Geoff Mykleby

Date of Death: May 7, 2023

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1953-2023

Look up into the clouds; you just might see Geoff Mykleby doing the backstroke — at a record setting pace! What a fun loving, but too short timeline he lived.

He absolutely adored his family, his profession, every single friend he made in so many places while growing up. And, of course, he loved his obsession. SWIMMING!

Geoff jumped into his neighborhood pool in Omaha when he was 8 years old. A coach noticed he was a natural and asked his mom to sign him up for a meet. He won the first of countless victories over the decades, all over the country. From that point on, he swam competitively at Homewood Flossmoor H.S., Cedar Rapids Washington H.S, North Carolina State University, the Schroeder and Elmbrook Masters swim teams. Along the way, he tackled open water swimming in Lake Michigan, Maui, the Mediterranean and Mexico.

When he was 16, then living in Cedar Rapids, his dad observed that dentists seem to have an enjoyable life. He took note and years later set out to protect and promote as many smiles as possible. He participated in continuing education events and became the Milwaukee Brewers team dentist. Unfortunately, health issues forced him to retire much sooner than he planned.

In his early 20’s, while in dental school at the University of Iowa, a woman named Kathy stepped on his toe at a crowded college party hoping to start up a conversation. They toasted their 45th wedding anniversary last New Year’s Eve.

Through the years there were moves from Iowa to Oklahoma and then Milwaukee. The fates were on their side. Geoff’s practice grew. Kathy began a longtime television news career.

They hosted giant Thanksgiving celebrations in their dream home including all their parents, brothers and sisters, spouses, nieces, nephews and lots of friends too. One year there were more than 50 people jammed into the house on turkey day.

Many a friend has been quoted saying, “that was the best party ever!” after attending their wedding in Chicago in 1977 to a giant 65th surprise birthday party in Milwaukee in 2018.

2013 was a tough year. A curious bump on the back of Geoff’s neck uncovered cancer. Geoff kept working, enjoying life and swimming, even managing to convince Kathy to exhale under water when they joined the Hoyt Park pool. In 2020, their “home away from home pool” and ocean waters became Puerto Vallarta.

Unfortunately, Geoff’s cancer is extremely rare and terribly tenacious. It is caused by a mutation of cells. The Clear Cell Sarcoma Foundation believes Geoff held the record as the longest living survivor. He would like to think swimming had something to do with that.

At age 70, Geoff died at home in hospice with a renewed goal in his heart: LIFEGUARDS! There is a dire need to recruit and train more people to keep pools open and to share the joy of swimming.

A future special Celebration of Geoff’s Life is in the works.

He contributed and now hopes to inspire more donations to:

Dr. Geoff Mykleby Memorial

Friends of Hoyt Park and Pool

Schroeder Swim and Dive

Geoff Mykleby Pack by God Swimming Endowment

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1953-2023 Look up into the clouds; you just might see Geoff Mykleby doing the backstroke — at a record setting pace! What a fun loving, but too short timeline he lived. He absolutely adored his family, his profession, every single friend he made in so many places while growing up. And, of course, he lovedContinue Reading

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I had the pleasure and honor to be in Geoff’s orbit through swimming. I coached and swam with him at the Schroeder Y from 2000-07. He was both a social and athletic catalyst for the team organizing Thursday night post-practice get togethers at a local watering hole-no surprise there. Then we reconnected last February through a convoluted set of circumstances in Puerto Vallarta where he was in residence with Kathy battling cancer. The picture above is from a lunch, that Geoff, summoned the strength and courage to attend at our condo across the street from his, and Kathy’s. From left to right are me, my wife, Maureen Murphy, Geoff, and our good friends, Anne and Mark Stewart, who happened to grow up just blocks away from where Mykelby’s resided in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. For my friend Geoff, I think of Jim Valvano‘s speech at the ESPYS in 2008 when he closed with his famous, but oh so true statement about the effects of cancer: “Cancer can take away all my physical abilities. But it cannot take my heart. It cannot take my mind. It cannot take my soul.” This is how I think of Geoff, who is a person who has had an everlasting impact on my life. Thank You Geoff.
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Kathy, Thinking of you and all those who loved Geoff. What a wonderful man. I hope your memories of happy times together will bring you love and comfort.

