Michael Woodke

Mike was born on December 18, 1941, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to Frederick Howard Woodke and Vi Woodke (Verheyen) of De Pere, Wisconsin. He grew up in De Pere and graduated from West De Pere High School. He later earned his degree in civil engineering from the University of Wisconsin Madison and was an active member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity.

When Mike was called into duty, he enlisted into the United States Naval Reserve through Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. After graduating from OCS, he served in several locations including Pensacola, Florida; Denver, Colorado; and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. His service reflected the same dedication and integrity that would later define his professional and personal life.

Mike worked as the Manager of Engineering for The Kroger Company. Over his 37 years, he contributed his expertise to many new builds while earning the respect of colleagues for his work ethic, leadership, and thoughtful approach to problem solving.

On October 28, 1967, he married Barbara Makowski, at St. John’s the Evangelist Church. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

Mike was a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan. He enjoyed following his beloved team along with his adopted Tennessee Titans.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Woodke; his children, Valerie Hershiser (Judd) of Windermere, Florida, and Brian Woodke (Lane) of Birmingham, Alabama; and his beloved grandchildren, Judson and Tyler Hershiser, and Lucy, Ann, and Will Woodke. He is also survived by his siblings, Patrick Woodke and Mary Ann Woodke.

Mike will be remembered for his steady character, his hard work, his fairness, his quiet sense of humor, optimistic outlook, natural talent for solving problems and his deep devotion to family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and quiet strength that will continue to inspire his family and friends.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A private ceremony will be held at Cathedral of the Incarnation.