Michael Tobin

1950 - 2016

Tobin, Michael

Michael (Mike) L. Tobin, age 65, took on a short unbelievable fight with pancreatic cancer. On the evening of July 5, 2016 the battle ended; he found his restful peace while surrounded by his family who he loved so faithfully and completely.

Mike was the son of Lyle M. Tobin and Evelyn M. (Schidler, Tobin) Harper. He was born on July 23, 1950 in John Day, Oregon, then moved to Wisconsin at a very young age where he has lived ever since.

He was married to Ruth (Nachtwey), whom he cherished with all his heart, on March 22, 1969 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Menasha. Together they have two children, son, Michael (Mike) and daughter-in-law Katherine (Katie) (Van Gompel) Tobin and daughter Angela (Angie) (special friend Jami Estes) Tobin. His grandson, Tyler Tobin, brought complete joy and fun into Mike's life, a sparkle to his eyes and a smile to his face. He loved being Papa.

Mike worked at US Paper (US Sonoco) in Menasha until the time of his retirement in March of 2011. He was a hard working man either while driving his tow motor or as Shipping Coordinator. He was well liked and respected by his co-workers and a personal friend to many of them.

He enjoyed the camaraderie of a round of golf with friends or family. He was also an avid Packer and Brewer fan, who more than once felt the need to throw a Nerf brick at the television or do some armchair coaching! He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and stockcar races from that same armchair. A lively game of Sheepshead (aka "Leaster") was a frequent pass time where he won….or lost….. his share of shiny nickels.

He loved to take jaunts with Ruth to places near and far. No matter if it was a few hours, a few days or a week, he would find places that sounded interesting and go check them out. He was smart and inquisitive. In between everything else, Mike would readily help anyone who needed a hand in any way he could. He shared time and talent freely, never having a negative comment about anyone.

Mike was a caring, gentle and loving man. He was content and fulfilled with the pleasures his family afforded him. More than once he said, "I don't need anything; I have everything I want." What a huge tribute to his family with those words.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, and father-in-law and mother-in- law, Paul and Angeline (Van Vonderen) Nachtwey. Besides his wife, children and grandson, he leaves three brothers; Bill (Diane), Pat (Rella) both of Menasha, Henry of Appleton and a sister Helen (Mike) Berens of Appleton, two brothers-in-law, Donald (Jeanne) Nachtwey, Bend, OR, Jerry (JoAnn) Nachtwey, Kaukauna, and a sister-in-law Dorothy (Russ) Gerritts, Appleton, as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family will have a celebration of Mike's life on September 3, 2016 at O'Hauser Park, 1986 Oleary Rd. Neenah from 11:00-4:00 p.m. where family and friends can gather together to share thoughts, experiences, stories, touching times and humorous moments. He loved living his life, so it will be a happy occasion to see all of you and to hear your shared experiences on that day. Smile when you think of Mike; you know he would be smiling right back at you.

A special thank-you is extended to Dr. Wagner, and both sides of the family for their care and their support for Mike throughout this difficult time. An extra special thank you goes out to Mikes sweethearts; Peggy, Nancy and Diane.

In lieu of flowers, words of sympathy and encouragement can be sent directly to the Tobin family.

Wichmann Funeral Home Laemmrich Chapel is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences can be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com