Honor Michael Wilke's Final Wishes

All proceeds will go directly to Mike's family in assisting to fulfill his final resting place wishes. Proceeds not utilized will go to the Irreverent Warriors Foundation.

Stay positive y'all and remember .. you are doing great, you are loved, and you matter!

As always nothing but love y'all!

"Loving myself first, living my life, and dancing with the storms!"

~Mike Wilke

Michael Wayne Wilke

December 12, 1973 – March 30, 2025

Michael Wayne Wilke, 51, passed away on March 30, 2025. He was born on December 12, 1973, to Michael Wilke and later adopted by his stepmother, Katherine Wilke (Campbell), Michael lived a vibrant life marked by service, adventure, and an unwavering dedication to those he held dear.

Michael spent his high school years as a lifeguard before graduating early to enlist in the U.S. Navy halfway through his senior year. In the Navy, he worked in Communications, ensuring the telephones and critical systems stayed operational—a role that suited his knack for keeping things connected. After his military service, Michael traveled across the country, living in North Carolina, Hawaii, Texas, Washington State, and Wyoming. While in Sheridan, Wyoming, he attended college, but he eventually returned to his home state. He drove a cab in Madison for several years before settling in Waukesha, where he found his true calling.

In Waukesha, Michael joined the Irreverent Warriors, an organization that became the heart of his life’s work. Beginning with their hikes, he advanced to hike coordinator and later regional coordinator, pouring his heart and soul into supporting veterans. His tireless commitment to the cause he believed in so deeply left a lasting impact on the veteran community and all who knew him.

Michael is survived by his stepmother, Katherine Wilke (Campbell); his brothers, David Binder and William Wilke; his sister, Doreen Binder; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He also leaves behind the entire Irreverent Warrior family and the Rivera family, who were as close to him as kin. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Wilke; his grandparents, Wayne and Louise Wilke; his aunt, Mary Kloth; and his brother, Dean Binder.

Michael’s life was a testament to resilience, loyalty, and the power of community. His memory will endure in the hearts of his family, the veterans he championed, and all those fortunate enough to have crossed his path.

A service will be held at Church and Chapel on Bluemound in Waukesha on April 16, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.