Michael Mussen

Michael Mussen, 79 of Oshkosh, passed away at Aurora Medical Center – Oshkosh Friday, November 10, 2023 after a brief illness. He was born in New York City on July 10, 1944 to the late Samuel and Irene (Fagan) Mussen.

In his earlier years, Dad displayed talents in baseball and golf. He loved riding bikes and hiking in the mountains with his family. His interests in traveling, art, and reading world history matured with him. Dad loved taking his children, and later in life his grandchildren, to the Milwaukee Zoo, West End Pizza, Pollock Pool, and Menomonie Park. Dad was a lover of animals and treated his pets, and the pets of his children, as family. Dad couldn’t hold a tune, but that didn’t stop him from belting Neil Diamond, Journey, and ABBA tunes.

He graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology, and went on to graduate from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a Doctorate in Education. Dad embraced the opportunity to counsel students and community members at both the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh Counseling Center for 37 years, and at his private practice, Mental Health Consultants in Oshkosh.

Dad was a dedicated friend to many, and was passionate about women’s equality, civil and human rights, and tolerance and acceptance of others. He was a kind and gentle man, with a soothing voice and comforting presence. Dad believed his energy would reunite with his parents and loved ones that transitioned before him. He will be greatly missed, and wanted his friends, colleagues, and family to share stories and celebrate his beautiful life.

He is survived by his children: Danielle, Nicole (Bradley) Cadwell, and Dave (Arpi Vardanyan) Mussen; grandchildren: Alyssa Cadwell, Anna Johnson, Alexander and Sophia Mussen; long-time companion: Carol Kasimor; cousins: Marilyn Grossbard and Debbie (Arnold) Pinck, as well as numerous second cousins.

The family thanks Congregation B’nai Israel of Oshkosh for its support. A celebration of life will take place in the summer of 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services of Oshkosh.