Search by Name

Search by Name

Michael H. "Lightning" Sardina

Michael Sardina Obituary

Sardina, Michael H. "Lightning" Michael unexpectedly passed away at the age of 55 on Thursday, July 27, 2006. Best known as Lightning of Lightning & Thunder. Michael was a Neil Diamond impersonator and had been happily performing with his wife known as Thunder for over 17 years. Michael dutifully served his country as a veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a recovering alcoholic of 25 years and celebrated his daily sobriety. Michael is survived by his wife of 12 years, Claire (Stingl); his step-children, Rachel and Dana Cartwright; his children, Michael Jr. and Angelina. Michael is further survived by his 4 brothers and sisters, Peggy (Tom) Lustig, Tony (Mindy) Sardina, Carol Pierce, Donald (Roxane) Sardina. Also survived by 11 nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Sardina and mother, Alice (nee VanEnKenVort). We would like to thank all of the many fans of Lightning & Thunder for all their years of support. Visitation at the Funeral Home Saturday, July 29, 3-7 PM and Sunday 12 noon until time of Funeral Services at 1:00 PM. Private Interment Forest Home Cemetery. Memorials appreciated. ALTSTADT-TYBORSKI ERMENC-McLEOD S. 84th-W. Forest Home 414-281-5533 online condolences www.atemfs.com">http://www.atemfs.com'>www.atemfs.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Jul. 28, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Sardina

Not sure what to say?





William P. (Bill) Sturdevant

July 22, 2022

I know we didn't see each other much after my family moved to the West Side. Especially after high school and the Army. But for those few times, I still remember you and miss you dearly.

Brian Donahoe

August 2, 2006

Claire,

I knew Mike in high school, my band

"the Uptown Soundz" opened for you and lightning at Nick's Nickabob.

My prayers are with you,and be sure Mike is playing now, in the best house,and for the greatest

audience...play on...Lightning!

ROSE VANHEERDE

August 2, 2006

IN HEARING OF YOUR LOSS, I WANTED TO SAY THAT YOUR MUSIC TOGETHER WAS SO INSPIRING!! I LOVE NEIL DIAMOND MUSIC AND SO ENJOYED THE FIRST TIME I HEARD BOTH OF YOU SING AT STATE FAIR AND AT A "WALK FOR DIABETES FUND RAISER." MAY MIKE REST IN PEACE, AND MAY YOU FIND PEACE CLAIRE IN KNOWING THAT YOUR SPECIAL LOVE AND FRIEND WILL BE WATCHING OVER YOU FOREVER FROM HEAVEN.

ROSE VANHEERDE

mark feltes

July 31, 2006

Claire, my sincere sympathy to you and your family in your recent loss of Mike..

Denise

July 30, 2006

Dear Claire,

I was sadden to hear of Mike's sudden passing. May God guide you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Robert & Kathleen Piekarski

July 30, 2006

Dear Claire: May God be with you during this time of great sorrow. We loved you two! You were absolutely great together. Your wedding at the Fair was beautiful and inspirational. We enjoyed all of the talks we had with the two of you in the "sauna" at Vic Tanny (years back) along with all the shows that you performed at the Fair. We were also impressed at how well you pulled through the horrible accident you suffered in 1999, Claire. You will always be loved. Sincerely,

Jim "The Big Kahuna" Kaluzny

July 29, 2006

My deepest sympathies to the family of Mike-(Lightning) and his wife Claire-(Thunder). I was happy to have known them, as well as see them perform at all of the various fairs, festivals, etc.

Karen Pierce

July 29, 2006

Deepest sympathies to Claire and the rest of the family. Wisconsin won't be the same without Lightning's talents and energy. He will be greatly missed by many. Michael and Claire's love story is one that will be remembered for all time. God's peace, Claire.

Christine Lohmiller

July 28, 2006

Dear Claire:



It has been sometime since we have seen each other but please know that I will keep you and the children in my prayers. Mike has gone on to sing with the angels.



God Bless,



Chris

(Dominic Gugliatto's sister)

Bill, Spence and Al, and Cort Sturdevant

July 28, 2006

Mike, we remember you from when we were all kids. All of us are saddened by your sudden passing. We wish God's blessings upon you as you go to his side. We wish all of His blessings for your wife and family.

SandraJo Rabideaux

July 28, 2006

My deepest sympathies to you, Claire, and your family in the sudden passing of Mike. I'll always remember seeing the two of you at the hospital when I gave you the recipe for Borscht. It seems like only yesterday. May I extend these same sympathies to Mike's sisters and brothers, also.

Mike will surely be missed by so many. May God be with you all in your time of sorrow.

Love, [cousin] Sandy [Sturdevant] Rabideaux.

Angela

July 28, 2006

Deepest condolences to the family & friends of "Lightning" - State Fair will have a huge empty spot for many - myself included - without a rousing rendition of "Cracklin' Rosie" done by the person that did it as well as Mr. Diamond himself. May he rest in peace.

Rita Hahn

July 28, 2006

You will sadly be missed,You and Claire have the greatest act ever.We will have you in our prayers.Now you can entertain for the Lord!

Lynn Mallak

July 28, 2006

Mike was at the first Narcotic's Anonymouse meeting I attended in 1982. He was an inspiration to many who thought there was no life after drugs. He showed addicts that you could have fun clean & sober. He will be missed!

Bruce Cole

July 28, 2006

Mike was a good man, a fine musician and a colorful performer. He will be missed, but he will be remembered by all those he entertained and helped through the years. Our prayers go out to Claire, the children, and the rest of the family. Rest in peace Michael.



Bruce, Betsy, and Kristin Cole

Tom

July 28, 2006

I always looked forward to seeing Lightning & Thunder at The State Fair. The Fair won't be the same now. Thanks for all the great the memories.....

Fern Cupertino

July 28, 2006

My heart is heavy with the passing of your wonderful husband!

My memories of enjoying your excellent music began at the festival at Immaculate Conception church in Bayview!

Please accept my prayers for you and your family.

Brenda Magee

July 28, 2006

Dear Claire;

You have lost more than a partner, but a partner in life, and my heart goes out to you. I have admired how you both have survived some terrible set backs, but as a team you came through. No words can console you at a time such as this. Just know you both gave so much, your talents were appreciated and enjoyed, and you are in everyone's prayers. Michael has just gone on to become the newest member of that "Rock 'n Roll Band." Blessings.

Don Neitzel

July 28, 2006

It was my privilege to have known Mike Sardina for many years! As a musician, and when I was an officer with the Milwaukee Musicians' Assoc. I enjoyed very much the little visits we had!

Mike was a "Great Guy!"

Thunder and family, God bless you all!



Don Neitzel

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Sardina's name

Memorial Events
for Michael Sardina

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Sardina's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more