Michael Kugel

Michael James Kugel passed away tragically on June 29, 2026, at the age of 55, in a plane accident in Goldsby, Oklahoma. Born on December 25, 1970, in Madison, Wisconsin, Michael was the treasured son of James (Kristine) Kugel and Karen (Martin) Van Keuren Toohey.

Mike shared 32 years of marriage and a loving partnership spanning 38 years with his beloved wife, Heather (Johnson) Kugel. They were married on July 24, 1993, in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and together built a life rooted in love, laughter, unwavering faith, and a deep devotion to Jesus Christ.

He was the proud and devoted father of Willow, Hudson (Rachel), and Merritt. His children were his greatest joy, and he found immense happiness in encouraging their activities, nurturing their faith, and walking alongside them as they grew. They will forever cherish his wisdom, steady guidance, unconditional support, and unforgettable sense of humor.

Mike attended St. Charles Catholic School through the eighth grade before graduating from Lena High School in May 1989. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Atmospheric Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1997. During his school years, he formed friendships and developed the caring, generous spirit that would define his life.

While attending the university, Mike worked in the MIC and MAC computer labs, where he discovered a passion for technology that became his lifelong career. Beginning with computer work for Kestrel, he went on to serve at Graham Computer Center, Graphite, Straus, Berbee, Restech Service, 5Nines, KMG Software, Clo-tho Inc, Matador Consulting, WIN, Windstream, EarthLink, US Signal, Norlight, TDS, CenturyLink, Lumen, and finally Suttle-Straus. His family often joked they could tell where Mike worked simply by the company vehicle parked in the driveway. Each opportunity broadened his knowledge and experience, during which many lifelong relationships were built.

Mike's life was a testimony to faith, family, friendship, and generosity. He loved spending time outdoors, exploring God's creation, hunting, and making memories with family, friends, and the Pearaugelavis crew. At one point or another, many people became recipients of Mike's time, treasures, or talents. Whether helping someone move, troubleshooting computer issues, building or repairing something, or offering words of encouragement rooted in Scripture, Mike gave freely of himself.

Those who knew Mike will remember his warm smile, gentle spirit, quick wit, and willingness to lend a helping hand. He had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. Through his kindness, humility, humor, and genuine compassion, he left a lasting imprint on countless lives.

Mike's love of flying began early in life when he invested his high school graduation money into flight lessons. In the early years of their marriage, he and Heather enjoyed flying together, but as their family grew, he set it aside. Once their children reached high school and life slowed just enough, Mike joyfully returned to the skies.

He purchased his first airplane and showed Heather a picture, asking if she liked it. She smiled and replied, "It's a cute little thing." Mike answered, "Good—we own it." That moment marked the beginning of many aviation adventures. A few years later, he added his beloved Aeronca Chief to the family. Friends throughout the area fondly remember looking up to see Mike flying overhead, greeting them with the familiar dip of a wing.

For Mike, flying was more than a hobby—it was a place of peace. As the evening winds settled before sunset, he could often be found heading to the airport, taking to the skies to decompress and marvel at the beauty of God's creation from above. He was a proud member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Warbirds of America, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), and the Rio Air Club. Beginning in 2016, Mike faithfully volunteered with Warbirds Security at EAA AirVenture, serving for 9 consecutive years.

During his college years, Mike placed his faith and trust in a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ—a decision that shaped every aspect of his life thereafter. He first attended High Point Church, where he served in Awana Cubbies. After moving to Oregon, Wisconsin, he became an active member of Hillcrest Bible Church, serving as Cubby Director, Men's Ministry Coordinator, and DV8 Youth Coordinator. Mike often joked that his greatest ministry role was serving as Heather's "overflow plate" for whatever ministry she happened to be leading.

At Doxa Church, Mike faithfully served as a 1:12 Partner and mentored married couples alongside Heather. More than any ministry title, Mike desired for people to know Jesus. He often said that his greatest goal as a father was that his children would come to know and love Christ. Though never loud or attention-seeking, Mike had a gentle, steady way of pointing people back to the truth of God's Word. He lived in humble submission to the lordship of Jesus Christ and found his hope in the Gospel. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes." — Romans 1:16

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Heather; his children, Willow, Hudson (Rachel), and Merritt; his parents, James (Kristine) Kugel and Karen Van Keuren Toohey; his brothers, Bill Kugel and J.J. (Bobbi Jo Meyer) Kugel; and many extended family members and dear friends who will deeply miss his wisdom, generosity, steadfast friendship, and infectious sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Bernice (Casper) Kugel; Glenn and Alice (Hagenau) Van Keuren; his stepfather, Martin Toohey; and his niece, Ashley Fischer.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult season. They have truly experienced the tenderness and faithfulness of God's hand carrying them through.

Instead of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Mission Aviation Fellowship or Rio Aero Club.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Doxa Church, 2700 Novation Pkwy, Madison, Wisconsin 53713.

A second visitation will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

Interment will be at a later date for the family

Though Mike's earthly journey ended far sooner than anyone expected, his legacy of faith, service, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the lives of those he invested in. He loved deeply, served faithfully, gave generously, and pointed others to Christ through both his words and the quiet testimony of his life.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23