Michael Joseph Kaiser

Michael J. Kaiser, 68, of Papillion, NE entered into eternal rest on November 9, 2025.

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO, Mike carried his hometown pride with him everywhere he went, especially when it came to cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals. His love for family, faith and friendship shaped every chapter of his life and every relationship he touched.

Mike dedicated 33 years to government service, including 23 years on Active Duty in the United States Air Force. He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, having served as a B-52 Radar Navigator and later with NAOC. After retiring from the military, he continued to serve for another decade as a civilian employee, always committed to the mission and the people beside him.

Beyond his work, Mike lived life fully and joyfully. He was an avid golfer, known for countless rounds at Willow Lakes with his cherished golf buddies. He attended weekly Bible study, where he found strength, purpose and fellowship. He was a true adventurer at heart, traveling far and wide, with Antarctica and Cardinal’s Fantasy Camp standing out as treasured journeys. He made it to all 50 states, and 6 of the 7 continents.

At home, one of Mike’s greatest joys was being “Pop”. His grandkids, Kaylee and Logan Bradford and Emmalynn, Weston and Braxton Kaiser, adored spending time with him, especially when a Cardinal’s game was on. They knew that if Pop was watching baseball, bedtime rules didn’t apply. Those late nights, filled with giggles and extra innings are memories the family will hold close forever.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Karen (Endebrock) Kaiser. He was a loving father to Kristen Bradford and Stephen (Rebecca) Kaiser. Dear brother to John, Jim (Arleta), and Bob (Robin) Kaiser. Brother-in-law to Linda, David (Stacey) Endebrock and Marcia (Tim) Rozell. Son-in-law to John (LaVerne) Endebrock. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence (Arlene) and Jean Kaiser and mother-in-law Eleanore Endebrock.

He fought cancer with courage, grace and unwavering faith. This past September, it seemed he had won his second battle with the disease, but he later succumbed to complications from treatment. Through it all, he remained strong in spirit and surrounded by love. Mike’s friends were truly his extended family and he embraced every moment of life. Faith, family and friendship meant everything to him and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation to take place on Thursday, December 4, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Bethany Funeral Home, LaVista with a Vigil Service to follow at 7:00pm. Mass of Christian Burial to be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 10:30 am at St. Columbkille Catholic Church (200 E. 6th Street, Papillion, NE 68046). Burial at Omaha National Cemetery, Papillion, NE.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to

American Cancer Society,

Prostate Cancer Foundation,

Red Cross,

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS)

or

Methodist Hospital Foundation