Gerald Anthony Henseler

Gerald A. Henseler, a respected Fox Valley business leader and deeply committed family man, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Gerry spent the majority of his professional life at Banta Corporation, where over a 36-year career he rose through the ranks to serve as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and member of the Board of Directors. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a Certified Public Accountant, he began his career at Arthur Andersen before joining Banta in 1966.

At Banta, he played a central role in guiding the company’s remarkable growth from a roughly $25 million regional printing business into a Fortune 500 company with annual revenues exceeding $1.5 billion at its peak. Among the many milestones he experienced was the opportunity to ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, a moment that symbolized both the company’s success and the steady leadership behind it.

Though his title was CFO, his influence extended far beyond finance, helping shape acquisitions, long-term strategy, and the culture of a company that ultimately employed thousands. He took quiet pride not only in building a successful enterprise, but in helping sustain what he viewed as an extended family of employees whose livelihoods were tied to Banta’s success.

He gave generously, but quietly, of his time, expertise, and resources to numerous organizations throughout the Fox River Valley, serving on boards, advising leadership teams, and supporting causes he believed in.

Gerry was, above all, a provider and a family man. He took great pride in caring for his immediate family, always ensuring that those closest to him were supported, secure, and grounded.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret “Peg” Henseler, his partner in both life and adventure. Together, they embarked on a “second career” as world travelers. They explored countries across Europe and Asia, approaching each destination with curiosity, appreciation, and just enough planning to keep things running smoothly.

He is also survived by his children: David (Nancy), Steven (Julie), Kevin (Mary), and Anne (Brian) Petschel; his cherished grandchildren, Ethan, Nicholas, Maximilian, Ava, Margaux, Bridget; Margaret “Greta” and Alexander Gerald Petschel; and brothers, Sylvester, Robert, Gary, and Larry Henseler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Seraphine Henseler; his infant son, Jay, whose memory remained close to his heart; and his sister, Marion Price.

In one of life’s more endearing turns, after retirement, Gerry became a soft and joyful grandfather. The man who built a career on discipline and precision somehow found equal talent getting down on the floor, fully present, playing, laughing, and doting on his grandchildren. It was a role he embraced completely and one in which he may have been at his very best.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Gerald will be held at 11AM, on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 324 Nicolet Blvd., Menasha. Visitation will be held on Tuesday at the church from 9AM until the time of the Mass. Inurnment will be in Highland Memorial Park, Appleton.

Gerry will be remembered for his integrity, his intellect, his quiet generosity, and his unwavering dedication to those he loved. He built a life of substance, not show and in doing so, left a legacy that will endure in his family, his community, and the many lives he touched along the way.