GREEN BAY, Wis. - There has been an authentic, heartfelt and much deserved sharing of stories and support since news broke of the passing of Louis "Lou" LeCalsey III on March 31, 2026. LeCalsey, who served and supported UW-Green Bay in countless ways for more than 50 years, was surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren. He was 87.
 
Touching stories about LeCalsey abound. Each deserves to be read, as they paint a picture of a larger-than-life man who has had an incredible impact on his family, community and UW-Green Bay.

"Lou always believed in the power of UWGB from its inception and he poured so much of his time and talent in making us better.," said Mark Murphy Endowed Director of Athletics, Josh Moon. "He was a friend and mentor to so many of us in athletics over the years and he will be truly missed. We extend our deepest condolences to the LeCalsey family in this difficult time."
 
Readers of LeCalsey's life story will quickly see he was called many things during his eight decades, from advocate to counselor to coach. His affection and support for all things Phoenix appeared to have no bounds; he was a friend of the university in the best and broadest definition of the phrase, touching every corner of the institution.
 
It is clear that LeCalsey took the words of Green Bay Packers Coach Vinc Lombardi to heart when he was interviewed to be the first soccer coach at UW-Green Bay: "'This is probably your only chance in your life to start something from nothing, and leave something good behind."
 
He left a lot of good. LeCalsey was a highly valued and trusted advisor to all seven chancellors, and founded the University's Council of Trustees to ensure there was an intentional connection between the university and the community. LeCalsey established scholarship funds and athletics funds to support students in need and served as an unofficial student recruiter, personally bringing students out to the university for tours and an introduction to what was possible through education.
 
His university accomplishments were numerous: As UW-Green Bay Men's Soccer Coach, his 1969 squad was the highest scoring team in the nation with 95 goals and 63 assists. LeCalsey's record during his two year tenure was an impressive 22-4-4, and his 1970 team received the school's first national tournament invitation. His career began and finished with Green Bay Soccer, when in 2023, LeCalsey was the creator and Co-Leader of the RISE Impact Team compiled of GB Men's Soccer alumni to help drive the program in fundraising, event planning, and alumni relations.

"Lou was an integral part of the UW-Green Bay men's soccer program from its inception," said Green Bay men's soccer head coach John O'Reilly. "His dedication and pride over the past 57 years were truly unmatched. On a personal level, I will deeply miss his guidance and mentorship. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy and will be profoundly missed by our program and the university community."
 
LeCalsey was the Inaugural Chairperson of the new Chancellor's Council of Trustees (1999), inducted into the Phoenix Hall of Fame (2000); awarded the Chancellor's Award for Service (2001); received the Phoenix Hero Award (2016) (link), a UW-Green Bay Honorary Alumni Degree (2003); an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (Spring Commencement, 2016); named one of the Top 50 Most Influential Leaders in Green Bay Athletics history (2020).
 
LeCalsey is survived by his wife, Sue, their children Chris, Kara, Paul and Scott, and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay community. Thank you, Lou, for being a friend. The LeCalsey family plans to hold a celebration of life later this year and will share details with the community at a later date.
 
LeCalsey's Legacy in Photos
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LIBOvAE2u2nhCus70eQZIaSYFCBX-WZj?usp=sharing
 
In His Own Words
LeCalsey participated in the Campus Voices initiative, an hour-long interview in which he discusses his early years at UWGB and makes observations of his ongoing role.  Listen here.
 
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