Visitation
St. John Vianney Parish
1755 North Calhoun Road
Brookfield, WI 53005
Friday 4/24,
3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Service
St. John Vianney Parish
1755 North Calhoun Road
Brookfield, WI 53005
Friday 4/24,
5:00 pm
DR. KEMAKOLAM (“Kem”) MICHAEL OBASIH, 71, of Brookfield, WI—a beloved father, grandfather, partner, brother, uncle, and friend—passed away surrounded by his loving family on March 8, 2026. Kem was a brilliant engineer, a devoted patriarch, and a man of unwavering faith who touched countless lives and served as a light to all who knew him.Continue Reading
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16 trees were planted in memory of Dr. Kemakolam Obasih 
Anonymous
left a message on April 25, 2026:
IMO a truly amazing man. It's hard to figure out where he found the energy to accomplish all he did, especially raising four equally amazing kids!
The Barbers (from his GE days)
left a message on April 22, 2026:
Our sincere condolences on the loss of your father. He was an inspiration to many and I remember his energy and joy when he spoke about each of you.
Melda and Henry
left a message on April 15, 2026:
Melda and I, Thank You very much for your friendship! It's not about the race it's about the relationships. Thanks again, Doctor!
Anonymous
left a message on April 24, 2026:
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Nelle and Dan Lemaux
left a message on April 23, 2026:
Sending our deepest condolences to the Obasih family.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Mrs. Sue Howard-retired Kindergarten Teacher, Hillside
left a message on April 22, 2026:
To the Obasih Family,
I was saddened to hear of Kem’s passing. He was such a proud and devoted father. He never missed a parent-teacher conference or school program! I am certain he will be missed by not only his family but by the MANY people he came in contact with! His warm smile and positive nature made him a joy to be around.
God Bless his family as you move on without this special Dad!
Brad Storm
left a message on April 20, 2026:
I was very sad to hear of Kem's passing. I worked with Kem at Johnson Controls where we teamed up to build Li-Ion batteries for cars. Kem wanted to know everything about the battery performance under stress and he would assign me the most complicated tests that required weeks of testing, often to a destructive ending. He was a brilliant Engineer and we had many discussions and compromises that were often mixed with stories of his family and jokes. Kem had a very good sense of humor and a naughty side that had me laughing. When sitting through a boring corporate meeting, I would make eye contact with Kem, see his devilish grin and soon we were cracking up. Kem is the kind of person that really made me enjoy coming to work. I will miss him and am sorry that we got out of touch after we both departed the company. His memory will live forever.
Dr. Segun Ige
left a message on April 17, 2026:
A TRIBUTE TO DR. KEMAKOLAM (“KEM”) OBASIH
It was with profound sadness and grief that I learned of the passing of my beloved friend, Dr. Kemakolam “Kem” Michael Obasih. Kem was far more than a friend to me — he was a brother.
I first met Kem in 1990 when, after completing my doctorate at MIT, I began my first job as an engineer at GE Healthcare in Florence, South Carolina. We both worked on the design and development of GE’s next generation of MRI superconductor magnets. At the time I joined the company, Kem was the only member of staff of Nigerian descent. I became the second, and it was only natural that I was introduced to him.
Where others in such a situation might have focused on differences or even viewed me as a rival, Kem embraced me immediately. He did everything he could to make my transition smooth and my life in Florence comfortable. He introduced me to other Nigerians in town and would periodically drive me to the state capital, Columbia, where we stocked up on Nigerian foodstuffs before returning to Florence.
Our friendship endured well beyond the few years we spent together in Florence. After Kem relocated to Milwaukee and I returned to Massachusetts, we remained in regular contact. Such was the depth of our bond that Kem became my mentor and confidant. He offered both career guidance and personal counsel. Whenever I faced a thorny issue and didn’t know how to resolve it, Kem was the one I called — and he always seemed to have a way forward. I looked forward to our weekend phone conversations because I knew I would always come away enriched.
