Michael Edward Fuller

Michael Edward Fuller passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on February 5, 2025, after a courageous ten-year battle with cerebellar ataxia. He was 71 years old. Mike was born on March 31, 1953 in Columbus, OH to John and Virginia Fuller. Mike grew up with a spirit full of adventure and a heart brimming with kindness. He spent 28 years in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, before moving to Okauchee, where he embraced the community with open arms.

Mike’s life was one marked by his enduring passion for baseball, a sport he embraced from the tender age of six. His talent and dedication led him to excel on the field, where he played second base from little league through high school and into college at Northwestern University. As a walk-on player for the Northwestern Wildcats, he wore the number #4 jersey with immense pride, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime with his teammates.

In high school, Mike’s unwavering commitment extended beyond sports; he was active in football and wrestling, proudly competing in the 119-weight class. His academic achievements were equally impressive; he was named valedictorian and received accolades, including recognition as an outstanding senior delegate to the Rotary and as a National Merit Commended Student. He graduated from Northwestern University in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree in education, majoring in Mathematics.

On October 9, 1976, Mike married Jean Fuller (Eastman), and together they shared a beautiful 48-year journey filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. His love for his family was palpable, and he was a source of strength and support for his family. A devoted father and grandfather, Mike was known for his steadfast support at every baseball, basketball, volleyball, and soccer game or tournament. His presence was a constant source of encouragement—he never missed a single event. Mike and Jean shared countless joyful moments together, from sipping coffee on peaceful mornings to tackling yard work and home improvement projects. Their love for one another was evident, as was their commitment to their community, often finding time to volunteer at church outreach events and lend a hand to those in need.

Mike was an active member of Crosspoint Community Church in Oconomowoc, where he enjoyed community fellowship and shared his faith with others. His passion for life and his ability to connect with others made him a pillar of strength in both his family and community.

He dedicated 28 remarkable years of his career to Acuity Insurance in Sheboygan, where he served as a Market Rate Analyst. His analytical mind, combined with his warm spirit, left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike. Retirement allowed him to embrace life with the same passion and commitment he brought to his professional endeavors.

Mike’s family was his pride and joy. He is survived by the love of his life, Jean; children Benjamin (Amber) Fuller and Betsy (Brad) Kirsch; grandchildren Sommer and Trey Kirsch and Sophie Fuller; brothers Robert (Karen) and Jack Fuller; along with many other loving family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Kathy.

Mike died from complications of his disease (cerebellar ataxia) for 10 years. Even though he could no longer walk, talk, and lost much of his muscle strength, he could speak volumes to everyone he met with his sparkling eyes and smile that never stopped. Not once in 10 years did he ever feel angry, have self-pity or show jealousy toward anyone. This was a race that he was going to run to the finish line and be crowned victorious!!! Well done, good and faithful servant. Well done.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at Hartland Place Assisted Living, Preceptor Home Hospice and My Choice Wisconsin for the compassionate care they provided to Mike throughout this journey. Your kindness, dedication and support will never be forgotten. You truly make a difference, and we are forever grateful.

Those who wish to honor Mike's legacy may consider making a donation to the Ataxia National Foundation in lieu of flowers (www.ataxia.org/donate/).

In celebration of Mike's life, a memorial will be held for the public on March 1, 2025 at Mission Lakes Condominiums (chapel entrance at N51W34835 Wisconsin Ave, Okauchee, WI 53069) at 11:00am, followed by a private family gathering.

The greatest honor you can give on this earth; 

The secret realization that you please God.

You prove how highly you prize this, by keeping it to yourself 

-Michael Fuller