Michael John Pfahler

Michael John Pfahler, age 74 of Menasha, WI passed away on August 12, 2025 at Brewster Village in Appleton. Michael was born on March 18, 1951 in Galion, OH to Donald and Maxine (Roesch) Pfahler.

After graduating from Colonel Crawford High School in 1969, he attended Miami University in Oxford, OH and graduated with a business degree in 1973. Michael moved to Chicago to start his career with the IRS. In 1975, he met Karla Kempf while in the hospital recovering from a broken leg. Karla and Michael were married in Chicago at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in November of 1975.

Michael was a kind, patient, and wonderful husband who was helpful to both friends and family. Michael loved sports and played golf with friends and family whenever he could, especially with his special cousin, Bob. He enjoyed playing and attending many baseball games in Ohio and Chicago over the years with everyone he shared the interest with, particularly his brother, Richard. He traveled with friends, playing golf in golf leagues in Chicago and Milwaukee for over 20 years, once even achieving a hole-in-one.

Michael served 25 years with the IRS in Chicago and 12 years in Milwaukee while in Delafield, WI. He moved to Menasha after retiring to be close to his sister and family. Michael enjoyed being surrounded by his nieces and nephews, attending their activities and sporting events. He was a loving uncle to his nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and one great-great nephew. He was honored to be a godfather to his special girl, Stephanie. Michael was grateful to have been in attendance of all the nieces’ and nephews’ weddings over the years, the last one being just in September of last year.

Michael and Karla are members of Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Appleton. He was very active in the choir. He loved music and held several positions as treasurer, lay leader, confirmation mentor, and a member of the leadership board.

Michael will be deeply missed by his wife, Karla Pfahler; his sister, Sue (Steve) Kueck; his brother, Richard (Charlie) Pfahler; his many nieces and nephews (as well as the greats and great-greats); extended relatives; and dear friends.

A memorial visitation will be held for Michael from 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM on Friday, September 5, 2025 at Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 740 E College Ave, Appleton, WI 54911 with a memorial service to follow at 12:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the memorial fund at Emmanuel United Methodist Church in honor of Michael’s wishes.

We would like to thank Sue and her husband, Steve, who have been wonderful in visiting Michael, helping Karla with some medical discussions, and supporting them during this stressful time. Thank you also to the staff at Brewster Village and Moments Hospice for the excellent care, patience, and kindness shown to Michael and Karla.

Michael will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.