Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory

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(262) 552-9000

Michael John Stanke

Jun 5, 1956 – Apr 7, 2021

Service Details

Services celebrating Mike’s life will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 1:00 pm.

Visitation will be in the funeral home on Sunday from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Memorial Suggestions

In memory of Michael we ask that you offer a kind deed to someone in need.

Racine – Michael John Stanke, age 64, passed away unexpectedly as the result of an automobile accident on Wednesday evening, April 7, 2021.

The oldest of six children, Michael was born in Racine on June 5, 1956 to Karl and Doris (nee: Zilke) Stanke. A graduate of Racine Lutheran High School, Mike went on to follow in his father’s footsteps by completing a Tool and Die making program with Gateway Technical College. With a profound work ethic, he was employed by Twin Disc from 1976-1986, Jacobsen Manufacturing from 1986-2001, and Nielsen Machine Company, from 2001 until the present.

Mike was a proud and active member of Spring Street Church of Christ where he volunteered as a worship leader in song and prayer. He was also a member of Racine Instinctive Bowmen and MGV Harmonia German Men’s Chorus. His other interests included archery, woodworking, his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and helping his family and friends with his chainsaw.   Mike also took great pleasure in attending his grandchildren’s activities and sports, and could be found relaxing at the end of a busy day with a fine cigar. Mike will be remembered forever for his constant willingness to help anyone in need and always thinking of others instead of himself.

Surviving are his mother, Doris Stanke; twin sisters, Kathy (Jerry) Rubatt and Anne (Cole) Warner; brothers, Paul Stanke and John (Hollie) Stanke; step-children, Michelle (Brian) Kijek and Christopher Hall; step-grandchildren, Mikayla Stackman, Abigail Hall and Alex Jambretz; nieces and nephews, Joshua (Kelsey) Rubatt, Rachel (Scott Gorham) Rubatt, Bryan (Julie) Koch, Daniel (Madi Marsh) Koch, Mitchell Koch, Seth Warner, Krista (Justin Bernau) Coey and Kiki (David) King; grand-nieces and nephews, Brielle and Emmalynn Rubatt, Spurgeon Koch and Sutton Bernau; many other relatives and friends – too numerous to mention all by name.

Mike was greeted in Heaven by his father, Karl Stanke (who passed away in 2013) and brother, William “Billy” Stanke (who passed away in an automobile accident in 1980).

Services celebrating Mike’s life will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 1:00 pm. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Sunday from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. In memory of Michael we ask that you offer a kind deed to someone in need.

A public heartfelt note of thanks to those first responders, neighbors and especially innocent bystander, Jamal Hayes, who stopped to help Mike after witnessing the accident. Jamal bravely assisted Michael in his overturned vehicle and stayed with him in his final moments. It comforts our family more than you will ever know, that you were with him so that he was not alone. Jamal – you are truly a hero and did exactly what Mike would have done if he had seen someone in trouble. May God bless you for trying everything in your power to help Michael.

Guestbook Entries

  1. Sharon Stacey Koos says

    Thinking of you & your family today & remembering all our childhood memories! With love, your cousin, Sharon Stacey Koos

  3. Sue DiPasquale-Peterson says

    Doris and family~thinking of you at this tragic time. No mother should have to go through this twice. May you find comfort and peace in your steadfast faith in Christ.

  4. Linda Holloway says

    We will be praying for you all as you go through this process of grief and loss. May the Lord’s peace be over you all.

  5. Kathy jambretz says

    I took Alex to Las Vegas for his 21st birthday where he bought a cowboy hat. He wore it home and Mike was picking us up at the airport and didn’t recognize Alex with his cowboy hat on. Alex laughed and said grandpa its me….

    Mike has been there for the both of us from the beginning of our relationship (Alex was six weeks old) . He always told us he loved us and we always hugged as we parted ways.

    I will miss him, my faith teaches me he is in a better place.
    It is still hard for me knowing he will never walk up my driveway or bang on my back door. Rlp Mike

  7. Diane Aiello says

    John, Hollie and KiKi, I am so very sorry for your loss. May the beautiful memories you have comfort you.

  8. Claudia Dederich Grabow says

    Dear Aunt Doris, Anne, Kathy, Paul and John.
    I wish I had the words to express the sorrow feel for loss. Mike will always hold a special place in our hearts. Much love to the you all. With my deepest sympathy.

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Testimonials

December 1, 2023

My siblings and I recently had the unfortunate experience of having to plan a funeral for our beloved mother – Juana Munoz. During this difficult time, we were fortunate enough to come across a funeral home that truly went above and beyond what was expected. Their attention to detail and dedication to ensuring our comfort and safety throughout the entire process was truly remarkable. From the moment we stepped foot into the funeral home, we were greeted with warmth and compassion. The staff members, but specifically Mark was incredibly understanding and empathetic, making us feel at ease during such a challenging time. Mark took the time to listen to our needs and wishes, and his guidance and support were invaluable. One aspect that truly stood out was Mark’s meticulous attention to detail. He paid close attention to every aspect of the funeral arrangements, ensuring that nothing was overlooked. From the floral arrangements to the music selection, every detail was carefully considered and executed flawlessly. Mark even noticed that the temperature in the room was getting warm and promptly adjusted it to ensure our comfort. What impressed me the most was their commitment to our safety. Mark and his team took every precaution to ensure that our family and guests were protected throughout the entire process. From the funeral home to the cemetery, Mark made sure that all safety measures were in place, including providing hand sanitizers, and even arranging for additional staff members to assist with crowd control. Furthermore, Mark’s professionalism and organization was evident in every aspect of the funeral service. He coordinated seamlessly with the cemetery staff, ensuring a smooth transition from the funeral home to the final resting place. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence truly made a difference in our overall experience. In addition to their exceptional service, the funeral home also provided us with resources and support beyond the funeral itself. They offered grief counseling services and connected us with local support groups, which proved to be invaluable during our grieving process. Overall, we cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Mark, and broader, Draeger Langendorf team. Their attention to detail, commitment to our safety, and genuine compassion made a difficult time a little more bearable. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of funeral arrangements, as they truly go above and beyond to ensure that every detail is taken care of and that families are supported throughout . the entire process. – Epifanio and The Munoz Family

The Munoz Family

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Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home
4600 County Line Road
Mount Pleasant, WI 53403
(262) 552-9000

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