Michael J. Murray

Michael J. Murray, age 57, of Beaver Dam, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center in Beaver Dam.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at the Beaver Dam Conservation Club, County Road G, on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Michael John was born on November 29, 1968, in Beaver Dam to Raymond and Bonnie (Anderson) Murray. He graduated from Beaver Dam High School in 1986 and proudly served in the United States Air Force for four and a half years. Stationed in Alaska, he was honorably discharged in 1990. Following his military service, Mike began his career at Waupun Correctional Institution. He retired from The Walls in 2022. After retirement, he began to share his love of travel and lake life with Meredith; enjoying life with her to its fullest.

Mike had a fiery spirit and a way of brightening every room he entered. He loved being the center of attention and was a gifted storyteller who could keep everyone entertained. His daughter was his pride and joy, and the two shared a special love of hockey—a passion he inherited from his own father, perhaps influenced by the family’s Canadian roots. Mike played hockey starting in his youth all through high school, with his dad being his coach.  He was honored to be a hockey coach in Beaver Dam for many years where he had the privilege of coaching his daughter. A passionate racer, Mike loved competing at Beaver Dam Raceway for a number of years. Mike will be remembered for his fierce competitive drive, his passion for the outdoors, his love of family and the many lives he touched.

Mike is survived by the love of his life, Meredith Winning; daughter, Kayla (Paul) Lemke; parents, Ray and Bonnie Murray; sister, Tammy Garbalagtys (Steve Griswold); nieces, Maddie and Aby Garbalagtys; aunts and uncles; cousins and many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ezra and Caroline Anderson and Jack and Anne Murray.