Jesse Paul Shimniok

Jesse Shimniok, a humble servant of God, joined his Heavenly Father on Monday, June 8, 2015. A loving and giving husband, father, son, brother and friend, many will miss his gentle smile and the twinkle in his eyes.Jesse courageously battled aggressive cancer for a year, and inspired many whom he witnessed to along the journey set before him. He prayed constantly for strength. He was born September 2, 1962 in Sauk City, WI, and was a light on this earth for 52 years.Jesse married Rita Weber on October 14, 1989 and they celebrated 25 wonderful years together in their Cross Plains, WI home. His children, Kyle, age 17, and daughter Abby, age 12, will carry on their father's legacy, having "trained a child in the way that he should go" as directed in the book of Proverbs. When one of his children would ask a question, often Jesse would reply, "Let's see what the Bible has to say about that." Jesse was an amazing father, guiding in his gentle spirit, with an occasional "zinger" – a quiet wit.Jesse worked for many years at Electronic Theatre Controls in Middleton, and is very grateful for the support he received in the past year. Jesse was an encourager and had a listening ear. He served in One to One Ministry at Blackhawk Church, where he was a member. Jesse was a lover of the outdoors, and took his family hiking and bird watching. Jesse enjoyed using his hands, making wood furniture and bird houses.Jesse is survived by his wife Rita, children Kyle and Abigail, mother Eileen (John) Bonine, brother Matt (Peg) Shimniok, sisters Nola (Paul) Reynolds, Lona (David) Steiner, Daleah (Mark) Wright, in-laws, and many nieces and nephews, whom all brought great joy to his life. He was preceded in death by his father Harry Shimniok.Jesse's gentle soul is united with his Maker, and he is reunited with his spiritual mentor, Marv Knipfer, who passed five years ago and a day, to the same cancer.  His faith was unshakeable through his trial. A memorial service will be held at BLACKHAWK EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH, 9620 Brader Way, Middleton at 6 PM on Thursday, June 11, 2015.   A reception with light refreshments will follow the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in care of the family for the children's education fund.  Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.