Michael Smugala, Sr.

1944-2026

Michael E. “Mickey” Smugala, age 82 of Ogema passed away on Saturday, Aug. 15 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. He was born to Andrew and Lydia (Tomasik) Smugala on Aug. 3, 1944 in Marshfield. Mickey graduated from Phillips High School then married Katherine Budaj on Nov. 14, 1964, at St. Mary’s Church in Phillips. Mickey worked construction for a few summers in Milwaukee and then a short stint with Omark Company and then a number of years as a welder in Sturgeon Bay building ships. He then moved to Ogema and bought the farm in 1969, where he farmed and logged for many years.

He enjoyed the outdoors; especially hunting, fishing and farming. He was known to yell some and enjoy the occasional beer.

He is survived by his children, Michelle Kurth, Michael, Scott (Rosie), Krissy (Travis) Custer, Clarissa (Joe) Schmitt, Rachel (John) Pocock; grandchildren, Alex (Megan) Kurth, Nicole (Tyler) Johnson, Tanner, Ashley (Jeremy) Leu, Katie (Wyatt) Newstrom, Jacob, Roman and Savannah Schmitt, Zachary Wacholtz; seven great-grandchildren; siblings, Jim, Mark (Janine), and Andrea Smugala; and by numerous nieces; nephews; and other relatives and friends.

Mickey was preceded in death by his wife, Katherine on Dec. 7, 2022; his parents, Andrew and Lydia Smugala; and his son-in-law, John Kurth.

There will be a visitation at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, W9485 Highway 8, Catawba, followed by a Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Ogema, at a later date.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral. com Heindl-Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family.

Paid Obituary 187666