Vern Lee Nussbaum

Vernon “Vern” L Nussbaum The Boogie Man, Little Suamico, completed his wonderful life and joined his Lord in Heaven on April 10, 2018, passing away at home while wrapped in the arms of his loving family. He was born in Green Bay on June 16, 1943 to Albert and Bertha Nussbaum. On June 12, 1965, he married the former Jean Hoes at St Phillip Catholic Church. They felt blessed to have had nearly 53 happy years together.

Vern was a well known and very talented musician. He was one of the most sought after entertainers on the Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines where he captivated audiences world-wide. He was an artist of unusual versatility. He had the ability to sing a ballad, the blues, an up-tempo, and do comedy. He had a left handed Boogie Woogie piano style that marked every performance, thus his stage name, "The Boogie Man”. In addition to the cruise ships he worked numerous country clubs, resorts and supper clubs throughout the United States. Following retirement he used his talents to bring happiness to residents and staff at area assisted living facilities and received so much joy in return. Vern was quick-witted and had a larger than life personality. He was truly a people person and was loved by all who knew him.

While he enjoyed his travels, he cared deeply about his family and his greatest joy was time spent with his children and grandchildren. We can never thank him enough for all he did for us and for all the times he was by our sides to help and support us, to celebrate our successes, understand our problems and accept our defeats. He was one of the strongest men we have ever met with an unrelenting work ethic. He taught us by example the value of courage, strength and hard work. We value the simple things we shared like laughter, smiles, hugs and “I Love You’s”.

He will be sadly missed and forever loved by his wife, Jean, his beloved children Mark (Teresa) Nussbaum and Laura Benesh; cherished grandchildren Drew (Samantha) Nussbaum, Luke Nussbaum, Destiny Benesh (Grandpa’s girl). He was so proud of all of you; brother Steve (Sue) Nussbaum, sister Marilyn Springstube; nephews, John, Glen and Dave (Cathy) Springfield, Andy (Crystal) Nussbaum, niece Debbie (Mike) Aleksandrowicz, sisters-in-law Joan (Junior) Robinson, Jane Molzahn; brother-in-law, Jim (Julie) Hoes; cousin Debbie who Jean thinks of as a sister (Nigel) Kent, and many other special cousins nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by infant daughter, Mary; mother and father-in law Andy and Mickie Hoes; brothers-in-law Ken Springstube, Michael Molzahn, Wilford Doxtator and nephew Mike Springstube as well as aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

The family thanks their mother for bringing dad home following his injury and for her selfless love and devotion in caring for him. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for all the special people who surrounded us with their love and support through this difficult time. Our thanks to his daughter, Laura, for all the wonderful meals and for her care, love and devotion. We couldn’t have done this without her. Thank you to Vern’s brother Steve and Jean’s sisters Joan and Jane. Heartfelt thanks to cherished friends Dr. Brad (Chris) Kenny and Dr. Greg (Carrie) Nystrom for your generosity, love and overwhelming support. Thank you to Kristen and all of Jean’s other co-workers for your love, endless support and cherished friendship. Thank you to Vern’s special angel here on earth, dear friend Joan aka Monica (Ed) Simpson, and other dear friends Shannon Bozich, Sue Wouters, Doris Trimberger, and Jennifer Holtger. Thank you to our wonderful neighbors for your help.

Family and friends may join us for a memorial service on Saturday, April 28, 11:00 a.m. at Klondike Church, 8195 County Z West, Pound WI 54161. A celebration of his life and luncheon will follow.

Also a special thank you to the many assisted living facilities where Vern entertained for your cards, prayers and well wishes following Vern’s illness and injury. It meant the world to him. Also a warm note of appreciation to Dr. Volk and the entire staff at Green Bay Oncology as well as the many angels at Unity Hospice for your help, guidance, warmth and compassion in his final weeks. His family thanks you with all our hearts. God bless you all.

Vern, we will love you always and forever. Keep a song in your heart…..until we meet again.