Michael John Wollin

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the passing of Michael John Wollin, who departed this world on April 29, 2026. Born on August 23, 1947, in Janesville, Wisconsin, Michael was a man who left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone around him. Michael was the beloved son of Roy and Helen Wollin, who predeceased him, along with his brother, David Wollin. He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Donna Wollin, whom he met in the serendipitous aisles of Schmidts Department Store in 1968. They pledged their lives to each other on October 11, 1969, in Janesville, WI, embarking on a journey filled with love, laughter, and a shared commitment to family and community. Michael's educational journey began at Janesville Craig, from which he graduated in 1965. He pursued higher education at UW Whitewater, earning his undergraduate degree in 1969 and later, his Master's Degree in 1978. His time in the Army, where he served as a Chaplain's Assistant in the Army Security Agency, further honed his character, instilling discipline and compassion that would guide him throughout his life. A dedicated educator, Michael began his teaching career at Edgewood High School in 1972, before finding his true calling at Mt. Horeb High School, where he taught from 1974 until his retirement in 2005. For 33 years, he inspired countless students to "Question Everything," a mantra that reflected his own insatiable curiosity and love for learning. He also served as a coach, pouring his heart into Track and Field and Cross Country, where he found great fulfillment and success. Michael's passion for the arts led him to direct and produce numerous theatrical productions at Mt. Horeb High School, enriching the cultural fabric of the community. In retirement, he continued to serve others, working at Al Hawley's auction, delivering the Isthmus newspaper, and serving as an AVID tutor and crossing guard in Sun Prairie. His most cherished role, however, was as a chauffeur to his grandchildren, offering support and encouragement at their many sporting events. A man of faith and compassion, Michael and Donna opened their hearts and home to foster over 70 newborns through Catholic Social Services, a testament to their boundless generosity. As a Youth Advisor for Mt. Horeb Methodist Church, he chaperoned groups of high schoolers on the Appalachian Service Project, fostering a spirit of service in younger generations. Michael's life was a tapestry woven with vibrant threads of travel and teaching. He led groups of high school students on educational tours to Russia and Europe every other summer from 1986 to 2000, broadening their horizons and igniting a passion for discovery. He also cherished Saturday mornings spent with his daughters, cutting and stacking wood, followed by trips to RPMs for cheese curds and malts, a tradition rich with laughter and love. Known for his quick wit and sarcastic humor, Michael was a master of debate, a demanding yet devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His generosity knew no bounds, touching the lives of his daughters, Donella Lyans (Ben), Tekoni Maughan (Doug), and Naomi Ray (Jason), as well as his nine grandchildren—Sidney, Lexy, Bailey, Aidan, Dashle, Mylerson, Raesana, Oscar, and Johanna—and two great-grandchildren, Callan and Hayden. A celebration of Michael's life will be held on July 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM at District 1 Old School House, located at 110 N. 2nd Street, Mt. Horeb, WI. For those unable to attend, a livestream will be available. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Michael's name to Agrace Hospice at 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711 or online at Agrace.org/Donate. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Sienna Crest Fort Atkinson and Agrace Hospice, particularly his social worker Hanna and nurse Karissa, for treating Michael with compassion and dignity, allowing his true self to shine through even amidst the challenges of dementia. Michael John Wollin's legacy is one of love, learning, and laughter. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.