Melissa A. Kadlec

Melissa “Lissa” Anne Kadlec (Kienitz), age 67 of Menasha, WI went to her eternal home on September 1, 2025 after a valiant two-year battle with cancer. She was born to Daniel and Marian (Wirth) Kienitz on October 28, 1957 in Redwood City, CA. After graduating from Grants Pass High School in ’75, Lissa went on to work many jobs throughout the years but was best known for her work as a dental assistant, helping people smile in all the ways she could. Lissa met the love of her life, Raymond Kadlec, in 1983 at work and it was love at first sight. They were married in February of 1984 in Eagle Point, OR and together, they raised 5 wonderful children.

Lissa had many roles in life, but was most proud of her roles as wife, mother, and grandmother. Lissa was the glue of the family, bringing everyone together for holidays, zoo visits, and many other occasions. She was known as the ultimate fixer for her grandkids, carrying her emergency sewing kit at all times and fixing so many different items from stuffies to clothing and much more. She was very proud of her rubber duck collection and loved to show new additions to her kids and grandkids. Lissa loved attending major milestone events and school events for her children and her grandchildren, and sat through many concerts and recitals of various proficiency levels with enthusiasm and a smile on her face.

Lissa loved gardening, reading her bible, collecting dolls (many passed down from her mother and grandmother), spending time with her family, fishing, horseback riding, visiting the zoo (particularly the giraffes), going to the movie theater, coloring, and all types of crafts, including knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and sewing. She embraced vibrant clothes and jewelry, reflecting her personality. She also liked to cook and bake, and is well-known for her famous white chocolate cheesecake and amazing varieties of fudge. Lissa started so many family traditions throughout the years, from fudge on New Years Day to tapioca salad every Thanksgiving. Some of the family meal recipes still live on with being favorites of some of her children and grandchildren.

Lissa touched so many lives and created countless treasured memories. She loved music of several varieties and volunteered for many years at the Cup O’ Joy. She created puppets and, alongside her husband, provided entertainment at churches, senior homes, and Christian events. Lissa loved experiencing nature and visited many National Parks with her family, as well as her favorite Pacific Ocean beaches. She enjoyed playing games with friends and family, whether that be monopoly or cribbage or Hearts. She was a genuine, caring, loving person and connected with people in any and every forum, from the churches she attended to the thrift stores she loved to wander.

Lissa will be deeply missed by her husband and best friend, Ray, who looks forward to being with her again for eternity; her children, Chris (Brook), Nicki, Tim “Joey” (Kate), Matt (Katie), and Kim (James); her grandchildren, Brenna, Asher, Naomi, Jessie, Hannah, Toby, Ezra, Faith Anne, Grace, Mercy, Elijah, Grayson, Keara LeAnne, and Zecora Rose; her siblings, Keith (Karen) and Tim (Kari); her special cousins, Gail and Jeff; her dogs, Boomer and Cuddles; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

In heaven, Lissa is reunited with her dear mother, Marian; her aunt, Marguerite “Margie”; her grandchildren, Shalom and Jensen; and her siblings, Terry and Mary.

Her family would like to extend their thanks to the staff of the Ascension St. Elizabeth Cancer Center for their care of her over the 2 plus years and the UW Health Cancer Center in Madison for their guidance and support.

In respect to Lissa’s wishes, no memorial service will be held. In lieu of any flowers, please consider donating and helping to adopt a giraffe through Giraffe Conservation Foundation instead using the link below.

https://give.giraffeconservation.org/adopt/ 

“Until we meet again.”