Michael Edward Dodge, age 84, passed away surrounded by family on January 6, 2024, in Ocala, FL. He was born on February 23, 1939, to the late Sherburn and Janette (Krietzer) Dodge in Shawano, WI.

All who knew Mike knew him as a true gentleman. Always willing to give of himself to make a difference in the lives of his family members and in the lives of those in his community.

Mike was a graduate of Shawano High School in 1957.  He played on the 1956 and 1957 State Championship Basketball teams, the state champion golf team, and lettered in football.  He and his future wife, Rose Marie Bosser were homecoming king and queen in 1957.  Mike was later inducted into the Shawano High School Hall of Fame in basketball, golf, and football.

He worked summers for the Werbelow soda factory where he made and delivered soda. His Father Sherburn Dodge was the Mayor of Shawano for many of his high school years.  As a historical fact Mike was the great great, great grandson of Wisconsin's first territorial Governor Henry Dodge who in 1848 was asked to be the Vice President running mate for President Zachary Taylor instead of Fillmore.

Mike graduated from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science degree and earned an All-American status in football.  He was being recruited to the pros until sustaining a sport ending knee injury.

He spent his entire career working for the Gerber company as a territory manager.  Multiple industry annual golf outing wins earned him the title of "The Legend" with the local golf courses. A nickname he was very fond of, and that brought his family great joy.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life Rose Marie Bosser on June 17, 1961, at St. Stanislaus in Langlade, WI. In marriage, Mike and Rosie exemplified what unconditional love truly means. Mike and Rosie's love reflected God's love, and demonstrated what being married to your best friend is all about.

The Dodge family have been members of the St James and Stanislaus Church throughout their lives. Mike was a champion of faith for his family and encouraged all to grow closer to Jesus.

Mike was an avid golfer, athlete, sportsman, hunter, fly fisherman, coach, and mentor to many.  He was also a history buff and could be counted on to know many interesting facts. Mike enjoyed many successes in life, and frequently mentioned that his greatest happiness came from spending time with those he loved.

Michael is survived by his wife of 63 years, Rose Marie Dodge; his son Mark (Kathy) Dodge; his twin grandsons, Dr. Austin (Amanda) Dodge and Drs. Ryan (Emma) Dodge; his siblings, Mary Olfson, Patricia Winton, and James (Jean) Dodge. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He is preceded in death by: His parents Sherburn and Janette; his daughter Kim Dodge-Reinhardt; his brother Richard (Sandy) Dodge; his brothers-in-law John Olfson, Jim Winton, and John Bosser, and nephews Daniel Bosser and Kevin Dodge.

A Memorial Mass for Michael will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday February 10, 2024, at St. James & Stanislaus Catholic Church in White Lake, WI, with Fr. George officiating. Visitation will be held at the Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano, Wisconsin  on Friday February 9, 2024, starting at 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm, with a prayer service at 6:00 pm with Fr. Joel officiating and then again from 11:30 am at the church until time of service. Interment will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date.

The Dodge family would like to thank:

- Ocala Regional Medical Center ICU staff Kyla and Kasey for being amazing angels on earth while Mike was in their care.  Everyone should have that much compassion for people. God bless you both.

-St James and Stanislaus parish and members for the years and years of praying for our family, and for always being there when needed.

-Our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.

-Innumerable friends of the Dodge family. You are Christ's light in a time of darkness for us and we are eternally grateful.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude's Children's hospital can be made online at: https://www.stjude.org/ Or donations to the White Lake Christian food pantry can be made by contacting the food pantry at: Phone: (715) 882-2781 Mailing Address: 638 Bissell St. White Lake, WI - 54491