Michael Francis Folker

Michael Folker of Mesa, Arizona passed away October 13th, 2021 at the age of 80.

The family would like to send a note of special thanks to the Doctors, nursing staff on the 5th floor and the ICU unit at Saint Agnes Hospital in Fondu Lac WI for the loving care graciously given to Michael at his time of need.

Beloved and cherished husband of 32 years of Carol Ann Folker (nee Misurek).

Loving father of Dennis (Karen), Carrie, Denise (Kevin), Lisa (Todd), JoAnn (Kris).

Survived by his mother Geraldine and his sisters Susan and Linda (Mike). Caring and loving grandfather of Jared, Chase, Ashley, Derek, Damin, Eli, Kloe, Sofie, Katie, Krissy, Michael, Nicki, Brian, Collin, Alyssa, and Daniel.

Fondly remembered and loved by many nieces, nephews and friends.

Michael was born and educated in Milwaukee. He attended 3 Catholic elementary schools and then Pulaski and West Division High Schools. Then he moved to Waukesha.

Michael retired from the Milwaukee School Board as a steamfitter after 30 plus years of service and was a proud Union member of Local #601.

In Michael’s earlier years, he taught MIG welding, stick (arc) welding, and gas welding. He taught these classes at the southside MATC campus for many years. Michael also taught classes at the Steamfitters #601 trade school in Madison when the campus was first opened.

Michael loved life and was enthusiastic about living it. He never traveled without his camera literally in the front seat beside him in the car. He was an avid photographer and computer enthusiast. For over 20 years, Michael generously taught basic computer skills, Photoshop, and Microsoft Word to seniors in his community.

He had the patience of Job!

Michael bled green and gold – he was an avid Packers fan all his life.

One of his greatest hobbies was camping up north in Campbellsport with his family and grandchildren by his side.

Mike’s own words from his “Book of Life”

How did serving in the Armed Services affect my life?
I was drafted during the Vietnam police action. My neighbor at the time was a chiropractor and he asked me if I wanted him to write me a letter to get me out of the draft. I said ‘no’ and had a different feeling for him from then on. I thought if all the men in the Second World War would have done that, I would not have been around to make the choice. I owed it to them to go even if I was scared. I still have my greetings letter from the President. I feel I got 2 million dollars of worth of experience and it was a great way to break the apron strings. I am very proud of my time in the service. I love Family and Country more than I can explain. I feel I owe my life and my way of life to all who have served before me.

What advice about life do I want you to remember?
Enjoy life, don’t hold grudges, and Live The Golden Rule.

Contributions in Michael’s honor can be made to the following organizations: Wounded Warrior Family Support, Puppies Behind Bars! (Puppies Behind Bars! trains prison inmates to raise service dogs for wounded war veterans and first responders, as well as explosive-detection canines for law enforcement.)  Homes for Our Troops and Tunnel to Towers. These charities are all four stars with exceptional ratings.