Michael Franklin Karasek

Michael Franklin Karasek, 63, passed away Friday, October 20, 2023, at Gundersen Medical Center in La Crosse.

He was born on March 21, 1960, to Fay and Darlene (Smith) Karasek.  Michael was a Navy Veteran, enlisted from 1978-1984.  He was a petty officer second class serving his country as a DS2-Data Systems Technician.   He married Margaret (Haught) Karasek on Jun 20, 2012.

Michael’s hobbies included hockey, golf, and fishing.  He enjoyed coffee with his friends/clients, saving the day, making jokes, cheering on his daughters in all their endeavors, dancing, singing, all things kitchen, mechanic work, fixing and learning, as well as teaching.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret; daughters, Maggie Karasek and Kaitlyn (Cassandra) Torguin; step sons, David (Betsy) Pickering and Christopher (Loucinda) Pickering; grandchildren:  Kody Heim, Penelope and Calliope Torguin, and Matthew Pickering;  sister, Julie (Wayne) Dietrich; sister-in-law, Bonnie (Terry Pettry) Buchman; father-in-law, Mike (Martha) Haught; nieces and nephews: Mike (Courtney) Phillips, Hope Karasek, Michelle and Daniel Buchman, and Thea Hawkins; ex-wife, Donna Karasek; as well as many cousins, aunts, uncles, and beloved friends and clients.

Michael was preceded in death by both parents; sister, Cyndi Phillips; brother-in-law, Steven Phillips, nephews, Marcus and Matthew Phillips; dog, Hank: and cat, Ole.

Family is hosting A Celebration of Life Thursday, October 26, from 12:00- 3:00 p.m. at the Viroqua VFW.  A service will take place at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor George Shick officiating.  Military Rites to be performed by Jacobson-Olson American Legion Post #138, Running-Johnson_Ray VFW Post # 3032, and the United States Navy Honor Team.  

The family would like to thank Gundersen Medical Center, Tri-State Ambulance, Roth Family Cremation, and His Ladies of the Harem.

In Lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the Viroqua Area Hockey Association and/or the Driftless Humane Society.

The Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.

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