Michael J Kaczmarek

Michael J. Kaczmarek "Kaz", 52, of Green Bay, passed away on September 6, 2022 after a year and a half battle with cancer. Mike was born in Door County to Stanley and Catherine Kaczmarek. He loved trips home to "the farm" to spend time in nature and recount his many adventures with his siblings over the years. Growing up on a dairy farm, Mike enjoyed reminiscing about farm equipment, working in the woods, hunting, four-wheeling, and the daily labor that he shared with his siblings.
After graduation from Gibraltar High School in Fish Creek, Mike went on to receive an Associate's degree with honors from NWTC Green Bay in Marketing. He loved his work with electronics, and worked at Radio Shack as a Store Manager. During this time, Mike began to struggle with his mental health; a condition that would be with him the rest of his life. He began work volunteering with The Gathering Place in Green Bay. This was a peer support group and self-help/self-advocacy center for persons with mental illnesses and working through recovery.
His great love for helping others at The Gathering Place as Co-Chair for many years helped keep the activity center doors open. He would supervise computer maintenance, "man the grill" for Packer game food gatherings, and help cook the free community meals they provided. Most of all, he loved the family feeling and acceptance that he wanted others struggling with mental illness to be able to experience.
Besides giving his time to advocate for mental health, Michael also loved music, supporting his friends, coin collecting, and sweets. Most importantly he always looked to his faith in God to give him a grounding foundation.
He is survived by nine siblings, James, Doug, David of Fish Creek, Julie (Robert) and Andy of Egg Harbor, Janet (Patrick) of McFarland, Gerald (Laura) and Kathy (Jeffrey) of Green Bay, and JoAnn (Gerald) of Little Suamico. He also has eleven nieces and nephews, and seven great- nieces and nephews.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, September 15, 2022 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am at St. Willebrord Parish (209 S Adams St, Green Bay) with a funeral mass following at 10:30 am.
Family would like to extend a special thank you to Jill, Greg, and Corey Mitchell for their love and support to Michael especially during his final days. Also a thank you to Carrie Kraemer for her aid over the years.
In lieu of flowers, family would ask to send memorial contributions to St. Willebrord Parish (209 S Adams St, Green Bay) or The Gathering Place https://www.thegatheringplaceinc.org/donate
Private interment to take place at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Cemetery in Bailey's Harbor.