Mike graduated from UW-Stevens Point and pursued his interest in the sciences by completing a triple masters in chemistry, physics, and biology at Penn State before he and Donna settled to raise their family in Appleton, Wisconsin. In later years they moved and retired to Goodyear, Arizona.
Over his lifetime, Mike made an impact on so many lives with his devout passion for service. An excerpt from a letter Mike personally wrote well over forty years ago provides insight into his personal philosophy on life:
“Success comes to those who have the ability to endure! It comes from work – hard work! It comes from doing the tough things – the things that most people won’t do! It comes from setting your goals at a level just a little higher than you can reach but you know with added extra effort, you will obtain! Success however, can’t always be measured in dollars - it can only be measured in service. For when the time comes to meet the “Big Zapper” in the sky, I firmly believe you will be judged on your ability to endure, to try to do the best with what you have, to do the best you can with all your possessions and to serve others. Learn to serve and you will succeed!”
Mike not only wrote those words, he lived them. His passion for helping others has been overwhelmingly demonstrated when one looks at his life. This began with his teaching of the sciences at Hortonville High School where he provided endless support and guidance not only to his students but many of his colleagues, who remain dear friends to this day. Later, he launched and successfully ran his own business, William Michaels LTD, the second largest 401k administration firm in the states. Whether he was supporting his neighbors and community by volunteering at church-sponsored campsites, building boats and canoes for students and families to enjoy, or helping his friends and family with all of their own “to do’s” – Wiz spent his life in the service of others.
Mike enjoyed the great outdoors, teaching his children his appreciation for nature and our national parks, and making road trips across the country to be with family and dear friends. He spent his retirement camping, hunting, fishing, golfing, wood carving and a slew of other interests and activities. Mike never stopped serving, learning, or teaching others.
He is survived by his wife Donna of 63 years, daughter Catherine Broyles (Sam) of Reno, Nevada, son James Wisnoski (Sherri) of Lakeville, Minnesota, and daughter Jean Danner of Dallas, Texas. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren Michael (Zoe) Wisnoski, Jennifer (Hans) Hardisty, Carly Danner, Brian Wisnoski and his great grandchildren and many beloved family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, granddaughter Jackie Wisnoski and many other family and friends who will be there to greet Mike with tee times and a list of projects all their own!
Mike had requested no formal services to be held, rather a mass will be said in his memory at St. Thomas Aquinas on Monday, March 21st at 11:30 a.m. and all are welcome to attend. St. Thomas Aquinas is located at 13720 W. Thomas Road, Avondale, AZ 85392. With his commitment for education, Mike also requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School.
Go to stacc.net and click the blue “Donate Now” button. In the first grey box, click on “1) Choose Gifts” then scroll down the page to locate the “One-Time Gifts” section. Enter your desired amount in the One Time Gift box. In the notes section, type: “School donation in memory of Mike Wisnoski” and click submit to enter your payment information. Checks can also be mailed directly to the church (see address noted above); please make a similar note on the check memo line and the church will direct the funds to the school.
Partager l'avis de décès
v.1.11.3