Brian William Geerdts, age 73, of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, passed away on November 8, 2025. He was born on August 15, 1952 in Two Rivers, Wisconsin to William and Elvira Geerdts.
Brian grew up in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. He graduated from Washington High School in 1970. He then went on to The University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social science in 1974. He received his master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin- Madison.
He worked at Lincoln Hills, Big Brothers, the Marathon County Public School District, and the Manitowoc Public School District where he retired after 30 years as a School Social Worker.
Brian and his wife, Nancy, were married in 1991 and took on the adventure of blending two families into one. Although it had its challenges, it was their greatest accomplishment together. For the last seven years, Brian showed friends and family what it means to be strong for those you love, and so did Nancy. Every single appointment, consult, test, result and diagnosis was navigated in a way that kept him calm, and her steady. Although Brian was known as a worrier, he could be calmed with a back scratch.
Throughout the years, Brian enjoyed fishing, hiking Schuette Park and up North, camping, and being outdoors. Once retired, he and his wife enjoyed their home away from home in Door County and traveled to places they always wanted to visit. When it was the two of them, they always returned with new friends.
He found joy in creating amazing woodworking for his children, and always lending his talents when things needed fixing. He enjoyed donating to his favorite charity… his buddies at their monthly poker game.
His love for all sports was enjoyed through his Fantasy Football or when he could attend a Packer game at Lambeau, Badger game at Camp Randal or anywhere his kids or grandchildren were playing in the various sports they love.
Brian had a simple culinary taste that became favorites to his loved ones. His family loved when he would make his chili, anything on the grill or his smoker which was timed to completion by however long it would take to enjoy a couple Busch Lites.
Brian was so funny and could make you laugh until your cheeks hurt. He was also so kind, generous, and loving. He and Nancy would never miss sending a birthday, first day of school, or New Year’s video. Traditions were important to him. He looked forward to the families annual Door County camping weekend and expressed his wish that we carry on that tradition.
Brian had a very special relationship with his sister Diane, who adored him. She has so many amazing memories and loves to share stories about growing up with him.
It was important to Brian that we recognize his first wife, Lisa Moore. His words, ‘She gave me my daughters – the greatest gifts ever.’
He is survived by his wife and beloved ‘Buzzy’ Nancy and his daughters, Kirsten (Aaron) Armbrust and Merrick (Chris) Wacker; his stepchildren, Mandy (Chad) Fawcett, Zachary (Laura) Skarda and Ashley (Ron) Seith; 10 beloved grandchildren, Ashir and Leyda Skarda, Ella, Kate and Claire Armbrust, Sophia Seith, Trey and Isla Fawcett and Anna and Easton Wacker; all of his grand pets (his special buddy, Sully); sister, Diane Kieffer and special friend Richard; brothers and sisters-in-law, Dr. Terry (Ann) Bogard and Laura (Dave) Griffin and many beloved nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his cousin Pat (Patricia) Day. Brian and Nancy would like to recognize Peter and Connie Dorner for their solid friendship… We sure had a good time!
Brian is preceded in death by his parents, William and Elvira Geerdts; his in-laws, Lawrence and Joy Bogard; and dear friends – Bob, Phil, Joel, Joe and Paul that are no doubt, having a beer with him as we speak.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Lakeshore United Methodist Church, 411 Reed Avenue, Manitowoc. Family will greet relatives and friends from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A service will be officiated by Rev. Cherie Forret at 11:00 a.m., followed by a luncheon at the church. Brian will be laid to rest at Harmony Haven Columbarium inside Evergreen Cemetery at a later date.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lakeshore United Methodist Church or Lakeshore Humane Society in Brian’s memory.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the Geerdts family with funeral arrangements.
