Michael "Mike" McKenna

1951 - 2021

McKenna, Michael J. "Mike"

MADISON - Michael J. "Mike" McKenna, age 69, passed away on Aug. 16, 2021, at UW Hospital with his beloved wife, Cynthia, and children, Courtney and Patrick, by his side.

Mike was born on Oct. 9, 1951, in Madison, Wis., to Dr. William and Elizabeth "Betsy" (Farnum) McKenna. He graduated from Edgewood High School ('69), UW-Eau Claire ('73), and completed his MBA at Edgewood College ('98). Mike was united in marriage with his soulmate, Cynthia Wagner, on Oct. 18, 1986, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Madison.

Mike spent his entire 38-year career at Oscar Mayer in finance/accounting, community giving, and transportation. Following retirement, he continued his work as a loaned executive to The United Way of Dane County. Mike's involvement in the community included serving on the board of directors for the Madison Symphony Orchestra, supporting UW Athletics, and promoting the mission of the Madison Sertoma Club that focused on hearing health.

One of Mike's lifelong passions was golf. He excelled at the sport from a young age, from winning youth tournaments and playing competitively in high school and college, to becoming Nakoma Golf Club's youngest men's champion at age 20. A highlight of his retirement was returning to his high school alma mater as Edgewood Boys' Assistant Golf Coach. Mike combined his love of golf with his passion for service by mentoring youth from all backgrounds and serving on the board of directors for the First Tee of South-Central Wisconsin, a non-profit organization teaching life skills through the game of golf.

Those who knew Mike well recognized that he cherished his family more than anything. He loved spending time with them golfing, traveling, and cheering on the Badgers. He looked forward to his winter escapes with his wife, walking on the beach and seeing old friends. Mike rekindled his competitive side with a friendly rivalry with his son on the golf course and at home on the ping pong table, even letting him win occasionally. Most recently, Mike's dream of becoming a grandfather came true with the birth of his first grandchild in May. Although their time together was brief, he will always be watching over her. Mike was generous, thoughtful, and a constant source of positivity and strength. His family and friends will miss him more than words can say.

Mike is survived by his wife of nearly 35 years, Cynthia; his children, Courtney (Bill) McCormick and Patrick McKenna; granddaughter, Kaylee McCormick; brother, Dr. Peter (Janey) McKenna; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 26 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A second visitation will be on Friday, Aug. 27 at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 11 a.m. at OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE PARISH in Madison. There will be a livestream available to watch Mike's service; the link can be found at www.cressfuneralservice.com.

Memorials can be made to a charity or organization of your choice, in memory of Mike.

"I can no longer see you with my eyes or touch you with my hands. But I will feel you in my heart forever."

Please share memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434