Michael Ginder

In Loving Memory of Michael "Mike" Ginder

Michael "Mike" Ginder, age 62, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully on January 23, 2025 following a battle with cancer.

Born on February 26, 1962 to Dick and Elaine. He graduated from North High School in 1980, where he undoubtedly honed his talent for making everyone laugh. In 1984, he met Tammy, the love of his life, best friend, and the only person who could put up with him for over 40 years. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and memories. He had a 43+ year career at Cascades Tissue as a machine operator and maintenance technician. Mike touched the lives of so many with his kindness, humor, and unwavering love. He wore many hats: devoted husband, proud father, loving son, Packer fan, poker pro (depending on the night), tinkerer and all-around fixer, Papa bear, pack rat, fisherman, grill master and trusted friend. Above all, he cherished his time with the people he loved.

Mike had a knack for making people laugh, often with a $5 bill in hand, daring family members to eat whatever weird concoction he came up with. Let's just say the Halgren girls earned their money-and a strong stomach-from those bets. His laugh was infectious, his humor unmatched, and his ability to light up a room was legendary. Whether he was grilling up something delicious, spending time at TJ's Timberline with his beloved lake family, or just cracking jokes, Mike brought joy to everyone around him.

He is survived by his wife, Tammy; his son Ryan and daughter-in-law, Erika; his mother, Elaine; his sisters, Sherri (Steve) Flackey and Kim (Bill) Halgren; nieces and nephews: Stephanie (Jason) Gill, Jason (Nicole) Flackey, Kaylee Halgren (partner Alex Burton), Karissa Halgren (partner Andrew Hance) and Kortnee Halgren; great nieces and nephews: Zoey and Madelynn Gill, and Asher and Crew Flackey.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dick and his brother Jeff.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held at a later date, so be prepared to bring your favorite stories and be ready for a good laugh when the time comes. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations in Mike's honor to the American Cancer Society.

Mike's legacy is one of love, laughter, and not taking life too seriously. He'd want us to remember the good times, crack a joke, and maybe even grill a steak and have a Bacardi and Diet Coke in his honor. He may be gone, but his spirit-and his sense of humor-will live on in all who were lucky enough to know him.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.