Michael Charles Reineck September 17, 1943 - May 1, 2026 Born to Eternal Life surrounded by his family on May 1, 2026, at the age of 82. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose life was defined by a profound Catholic faith and an unwavering devotion to his family. As a man of deep spiritual conviction, Michael lived his life as a testament to the values of service, integrity, and stewardship.
Michael was born on September 17, 1943 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He graduated from Dominican High School in 1961, earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1965, obtained his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health in 1970, and completed his postgraduate training through the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals from 1970 to 1971 and specialized training in Orthopedic Surgery at Corewell Health - Grand Rapids/Michigan State University (formerly St. Mary’s Hospital) from 1971 to 1975.
Michael met his wife, Catherine Ann Blenski in 1961. They dated throughout college and were married on December 17, 1966.
A dedicated patriot, Michael served for six years in the Wisconsin Army National Guard from 1970 to 1976. Attaining the rank of Major, he served as a Flight Surgeon, a role that combined his medical calling with his duty to his country.

As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and pioneer in his field, Michael was the first independent orthopedic surgeon to settle in West Bend, establishing Orthopedic Associates of West Bend in 1975. Over a remarkable 46-year career, he didn’t just practice medicine; he built the foundation for specialized musculoskeletal care in Washington County. Primarily affiliated with Froedtert West Bend Hospital (formerly St. Joseph’s), he played a central role in transforming the local community hospital into a premier regional center for orthopedic excellence. Michael was influential in bringing modern advancements like minimally invasive arthroscopy and complex joint replacements to the area, ensuring his community could receive world-class treatment close to home.
Beyond his local practice, Michael was a respected leader in the state’s medical landscape. His involvement began with the Washington-Ozaukee County Medical Society through the 1970s and 80s, and beginning in 1991, Michael expanded his service to the Wisconsin Medical Society. In this role, he became a steadfast advocate for his colleagues and patients, eventually serving as a member of the Board of Directors, Vice Speaker in 2003 and President in 2004. Michael focused his statewide influence on physician wellness and patient safety, ensuring that every healthcare policy remained focused on the people it served.

In addition to his clinical practice, Michael was widely respected as a medical consultant and expert in orthopedic injuries. He provided independent medical evaluations and expert opinions for insurance, legal, and workers’ compensation cases, helping determine the nature, cause, and extent of injuries. Known for his integrity and thoughtful judgement, he was trusted to deliver objective, evidence-based assessments that supported fair and informed decision-making for patients, families, and institutions alike.

Michael’s commitment to his community extended beyond medicine. Together with his wife, Catherine, he recognized a need in West Bend for a modern, welcoming space where families could gather and enjoy time together. Inspired by his lifelong love of films - something he shared often with his children through regular trips to the movies - the West Bend Cinema (formerly the Paradise Theatre) was born. Built from both his passion for cinema and his desire to enrich the community, the theatre became a place where families could connect and create lasting memories. The West Bend Cinema continues to operate today as a lasting reflection of his vision and dedication to West Bend.

Rooted in faith and guided by integrity, service, and stewardship, Michael lived a life devoted to others. He answered his calling with compassion, led with principle, and gave generously of his time and talents. In every aspect of his life, he sought to serve and uplift those around him. His legacy endures in the lives he shaped, the community he strengthened, and the examples he leaves for all who knew him.

Michael is survived by Catherine, his beloved wife for over 50 years; his children Catherine (Rich) Bondarowicz, Michael (Jenni) Reineck, and Heather (Michael) Szerbat; his grandchildren Hanna and Faith Bondarowicz, Andrew, Lauren, and Evan Reineck, and Abigail and Sophia Szerbat; and his sisters Susan Reineck and Mary Holmes. He was preceded in death by his parents Elroy and Gladys Reineck; parents-in-law Michael and Catherine Blenski, brother-in-law Michael Blenski and brother-in-law Jim Holmes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Michael on Monday, June 1,2026 at 4:30 P.M. at St. Frances Cabrini in West Bend. Visitation will be from 3:30 -4:30 P.M. Private interment at Wisconsin Memorial Park to occur at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Frances Cabrini Church located at 1025 2. 7th Ave. West Bend, WI 53095