Michael L. Kallenbach

POYNETTE - Michael L. "Marv" Kallenbach, age 76, of Poynette, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family at Randolph Health Services.

Born on December 11, 1949, in Portage, Michael was the cherished son of Donald and Shirley (Walters) Kallenbach. He spent his formative years in Montello, where he graduated in 1968. Known for his athletic abilities, particularly in basketball. Freshman Baseball earned him his nickname of "Marv", a tribute to a Major League player. This affectionate nickname stayed with him throughout his life, endearing him to family and friends alike.  After high school, Michael attended MATC and began his career as an Account Clerk for Management Data Systems in Madison.

On February 20, 1971, he married his high school sweetheart, Helen Priske, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pardeeville. Their union was blessed with seven children, 24 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and counting.

Michael dedicated nearly 30 years as the Inventory Control Clerk at Lakeside Foods, formerly known as Poynette Canning Company, retiring in 2017. He enjoyed watching and following all sports, and he took great joy in attending the sporting events of his children and grandchildren. Michael also had a passion for music, reading, and outdoor activities, including driving his tractor.

Family was the cornerstone of Michael's life. He cherished family gatherings, road trips, and vacations, with Bayfield, WI, holding a special place in his heart for over 25 years of treasured memories.

In his retirement, Michael discovered a love for coloring, sharing this hobby with his grandchildren and others. His artistic talents earned him the title of Resident Artist at Randolph Health Services, where he was well loved by both residents and staff.

Michael's life was a testament to the love and devotion he held for his family, who meant the world to him.  He will be greatly missed.

Mike is survived by his wife, Helen, of almost 55 years.

His Children, Andrew Kallenbach, April Kallenbach, Abraham Kallenbach, Zachary (Rachel) Kallenbach, Maggie (Brian) Lawson, Molly (Tracy) Hermanson and Eliza Kallenbach;

Grandchildren, Joseph Kallenbach, Teresa (Lance) Jones, Sister Therese Mary Kallenbach, Jacinta Kallenbach, Philomena (Pablo) Kallenbach Gonzales, Rita Kallenbach, Alexander Kallenbach, Modesty Kallenbach, Bonoventure Kallenbach, Eli Kallenbach, Madeline Kallenbach, Greta Kallenbach, Amelia Lawson, Peter Lawson, Theodore Lawson,  Jonathan Lawson, Felicity Lawson, Zoe Lawson, Stephen Lawson, Leo Lawson, Isaac Lawson, Levi Hermanson, Lily Hermanson, and Olivia Hermanson.

Great Grandchildren, Marietta Jones and Eloise Jones.  

In addition Mike is survived by his mother, Shirley Kallenbach; brother, Terry Kallenbach; sister, Laura (Randy) Krueger; and many dear relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Kallenbach.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. MAXIMILIAN KOLBE PARISH AT ST. PATRICK CHURCH, 521 Fair St, Lodi, at 11:00 am on Tuesday January 20, 2026, with Fr. Anthony Kersting presiding.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON LODI FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, January 19, 2026, and also at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 am until the time of the Mass.

Family led rosary will be recited prior to the visit on Monday and again on Tuesday at 10:30 am, prior to the Mass led by the Knights of Columbus.

The Kallenbach family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staffs of Randolph Health Center and Hillside Beaver Dam Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 South Main Street
(608) 592-3201