Michael Gerald Freund

1971 ∼ 2022

Michael Gerald Freund, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at his home. He was born in 1971, in Chicago, IL the son of Michael E. and Linda (Swiderski) Freund. When he was two years old, his family moved to Monroe, WI where Michael attended the public schools. After high school, he joined the U.S. Army Reserves and attended University of Wisconsin – Madison as a business major. His reserve unit was called to duty during the Desert Storm War when he was 19 years old. He was awarded medals of distinction and achieved the rank of Sergeant prior to his honorable discharge. After graduating from University of Wisconsin – Madison he moved to Kenosha, WI for a job opportunity at Jockey International. He worked at Jockey for 25 years. During his tenure at Jockey, he obtained his master’s degree from Loyola University, Chicago, IL in business. Most recently, he worked as a demand consultant for LTI. Michael married his high school sweetheart, Sara Krueger in 1995. Michael and Sara have three children, Reed, Brock, and Lily. Michael’s wife and children were his priority, everything he did was for his family. Michael was a calm force. He was a beautiful singer and wannabe drummer. He loved funny movies, cooking shows, he was always quick with a pun or dad joke, he was the friendliest one in the room, he was a self-taught handyman, and if there was a YouTube video he’d figure it out. He was intelligent and always knew how to spell every word you’d throw at him and he was silently correcting everyone’s grammar in the room. He loved all things that dealt with technology and computers, his family will be at a loss at how to turn the lights on and off without him. We will be at a loss without his kind and sweet loving nature most of all. He has left us all much too soon. His kids were a source of pride and deeply loved by Michael. He never failed to tell them he loved them or skimped on bear hugs. He is survived by his wife, Sara; his children Reed, Brock, and Lily; his mother Linda Freund; his father, Mike (Barb) Freund; siblings, Mitch, Kevin, Tammy, Kathrine, and bonus sibling Lance; stepsiblings, David and Mary Beth; nieces, nephews, beloved in-laws, relatives, and numerous friends; and his pup, Sally. His wife would like to thank the ICU staff at Aurora Medical Center, Kenosha, WI, especially Jenny and Wesley who were kind CNA’s that Michael spoke of fondly and made him feel safe and heard, Anna RN and Cody RN, Drs. Bawaadam, Niebuhr, Khalil and Korama who kept her in the loop and kept Michael alive to come home. He was so grateful to his home health team too, Arlan, Khatija, Kelly, and Deb. His primary physician, Dr. Antoo and nurse Jake were kind and helpful always. We are all devastated by this tragic loss and are grateful to the friends and family who’ve prayed and loved over us. Memorial visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 4, 2022, at Proko Funeral Home. Masks are required for those in attendance. Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Michael’sOnline Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com

Condolences

Tobin Johnson February 7, 2022
Mike was one of the nicest people I have met. He was always calm and reasoned, even when working on emergency issues, which was greatly appreciated. His positive attitude will definitely be missed.
Heidi Krueger February 5, 2022
Who will help me with home repairs or geek out with me over a new phone, now? Some people at work assumed Michael was my brother instead of my brother-in-law because of how much I loved him. May beautiful memories soon bring us all joy instead of tears.
Lydia Aguirre February 4, 2022
I was lucky to work with Mike at Clarios. Mike was always friendly, patient, kind and helpful. I enjoyed working with him even though sometimes he thought I knew more things than I actually did, but that helped me to look for answers and gain more knowledge. Please receive my condolences and count on with my prayers for him.Mike will be remembered and missed. Lydia Aguirre
Deanna Dobrzynski February 4, 2022
I was fortunate enough to work with Mike at Jockey. He was always friendly, positive, funny, and helpful.I am sorry to learn of his passing. My deepest sympathies to Mike's family and friends.
Nan and Mike O’Berem February 4, 2022
It is hard to believe that sweet little boy that I used to babysit has left this earth and is now in heaven. Michael will remain in our hearts forever. Love and peace to the family.
Juan G Carranza February 4, 2022
Michael "El Guapo", as we used to call him (he chose that nickname in order to avoid confusion with other Mike's in our calls) is one of the kindest and nicest persons I have met. Always a pleasure to work with him, I never saw him frustrated or in a bad mood even when may times things were not great as we work in a very challenging environment, always willing to help putting his best effort and skills to support the team, working early and late when needed. We will miss him a lot, he was the kind of person you like to be around. He is not gone, he just transitioned, he will be always in his kids and family, may God bless him.Juan G Carranza
Rick Gruber February 3, 2022
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Mike almost daily for the past 3 years. He was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met and we became good friends. We enjoyed many life conversation about family, pets, pools, cars, music, and you name it, along with sharing a few “Dad” jokes now and then. He always brought calmness, wit/humor and willingness to always see the positive side of people and situations. His impact on my life and the lives of those he touched will always be remembered. There is a special place in heaven for Mike and he will be missed dearly.
Ariadna Alonso February 1, 2022
Mike and I were always joking, we used to talk almost daily because the job. He was always happy, and with nice attitude even if was a complicated day full of issues or incidents to support. We used to have nice conversations about his family, his dog and his hobbies. I'll miss him a lot, I send all my support to his family and friends, he was the best and I'll remember forever.
Sara Freund February 1, 2022
We will miss you forever
Connie Klamm February 1, 2022
Mike was truly the kindest person and coworker. My deepest sympathy to your family. Rest in peace Mike.
Bill Schoultz February 1, 2022
Mike was instrumental in hiring me at Jockey. I worked with him and alongside him for 13 years. He was a great boss and co-worker and, most importantly, a true friend. He will be missed. I wish to send my condolences to Sara and the entire Freund family.Sincerely,Bill Schoultz
Lynn Strasser February 1, 2022
My condolences to you and your family. Mike was a sweet and funny guy to be around at Jockey or outside of work. He will be missed by many.Lynn Strasser
Dj Cope February 1, 2022
So very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. He was always the smiling, friendly face whenever we ran into him. Alex was very fond of “Brock’s dad”. With deepest sympathies.Jim, Dj and Alex Cope
Patty Furlin February 1, 2022
Mike was a wonderful and kind man sorry for your loss. Patty Furlin
Anna Kaufmann January 31, 2022
I am so so very sorry to hear of Michael's passing. He will always be remembered.Sending love and prayers.Anna RN ICU ...his favorite
Tracee Tobin January 31, 2022
Mike was my go to with any issues I had creating PowerPoint presentation to Excel questions, he was so helpful and a wonderful person to be around. He was so missed when he left Jockey. Mike bought me an Undercover Superhero name plate and I always smile when I see if or when people ask me about it. Mike was truly our Undercover Superhero and will sadly be missed.Here is a picture from on our Halloween parties....he made everyone smile.
Gina Alicea January 31, 2022
Mike was the sweetest person. I'm so sorry for your loss.