Michael “Mike” Stephen Schauf, age 65, passed away on August 26th, 2026 with his family by his side. He was born October 21st, 1960 in Lake Forest, IL to Robert and Sally (Friend) Schauf. He married Gina M. Mihalo on March 10th, 1984 in Round Lake, IL.

Mike was a devoted husband of 42 years to Gina, and a proud, steadfast father to Brent and Stefanie (Lance). To his four grandsons—Kaleb, Bradley, Kipton, and Everett—he was simply "Papa", beloved grandfather who always shared in their laughter and silliness. Mike truly enjoyed traveling with his wife, Gina. Whether it be a simple camping trip with the family, a trip down south or all the way to Germany, or their favorite (and many) trips to the Northwoods of Wisconsin where they spent their days together fishing, finding great food and quiet evenings by a fire.

An avid and lifelong fisherman, Mike could often be found before dawn with a cup of hot coffee in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. Whether he was casting a line off the quiet morning dock, teaching his grandsons how to bait a hook, or on the boat with his best fishing buddy, his son Brent, the lake was where he was most at peace. His daughter, Stefanie, will forever honor the beautiful balance of his guidance and his total faith in her. He taught his family patience, resilience, and the simple truth that the best moments in life are spent sharing quiet time with the people you love.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Gina; his two children, Brent Schauf and Stefanie (Lance) Lannoye; his four cherished grandsons, Kaleb Schauf, Bradley Hackett, Kipton Lannoye, Everett Lannoye; his sisters and brother, Cheryl (Steve) Roberts, Jean (Chris) Baum, Jeff (Cricket) Schauf; his father Robert (Bonnie) Schauf; and many more loving family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sally Schauf.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Sunday, September 13th at Kratz Funeral Home, 302 E Conant St, Portage, WI 53901. Visitation at 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. with a memorial service at 1:30 p.m. Following the service, family will gather at The Clubhouse at Saddle Ridge, 100 Saddle Ridge W, Portage, WI 53901 to watch the Packers beat the Vikings in Mike’s honor, all are welcome.

Mike left his family and friends with the best memories. As he rises to the heavens above, he gets to look down on the ones he loves—especially the love of his life, Gina, who held his heart until the very end.

“Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.” Rest in peace, Mike. Your line is cast, and your waters are calm.

Visitation

September 13. 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (CT)

Kratz Funeral Home

302 E Conant St

Portage, WI 53901 https://www.kratzfuneralhome.com

Service

September 13. 1:30 PM (CT)

Kratz Funeral Home

302 E Conant St

Portage, WI 53901 https://www.kratzfuneralhome.com