As many have testified, Kem was a magnanimous man with a huge heart. One incident from our early days in Florence, which remains etched in my memory, perfectly captured his selfless nature. When my mother came to visit me, my supervisor organized a formal dinner in her honor. Kem and a few other staff members attended. It was a full seven-course dinner, served with vintage silverware.
Because I had not prepared my mother for the etiquette of such a meal, I became anxious as tea was being served. I dreaded that she might unknowingly commit a faux pas in the way she used the teaspoon. I sat, ashen faced, bracing myself for what I feared could be an embarrassing moment.
But just as the server was about to hand the teacup to my mother, Kem — who was seated even farther away from her than I was — suddenly sprang from his seat. He took the teacup from the server, calmly stirred the tea himself, and handed the cup to my mother, keeping the teaspoon in his own hand. I breathed a deep sigh of relief, knowing that Kem had spared me what could have been an uncomfortable situation.
That single gesture spoke volumes. It reflected Kem’s quick thinking, his sensitivity, and his willingness to sacrifice his own comfort to protect someone else. It was a simple act, but it symbolized the generosity and thoughtfulness that defined him.
Kem, I miss you deeply. I miss our conversations. I miss your nurturing spirit, your guidance, and your unwavering emotional support.
Farewell, my dear brother. May our Heavenly Father grant your soul eternal rest.
Dr. Segun Ige
Dr. Segun Ige
left a message on April 17, 2026:
To the memory of my beloved friend, Dr. Kemakolam "Kem" Obasih.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Ogochukwu Akpa Mosbacher
left a message on April 14, 2026:
My dearest Uncle Kemakolam❤️
It is difficult to find the right words to describe what Uncle Kemakolam meant to me, because he was so much more than an uncle—he was truly a father figure in my life.
Growing up in Nigeria, our families shared a close and meaningful bond, and Uncle Kemakolam carried that sense of family with him wherever he went. When I was preparing to move to the United States, he didn’t just welcome me—he embraced me as his own. Even before I arrived, he made sure I knew I had someone here. He checked on me, encouraged me, prayed for me, and constantly reminded me that I was not alone.
In a new country, far from everything familiar, that kind of love is something I can never fully express in words. He gave me comfort, reassurance, and a sense of belonging that stayed with me every day. He had a way of making you feel seen, cared for, and supported without ever asking for anything in return.
Uncle Kemakolam believed deeply in family and connection. He brought people together, and he genuinely wanted us to stay close. My husband and I had been looking forward to spending Easter with him—something he truly desired—to gather, connect, and share in that love. It breaks my heart that we will not have that time together in the way we hoped.
Still, I carry him with me—in his prayers, in his kindness, and in the way he taught me to show up for others. He will always be part of my life story, a steady presence of love and strength.
He will always be remembered and deeply cherished by me, Ogonna, my husband Christopher, and our daughter Adaeze.
I will forever be grateful for him. He was deeply loved, and he will never be forgotten.
Brian Stamborski
left a message on April 9, 2026:
I am very sorry to hear about Kem's death. He was a very good friend. I will miss him. You are all in my prayers. Stay strong... Brian Stamborski
Dr. Adebiyi Oladosu
left a message on April 6, 2026:
The inevitability of death presents to us as human beings to reflect on the paths of the demised, and to use it as our own standard. Dr. Kem, you were a man of many paths. Notably of my conversation with you was when I newly came into the States, and as your tenant, you sat me down and told me about life. You spoke to me like a son. You were not just a landlord, you showed up to ensure my integration was seamless. My wife would always remember that you gave her the first dollar bills even when you didn’t let her complete the assignment cos you were concerned about our home. Dr. Kem, I will miss your jokes on “amala”, and the way you always attest that I’m getting fresher since my wife and kids joined me. Evidently , you came, you saw, and you conquered. Adieu, Dr. Kem and rest on!
