Michael Wahoske Obituary

Michael W. Wahoske, affectionately known as "Mike," age 85, of Merrill, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025.
Born on April 10, 1940 in Ripon, WI to Eugene and Lucille Wahoske, Mike lived with curiosity and vigor. He embraced every day-captured in his own mantra, "He Lived. He Saw. He Died." His life was marked by adventure: fishing excursions on the Prairie River and Hay Meadow with his son David and cheering at every show of Emerald and his grandchildren Scarlett and Philip. He cherished quiet moments with daughter Heather and found profound joy in his expanding family- doting on his granddaughter Tascee, her husband Nathan, and their daughter Lainee.
Mike spent over 30 years driving for Wendorf Bus, a role he pursued with dedication. It wasn't just a job-it was community. He supported students on daily routes and at extracurricular events, and the Wendorf family became extended family to him where he became "Grandpa Mike" to Willow, Liberty, and Acre. To generations of kids-and to him-his yellow bus meant safety, stories, and a steady presence.
At home, Mike was the ultimate nurturer. A passionate cook, he "fed folks like he loved them"-and he did. Whether a hearty breakfast after long trips or a spontaneous gathering at the table, his generosity was legendary. Even into his final days, his priority remained clear: caring for those he loved, always.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Wahoske, daughters Heather Wahoske and Emerald Doll, sons Jon Neuman (Beth) and Robert Neuman, grandchildren Tascee Brown (Nathan), Scarlett Doll, Philip Doll IV, and Nathan Neuman, nieces and nephews across the Midwest.
He was preceded in death by parents Eugene and Lucille Wahoske; sister Anne Wahoske; sons David Wahoske, Michael Neuman; and daughter Anne Murgatroyd.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 19th at 745 County Road W, Merrill, WI from 1-6pm. (in true Mike style-informal, full of stories and warmth).
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to: Share your favorite Mike story-perhaps a fish that got away or a meal that brought everyone to the table or consider donating to a local wildlife/conservation fund, or the Merrill Community Educational Foundation-ways Mike supported both students and the outdoors.
Mike once said, "He Lived. He Saw. He Died." And in that simple phrase, he encapsulated a life of presence, adventure, and love. He loved deeply, laughed freely, and showed us all how rich a well-lived life could be-through shared meals, roadside bus stops, riverside sunrises, and generations of grandchildren.
May we remember him by acting with kindness, gathering at the table, and never skipping family performances. His advice, his laughter, his love-even his cooking-will echo in our lives forever.
Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS
To send flowers to the family of Michael, please visit our floral store.