There really are no words to fully express our deepest sympathy. He was such a good person and so much more. We have great memories that we will always hold in our hearts.

There really are no words to fully express our deepest sympathy. He was such a good person and so much more. We have such great memories that we will always hold in our hearts. Randy and Sandy

I’ve spent many evenings over the past month … remembering the conversations Geoff and I have had pool-side at Hoyt Park over the past 11 years. The theme of our conversations always centered around safety in an aquatic environment. Be it a pool, lake, river or ocean, safety was always at the forefront. Passing along this theme to future generations is now my goal. Thank you Geoff Mykleby for sharing your wisdom with me. Rest in Peace my friend!

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Hi Kathy-I just found out and am so sorry to hear of Geoff’s passing-such a super, fun loving guy and the best full time swimmer/part time dentist there ever was!! I will always remember fondly all the great times I had with him in dental school and beyond. I will see you Friday nite for his life celebration-God Bless-Mike Colbert

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Dear Kathy, and Brian, Diane, and Sandy, A lifetime flies by – and just like that, 45 years has gone. I found these photos from Kathy and Geoff’s wedding on New Year’s Eve. Family was important to Geoff, as he just shared with us on the video, and there you all are - front and center at the beginning of Geoff and Kathy’s adventure. I am so very sorry. After watching Geoff’s brave and thoughtful stories on video just now I am full of gratitude for knowing him and so sad to say goodbye. Love to you all.
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To Geoff's entire family -- I am sorry for your loss. My encounters with him were not often, but always memorable. I know that he lived life fully, and I hope all the memories of fun and laughter sustain you in your grief. Kathleen McDonnell McCracken

My wife Lona and I extend our sympathy to Geoff's family. He was a great colleague, and wonderful personality. Always enjoyed seeing him, and saw him at many dental functions over the years. Mark R. Crego D.D.S. & Lona Crego

Kathy, I am so sorry to learn of Geoff’s passing. What a life you two have led! Take care old friend.

P.S. Kathy, I forgot to mention that picture you posted of the two of you when you were young is adorable.

Kathy, Knowing you only from my television screen, I just wanted to extend my sympathy to you in the loss of your husband. He sounded like a great man. So sorry for your loss.

Jeff you will be missed. Your enthusiasm for our profession did not go unnoticed. I am glad I could call you my friend.

It comes as great remorse to hear of Geoffs passing. As a dental classmate I came to hold Geoff in high esteem as a person. I had hoped to reconnect at our 45th Class reunion in September. My condolences to his family.

Will miss Mary

Big Mykes, I'm sure by now you are busy organizing the "Celestial" Masters Swim Team, coaching some of the younger ones on the fine art of "walls" in the 100 backstroke, or setting up their next social event. People who knew your little brother thought he was the "extrovert" of the family until they met his BIG brother and found out just where little bro got his charm & out-going personality! You were the type of guy who could go into any event a complete stranger and come out with a bucket of new friends. (and future plans for more fun!). The world has lost a bright light in you but it will still shine bright in the people you touched...your legacy will live in our hearts forever. Luv ya, and miss ya, Big Mykes. Your bro, Little Mykes

Kathy, I am sorry to hear of your husband Geoff's death. My mother-in-law in Milwaukee sent me the newspaper article about it. May the Lord give you His peace, comfort, and strength as you mourn your loss.

You swam into our hearts, only to quietly drift away. Your memory will forever be in our hearts.

I would very much appreciate an opportunity to attend Geoff’s Celebration of Life, if you could advise me via email. Sincerely, Mike Stodola

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I am one of the lucky ones to have known Geoff (as my dad always called him “Geoffy”) growing up. And somehow he also became my godsend dentist. He always made me laugh, had some witty comment to calm me down and then saved my smile. Our family is so dang lucky to have had the honor to be in the presence of Geoff….and will miss him. Very much. Rest easy, fly high and continue to swim from above.