Anonymous
left a message on April 2, 2026:
In memory of Kemkind, thoughtful, and attentive. He lifted others with humor and gentle words. May this tree reflect the care he gave.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Zoe Jin
left a message on April 2, 2026:
I was deeply saddened to learn of Kem’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Kem, and I will always remember his kindness, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for the people around him.
One memory that stands out is Kem’s participation in a colleague’s baby shower, where he thoughtfully gifted practical baby essentials. It was a small gesture, but it perfectly reflected who Kem was—attentive, caring, and always thinking about how to support others in meaningful ways. At work, he had a rare ability to sense how people were feeling. He could tell when someone was happy or having a hard day, and he would either lift spirits with his humor or offer comfort through kind, sincere words.
Kem brought warmth and humanity into the workplace, reminding us that work is ultimately about people. Beyond his professional contributions, his devotion to family and faith was evident in how he lived and treated others.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Kem’s family and loved ones. May you find comfort in the many lives he touched and the legacy of compassion, faith, and generosity he leaves behind. He will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.
Hiroko Kawai
left a message on March 31, 2026:
I have many fond memories of Kem. Had a wonderful time attending the Detroit auto show only to find out that our return flight was cancelled and we decided to drive back a rental car to Milwaukee. There were three of us; two women (me and another friend Ramelle) and Kem. We said we are going to take turns driving, ok?
Kem didn’t accept that by saying “I’m used to driving my kids everywhere so I drive ! “
Yes he drove, indeed! and us ladies talked and talked and gossiped and Kem kept driving for all 7 hours back to MKE!
He always had a welcoming aura about him at work and outside of work. I still have a vivid image of him wearing his Badger shirt whenever there was going to be a game that weekend.
We will totally miss him, his laughter and his avocado pits! We shall celebrate his life.
Anonymous
left a message on March 31, 2026:
Dr. Kem was a shining light in a room of darkness. He could cheer anyone up. I will miss our talks and hearing his jokes. You will be dearly missed.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Jojo
left a message on March 31, 2026:
My deepest condolences Dera. I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad. ♥️♥️
Nutrina Brown
left a message on March 31, 2026:
My prayers are with the family! Dr. Obasih was a great Man and father. He loved his children dearly and sacrificed for their peace , joy, happiness and success. He raised 4 exceptional young Adults. His legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren. God bless you all. Mrs. Nutrina Brown
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
Show More
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Anonymous
left a message on April 25, 2026:
IMO a truly amazing man. It's hard to figure out where he found the energy to accomplish all he did, especially raising four equally amazing kids!
The Barbers (from his GE days)
left a message on April 22, 2026:
Our sincere condolences on the loss of your father. He was an inspiration to many and I remember his energy and joy when he spoke about each of you.
Melda and Henry
left a message on April 15, 2026:
Melda and I, Thank You very much for your friendship! It's not about the race it's about the relationships. Thanks again, Doctor!
Anonymous
left a message on April 24, 2026:
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Nelle and Dan Lemaux
left a message on April 23, 2026:
Sending our deepest condolences to the Obasih family.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Mrs. Sue Howard-retired Kindergarten Teacher, Hillside
left a message on April 22, 2026:
To the Obasih Family,
I was saddened to hear of Kem’s passing. He was such a proud and devoted father. He never missed a parent-teacher conference or school program! I am certain he will be missed by not only his family but by the MANY people he came in contact with! His warm smile and positive nature made him a joy to be around.
God Bless his family as you move on without this special Dad!
Brad Storm
left a message on April 20, 2026:
I was very sad to hear of Kem's passing. I worked with Kem at Johnson Controls where we teamed up to build Li-Ion batteries for cars. Kem wanted to know everything about the battery performance under stress and he would assign me the most complicated tests that required weeks of testing, often to a destructive ending. He was a brilliant Engineer and we had many discussions and compromises that were often mixed with stories of his family and jokes. Kem had a very good sense of humor and a naughty side that had me laughing. When sitting through a boring corporate meeting, I would make eye contact with Kem, see his devilish grin and soon we were cracking up. Kem is the kind of person that really made me enjoy coming to work. I will miss him and am sorry that we got out of touch after we both departed the company. His memory will live forever.
