Matthew Jerry Mormann

Matthew Jerry Mormann, 68, of La Crosse, WI, passed away unexpectedly on November 8, 2026. Neighbors had seen him raking leaves beneath his beautiful red maple, taking more breaks than usual. Matt and his beloved dog, Odie, were forever together. In our mind we still see them both as young and vital.

The eleventh of seventeen children, he was the last born in the family's “old house” in La Crescent before they moved to the farm in Pine Creek. Farm chores filled their days, but there was always time for softball in the yard, swimming in the creek, chasing fireflies, building snow forts, and sledding from the top of the driveway, across the yard, under the fence, and into the pasture.

Older brothers and friends introduced Matt to the freedom of the open road. His love of motorcycles became part of who he was. Music spoke to Matt's sweet, sensitive soul, especially songs about life's journeys, dreams, and the passing of time.

Although he had no children of his own, he became “Grandpa Matt” to many children through the relationships in his life. His home was a welcoming place for them and their friends. The love he gave these children remains part of his legacy.

Matt was born October 3, 1958, to Gerald and Margaret (Privett) Mormann. Matt is survived by his siblings: Nicholas Mormann, Rebecca (Dan) Krieger, Timothy (Peggy) Mormann, Colleen Mormann, Mark Mormann, Peggy Stankey, Linda (Randy) Holthaus, Sandra (Phillip) Bautch, Jeffrey Mormann, Deborah (Bradley) Rodda, and Gretchen (Dan) McLees; sisters-in-law, Monica Mormann and Maxine Mormann; many special grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends, especially Noreen “Fritze” Coughlin.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, David, Michael, William, Pam, and Mary Lou Mormann; family members Bruce Harlos, Ron Stankey, and Mary Beth Mormann; nephews Duane Mormann and Brady McLees; niece Janel Mill; and extended family Justin and Alyssa “Lu” Betz.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Dec 12, 2026, at the Schumacher Kish Funeral Home, King St., La Crosse, WI. From 2:00 to 4:00. Please join us and wear your favorite concert or Harley T-shirt. Roll Me Away captures Matt's spirit—the freedom of the road, the choices we make, and the journey that carries us home. Remember where we came from, and remember the love. And somewhere, in our hearts, Matt and Odie will always be riding together.

In lieu of flowers, please send gifts to an animal shelter of your choice or St. Jude Hospital for the benefit of childhood cancer families.