Michael L. Symons

1946 - 2025

Michael L Symons

February 22, 1946 - January 6, 2025

Michael L. Symons, age 78, passed away peacefully January 6, 2025.

He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mike was born on February 22, 1946, to Dora M. Symons. He grew up in New Diggings, WI and graduated from Benton High School in 1964. He attended Madison Barber College and then owned and operated the Middleton Barber Shop. Mike retired from the UW-Madison Physical Plant in 2008 after more than 30 years of service. Additionally, he was a volunteer firefighter with the Middleton Fire Department for several years.

In 1982, Mike purchased the Middleton Hotel Bar, which he owned until 1998. With his wife, Cindy, he then built and owned the Hody Bar and Grill in 1999 until 2021. In 1988, they bought a farm in McFarland. Raising and caring for his exotic animals brought him great joy. Mike was always eager and enthusiastic to share the experience with everyone. As he said, "We had 35 years of a fantastic life there."

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Cindy (Cullen), his daughters Christina "Tina" Symons and Tammy Jo (David) Sutton, their mother Mary Jo Frank (Hocking), daughter Ashley Graser, and son Chris Cullen. He is also survived by his grandchildren Bailey Mary Sutton, Ross Michael Sutton, Katharina "Kati" Symons, and Michael Byrne; his siblings Paul (Linda) Symons, Denise Martin, Debbie (Jim) Rupp, Mary (Ken) Johnson, Darcie (Duane) Schlamp, Brett (Laura) Nolte, and Brenda Nolte; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dearly cherished friends.

The family extends a heartfelt thanks to the staff at AccentCare Hospice in Hollywood, Florida. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to a local hospice or charity of your choice.

"That man is a success - who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it; who has never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had."

Celebration of life on March 9th, Maple Tree, McFarland WI, 12-4 p.m.