Obituary of Michael James Walczak

Michael J. “Wally” Walczak, age 70, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2020 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. Michael was born March 8, 1950 in Wisconsin Rapids to Alfred and Jeanette (Zukowski) Walczak. He graduated from Assumption High School in 1968. Mike received his bachelor’s degree in 1972 from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, with a double major in Business and Economics. During high school and college, he enjoyed participating in competitive sports including football, basketball and track. Mike’s love for sports remained constant throughout his life. He played tavern-league softball for many years and loved to fish, hunt, and golf at any given opportunity. Mike valued spending time with his brothers at their property in North Dakota and cherished the annual camping trip to Star Lake, which remains a long-time Walczak family tradition. During his working career, Mike was employed by Nekoosa Corporation and RR Donnelley. Mike is survived by his loving companion of 28 years, June Hanneman; his children: Beth (Kurt) Hendrickson and Mike (Christina) Walczak; his grandchildren: Marshall, Memphis, Lillian, Lauryn, Kayden and Layne; his beloved siblings: Marjory (Mike) Prescher, Susan (Jerry) Kershasky, Paul (Monica) Walczak, Timothy Walczak, Daniel (Terri) Walczak, Stephen (Jane) Walczak, Jon (Barb) Walczak, and Peter Walczak; his sister-in-law, Brenda Walczak (nee Shear); and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mike is preceded in death by his brother, William Walczak, and his sister-in-law, Brenda Walczak (nee Bierman). The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to all the admirable staff at Aspirus Hospice, for the wonderful care given to Michael during his final days. A celebration of Michael’s life will take place on Friday, July 17, 2020 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.taylorfuneralhome.net