to remember him in that way.

A gathering of family and friends will take place on Saturday, November 15, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 3001 Bay Settlement Road, Green Bay. Visitation begins at 9:00 a.m., with the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will follow in the Gathering Center.

If you would like to honor John’s memory, please consider making a donation to support the St. Joseph Food Program or to be used as the family wishes.