Michael Joseph Barnard

Michael (Mike) Joseph Barnard, age 62, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2023 at Agrace Hospice Care in Fitchburg, WI surrounded by his family and his puppy, Rocky. Mike was born on March 15, 1961 to Donald Ray Barnard (1932-2003) and Janet L. (Ramminger) Barnard (1933-1996) in Reedsville, WI. He is one of two sons, including Robert Barnard. His parents owned and operated "Jan & Bro's Tavern" in Reedsville. Mike was an incredible athlete in high school, participating in basketball, track and field, and baseball. He is remembered well by his teammates and coaches. He graduated from Reedsville High School in 1979.

Mike's passion was building homes for families so they could create their own memories. He started in construction at a young age and was the owner of the custom log home company Pine River Log Homes for several years. Later in life, he worked with his son, Michael Joseph Barnard Jr, to pass along his knowledge to help his son found his own construction company, Badger Construction Co, LLC. Importantly, Mike helped build his children's lives. Mike loved camping with his family in Door County, visiting the cabin in Hayward, boating, riding ATVs, crafting wooden rocking chairs, grilling out, attending Wisconsin sporting events with his children, and listening to instrumentals with the sound system turned all the way up. Even until the very end, he had a zeal for cracking jokes and being a troublemaker.

Mike is survived by his loving children, Payge, Michael, Santana, and Aubrey, from his former marriage to Debra Stommel, who remains a best friend to Mike. He is also survived by his beloved step-children, Christopher Kubichek and Cassie (Michael) Lasee. He will be deeply missed but forever loved and remembered by all his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the family via GoFundMe using this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/michael-joseph-barnard?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer; or made out to Habitat to Humanity, a foundation that has similar values as Mike to provide homes for those in need.

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Informed Choice Funeral & Cremation Alternatives
3325 E. Washington Avenue, Madison
(608) 249-6666