Michael J. Lightner

My husband and soul-mate Michael John Lightner, age 71, of Washburn, moved swiftly from this life to the next on November 21, 2024, in our home we made together. He was born March 10th, 1953, in Ashland WI, the son of Leo and Lois (Swanson) Lightner.
Michael graduated from Ashland High School in 1971. He was a long-time fire fighter for the city of Ashland and retired in 2003. Michael married me, Pam Lightner (Tetzner) of Washburn, through vows made by our hearts in July of 1990. We followed up with a legalized wedding license on February 8th of 1999, even though it was unnecessary. We had already pledged ourselves to one another almost 10 years prior. Michael and I had a special love and relationship that was not defined by a mere contract. There was not one day or evening that the words "I love you" were unspoken to one another.
My husband appreciated the outdoors and was an avid huntsman. He loved target shooting and was quite knowledgeable in weaponry. Michael was a good friend and loved spending time with a close group of friends at the hunting shack located near Delta WI. He and I also enjoyed playing cribbage together and would spar during Wheel of Fortune to see who could solve the most puzzles.
My husband is survived by me, his wife, Pam Joan (Tetzner) Lightner of Washburn. Michael is survived by his father Leo Lightner and mother Lois (Swanson) Lightner of Ashland, brother Jeff (Denise) Lightner of Washburn WI, sister Linda (Dennis) Gilbertson of Ashland WI; and lastly, a nephew that was more of a son in spirit, Ryan Tetzner of Washburn WI. Michael is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and other extended family members.
There will be a service at Mountain Funeral Home on Saturday November 30th from 10 AM to 12 PM with a luncheon to follow.
I would like to add a special thanks to Elizabeth Lajcak of Ashland for writing this for me and helping me through this process, as I could not have done this myself. Liz, you are the best. I value our friendship, and I love you. Thank you.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.