Obituary for Michael Smoczyk

Michael G. Smoczyk, age 87, passed away peacefully on Father’s Day, June 16th, 2024, at House of The Dove by Compassus in Marshfield, WI, with loving family by his side.

Michael was born on August 13th, 1936, in Stanley, WI to Mary (Ciolkosz) and Stanley “Ed” Smoczyk. He grew up on the family farm and worked at the Farmers Store during high school. Michael graduated from Stanley High School in 1954, and completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He received the National Science Foundation Grant to attend Temple University and Nebraska Wesleyan University for graduate studies in Physics, and did further graduate work at other universities. Michael was a lifelong learner, and was always interested in education. He started his career teaching Math and Physics, and then moved into business until he retired.

Michael married Carol Lee (Krejci) on December 27th, 1961, in Chippewa Falls, WI. They eventually settled in Wausau, WI and raised their four children there. He was employed at Employers Insurance Company during this time. In 1987 they moved to Marshfield and have remained there since.

Michael loved being outdoors and greatly enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and jogging. He made it a point to take his family on an annual vacation “out west” to relax, get away to the mountains, and do some trout fishing. He was known for his delicious homemade buttermilk pancakes and grilled bbq chicken. On Sunday mornings, he could be found listening to the old-time Polka music on the radio before heading out to church. Hands down though, his truly favorite place was being at the “Hunting Shack” in Westboro. In 1960, Michael and others built a one room cabin on the land, which in turn became the place to be during many hunting seasons. His family, along with others, spent as much time there as possible over the years enjoying nature, celebrating birthdays, and just being together. He always looked forward to visiting at family gatherings or chatting on the phone, sharing some stories, and just catching up with everyone.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Carol Lee; his children, Brian (Deb) Smoczyk, Suzanne (Brett) Kiener, Jennifer (Jamie) Price, and Amy (Jim) Fletcher; 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; His sister Lorraine (Louis) Champa, sister-in-law Roxy (the late Robert) Smoczyk; and many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents; brothers Peter, Harry, James and Robert; sisters Ruth and Colleen; and in-laws.

Michael will be incredibly missed by his family and those that knew him. He faced many difficult health challenges over the past 21 months, and drew strength to face them from his faith and family. He did this with courage, determination, and a ‘never give up’ attitude. He fought one day at a time, and has now gone on to be with the Lord.

Michael’s family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to everyone at House of the Dove for their incredible care and kindness during this final part of his journey.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, July 15, 2024 at Rembs Funeral Home, Marshfield with visitation from 9:30 am until the time of service. Deacon Ray Draeger will officiate.

Condolences may be sent online at www.rembsfh.com.