Michael Donald Henke

Michael Donald Henke, 68, of Onalaska, WI, Passed away peacefully at Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, surrounded by family, on Sunday, February 24, 2019. Mike was born December 16, 1950, in Minneapolis, MN, to Carolyn (Thompson) and Donald Henke. His family moved to Caledonia, MN in 1969. There he graduated from Caledonia High School. Mike loved playing drums and was an accomplished accordionist. He performed with several bands in the La Crosse area in his younger years.

Mike’s life was challenged with the diagnosis of Schizophrenia at the age of nineteen. Mike had a huge heart and cared deeply for his family and friends. He enjoyed working for the family business, The Crest Motel and Supper Club, Caledonia, MN, before moving to La Crosse, then later Onalaska. He continued to love music and was an avid supporter of the arts. This past December, Mike was diagnosed with Small Cell Lung Cancer.   He passed away from complications of pneumonia and cancer.

Mike is survived by his brother Tim (Nancy) Henke, Laura (Mark) DeLisa, Trina (Jim) Scanlan, and ten nieces and nephews, Nikki (Adam) Lee, Alex Henke, Matthew DeLisa, Danielle DeLisa, Logan (Katie) Scanlan, Matison​ Scanlan, Meggan Scanlan, Kerrigan Scanlan, Amy (Sam) Julian, Susie (Mike) Vehar, and five great nieces, one great nephew, and his Aunt BettyLou Martin of California. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mike was a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Onalaska, where his memorial service will be held on Friday, April 12, 2019, at 5:00 p.m. with Rev. David Shudy officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church. Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services of Onalaska is assisting the family.