Carl “Pa” “Rat” Renikow age 64, of McAllister, passed away unexpectedly from an apparent heart attack on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Born in Marinette on May 24, 1961; the son of the late Raymond and Ellen (Watson) Renikow, Carl grew up locally in Marinette County, mainly residing in McAllister.
Carl was gifted with the apparent aptitude to live life to the fullest. He pursued most of his life endeavors with a wide-open, “I can do it”, attitude —running at 8,000 RPM and always pushing the envelope, reaching for 9,000 and more.
Gifted with superior mechanical aptitude, Carl would seemingly take on any project with the approach that he was going to “get it done” and he would use his gifts to skillfully tackle the task at hand with the precision of an experienced craftsman.
He had a wide variety of passions he enjoyed during his life, whether he was tearing down and redesigning an engine that could be used in another passion in his life, (any form of racing or the need for speed and horsepower); to the competitive sport of roping and loving the horses and lifestyle associated with it. Add in hunting and fishing and the passions become quite diverse.
One of Carl’s best passions was that of the desire to help others, whether it be family, friends, or strangers, (and not necessarily in that order), as his family would smilingly agree. Many who knew him could attest to his gracious help. He will be missed.
Carl is survived by his loving wife, Jody; his children: Cody (Brittany) Renikow and Matti Renikow; siblings: Gene Sebero, Steve (Rita) Renikow, and Jane (Duane) Bucholtz; father-in-law, Matt Mattison; and further survived by extended family and numerous friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Morris; and mother-in-law, Mitzi Mattison.
A Celebration of Life service will be held in Carl’s honor at noon on Saturday January 10, 2026, at the Amberg Community Center. This will be a time to share memories with family and friends. Visitation will be from 9am until the time of Carl’s service. A meal will be served immediately afterwards.
Roubal Funeral Home in Wausaukee is assisting Carl’s family with arrangements.
