Michael Louis Thurwachter, 77, died at his home in Chilton on Christmas Day.

Mike was born on Jan. 5, 1947, the son of Ivan and Catherine (Schwarz) Thurwachter of Chilton, Wisconsin.

After his marriage to Sarah M. Bosma in 1967, he lived in Chilton.

He graduated from St. Mary's Grade School and Chilton High School, where he was a star linebacker for the Tigers. He began working before school at Everix Bakery. His early morning work ethic led him to a full-time job at the Chilton Malt House. From there, he began a long career at Zarnoth Brush Works, where he honed his skills as a salesman and delivered street brushes. In his travels, he became an expert on where to find the best butcher shops in the region.

He enjoyed playing pool, car racing at Road America, fishing, gardening and cooking and was known for his horseradish. He and his son built cars in his garage.

Mike is survived by his son, Jim Thurwachter, and granddaughter, Shelby Thurwachter, both of Chilton; his siblings Susan (Robert) Morgen of New Holstein, Barbara (John) Piencikowski of Oshkosh, Stephen (Marcy) Thurwachter of Prarie du Sac, Thomas (Collie) Thurwachter of Brillion, Mary (Alex) Thurwachter Green of Lake Clarke Shores, FL, Amy (William) Howe of Boulder, CO, and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Preceding him in death was his wife, Sarah, his parents, Ivan and Catherine Thurwachter, his brother, Mark Thurwachter, and his in-laws, John and Alice Bosma.

A celebration of life will be held at the Altona Supper Club on Saturday, May 10, 2025. A service will be held at 4:00 PM with a gathering of family and friends from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association, act.alz.org/site/Donation2.

For information, contact Sippel Funeral Home in New Holstein, WI (920) 898-4300; www.sippelfuneralhome.net