John D. May

John D. May, age 92, passed away on February 25, 2026.

Born on June 23, 1933, in the Town of Lake (now Cudahy), John was the second youngest - and the only boy - in a family of six girls. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Violet May, and his sisters Ruth, June, Deane, Betty, Lois, and Pat.

As a young man, John worked at his family’s business, May’s Riding Stables, serving as a stable hand and guide. He attended South Milwaukee High School, where he played football for the Rockets. Following graduation, he served two years in the US Army and was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, home of the 10th Mountain Division, where he worked on ski patrol.

After completing his military service, John attended UW–Milwaukee on the GI Bill and studied Business. During that time, he also worked at the Cudahy Library.

In 1955, John met the love of his life, Carol, at the Avalon Theater in Bay View. They were both there to see Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing, though it was a double feature, and he may have actually been there to see the Western playing alongside it. They were married on October 4, 1958, and shared 67 years together, enjoying many travels and treasured time with family and friends at their cabin on Pelican Lake.

John enjoyed a wonderful 54-year career as a State Farm agent, where he built lasting relationships and made many lifelong friends. He especially treasured the years he spent working alongside his daughter Jackie in the office.

He was known as a jokester and a loving, generous grandpa and great-grandpa. He never refused a sweet treat and was especially grateful to MaryLynn for her frequent cookie deliveries and kindness.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 67 years, Carol; his cherished daughters, Patricia Braatz (Brett) and Jacqueline May (Robert); his granddaughters, Sarah Severe (Russ) and Tammy Cantillon (Nathan); his great-grandchildren, Ava and Miles; and many nieces and nephews. He was truly beloved and will be deeply missed.

His final word was “Wow”, a simple expression that those who knew him will understand.

Services will be held AT THE FUNERAL HOME ON Saturday, March 7, 2026 with a visitation from 12:30 to 1:30PM, Memorial Service to Follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s name to Project Concern or Community Smiles Dental would be appreciated.

Prasser-Kleczka Funeral Homes

Bay View Chapel

3275 South Howell Avenue

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

414-483-2322