Joel P. Lanser

Joel P. Lanser of Port Washington went to his heavenly home on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026. He was 69 years old. 

He was born on Feb. 13, 1957, in Port Washington, Wis., to parents Gregory and Anna (nee Becker) Lanser. He attended Port Washington High School and graduated in 1975. 

Following high school, he worked as a meat cutter for Kohls Food stores and Olson’s Piggly Wiggly in Cedarburg. 

Joel was united in marriage with Peggy Grisar on Feb. 20, 2009, in Las Vegas, Nev. 

He was a member of St. John XXIII Catholic Parish and in the past has served on the parish counsel and as a Eucharistic minister.

Joel could often be found putzing in his garden or cheering on Wisconsin sports, even placing a bet or two. He enjoyed going on the occasional cruise vacation and spending time in the north woods, but he was happiest at home, grilling for his family, making sure everyone was well fed. Above all, spending time with his grandchildren meant the most to him. He was known to them as “Papa Joe” or “Silly Papa.”

Throughout his life, Joel was known for his kindness, humility and genuine caring nature. He had an extraordinary ability to entertain and ensure the happiness of those around him, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Joel is survived by his wife Peggy, children Jessica (Curt) Pearson, Cortney (Josh) Borden, Ryan (Amanda) Nierode and Eric (Sara) Nierode and grandchildren Hailey and Cole Pearson, Cade and Colton Borden, Wesley Nierode and Madalyn Nierode. He is further survived by his siblings Dan (Cheryl) Lanser, Christine (Keith) Rismeyer, Marge Jacobson, Therese (Dan) Dallgas, Gerard (Elkim) Lanser and Jim Lanser and brother-in-law Dave Kleckner, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Suzanne Kleckner and brother-in-law Tom Jacobson. 

A Mass will be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, at St. John XXIII Parish,  St. Mary’s Church, 451 N. Johnson St., Port Washington, Wis. The family will greet guests at the church from 3 p.m. until the Mass at 5 p.m. 

Joel will be placed at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Port Washington. 

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

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