Michael "Mike" Thamke

Michael "Mike" Thamke, born on March 29, 1958, in Watertown, Wisconsin, passed away quietly at home on November 18, 2025, after having health issues. Mike's life was a testament to his passions, dedication, and love for family and friends.

Growing up in Pewaukee, Mike graduated from Pewaukee High School in 1976. He launched his trucking career over 45 years ago, swiftly developing a profound passion for truck driving. Throughout his career, he worked with numerous trucking companies, but his pride and joy came from establishing his own owner/operator business, TMS Express, in 2016. It was with great affection that he referred to his 2002 379 long hood Peterbilt, lovingly nicknamed “His Mistress.” Mike enjoyed showing off his beloved truck at events, earning recognition at the Waupun Truck N Show, where he won a 2nd place trophy for the Friday night light show in 2020 and another 2nd place trophy for the Antique class in 2022. Due to health complications, he retired from trucking in 2024.

Mike’s influence extended far beyond his career; he was supportive and loving to his children, Michelle (Keith) Spatz and Travis (Mandy) Thamke, and his step-son John Lueth. He found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren, Aaron, Ariel, Aaliyah, Lexi, and Jeneciz, as well as his great-grandchildren, JJ, Kammy, Armani, Leilani, Aurora, and Delilah. His soul mate of 12 years, Barbara Schulz, stood by his side through thick and thin, sharing countless cherished moments together.

An avid animal lover, Mike considered his pets to be his "furry four-legged adopted kids." His favorite was his pitbull, Tanner, who accompanied him everywhere and was beloved by many. Together with Tanner's son, Spike, they were a source of happiness in Mike’s life. Mike also enjoyed riding his 1977 Harley Sportster that he customized, and his Harley Street Glide. He also had a Dodge Challenger that he took to the Mopar show in Minnesota, and various other car shows.

Beyond his affection for family and animals, Mike had a great sense of humor and a knack for striking up conversations with anyone. He was a history buff, particularly fascinated by military history, respecting the military and all who served. He proudly celebrated his 44 years of sobriety and took great pride in the accomplishments of his children. Mike often spent his weekends polishing “The Mistress,” reveling in the dream he had worked hard to achieve – owning his beloved Peterbilt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ione Thamke, and his sister, Kathy Baumgartner. Mike leaves behind a legacy of love, determination, and the indelible mark he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 2809 Jelinek Ave. Weston, Wisconsin.  Pastor Lance Hoelscher will officiate.  Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service on Friday.  Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Weston is assisting the family with arrangements.  You may leave messages and condolences for the family at ascendweston.org.