It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael McGinnity, who spent 66 years bringing joy and laughter to our community. Mike passed away, unexpectedly, on September 16th, 2025.

Mike was a man that valued peace and calm. He found joy in life’s simple moments, time spent with family, mornings on the lake, building a campfire, an afternoon watching the game, and a Sunday dinner at home. He could lighten the air in any room with a joke, and always strived to keep everyone around him smiling and laughing.

Mike McGinnity was born on January 3rd 1959. He grew up in DeForest, WI, and maintained strong ties to the community his whole life. He married Donna Derrickson on June 21st, 1986, and they raised their two children, Kari and Craig.

Mike was an avid sports fan and spent most of his early days playing basketball or baseball. During football season he could always be counted on to cheer for the Packers or the Badgers. Game days spent with family were treasured.

Some of his happiest memories were spent sharing his love of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren. Mike always looked forward to fishing trips with his wife in the summer and teaching his grandchildren how to throw a perfect cast. Mike cherished his role as Grandfather, and his Grandchildren Tristan and Kahlan, will always remember their shared excitement of reeling in a catch…even if it was just seaweed.

Mike is survived by his wife Donna McGinnity, son Craig McGinnity, daughter Kari McGinnity and son in law Jason, grandson Tristan, granddaughter Kahlan, as well as his mother Joyce McGinnity, sister Kay Haack, and brothers Jim McGinnity, Pat McGinnity, and Mark McGinnity, and their families. He will also be remembered by the many friends and coworkers over the years at both Walgreens and Kwik Trip. He loved getting to chat with old friends and neighbors in the community, and your support has meant so much to our family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in early summer 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gio’s Garden, a therapeutic respite care center.

https://giosgarden.gnosishosting.net/Support-Our-Work/Donate

To view his obituary and leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel
6924 Lake Road
608-846-4250

Michael McGinnity

January 03, 1959 - September 16, 2025

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