Michael J. McFarland

Michael J. McFarland, age 75, of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, died peacefully with his wife and family by his side on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
Mike was born in Watertown, Wisconsin, on September 1, 1948; son of the late Walter and Ruth McFarland. He graduated from Watertown High School with the class of 1966. Mike continued his education at UW Madison, where he was a defensive back walk-on for the UW Badger football team. His dedication to football gained him a full scholarship to complete his degree in Agricultural Journalism. He continued on to play semi-pro football for the West Allis Spartans and the Madison Mustangs and a tryout with the San Diego Chargers.
Mike's love for racing cars began when he and some college friends took a ride to Elkhart Lake's Road America to watch the June Sprints. He told his friends, "I'm going to do that one day " He drove his first race just out of college at the Coliseum in Madison in a Lola T202 that his parents bought him as a graduation gift. He went on to race nationally as a semi-pro driver in Formula Ford, Sports 2000, Super Vee & Formula Continental.
Mike's accomplishments were not all about the sports he loved. He was proud to work alongside his dad for many years in the calf and feed business before venturing out on his own. He founded The McFarland Group in 1978, specializing in Advertising, Public Relations and Sports Marketing, winning many Ad Community Awards locally and nationally along the way.
He met the love of his life, Shannan Roeh, at Lake Street Cafe and fell in love at Siebkens. They were married on June 1, 2012, in Elkhart Lake, where they made their home.
Mike was a talented writer, avid reader, magical storyteller and loved life to the fullest. He found joy in a nice car, fast motorcycle, playing golf, great food and wine, entertaining friends and family and always looked forward to hosting his annual Thanksgiving McFarland Bowl, the Christmas Manhattan Party and the Indy 500 Party. Mike was a force that commanded a room when he entered. He spoke his mind and held a loyalty and generosity to all he loved.
Mike is survived by his wife Shannan; a sister Bridget McFarland (Roger Oblamski); a brother Kevin McFarland; nieces Clair Oblamski and Molly McFarland; father-in-law and mother-in-law Gary and Lola Roeh; brother-in-law Chad Roeh and nephew Taylor (Melissa) Rezachek. He is further survived by cousins, other relatives and many special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Colleen McFarland.
A Celebration of Mike's Life will be held at Siebkens Tavern from 1:00 - 5:00 pm on October 21, 2023.
The family would like to thank Rocky Knoll for their exceptional care as well as Third Coast Vascular for everything they did for Mike.