Michael Mathison

Michael Wayne Mathison, age 57, passed away after an 8-month battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, his third cancer, on July 11, 2025, at his residence with his soulmate, son, sister, his dog and 2 cats, by his side. He was born on December 8, 1967, in Madison, Wisconsin to Wayne and Sandra (Pivett) Mathison.

Mike grew up in Northside Madison and always held his roots close to his heart. He remained connected to many lifelong friends and seemed to know someone everywhere he went. Mike loved spending time outdoors—fishing (especially Lake Mendota), hunting, and cooking were among his favorite pastimes—but what mattered most to him was being with family and friends. 

He worked as an independent tile installer and was known for his natural talent and craftsmanship. His work spoke for itself, and he took great satisfaction in creating something lasting and beautiful. Mike was always ready to lend a hand to friends and family whenever they needed him.

His family liked to say he spoke a second language—canine. He had a special way with dogs, and there wasn’t one he didn’t befriend.

Mike is survived by his fiancé Tracy and her son Trevor; son Chris (Chloe Jensen); sister Peggy Mathison and her son Jayson; sister Kris (Joe) Carney and their children Noah (Jayde), Joey (Gabby), and Jacob; brother-in-law Jay Jones and his children Dalton (Monica) and Payton (Colton); he is further survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, step sisters, great nephew, future in-laws and many lifetime friends; his dog Kenny and cats Panda and Barry.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Sandra and Ron Bredeson; father, Wayne Lew Mathison and most recently his sister Wendy Jones. 

A special thank you to the medical teams at SSM and UW Health that helped Mike through his cancer journey. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to https://www.casting4kids.org.  Also, please consider taking the time to donate blood as it can easily save a life.  To read more about Mike’s AML battle, see his CaringBridge site.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m. at Ryan Funeral Home, 2418 N Sherman Ave, Madison. Following the service, a memorial gathering will take place at the funeral home from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.