Michael T. Belcher

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the death of Michael Belcher who left us too soon at the age of 76.

Though somewhat expected, it happened very quickly. It was peaceful and pain-free with his family at his side on August 1, 2025.

"One of the good guys", as old friends describe him, Michael lived a full life right up to the end: still working; enjoying time with his dear wife, children and grandchildren, golfing; and tending to his meticulous lawn.

Michael was born in Milwaukee in 1949 to Eugene and Lucille (Melvin) Belcher. When Michael was still young, the family moved to Mequon where he excelled in every and any sport he attempted. His natural athleticism culminated in an MVP award in his senior year as a 5'8" basketball guard at Homestead High School.

Michael's own athletic career in team sports ended after high school, but his love of sports did not wane. As his exhaustive collection of Wisconsin tee shirts attests, he was an ardent Badger's fan. He and Lynne held season football tickets for over 25 years during which lifelong tailgating friendships were made.

March Madness was another of his favorite times of the year, when he set up his own ESPN pool with over 100 people joining in. This skill extended to any sporting event watch party where Michael could be relied upon to organize its pool or a bags tournament. Never one to miss a game, on any given weekend, Michael could be found sitting on the sidelines of his kids and grandkids sporting events, cheering them on with passion.

In 1979, Michael married the love of his life, Lynne Davis. Together for 45 years, they built a happy home and a rich and busy family life with their three children. Michael was a dedicated husband, a cherished father, a cheerful and supportive "Boppa" to his grandchildren, and an excellent provider.

He worked for 20 years as a sales representative in the material handling industry. Then in 2001, he established his own business, Belcher Equipment, which sold modular clean rooms. He was rightfully proud of its success which was attained by his honest, ethical and trustworthy treatment of every colleague, customer and provider he worked with.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and brother Richard Belcher.

He is survived by his wife Lynne (Davis), daughter Carolyn Belcher Nichols & Husband Bill Nichols, their children Liam and Huey; daughter Sarah Belcher Oliver & Husband Andrew Oliver, their children Berit and Theran and Michael Matthew ("Matt") Belcher and wife Maxine Belcher, and their children Lucie and June. Michael is also survived by his brother Larry Belcher.

Michael was admired and well-loved by many people outside of his immediate family: his extended Davis clan, his Shorewood neighbors, his Badger football & tailgate friends, a circle of close friends from Homestead high school and many others.

He will be remembered by all for his quiet kindness and generous nature.

To his great credit, Michael quit smoking in 2021 after many years. Unfortunately, the effects of the habit led to a diagnosis of small cell lung cancer, which he faced with great courage and grace. As we remember him with love, we also gently encourage those on the path to quitting - your health matters deeply - to you and your loved ones.

These few paragraphs cannot begin to capture the entirety of Michael's qualities and quirks, so we invite you to hear and share more at a celebration of his wonderful life on Saturday, November 22nd, at Tripoli Country Club, 4:00pm to 6:00pm.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to The American Cancer Society or the American Lung Association in Michael's name.