Michael Courchane
April 07, 1951 - March 04, 2025
Obituary
Michael John Courchane passed away peacefully at Agrace Hospice on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the age of 73. Mike was born on April 7, 1951, in Madison, Wisconsin. He was the oldest of seven children born to John and Nelda (Raimer) Courchane.
Mike was a long-time resident of the east side of Madison. He was a member of the St. Dennis Boy Scout Troop, where he earned his Eagle Scout Badge. Mike graduated from Queen of Apostles High School in 1969 and attended UW Stevens Point. He joined the Marine Corps Reserve and served for eight years. At the same time, Mike worked at WI Bell (later ATT). He retired from there in 2001.
Mike was an avid Wisconsin sports fan. He enjoyed watching the Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers. He spent many years golfing, fishing and hunting. Traveling was something that brought joy and pleasure into Mike’s life. He enjoyed the relaxation of cruising and the adventure of land travel. One destination Mike particularly enjoyed was Pickerel Lake in northern Wisconsin. Walking in the woods, listening to classic rock and sipping a good bourbon were some of his favorite things to do. Later in life, Mike enjoyed Friday fish fries and Thursday breakfasts with his neighborhood friends.
Mike’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family and friends. He especially treasured his granddaughter, Catalina, and loved being with her. Mike would often share stories of their trips to Disney World and their time together.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, John and Nelda Courchane and his son, Gregory.
He is survived by his son Steven John (Sierra) his granddaughter, Catalina and siblings, Marsha Courchane (Peter Zorn), Mary Hurley (Bob), Mark Courchane (Grace), Maureen Peters (Jeff), Marjorie Riniker (Ron) and Matthew Courchane (Sandy Scalzitti), as well as many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial be held at 11:00AM on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at St. Dennis Catholic Church, 505 Dempsey Road, Madison. A Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30AM until time of Mass. A committal service will take place at Resurrection Cemetery immediately after Mass.
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N. Sherman Avenue
608-249-8257
Events
There are no events for Michael yet.
Photos
No photos of Michael have been shared yet.
Memories
MR
Marj Riniker
Other • 2 months ago
Rest in peace now, Mike. You will be missed. I'm glad we were able to become close in the last years, and that I got to spend that time with you in Florida. Try not to beat everyone at golf up there!
MC
Marsha Courchane
Other • 2 months ago
Michael, you were the best big brother I could ever have had. The lump on my forehead will be a constant reminder of the fun we had sledding together down the toboggan hill in Madison. I welcomed your annual visits to Arlington VA after Peter and I were married, and your summer visits to our home on Pickerel Lake. You once told me you would always have my back and those words meant the world to me. I am so glad I was able to share your final days with you. Marsha
B
Bobbi
Other • 2 months ago
Marj I'm so sorry for the loss of your brother. I would like to offer my sympathies to you and your family. I will be praying for you and your family.
D(
Diane Ruth England (Jeschke)
Other • about 2 months ago
our deepest sympathy for your loss. we are so sorry to hear about Mike. Our families have known each other for a long time. I know we think about all of you often. Stay close to each other. We hope everyone is doing well and we wish you the best. Love, hugs & prayers Helmut & Ruth Jeschke & Diane Jeschke England & Ben England