Michael A. Ketchum, age 69, of Sarona, WI passed away on Monday, May 2, 2022, at his home.

Michael Anthony Ketchum was born June 2, 1952, in Woodstock, IL the son of Morris and Carol Jean (Mercure) Ketchum.

He was raised in McHenry, IL and attended Marmion Military Academy in Aurora, IL and Marion Central High School in Woodstock. After his graduation, Michael joined the U.S. Army on September 27, 1972, and served during the Vietnam War. While in service to his country he earned the National Defense Service Medal and was designated a marksman with the M16. He was honorably discharged on September 20, 1974. Michael returned to Illinois where he worked as an auto mechanic with his father at Morrie and Sons Inc. in McHenry. On August 15, 1981, Michael was joined in marriage to Billie A. Barton at the family home. Michael continued to work as a mechanic and then purchased the business from his father in the late 1980’s. He would add a towing business, Ketchum Kar Karriers, to the services they offered. Michael and Billie moved to Sarona, WI in early 2000’s and Michael would work for Ace Hardware in Rice Lake for a time before fully retiring. Michael enjoyed deer hunting with a bow, crossbow or rifle, working projects on his land, riding his ATV, and participating in car shows with his 1956 Chevy. Michael was a very kind and helpful person to everyone he met.

Michael is survived by his wife of 40 years, Billie; four daughters, Shawn (Mark) Nowicki of Marquette, MI, Shari Dagg of Blue Mound, IL, Sonja (Greg) Santoni of St. Peters, MO, Serenity (Josh) Jensen of Johnsburg, IL; thirteen grandchildren; four great grandchildren; three brothers, Mark of McHenry, Matt (Jenny) of Racine, WI, Mitch (Renee) of McHenry; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and stepson, Michael Smith.

A committal service with military honors will be held for Michael at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022, at Michael’s residence in Sarona. Following the committal service and military honors, there will be a time of gathering with family and friends at the home.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted in his name at the Washburn County Humane Society, http://www.wcahs.com/donate.html

Last Update: May 05, 2022 8:00 am CDT