Will Reckase

William Reckase, 31, ended his life in Baltimore, Maryland April 6, 2024.

Will was born in La Crosse, January 28, 1993, to Mary Mundt Reckase and Dan Reckase. He graduated from Aquinas High School and Seattle University where he was recognized for being the top student graduating in his major.  During his time in college, he spent a year overseas in Montpelier, France.  After his graduation he moved to Europe and was a teaching assistant for English in the French school system.  Will then enrolled at KU Leuven in Belgium for graduate work and received two Master’s degrees in Philosophy, the last this past September.

Will was a popular guy and developed strong friendships throughout his life.  He enjoyed living in Europe, acquiring books and reading, and sharing his favorite music with friends.  Over the last year significant mental health issues arose, ultimately leading to his death.

Will is survived by his parents.  His brother David died in 2017.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, April 20, at Roncalli Newman Center in La Crosse, 1732 State Street.  Visitation will be at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to FolksHaven or KU Leuven would be appreciated.  FolksHaven is a supported living house for mental health recovery in La Crosse operated by Catholic Charities, PO Box 266, La Crosse, WI 54602 or www.cclse.org.   A memorial fund in Will’s name is being established at KU Leuven to support an ongoing program to discuss international threats to European collaborative government, a concern for Will in his last years.  Donations to the fund can be made through this link:   https://icts.kuleuven.be/apps/fondsen/4000741/en/donate?vgs=400002555785.

Schumacher-Kish Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements.  An online guestbook is available at www.schumacher-kish.com.