I must sed my sympathies and also my family's love for Geoff. Last year in June, both Geoff and my dad, Grandpa Thunder (Tom Michelson) were hospitalized. Geoff texted or called dad multiple times a week until his death June 28th. Those phone calls meant an awful lot even as I had to hold the phone when he became too weak. The first person at the funeral? A recovering Geoff, hobbling and with mask on to protect his weakened immune system. Swimmer o swimmer - those two were buddies. What a loving man. Daughter, Kathy Zingsheim

You knew you were one of a kind but that Midwestern humility cloaked it. You could have done anything…. So much changed after we pushed my empty Vega into the only open Gatlinburg gas station in the middle of the night May 1972. Who knew I would move out of my beloved hometown only to have you relocate & adopt Milwaukee - to prosper and thrive - what a great exchange! And what an ambassador you were. My visits “back home” were graciously welcomed by you and a treat each time – to places and things I had never known before – all arranged and chaperoned by you. And you knew everybody. Even my childhood competitors. But I need to say goodbye my friend. Doctor – I loved your energy. I loved your passion. You loved living and never complained. Greeting you was always an event and something to look forward to. I understand that all good things must come to an end but dagnabbit! Can we take it from here?!? Now we have to….. You touched each of us and we are the better. NC State swimming will always have an open lane with your name on it…. Thanks for sharing your life. You will always be part of me – Go Pack! Tom Duke (aka Dukane)

Kathy, so sorry to hear about Geoff. Just watched the video and it was very moving and a great message for everyone. I actually first met Geoff playing noon basketball at the West Suburban YMCA. Did that for many years and he was a great competitor!! Of course, I would then see him at station functions and then realize who he was. I just knew him as this crazy BB guy from the Y. Geoff also touched our lives as a dentist for my in-laws, Bob and Betty Sodemann. They loved him and trusted him. Believe me that was a big deal for them. I am wishing that the memories you have stay with you forever and ever. I know one thing; Heaven is a happier place with him in it. Pete and Sue Monfre

Kathy, please accept my heartfelt condolences. Geoff was a remarkable man and good friend. I reached out to him a few weeks ago and he enlightened me as to his impending demise without even a hint of bitterness. He will be missed greatly by everyone who ever had the pleasure of spending time with him. May he rest in peace and may you find comfort in the many memories of your time together.

Kathy you and your family are in my Prayers..

R.I.P.

My family got to know Geoff during a very difficult time for us. My father was a dentist, but had had an event that caused his early retirement. We had to quickly sell his practice. There were multiple people looking to buy it, but they were looking to take advantage of the situation. Not Geoff-he came to us and made us an offer that was incredible and so much more than fair. We made the deal on a handshake, and that’s what started our friendship. Over the years Geoff and Kathy became very close with my parents who were 20 years their senior. They went to dinner with them all the time, and Geoff made it a point to call my dad on a regular basis. He never expected anything from my dad – he was his friend and he wanted to stay in touch -and that’s what he did. I met Geoff and Kathy more recently-and we became fast friends. Simply put- Geoff was a mensch-a guy that despite having so much going on in his life-always made the time for others, cared so much about others and was always honorable. My dad will miss him very much- as will I.

Kathy - my deepest sympathies to you. He was a true gift. The reason I still swim today (at 52) is because I was trained by Geoff in the early 1990's. He taught me how to be competitive and how to train effectively. I absolutely loved learning from him and the joy it created as a lifetime competitive sport. I am so sorry to read of the loss of this great man. Karen (Alexander) Francois

Please accept my sincere, heartfelt condolences to you Kathy; and to your entire family, in this time of incredible loss. Geoff was a FORCE, with an all encompassing personality that filled any room he was in. It was my good fortune to be his classmate, teammate and friend. With my Sympathy, Mike Stodola

You will be greatly missed, Goeff.....especially at the Masters Swimming meets in Fort Lauderdale. A smile was always on your face. So sorry, Kathy. Our hearts go out to you.

My condolences to you Kathy. I enjoyed each of my conversations with Geoff and will miss him greatly. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. Robbie

Kathy Words cannot express how deeply sorrowful I am for you and your extended family. Geoff had come to me many times through the years asking for clinical tips and advice, and I considered him a good friend. I had heard that he had a medical condition but since I would still see his name outside of his office building, I assumed he was continuing to work and deal with his condition. I am just devastated that he is gone, that sly smile he always had will only be a memory. I express my condolences! Peace! Jim Del Balso

As a dental colleague, I want to let everyone know how much time and energy Geoff put I'm to making our profession better than he found it. Helping our association on the continuing education front was his forte and did he ever know his way around that. In addition, he was so blasted fun to hang out with. Geoff...may you be resting in peace and condolences to Kathy and your whole crew. Job well done Dr Mykelby.

