Michael R. “Mike” Davis

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Michael R. “Mike” Davis on October 15, 2024, at the age of 69. Mike was born on October 4, 1955, in Racine, WI. His early years were spent with his beloved mother and maternal grandparents. Their guidance and values shaped him into the larger-than-life person he became. 

Before he began school his family relocated to Fond du Lac and his stories of learning to play the trombone in the boiler room of the 4th Street School were legendary. His innate competitiveness was fostered on the school’s foursquare court, softball diamond, and pom pom field. Mike’s talent for forming lifelong friendships revealed itself at this early age. He set weightlifting records at Theisen Junior High, and became the first-class president in school history. At Goodrich High School, Mike was recognized for his athletic prowess in both football and discus. He was a three-year veteran on the varsity football team.

The summer before college Mike had a serious roofing accident which altered the course of his future. After being hospitalized for three months, Mike went out to celebrate his recovery at Arbuckle’s Saloon. This particular evening, he met his future wife, Sarah. They married in 1979 and together raised two girls, Frances Gantner (Garry) and Laura Nakielski (Bobby). Their grandchildren, Claudia, Tom, Bert, and Frank, kept them young at heart. Mike is survived by his sister, Dawn Raube (Randy), and three brothers: John (Dawn), Steve (Sabrina), and Mark (Nikki). Preceding Mike in death were his other sister Debbie, his mother Beverly, and his adoptive father Raymond Davis. 

Mike and Sarah’s home was affectionately known as “Camp Davis”. It was the destination for family fun for all gatherings. Fourth of July celebrations were the most memorable including swimming, wagon rides, fireworks, kickball, music, go-carts, and libations. Mike was the master of ceremonies and chief organizer of fun for adults and children alike.

As an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed the thrill of the hunt and exploring new fishing holes. 

Mike had many canine companions that accompanied him on his adventures. Rosie, a springer spaniel, was his trusted sidekick and the most cherished of the dogs. All these experiences made Mike a great storyteller. He helped to foster his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren's relationship with the great outdoors. 

Mike was an entrepreneur at heart. His resume included job titles such as: commercial painter, auctioneer, construction foreman, general contractor, car salesman, window salesman, realtor, business owner and asbestos contractor. The culmination of his business success was establishing four Window World franchises in Milwaukee, Fond du Lac, Racine and Madison which employed over 60 people. 

Mike felt he had been blessed in many ways and was quick to share his good fortune with others. He believed in second chances and wanted to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Since retiring in 2022 he has longed to have a deeper relationship with God. This year he was receiving instruction to convert to the Catholic faith. He admired the structure and organization of the Catholic church and the process for asking for forgiveness. Mike found enormous peace knowing he was right with God. 

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 271 Fourth St. Way in Fond du Lac. The Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at church, beginning at 10:30 AM followed by burial in Calvary Cemetery, 686 Fond du Lac Ave. in Fond du Lac. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Vincent de Paul 330 N. Peters Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com