Michael J. Behlen

Michael J. Behlen, born on Aug. 19, 1948, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Maurice and Margaret Behlen, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2024, surrounded by his family in the comfort of his home leaving behind a legacy of dedication, integrity and selflessness.

A devoted husband, he shared 52 wonderful years with his beloved wife Cindy (nee Besaw), originally from Highland Falls, New York. Together, they raised three children, Kelly Meerdink, Matthew (Georgiana) Behlen and Lindsey (Andre) Cotton. He was a proud grandfather to Taylor, Andrew, Ashton, Ciara, Aubrey, Aliyah, Kingston and Kaison. He is also survived by his six supportive siblings, Barbara (Karl), Phyllis (Gary), Judy, Gerard (Sandy), Betsy (Floyd) and Christopher.

Michael honorably served his country as a U.S. Army in the Army Signal Corps, where he met Cindy while stationed at West Point in New York.

He dedicated 42 years to a distinguished career at Channel 10/36 PBS as a broadcasting engineer and later contributed his expertise to FOX Sports and CBS Sports, supporting the production crew for Packers games at Lambeau Field.

Since 1979, Michael’s commitment to service was evident through his contribution to Grafton Auxiliary Police. His commitment to public service extended to his involvement as an active leader in the Boy Scouts, where Michael exemplified mentorship and community spirit. He was a proud member of the Ozaukee Radio Club and the Military Auxiliary Radio System. His passion for the outdoors led him to be an instructor for the Grafton Youth Hunting Association, a Department of Natural Resources hunter safety instructor and DNR fishing clinic instructor.

Michael will be remembered as a relentless advocate for equity and justice whose life was marked by unwavering dedication to his family, community and country. His legacy of service and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Services will be held at St. Joseph Church on June 12, 2024. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. and services will begin at 1 p.m. A procession to St. Joseph Cemetery will follow the service for a military honor burial.

  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation on behalf of Michael J. Behlen to his local treatment facility at Cancer Center at Froedtert West Bend Hospital (www.froedtert.com/westbendfoundation) or to LUNGevity (www.lungevity.org), focused on supporting life-changing research helping people with lung cancer live longer and fuller lives.

Eernisse Funeral Home in Cedarburg is proudly serving the Behlen family.

Online condolences can be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.