Dr. Segun Ige
left a message on April 17, 2026:
A TRIBUTE TO DR. KEMAKOLAM (“KEM”) OBASIH
It was with profound sadness and grief that I learned of the passing of my beloved friend, Dr. Kemakolam “Kem” Michael Obasih. Kem was far more than a friend to me — he was a brother.
I first met Kem in 1990 when, after completing my doctorate at MIT, I began my first job as an engineer at GE Healthcare in Florence, South Carolina. We both worked on the design and development of GE’s next generation of MRI superconductor magnets. At the time I joined the company, Kem was the only member of staff of Nigerian descent. I became the second, and it was only natural that I was introduced to him.
Where others in such a situation might have focused on differences or even viewed me as a rival, Kem embraced me immediately. He did everything he could to make my transition smooth and my life in Florence comfortable. He introduced me to other Nigerians in town and would periodically drive me to the state capital, Columbia, where we stocked up on Nigerian foodstuffs before returning to Florence.
Our friendship endured well beyond the few years we spent together in Florence. After Kem relocated to Milwaukee and I returned to Massachusetts, we remained in regular contact. Such was the depth of our bond that Kem became my mentor and confidant. He offered both career guidance and personal counsel. Whenever I faced a thorny issue and didn’t know how to resolve it, Kem was the one I called — and he always seemed to have a way forward. I looked forward to our weekend phone conversations because I knew I would always come away enriched.
As many have testified, Kem was a magnanimous man with a huge heart. One incident from our early days in Florence, which remains etched in my memory, perfectly captured his selfless nature. When my mother came to visit me, my supervisor organized a formal dinner in her honor. Kem and a few other staff members attended. It was a full seven-course dinner, served with vintage silverware.
Because I had not prepared my mother for the etiquette of such a meal, I became anxious as tea was being served. I dreaded that she might unknowingly commit a faux pas in the way she used the teaspoon. I sat, ashen faced, bracing myself for what I feared could be an embarrassing moment.
But just as the server was about to hand the teacup to my mother, Kem — who was seated even farther away from her than I was — suddenly sprang from his seat. He took the teacup from the server, calmly stirred the tea himself, and handed the cup to my mother, keeping the teaspoon in his own hand. I breathed a deep sigh of relief, knowing that Kem had spared me what could have been an uncomfortable situation.
That single gesture spoke volumes. It reflected Kem’s quick thinking, his sensitivity, and his willingness to sacrifice his own comfort to protect someone else. It was a simple act, but it symbolized the generosity and thoughtfulness that defined him.
Kem, I miss you deeply. I miss our conversations. I miss your nurturing spirit, your guidance, and your unwavering emotional support.
Farewell, my dear brother. May our Heavenly Father grant your soul eternal rest.
Dr. Segun Ige
Dr. Segun Ige
left a message on April 17, 2026:
To the memory of my beloved friend, Dr. Kemakolam "Kem" Obasih.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Ogochukwu Akpa Mosbacher
left a message on April 14, 2026:
My dearest Uncle Kemakolam❤️
It is difficult to find the right words to describe what Uncle Kemakolam meant to me, because he was so much more than an uncle—he was truly a father figure in my life.
Growing up in Nigeria, our families shared a close and meaningful bond, and Uncle Kemakolam carried that sense of family with him wherever he went. When I was preparing to move to the United States, he didn’t just welcome me—he embraced me as his own. Even before I arrived, he made sure I knew I had someone here. He checked on me, encouraged me, prayed for me, and constantly reminded me that I was not alone.
In a new country, far from everything familiar, that kind of love is something I can never fully express in words. He gave me comfort, reassurance, and a sense of belonging that stayed with me every day. He had a way of making you feel seen, cared for, and supported without ever asking for anything in return.
