Michael 'Mike' Anthony Holmes

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Michael "Mike" Anthony Holmes, 61, of Ironwood, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 29, 2023.

He was born on Sept. 16, 1961, to Jack and Carol Holmes in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He graduated from Ironwood Catholic High School where he played varsity basketball. Following graduation, Mike attended Gogebic Community College for welding.

In September 1983, he married Christine Scheel. Together they built a house in Erwin Township and had two children, Jason and Courtney. Mike loved to attend his children's sporting events, he coached Jason in elementary basketball and made an effort to attend every meet or game Jason or Courtney participated in throughout their school years.

Mike worked for Gogebic County Road Commission for 23 years as a heavy equipment operator. Notably, he was a paver operator. He took great pride in his roads and bridge approaches throughout the county, which often resulted in family drives throughout Gogebic County to view the completed projects.

He enjoyed listening to his grandchildren's adventures, playing cards and riding his Harley with his wife. Mike liked to tinker with everything. He was always fixing things whether that be cars, his Harley or various projects.

Mike was a proud member of the Aurora Club. He spent many evenings watching sports or playing cards. He was an avid Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers fan.

Michael is survived by his wife, Christine; two children, Jason (Sandra) and Courtney; five grandchildren, AnnaLena, Jacob, Sawyer, Colton and Ava; a brother, Mark (Sherri); a niece, Hope (Peter); his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Larry and Carole Scheel; three sisters-in-law, Jenni (Sam) Klemen, Melissa Scheel and Ami (Clifford) Brown; and a nephew, Matthew Klemen.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, his parents, a brother and a nephew.

Per Michael's wishes, no services will be held.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.