Michael Coates

After a courageous and brief battle with cancer, Michael David Coates of Weston, WI passed away peacefully at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Rochester, MN on June 30, 2019 at the age of 58.

Mike was born October 24, 1960 in Norfolk, VA to Stan and Dorothy Coates and was the oldest of five children.  Mike graduated from D. C. Everest and UWSP.  He worked at Nationwide as a computer programmer.  He previously worked at Qualitest, Sentry, Eastbay/Footlocker, the City of Wausau and Wausau Financial.

A very kindhearted man, Mike was always ready to help others.  He was the Founder and Committee Chairman of Boy Scout Troop 439 in Schofield, WI.  Mike was an amazing mentor and teacher for over a decade.  His many interests also included playing guitar; writing music; cooking (those great breakfasts!); woodworking; sailing; camping; golf; magic tricks; creating beautiful origami and washi eggs….and his unique sense of humor always resulted in a smile.  A lover of the holidays, Mike was known for playing Santa and the Easter Bunny! For Mike, family and friends were always number one.

Mike is survived by his children Johnny (Emily) and Shelby Coates as well as his mother, Dorothy, and siblings Patrick, Timothy (Rosie) Coates and Melanie Coates Torres (Tom), along with seven nieces and nephews.  Special thanks to nephew, Christopher Coates, for his support during Mike’s illness.

Thanks also to all special friends, including the Lawless and Blaschka families, Mary Jo Johnson and Bruce Lamont.

Mike was predeceased by his dad, Stanley Coates, and sister, Kathie Schroedel.

The memorial service will be at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at Mount Olive Lutheran Church 6205 Alderson St, Schofield, WI. Rev. Raymond Connor will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church, with a dinner to follow.

Donations are suggested in Mike’s name to the Samoset Boy Scout Council or the American Cancer Society.  And, for all who are able, please consider donating platelets, marrow and/or blood.  It truly can be the gift of life.

Brainard Funeral Home - Everest Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.brainardfuneral.com