Uncle Kemakolam believed deeply in family and connection. He brought people together, and he genuinely wanted us to stay close. My husband and I had been looking forward to spending Easter with him—something he truly desired—to gather, connect, and share in that love. It breaks my heart that we will not have that time together in the way we hoped.
Still, I carry him with me—in his prayers, in his kindness, and in the way he taught me to show up for others. He will always be part of my life story, a steady presence of love and strength.
He will always be remembered and deeply cherished by me, Ogonna, my husband Christopher, and our daughter Adaeze.
I will forever be grateful for him. He was deeply loved, and he will never be forgotten.
Brian Stamborski
left a message on April 9, 2026:
I am very sorry to hear about Kem's death. He was a very good friend. I will miss him. You are all in my prayers. Stay strong... Brian Stamborski
Dr. Adebiyi Oladosu
left a message on April 6, 2026:
The inevitability of death presents to us as human beings to reflect on the paths of the demised, and to use it as our own standard. Dr. Kem, you were a man of many paths. Notably of my conversation with you was when I newly came into the States, and as your tenant, you sat me down and told me about life. You spoke to me like a son. You were not just a landlord, you showed up to ensure my integration was seamless. My wife would always remember that you gave her the first dollar bills even when you didn’t let her complete the assignment cos you were concerned about our home. Dr. Kem, I will miss your jokes on “amala”, and the way you always attest that I’m getting fresher since my wife and kids joined me. Evidently , you came, you saw, and you conquered. Adieu, Dr. Kem and rest on!
Anonymous
left a message on April 2, 2026:
In memory of Kemkind, thoughtful, and attentive. He lifted others with humor and gentle words. May this tree reflect the care he gave.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Zoe Jin
left a message on April 2, 2026:
I was deeply saddened to learn of Kem’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Kem, and I will always remember his kindness, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for the people around him.
One memory that stands out is Kem’s participation in a colleague’s baby shower, where he thoughtfully gifted practical baby essentials. It was a small gesture, but it perfectly reflected who Kem was—attentive, caring, and always thinking about how to support others in meaningful ways. At work, he had a rare ability to sense how people were feeling. He could tell when someone was happy or having a hard day, and he would either lift spirits with his humor or offer comfort through kind, sincere words.
Kem brought warmth and humanity into the workplace, reminding us that work is ultimately about people. Beyond his professional contributions, his devotion to family and faith was evident in how he lived and treated others.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Kem’s family and loved ones. May you find comfort in the many lives he touched and the legacy of compassion, faith, and generosity he leaves behind. He will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.
Hiroko Kawai
left a message on March 31, 2026:
I have many fond memories of Kem. Had a wonderful time attending the Detroit auto show only to find out that our return flight was cancelled and we decided to drive back a rental car to Milwaukee. There were three of us; two women (me and another friend Ramelle) and Kem. We said we are going to take turns driving, ok?
Kem didn’t accept that by saying “I’m used to driving my kids everywhere so I drive ! “
Yes he drove, indeed! and us ladies talked and talked and gossiped and Kem kept driving for all 7 hours back to MKE!
He always had a welcoming aura about him at work and outside of work. I still have a vivid image of him wearing his Badger shirt whenever there was going to be a game that weekend.
We will totally miss him, his laughter and his avocado pits! We shall celebrate his life.
Anonymous
left a message on March 31, 2026:
Dr. Kem was a shining light in a room of darkness. He could cheer anyone up. I will miss our talks and hearing his jokes. You will be dearly missed.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Kemakolam Obasih . Plant a Tree
Jojo
left a message on March 31, 2026:
My deepest condolences Dera. I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad. ♥️♥️
Nutrina Brown
left a message on March 31, 2026:
My prayers are with the family! Dr. Obasih was a great Man and father. He loved his children dearly and sacrificed for their peace , joy, happiness and success. He raised 4 exceptional young Adults. His legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren. God bless you all. Mrs. Nutrina Brown
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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