John Herbert Pankau

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father, John Herbert Pankau, who entered eternal life on February 20, 2026, at the age of 78.

John was a devoted husband to Linda A. Pankau (Mellonig) for 58 years. He is survived by his sons Jeffery (Jennifer) and their daughters Emily and Kaitlyn, and Michael (Denise) and their sons Adam and Jacob. He is also survived by his sister Dawn Jensen (Steve); his fishing buddies and brothers‑in‑law Robert Jeske (Gail) and David Mellonig (Cindy); and sister‑in‑law Carol Charland (Bill). John is further survived by many nieces and nephews: Jill, Andrew, Lee, Rick, Chris (Becca) Jensen, Sara Szafranski (Joe), and Brad (Amanda) Jensen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Pankau and Virginia (Hack) Pankau.

John and Linda met as teenagers and were married in 1967. They were nearly inseparable throughout their lives, apart only during John’s service in Vietnam.

John proudly served in the United States Air Force, earning numerous commendations. These included the Meritorious Service Medal; Air Force Commendation Medal, three devices; Air Force Good Conduct Medal, five devices; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal, one device; Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, three devices; NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with device; and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He completed his honorable career at the rank of Master Sergeant (MSGT), retiring after many years of faithful and dedicated service to his country.

As part of his Air Force service, John served as a liaison for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds during their air shows at the Milwaukee lakefront-an experience he deeply valued and fondly remembered.

Following his military career, John joined the United States Postal Service, eventually retiring so he could enjoy golf, fishing, and attending countless athletic events for his grandchildren.

John was extraordinarily proud of the successes his sons achieved. He cherished his grandchildren deeply and rarely missed any of their events, always seeming to have a few dollars in his pocket for them.

John was a caring husband, father, grandpa, brother, brother‑in‑law, and friend. We are profoundly grateful for the love and support of our family and friends during this difficult time.

Funeral services for both John and Linda will be held on March 23, 2026, at Mother of Perpetual Help, 2322 S. 106th St., West Allis, WI. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by Mass from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard will perform Military Honors immediately following the church service.

Interment will follow at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13535 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, WI.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation would be deeply appreciated by the family.