MICHAEL GORRELL

Michael Lee Gorrell, age 64, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 17, 2018.  He was born November 1, 1954 in Neenah to the late Fredrick and Loretta Gorrell. Mike and his wife, Barb, celebrated 41 years of wedded bliss on October 22 of this year.

Mike was an avid Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers fan. He enjoyed everything and anything that involved the outdoors: wood cutting, yard work, hunting, fishing, listening to Brewer games on the patio and just sitting by a campfire while playing Farkle with his friends and family. Most of his favorite memories stemmed from either the patio in their own backyard, or at a cottage up North.

Family was everything to Mike, and family came first always. He cherished every person in his life and welcomed them with open arms and love, even though his sarcasm could be dry at times. You knew you were special to him when you were given a nickname. Christmas time was, by far, his favorite time of year. He loved putting up outdoor decorations, playing Santa Claus at the family Christmas Eve gatherings, Christmas movies, and watching his kids and grandkids open gifts on Christmas morning.

Survivors include his wife, Barb; two daughters: Christina (Michael) Schindler, Jaimee (Lloyd) Adamson; seven grandchildren: Kylie, Emilee, Dylan, Gabby, Keon, Logan and Jordan; his sister, Debbie (Roy) Erdmann; a brother, Todd; two special nephews, Derek and Ryan Rasmussen, that he considered the sons he never had; and many other special in-laws, nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law: Raymond and Janette Iversen, a special sister-in-law, Sandy Heinzkill, and a “son”, Jimmy Merchant.

The family expresses a sincere Thank You to all of the staff at Theda Care.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 24, 2018, at Neenah's Westgor Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established.

“We love you, Dad. You were a fighter, our rock, and had a heart of gold. We would not be who we are today without you and mom. We could not have asked for a better dad, and we will miss you dearly. As you would say, it is not a good-bye but a see you later. Until we meet again.”    ~Kristy and Jaimee

“To my husband – As much as I'll miss you, know I have always loved you dearly. I will miss you but you'll always be in my heart. You fought the fight as long as you could, but you are at peace and pain-free now. As you travel that long road, I know you will be there to meet me when it's my time. You are my best friend, husband and the one that gave me a beautiful family. Love you always.”  ~Barb