Michael J. Scholke

Michael was born Sept. 26, 1981 in Iron Mountain, to Michael “Mike” and Dolores “Dee” Scholke. Michael attended the Iron Mountain public school system and graduated from Iron Mountain High School in 2000.

He later attended Michigan State University and graduated in 2004 with a political science/pre-law degree. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in 2007. Known affectionately and simply as “Scholke” to friends and classmates alike, Michael looked fondly upon his days at all three alma maters and deeply cherished the friendships and memories made at each.

Upon admission to the State Bars of Michigan and Wisconsin, Michael began his career as a solo practitioner. In 2012, he joined Mouw & Celello, P.C. in Iron Mountain where he was employed until December 2024. Michael moved to Florence, Wis. in May 2023, and he was elected as the Florence County Wisconsin District Attorney in 2024. In January 2025, Michael took his oath and was excited to start a new journey advocating for public safety in Florence County.

Regardless of where he called home, Michael was actively involved throughout the local community. He frequently attended fundraisers as well as youth and community events. He rarely missed Italian Fest or the annual Kingsford Music Boosters Spaghetti Dinner. In fact, Michael served for many years as president of the Kingsford Music Boosters, and he chaperoned trips to Florida for the band. He was also involved in Project Graduation for Florence.

Michael particularly enjoyed coaching S.A.Y. and Northern Stars soccer with his closest friend Graham, culminating in nearly 20 seasons of coaching experience and mentorship as well as many broken clipboards and discarded baseball caps. Outside of his official coaching duties, Michael cheered on his friends’ kids, many of whom referred to him as “Uncle Woody” — a nickname dually inspired by the Toy Story character and his fondness for cowboy boots. “Uncle Woody” could be found in the bleachers of swim meets, concerts, and award ceremonies in addition to football, basketball, and soccer games.

In his spare time, Michael enjoyed reading, traveling, gardening, cooking, coin collecting, fishing, and rooting for a multitude of beloved sports teams — particularly the Spartans and the Packers. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He had an incredible gift for bringing people together. Whether it was a spontaneous bonfire, the annual Kentucky Derby party, or just any excuse to gather, he was always a generous host. Whatever the occasion, “Scholke” welcomed everyone with open arms and an open heart. He created a space where people felt seen, celebrated, and part of something special. Those moments live on in every story told and every smile he left behind.

To his immediate family, Michael was a devoted son, a supportive older brother, and a proud uncle. Michael’s parents are proud not only of his accomplishments, but also of the hard-working, compassionate, and humble man he grew up to be. Michael shared a strong sense of camaraderie with both his younger brother and his little sister and strove to set a good example for both. As a brother, he was a source of sage advice or an instigator of shenanigans, depending on the occasion. Michael was his brother’s confidante and partner-in-crime. Michael enjoyed traveling to Canada to visit his brother and spend quality time with his family. Michael was his sister’s first soccer coach, and despite the age gap, he respected and valued her opinions and perspective. Even during his treatments, he took as many opportunities as he could to explore Chicago with his sister.

He navigated his battle with so much grace. Even in the hardest moments, “Scholke” often comforted those around him rather than seeking comfort for himself. “We will figure it out” was a regular reassurance said to friends and family. He gave so much of himself, always more focused on how others were doing than his own pain. That was just who he was — genuine, selfless, and strong beyond measure.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, John and Ellen Kusmitch; his paternal grandfather, Donald Scholke; and an uncle, John Paul Kusmitch.

Michael is survived by his loving parents; his paternal grandmother, Sharon Scholke of Kingsford; a brother, Matthew (Brilyn) Scholke; a sister, Melissa Scholke; a niece, Ella Scholke; and a nephew, Max Scholke. He is also survived by five aunts: Diane Magnuson, Donna Carson, Suzanne Scholke, Wanda Kusmitch, and Eileen Matchett; and two uncles: John Scholke and Michael Kusmitch, as well as numerous cousins.

His memory will live on among his cherished extended family of friends, which includes Hannah Goodman; Graham and Cindy Donahue; the Cavalieri brothers–Vince, Chris, Tony, Cole, and Lucas and their families; Aimee Tatangelo; Chien-ting Chen; Ben and Shannon Sorensen; Brad and Stephanie Coe; Paul Picucci; Andy Flaminio; Matthew Peterson and family; Jon “Kentucky Jon” Edwards and family; and many others too numerous to name. Michael’s selfless and caring nature, his unfailing love and support, and his dedication to others made him a true friend to many. May this love and friendship continue to have a positive impact on the lives of those who knew and loved him most.

He had a special place in his heart for his niece and nephew, Ella and Max; his goddaughter, Delaney and Finn Donahue; Dominic and Sierra Tatangelo; Ember and Grayson Goodman; his goddaughter, Isabelle “Izzy,” Jack, and Audrey Sorensen. His biggest smiles were always for the kids, and it gave him great joy to be around them.

The family would like to express our immense gratitude to our friends, coworkers, and the community at large for their compassionate support, food donations, visits, flowers, and gifts. Your generosity and kindness will never be forgotten. Also, a special thank-you to the dedicated caregivers from Marshfield-Dickinson Home Health Hospice — Tammy, Brandi, and Sunshine — for their care and support. Your compassion and guidance during this difficult time is greatly appreciated.

To those who knew him, the following quote by Bob Marley sums up Michael’s life perfectly: “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” And that’s exactly what “Scholke” did. His moral character, integrity, and empathy had an overwhelming impact on his family, friends, and anyone he came in contact with.

Michael, the world is a better place because you were in it. In the eyes of those who knew and loved you, we are the ones who are rich. You will never be forgotten; instead you will remain in our hearts forever.

Pall bearers will be Matthew Scholke, Tony Cavalieri, Grant Carlson, Gerry Pirkola, Michael Celello, and Robert Pirkola.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be in Michael’s name and directed to Incredible Bank, 101 West B Street, Iron Mountain, MI 49801.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 8 and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 9 at the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home in Iron Mountain.

The funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 9 at St. Mary & St. Joseph Catholic Church in Iron Mountain. Fr. Timothy Ekaitis will offer the Mass of Christian Burial.

Interment will be in Iron Mountain Cemetery Park.

Condolences to the family of Michael Scholke may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the funeral arrangements.