Mike Meadows

Michael "Mike" Anthony Meadows, age 89, passed away on December 12, 2025, at Schmitt Woodland Hills in Richland Center, Wisconsin-the same community where he was born on June 14, 1936, to Carl and Ann Meadows.
Mike was the oldest of three children. He is survived by his sisters, Kathryn (John) of Fort Myers, Florida, and Stephanie of Madison, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved wife, Leslie, whom he married in 1973 and with whom he shared nearly 40 years until her death in 2013.
After graduating from Richland Center High School, Mike attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison before transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, where he earned a degree in mining engineering in 1961. He worked as an engineer in Colorado and New Mexico until a serious injury brought him back to Richland Center. Following his recovery, Mike joined his father in the family business, C. Meadows Furniture Company, founded in 1934. After his father's death in 1979, Mike became president and manager of the store. Leslie later joined him in the business, and together they ran it with integrity, dedication, and a deep appreciation for quality furnishings and craftsmanship until its closure in 2012. The Meadows buildings became a long-standing downtown landmark and were placed on the local Historic Register through Leslie's efforts.
Mike was known for his wide-ranging interests and unique curiosity. He had a lifelong love of automobiles and motorsports, owning many cars over the years and participating in amateur racing through the Midwestern Council of Sports Car Clubs. He especially enjoyed attending auto shows with friends and sharing his encyclopedic knowledge of cars.
He and Leslie also shared a love of aviation, earning their pilot licenses in the late 1970s and owning a small plane for nearly three decades. Together they traveled extensively, often by car, exploring the American West and embracing adventure wherever it led.
Architecture was another enduring interest. Mike's childhood home was designed by Herbert Fritz Jr., a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, and later in life, he and Leslie restored the house to its original condition.
Following Leslie's passing, Mike devoted himself to serving his community. For ten years, he volunteered at Richland Hospital, where he was known for his kindness, generosity, and his habit of carrying quarters for children to use in the hospital gumball machine. He was proud of his service and deeply appreciated the connections he made there. Mike also served as vice president of the Board of Directors for the AD German Warehouse and acted as a docent, giving both regularly scheduled and private tours in support of its restoration and preservation.
Mike is also survived by his son, Sean (Cari) of Flagstaff, Arizona, and his grandson, Jonah; by a special family friend, Brook; and by many friends who enriched his life.
The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by Agrace Hospice, particularly registered nurse Kari, home health aide Julia, and social worker Katie, as well as for the care and support provided by Mike's friend Lynne and the wonderful staff at Schmitt Woodland Hills.
At Mike's request, no memorial service will be held. In his memory, the family welcomes contributions to Agrace Hospice or the AD German Warehouse restoration. The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.