John J. Loderbauer

John J. Loderbauer, age 78 of Kaukauna, passed away on April 15, 2025, after a 2 ½ month battle with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). John was born on November 30, 1946, in Kaukauna to John and Esther (Gabrielson) Loderbauer.

John married Mary Ann Kerry on October 11, 1967, at Holy Cross Church, Kaukauna. He was a graduate of Kaukauna High School in 1964. John proudly served his country and enlisted in the US Army Reserves as a Medic from 1966 to 1972, spending his active duty at Fort Sam Houston, TX. John started his civilian career as a flooring installer. As his employer evolved, John took advantage of the opportunity to find his true calling in alarms and physical security for the financial industry. This led to John launching his own business, Hamilton Financial Equipment, Inc., which operated for over 30 years. Retirement was not for John, so he soon found himself driving bus at Kobussen Buses Ltd. John loved driving “his kids.” He retired from driving a few years ago, but not from Kobussen; he became a bus monitor and a veritable jack of all trades at the terminal. He truly enjoyed his job and the people at Kobussen.

John was a true “people” person - he loved to chat and never left a conversation without a smile. When not taking care of someone or fixing something for someone, John loved to putz in his basement or backyard. He enjoyed the spring planting season, growing numerous vegetables and flowers. John was ahead of his time and would never throw an item away if it could be fixed or recycled for the metal or wire.

Even years out of business, he was still the one his son-in-law would call for technical support in the alarm world. He loved being considered a resource and involved. His pride and joy were his daughter and grandchildren.

He was a kind and gentle soul who always believed in everyone. He always gave and asked for nothing in return. He shared his kindness with everyone and anyone he came in contact with. His impact on this world was great, and the legacy he leaves is amazing. He had a true servant's heart. What a beautiful example of what Jesus asked his followers to be.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 58 years, Mary Ann; his “little girl”, daughter, Jodie (John) Leedle of Kaukauna, grandchildren Andrew and Alysia Leedle; sister Ann (Jerry) Brandt of Kaukauna; sister-in-law Jill (Dave) Coenen; brother-in-law Jeff (Vicki) Kerry; nephews Jeremy and Jonathon Brandt and Dale Kerry; Kobussen family and special young friends of Mr. John - Atlas, Cora, Connor, Ollie, and Mav; numerous cousins and friends.

John is preceded in death by his parents, John and Esther Loderbauer; parents-in-law, Robert and Martha Kerry; siblings George Loderbauer, Barbara (Tom) Vorpagel; and sister-in-law Jean Ann Kerry.

Funeral services will be held at Noon on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Christ the Rock Community Church, W6254 US Hwy 10 114, Menasha, WI. Visitation will be at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. (Please dress casually.) Military Honors to follow the service.

The family would like to give a special thank you to ThedaCare-Appleton 3rd floor nursing and caregiving for their amazing care and compassion during John’s time there, especially to close friend, Amanda.

Also, the family cannot express the level of gratitude they have for Jay Rusk, PA, Dr. Schoening, Ashly Schumacher APNP, Dr. Philips, Katie Keich, ThedaCare Cancer Center Nurses and Staff, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Nursing and Staff, especially Dr. Kraemer.

Also, a special thank you to the neighbors on Hendricks Avenue. Dad, you have given me the greatest gifts - your faith, time, and love.

You will forever be in my heart, and I will share your stories always. Love, Your Lil Pumpkin