Sylvester H. Nett

Sylvester “Spike” Herman Nett, of Appleton, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 21, 2026, just days before his 92nd birthday.

Spike was born on March 1, 1934, to the late Sylvester and Josephine (Franzen) Nett. He was united in marriage to his sweetheart, Roseamond “Rosie” Schreiber, on June 24, 1958, at Holy Angels Catholic Church. They shared 56 wonderful years together until Rosie’s passing on January 17, 2015. Spike was later blessed to find Muriel Gardner, his very special “lady friend,” with whom he shared the next ten and a half years.

The oldest of six boys, Spike grew up in Sherwood, Wisconsin. In 1955, at 21 years of age, he proudly served his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. Completing two years of military service, he then began his career at James River Corporation in Menasha, where he worked as a 1st pressman until retirement. Never one to sit still, Spike later held several part-time jobs, his favorite being maintenance work for Pöyry.

In his earlier years, Spike was an avid bowler. When he wasn’t competing in a men’s league, he bowled alongside Rosie in their couples league. Together they enjoyed camping with family and friends, where fishing, campfires, and lively games of sheepshead filled their summer days. In the winter, Spike took to snowmobiling, sometimes with one of his daughters riding along by his side.

Above all, Spike loved his family. He rarely missed a sporting event, dance recital, or birthday party, always showing up with pride and unwavering support.

Spike truly enjoyed life and lived it fully. He loved being outdoors — perfecting his large garden, a meticulous lawn, landscaping, splitting wood with his son, working in his garage, and even one time tending to baby pheasants. In his later years, even at 91 years young, he was still shooting pool weekly in the same league he had proudly been part of for over 40 years.

Spike also cherished time spent enjoying meals and drinks with Muriel at their favorite local spots — Hank and Karen's, Lox Club, Out of Town Club, and Kamps Bar and Grill — where nearly everyone knew Spike by name. As busy as he was, he always made time for family, faithfully attending every cookout and holiday gathering.

Spike added so much to the lives of those around him. He was blessed with many dear friends who will remember him for his warm smile, gentle demeanor, and great hugs. His family will forever cherish his unconditional love and steady guidance.

Spike is survived by his four children: Debra (Eric) Verkuylen; Sandra (Drew Selig) Nett; Jeffrey (Mary) Nett; Joseph Nett, his 12 grandchildren: Eric (Kaylee), Marissa (Jared), Cory (Sheena), Shane (Cynthia); Justin, Lexie (Brandon), Jason (Janis), Justin S.; Haley (Joe), Morgan;  Forest (Nicki), Asa, and his great-grandchildren: Greyson, Lissy, Aria, Ethan, Evan, Isai, Katie; Carson, Peyton; Emilia, Sadie; Liam, Greyson, Evelyn.

He is further survived by his brother and sisters: Ralph (Annette) Nett; Linda (Tom) Duesterhoeft; Judy (Joseph) Lille, Sisters-in-law: Catherine (Marvin) DeBruin; Sally Schreiber, and his very special friend Muriel Gardner.

In addition to his wife and parents, Spike was preceded in death by his step-mother Zelda; infant daughter Yvonne; infant son Joseph; infant grandson Eric Michael Everson; brothers James, Eugene, Peter, Paul; in-laws Hermina and Henry Renn; Inez and Richard Everts; Herman Schreiber; Joanie Nett; Constance (Connie) Nett.

Spike’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff at St. Elizabeth Hospital for the compassionate care they provided.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:30 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, W2806 Cty Rd KK, Appleton. Visitation will take place at the church from 10:30 am until the time of service. Burial with full military honors will immediately follow at Holy Angels Cemetery.

Spike’s life was a testament to hard work, devotion to family, and finding joy in the simple blessings of each day. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered forever.

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