What a tribute! Love and prayers to you Kathy. Errol and I were shocked to hear about Geoff’s passing and blown away watching his parting message. We love ❤️ you Kathy Errol and Cynthia

My deepest condolences. Dr. Mykleby was my dentist for at least 25 years. He really really took care of me. He saved my teeth and was there whenever I needed him. I will miss him a lot.

My deepest sympathy on the passing of Dr Mykelby. He was my dentist since he took over Dr Letter's practice over 20 years ago. He was a very special man and was always interested in how my family was doing, especially Reich Tool & Design , which my husband and I started. May God's blessings go to the whole family.

Geoff brought great joy to so many people over his lifetime. I have great memories of my time with him over the years, from the best birthday parties ever to a memorable road trip to a road Packers game. Everyone always smiled a bit more when they were him. Thank you, Geoff, for making our time in life’s pool that much better. Hugs to you Kathy.

Geoff's love, positivity, and passion for life impacted so many! He was a blessing to everyone and he will definitely be missed.

Thank you Dr. Mykleby for being such a great dentist and taking such good care of my teeth for so many, many years! Thank you for being such an inspiration too. I remember sharing with Dr. Mykleby how I brush my dogs' teeth every day and he had said that he didn't but should! We had a good laugh. I was so glad that I got to see him at my last appointment and got to give him a big hug. Kathy, I never got to meet you, but please know that the love you shared will live on in your heart forever. Blessings.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

My deepest sympathy to Kathy...I had the privilege of Geoff's friendship as Rob styled his hair...and also was a patient of his dental practice. Loved his smile and outlook on life. He was always a positive soul.He lived a "Life well lived" He will be missed ..but never forgotten...honored to be a friend...

So sorry to see you depart this world so soon. This place was a better place with you in it. It was a honor to know you. Rest in peace.

Kathy, I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

A great guy. So sorry for your loss, Kathy. Sending much love and support.

That was the most beautiful tribute I have ever seen. What a wonderful person he was. My thoughts and prayers to the family

In memory of Geoff Mykleby, Misti Clinton lit a candle

It has been said that when you leave this world the only thing you take with you is that which you have given to others. Geoff's suitcase was beyond full and definitely overflowing.

In memory of Geoff Mykleby, The Loprest Family lit a candle

We will miss you dear friend and keep you forever in our hearts. xoxo

I had met Dr. Mykleby back in 1984, through my in-laws, and my wife and I were loyal patients ever since. He was a talented professional who never tired of discussing the Brewers, as he had one of the head coaches and several players as patients. Rest in peace, good friend. Ed and Lori

God needed a Dentist so he called you home. A man that made friends everywhere. Generous, loving and proud of his family, loved his work. A true respected professional. Thank you for always being so nice to me and everyone else around you. I miss your humorous energy. You were my dentist and friend. I wish only the best for your family because that's just what you gave all of us. Geoff you will never be forgotten! Thank you for your friendship for 22 years! Tom

My husband Nick and I met Geoff in 2001 when we moved to Milwaukee. He was an amazing, caring dentist that we have a soft place in our hearts for all these years. I have never met a dentist that cared so much. That is why even after moving to Green Bay we still make our drive down twice a year to see him (now his associates) even after moving in 2003. We will miss him and his wonderful smile. Thank you for always taking care of us.

Geoff delivered so much love … It was such a joy to dance in his life … Peace

Dear Kathy, I’m so sorry to learn about the death of Geoff. I never met him, but knowing you, he must’ve been a great guy! I know my parents, Howard & Rosemary Gernette had the good fortune of being out with you two on occasion. When that happened, they always had such great things to say about you two and how much fun they had! Please know that you’re in my thoughts and prayers. Beth Wronski

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.

Geoff Mykleby

Brookfield

Brown Deer Road

Capitol Drive

New Berlin