Michael Ryan Lemke

Michael Ryan Lemke was a true gift from the moment he came into the world on August 24, 1998. From an early age, he radiated kindness and embodied a joyful spirit. Michael had the ability to light up any room – people were drawn to his infectious smile and easygoing nature.

Growing up in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Michael excelled in everything he did. He was a natural leader and talented athlete. Michael participated in many sports including basketball, baseball, running, snowboarding, and wakeboarding, but found his true passions to be soccer and golf. As a player, Michael blended technical ability with a relentless work ethic. He was confident and genuine in mentoring others, and was always his teammates’ biggest fan.

Michael was innately smart, extremely dependable, and had a strong moral compass. He demonstrated great intelligence and ambition in both his academics and career. After graduating from Brookfield Central High School, he went on to further his education at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where he earned degrees in Accounting and Finance. He was proud of this accomplishment and eager to utilize his knowledge. Michael quickly found success in the public tax accounting field working at Baker Tilly before accepting a promotion at Grant Thornton.

Michael faced all challenges in life with persistent positivity. He was fearless in his battle with brain cancer and took on each day with strength, resilience, and unwavering faith. Even on the toughest days, Michael remained selfless. He was always thinking of others and providing levity with his clever sense of humor. As time got shorter, his days continued to be filled with music, laughter, and love. Surrounded by his devoted family, Michael passed away peacefully on Friday, August 16, 2024 at the young age of 25. His life lives on through all of us.

 Rachel, Michael’s wife, was his best friend and the love of his life. Although they were only married for a short time, they created the sweetest memories and brought each other endless joy. They cherished life’s simple pleasures and appreciated moments big and small. Together they were able to fulfill Michael’s dream of adopting a rescue dog, Leroy, who was a constant companion and loyal sidekick.

Brian and Denise, Michael’s parents, are forever proud of the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. His sisters Makenna and Melissa (spouse Danny), and brother Matthew (girlfriend Maddie), will always treasure countless memories, never-ending laughter, and their unbreakable bond. He loved his role as “Uncle Mike” and was adored by his nephews Lio and Luca, and niece Lily. Michael will always be an incredible blessing to his family.

He is further survived by his in-laws Andy and Julie Burkard, maternal grandparents Warren and Linda Henschel, paternal grandparents Craig and Barb Lemke, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who love him dearly. Michael appreciated his close friends and valued the time spent together – they impacted each other’s lives for the better.

Michael will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew him.

To commemorate Michael’s exceptional life, a memorial and reception will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024. Family will be available for visitation from 12:00 PM – 3:15 PM at Spring Creek Church (N35W22000 West Capitol Drive, Pewaukee, Wisconsin), with a formal memorial service beginning at 3:30 PM. A celebratory reception will follow at Gather at Deer District (333 West Juneau Avenue, Ste B, Milwaukee, WI) starting at 6:00 PM. All are welcome and invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, Michael requested donations be made to the Dear Jack Foundation – an organization near to his heart. Those looking to support the family or ongoing expenses are encouraged to contribute through Michael’s Go Fund Me: https://gofund.me/012650c3

As always, the Lemke family is grateful for the overwhelming support. A special thank you to the Northwestern Oncology team – Dr. Lukas, Dr. Tate, and Dr. Sita – who were especially committed throughout Michael’s journey, as well as countless kind and compassionate people who cared for him along the way.

A life lived with love for those around you, is a life well lived.